Clean Water for All God’s Children
Teacher’s Background:
These sacraments are means by which God gives grace to us in ways that are a mystery to
us. We believe, however, that neither of them is a requirement for salvation, for that
would mean that
our
action is necessary, and we know that only
God’s
action is
necessary for our salvation. Nevertheless, we are privileged to receive the grace that God
gives us in these sacraments, Furthermore, Jesus has commanded us to practice these
sacraments, and we do so in obedience. In both of these, God uses the ordinary elements
of life (water, bread, wine) to symbolize the transmission of grace; so, in that sense, the
water of Baptism is a
sign
of God’s grace. Jesus himself, though sinless, asked to be
baptized. And when God said, “This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased”, we
can imagine that it felt wonderful to Jesus! This is the same message that God has for us
as we are baptized into the community of faith: “You are my beloved child; in you I am
well pleased.” What beautiful words for any child to hear!
Reflection time is not intended as instruction, but rather as a time for the children to
ponder what they have learned and experienced. Try not to direct their thoughts, but
rather to affirm their willingness to think deeply about the meaning of the day.
For Student Reflection:
Together, say today’s Bible verse:
Mt. 3:16 – “And when Jesús had been baptized, as he came up from the water...a
voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well
pleased.’”
After saying today’s Bible verse together, ask the children to think about the following,
giving each an opportunity to respond.
1. What was your favorite part of today’s story?
2.
What do you think God wants you to learn from today’s story? (Be sure to
reinforce the notion that they are God’s children, and God is pleased with them.)
3.
How can you act like a ‘child of God’?
Prayer:
(children repeat after teacher)
Loving God,/ Thank you for the water of our baptism/ and for letting us know/ that you
are pleased with us./ Please help us to act like children of God/ by loving you and loving
others./ In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Rev. 1/06
Day 4: Reflection
Water as a Sign