Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 20:17-28(NLT) ~Jesus Again Predicts His Death, Jesus Teaches About Serving Others~ Scripture reading followed by discussion.  The mother’s request is a picture of all peoples desire for their children to be elevated or successful and honored. The picture Jesus paints is one of a suffering servant who submits to the Father’s will be done. New Puppy analogy. The repeated message that the first will be last.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 20:1-16 (NLT) ~Parable of the Vineyard Workers~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Paying the last hires before the first hires. The greatest reward is being in God’s presence. Sympathizing with the first workers because of our worldly perspective of comparison, instead of celebrating the generosity we all get to take part in. When you are late to the party, you still get the full party experience. The free gift not earned by working harder or longer.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 19:16-30 (NLT) ~The Rich Man~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The man looking to earn favor. We should begin by recognizing that God alone is truly good. The selfish nature of humanity and our self-focused minds. Giving up your life to save it, changing your mind about what is valuable. The encouragement in it being humanly impossible.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 19:13-15 (NLT) ~Jesus Blesses the Children~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Getting distracted from what God sees as important to rush off and accomplish the next thing or task. The relationship and interaction of Jesus with the children. The good thing the parents were trying to do. The importance of the Blessing and Jesus desire to bless others.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 19:1-11 (NLT) ~Discussion about Divorce and Marriage~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. God’s intention in the beginning is still relevant today. Focusing on laws and standards keeps you from looking to forgive. The heart hardens the longer it values meeting standards more than relationship. Dying to self in the pursuit of Jesus and in marriage. Having the Holy Spirit to help us respond in love.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 18:21-35 (NLT) ~Parable of the Unforgiving Debtor~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Peter’s question coming after Jesus gives the steps for reconciliation between believers. Seven times Seventy-seven, Love keeps no record of wrong. Operating out of fear. Jesus breaking the chain reaction of unforgiveness and giving us the opportunity to do it too. The selfishness of the debtor, the human condition.

Reading Psalms 23 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The Iconic Psalm speaking to God’s faithfulness and provision. A complete picture of the life lived in faith. All you need is the Shepard. He leads you to peace, which is found in His presence. Jesus is beside you and for your extended, abundant life.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 18:15-20 (NLT) ~Correcting Another Believer~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Continued teaching in response to the question ‘who is the greatest in the kingdom?’. The importance of reconciliation between believers. The important steps of reconciliation. Holding onto offence makes us in the wrong. Unforgiveness limits the Kingdom. The importance of God’s presence in the process of reconciliation.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 18:12-14 (NLT) ~Parable of the Lost Sheep~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Jesus’ continued response to the question “who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”. Continuing out of the teaching about leading children into sin. Our judgements of right and wrong are paths that we go astray on. Getting back on course makes the Father’s heart rejoice. Trusting God’s lead.

Reading from The Gospel According Matthew 18:1-11 (NLT) ~The Greatest in the Kingdom~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The disciples question reveals their point of view. Thinking of their position. There is none greater than Jesus. Encourage children to go to God and not become set in their own conclusions.