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Read: Luke 13:5-9
Our story today is a parable about a fig tree. The person who owned the garden was not happy that after three years the fig tree had not managed to produce any fruit. He told the gardener to dig it up – why waste the soil and resources when the fig tree didn’t produce any figs! The gardener had other plans though and asked for one more year. He wanted one more chance to give the tree special attention and if after that it still did not produce fruit then it could be cut down. In this story we are like the fig tree – God planted us on earth and expects us to be fruitful – he expects us to be kind and loving to others. Jesus is like the gardener – he knows we might not get it right first time and we may need more help at times. Just as the gardener helped the fig tree, Jesus helps us and makes sure we can have a second (or third, or fourth…) chance to do what God expects of us.
Watch:
What type of tree was planted?
Why did the landowner want to cut it down?
What did the gardener do?
What would you have done? What can we learn from this parable?
Do:
Colouring page – https://www.biblewise.com/kids/images/fun/coloring/jesus-fig.pdf
Tree Craft – http://easybreezysundayschool.blogspot.com/2016/02/the-parable-of-barren-fig-tree.html
Wordsearch – https://sermons4kids.com/living_a_fruitful_life_wordsearch.htm?fromSermonId=598
Fruits of the Spirit – Read Galatians 5:22-23 – what are the fruit of the spirit? Make a poster to show how we can share this fruit with others.
Pray: God we don’t always do things the way you want or expect – help us to live for you. Amen
Father in heaven watch over our loved ones.
Keep them by your side.
May they be safe and peaceful, in you may they abide.
Give wisdom to the doctors and nurses too we pray,
renew their strength and bless them for the work they do each day. Send healing and restoration and let them feel your love.
May your Holy Spirit give them rest as gentle as a dove. Amen (Taken from Praying Together)
Share – Can you think of a random act of kindness you can do for someone who is in your community – as you surprise someone remember God has planted you somewhere special to share his love.