Fall is almost upon us. The slight chill in the air and falling leaves remind us that harvest time, is only weeks rather than months away. This morning I perused through the Biblical topic guide, Where to Find It in the Bible, by Ken Anderson, as I wanted to research the references for the word harvest in the Bible. My eyes fell upon the Parable of the Sower - Matthew 13:3-23.
Take a moment to visit http://www.biblegateway.com to read this passage.
As I read through the passage, I found myself becoming very introspective. I knew as I read, that I wanted to be among the seeds that fell on good soil. I found myself questioning if I was sufficiently growing as a Christian. Only God knows the answer to this question, however, I have a responsibility to repeatedly check to make certain that I am walking closely with God.
Matthew 13:8-9
“8 Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. 9He who has ears, let him hear." See http://www.biblegateway.com
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I know that my desire, as a Christian is to continue to grow and spread the good news to others. However, sometimes we experience prolonged seasons of difficulties. Financial concerns, health issues and/or other major problems can interfere with our passion to serve our Lord. These matters tend to draw us away from centering our lives around Jesus.
I have been on a ten year journey with a loved one whose health has steadily declined. Watching my mother struggle with pain and seeing her enter hospice twice in the past five years has taught me much about myself and my relationship with Jesus. On several occasions, I have also been allowed to see her trust in action, as she has turned to our Savior for comfort. In fact, right now, she is again, out of hospice. Sometimes, though, fatigue sets in, and I find myself struggling to do everything that needs to be done. It’s at these times that I realize that I must stop, take a step back, and refocus on my Savior.
Think back to when you first became a Christian. Do you remember the enthusiasm you felt that day? Unfortunately, some Christians turn away, when faced with personal disappointment and heartache. Because their faith and trust in God never really took root, they gradually stopped going to church and reading the Word. They soon forget about serving Jesus. Please see the quote below.
“Matthew 13:5 -6 "It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.” http://www.biblegateway.com
It’s a struggle to keep Jesus first and foremost in our lives. Yet, we know that we need to do this. We can share the joy that we have found in Jesus with the children we encounter at home, school and/or church.
Below, are some harvest based creative lessons, designed for PreK - Grade 8.
May these lessons be a blessing to those you teach. In turn, may God bless you richly for your faithfulness.
Awesome Collection of Harvest Time Lessons
Annie’s Thanksgiving Page
Holiday and Special Day Links - Resources for Christian Teachers
Reaping and Sowing - The Law of Harvest - Elementary and Middle School Level
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