In our story from the Holy Bible today, Jesus is explaining his love to his friends. He says, “Even as the Father has loved me, I also have loved you” (vs. 9). That's simple isn’t it? Let me say it one more time. Listen carefully, because I'm going to give you a chance to tell me what it said. Jesus said,“Even as the Father has loved me, I also have loved you.” Who loved Jesus? (Allow children to respond.) Yes, God, the Heavenly Father, loved Jesus.
In the Bible Jesus says, "Remain in my love" (15:9). Your home is the place where you dwell or live. In other words Jesus says, "Live and stay in my love." Isn't that an interesting idea? Imagine God's love as a place where you live – where you can go when you feel frightened or unloved – a place where you can pray, say thanks, or ask for help. God's love is like a house that shelters you and makes you feel loved and protected.
Children's Sermon John 15:9-17 The Place Where You Live Check out these helpful resources Biblical Commentary Sermons Hymn Lists John 15:9-17 The Place Where You Live Lois Parker Edstrom See a picture of an igloo See a picture of a house made of grasses People live in all kinds of houses. In the northern [...]
When we think of the people we love, we probably think of certain people: our families and special friends. But Jesus reminds us of something important. He doesn't just say "pick a few important people to love." He tells us to "love one another." He wants us to show our love to everyone - and treat everyone with special care and kindness.
If we were going to be a leaf, we would rather be like this leaf (the green leaf on the potted plant), wouldn't we. We wouldn't like to be like this one (the dead leaf), would we. This leaf is dried up and dead. We would rather be alive and healthy, like this leaf (the one on the potted plant). The big difference between these leaves is that this one (the dead leaf) is no longer connected to the plant on which it grew. This one (the leaf on the potted plant) is still connected to its plant. That connection is what gives it life.
The lamp worked better when it was connected to the electricity, didn't it. Jesus said that we're like that. He said that we work better when we are connected to him.
This story teaches us that when we make Jesus a part of our lives we grow like branches on a beautiful vine and bear sweet fruit. We do this by accepting God's love, studying the Bible to learn more about Jesus, and also by praying for guidance. We learn to love, be gentle, be cheerful, be patient, and to help those who need our assistance. These are the fruits we produce to give to others and the fruits that make us healthy and strong.
The reason we are talking about these interesting kangaroos is to help you understand a word that may be new to you. The word is abide. Abide means to "stay with" or "live with." You can see that baby kangaroos live very close to their mothers. A joey must live inside the pouch (abide with its mother) and depend on mother to provide everything it needs. In the Bible we read the words that Jesus spoke while he lived on earth and he says, "Remain (abide) in me, and I in you" (15:4).
Even though the disciples would no longer be able to see Jesus, they would have the Holy Spirit to teach them and help them. They would not be alone. The Holy Spirit is God with us now. The Holy Spirit was with the first disciples, and the Holy Spirit is with us. We are not alone and the church is not alone. God, the Holy Spirit, is with us! Now that is what I call good news!
Do you ever swing when you feel troubled or upset? Do you cuddle and rock with your dad or mom when you are hurt or angry? It is sometimes helpful as a way to make you feel calmer. Jesus offers us yet another option: pray and think about his words. He is a God of Peace. He offers his peace and love to us. He said,"Don't let your heart be troubled" (14:27). Do not worry. Let his love calm you, soothe you, and bring you peace.