Children’s Sermon

Mark 13:24-37

Coming Attractions

By Lois Parker Edstrom

Objects suggested:  Children’s DVDs or videos.

Do you have a favorite DVD or video? Cinderella? Finding Nemo? The Jungle Book?

Some times when you start a DVD or video you will see parts of other movies that might interest you. These are called previews – just a hint of what you will see in those other movies.

If you’ve been in a movie theater, you’ve noticed the same thing – previews of coming attractions – bits and parts of movies that will be showing next.

In the Bible Jesus talks about things that signal what may be coming next. He says, “When the branch has now become tender, and puts forth its leaves, you know that the summer is near” (13:28).

In the spring, when you see the trees begin leaf out, you know that summer is coming. This is a preview for summer. Summer is the coming attraction – a time to relax and play, go to the beach and have picnics – a time we anticipate.

Jesus also talks about signs that will signal his return to earth, but says, “But of that day or that hour no one knows…” (13:32).

We see previews of heaven, in the beauty of nature and the love we receive from those around us, every day. This lesson teaches us to live our lives in a way that honors God. Let’s celebrate every day as an exciting coming attraction.

Scripture quotations from the World English Bible

Copyright 2008, Richard Niell Donovan