There are so many popular Bible Stories that I remember learning when I was a little girl; Noah’s Ark, Jonah and the Big Fish, Daniel in the Lion’s Den, Jesus’ birth, Easter. There were great lessons in each one of them, and usually a fun song or craft to help me remember. We are still teaching these stories in Children’s Sunday School, here at St. Luke’s, and the Bible lessons are just as relevant today as they’ve ever been.
One story I particularly enjoy is the story of Adam and Eve. I often hear people making references to this couple when something goes wrong, “Well, thanks Eve” or “They just had to eat the apple!”. The truth is, if any one of us had been in the garden, we likely would’ve tasted the apple, too. After all, we choose other ways to ignore God, don’t we?
When I teach children about Adam and Eve, I always try to explain how much our actions and words impact others directly or indirectly; every action has a consequence. Some of the consequences are good, while others can be horrible for the person (and maybe even other people) and last a lifetime.
We live in a world that offers so much! We each make choices like these every day:
What kinds of TV shows do I watch?
What do I look at on my iPad, Laptop, or phone?
Who do I message?
What kinds of words do I use to express myself?
What kinds of establishments do I frequent?
How do I spend my time and money?
How often do I read my Bible and attend church?
How do I treat others, including those who have no direct impact on my life?
Choices are offered to us daily, and it’s up to us to make the right ones. Speaking from personal experience, my day always goes better when I begin it with prayer and time in God’s Word. I make better choices throughout the day when I start out this way.
“My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:1-6
Taylor Easttom, Director of Children’s Ministry St. Luke’s Edmond
