All Rights Reserved - Anything I write is G rated. Once in a while PG rated. Christian writing from infant to teen. Parent and teacher tools to teach the bible at home and at church.
Jesus the Gentle Shepherd — and the Righteous Confronter
Many people imagine Jesus as only soft, quiet, and mild. But Scripture gives us a fuller, richer picture. Jesus was both:
The Gentle Shepherd who carries the weak
The Righteous Lord who confronts the stubborn
These two sides are not opposites. They are perfectly united in Him.
1. Jesus Was Gentle Toward the Humble
When people came broken, ashamed, or seeking mercy, Jesus was tender:
He welcomed children
He touched lepers
He forgave sinners
He restored Peter
He comforted the fearful
Matthew 11:29 says:
“I am meek and lowly in heart.”
This is the Jesus who binds wounds, lifts the fallen, and carries the lambs close to His heart.
2. Jesus Was Firm Toward the Proud and Unrepentant
But when hearts were hard, proud, or hypocritical, Jesus confronted boldly.
The Temple Cleansing
He overturned tables, drove out money changers, and declared:
“My house shall be called the house of prayer.”
This wasn’t loss of control.
This was holy zeal.
This was righteous anger.
This was love protecting what is sacred.
His Warnings to the Pharisees
Jesus confronted religious leaders who refused to repent:
He exposed hypocrisy
He corrected false teaching
He warned of judgment
He called them to repentance
This was not cruelty.
This was truth spoken with authority.
3. Jesus’ Anger Was Always Holy
Human anger is often selfish, impulsive, or destructive.
Jesus’ anger was pure, purposeful, and protective.
He was angry for the right reasons:
When God’s name was dishonored
When the vulnerable were exploited
When repentance was refused
When truth was twisted
His anger flowed from love, not pride.
4. Meekness Is Not the Absence of Strength — It Is Strength Under God’s Control
Jesus shows us that meekness includes:
Gentleness toward the repentant
Firmness toward the rebellious
Patience toward the weak
Courage toward injustice
The Gentle Shepherd carries lambs,
but He also defends the flock.
The Lamb of God was silent before His accusers,
but He also rebuked the storm,
commanded demons,
and confronted sin.
5. What This Means for Us
Following Jesus means learning both sides of His heart:
Be gentle with the broken.
People who are hurting need tenderness, not harshness.
Be firm with sin.
Love does not ignore what destroys.
Be patient with the weak.
Jesus never crushed a bruised reed.
Be courageous when truth is at stake.
Jesus never bowed to pressure or fear.
This is the kind of love that transforms families, churches, and communities.
A Short Devotional Prayer
“Lord Jesus, Gentle Shepherd and Righteous King, teach me to love like You. Give me gentleness for the hurting, courage to confront sin, patience with the weak, and wisdom to know the difference. Shape my heart to reflect Your meekness and Your strength. Amen.”
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Do not use this picture anywhere but with this lesson
“The Bridge That Saved Us”
๐ฌ Scene:
A puppet stage with a painted backdrop of the New River Gorge Bridge, river below, and hills on either side. A sign reads: “Live from Almost Heaven!”
๐ฃ️ Script Highlights
๐ค Ralph the Reporter:
“Welcome, folks! I’m Ralph the Reporter, and today we’re crossing over into stories of rescue, reunion, and raccoon heroics! Let’s start with Granny Grace—Granny, what was life like before the bridge?”
๐ข Granny Grace:
“Well, Ralph, back then winter roads were slipperier than a banana peel at a penguin party. We didn’t travel unless it was life or death. And sometimes… it was.”
๐ค Ralph:
“Yikes! And now?”
๐ข Granny Grace:
“Now I visit my grandkids, go to church, and even get pizza in a snowstorm. That bridge gave us back our winters.”
๐ฆ Richie Raccoon:
“One night, I saw a car parked on the bridge. Fog everywhere. I felt something was wrong. I ran. I found a man ready to jump. I called for help. Deputies came. We saved him.”
๐ค Ralph:
“Richie, you’re a hero!”
๐ฆ Richie:
“Nah. I was just on the bridge. The real hero? The one who built it.”
๐ Lena the Lamb:
“I was rafting. We flipped. I got swept away. I thought I was gone. But someone grabbed me. I didn’t even see his face.”
๐ฆ Pastor Paws:
“That’s how grace works, Lena. You don’t always see it coming. But it never lets go.”
๐ Voice of the Bridge (Jesus):
“I am the bridge. I span the chasm between fear and freedom. Between danger and delight. Between death and life. Cross over. I will carry you.”
๐ค Ralph (closing):
“Well folks, we’ve heard it all—from icy roads to river rescues. But one thing’s clear: this bridge isn’t just steel and stone. It’s a symbol. A sermon. A Savior.”
๐ถ Optional Ending Song (Group):
๐ต “Jesus is the Bridge, strong and wide,He carries us to the other side.From fear to faith, from sin to save,He holds us close, When we believe and trust in Him and his holy ways.” ๐ต
๐ญ Puppet Show:
“The Bridge That Saved Us”
๐งต What’s Included:
Full Puppet Script – With dialogue, stage directions, and spiritual reflections
Character Cutout Ideas – Simple puppet designs for each character
Stage Design Tips – How to create a gorge, bridge, and river backdrop
Devotional Reflection Page – Scripture, discussion questions, and prayer
Coloring Page – Featuring the bridge, characters, and key verse
Bonus Song Sheet – “Jesus Is the Bridge” lyrics with hand motions
๐ง๐ค Character Cutout Ideas:
Ralph the Reporter – Sock puppet squirrel with a paper microphone
Granny Grace – Turtle puppet with glasses and a shawl
Richie Raccoon – Paper puppet with a flashlight and patrol vest
Lena the Lamb – Soft lamb puppet with a life vest
Pastor Paws – Lion puppet with a Bible and gentle eyes
The Bridge (Voice Only) – Use echo effect or deep voice offstage
๐จ Stage Design Tips:
Use a cardboard box or tri-fold board as your stage
Paint or draw the New River Gorge Bridge across the center
Add cotton ball clouds, blue paper river, and green hills
Label one side “Danger” and the other “Delight” to match your maze activity
๐ Devotional Reflection Page:
Theme: Jesus is the bridge between fear and faith Scripture:“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…” —Isaiah 43:2 Questions:
What does a bridge do?
How has Jesus helped you cross from fear to safety?
Who in your life has been a “bridge” for you?
Prayer:
“Thank You, Jesus, for being strong when we feel weak. Thank You for carrying us across the storms. Help us trust You when the path is scary. Amen.”
๐ถ Bonus Song: “Jesus Is the Bridge”
๐ต “Jesus is the Bridge, strong and wide,He carries us to the other side.From fear to faith, from sin to save,He holds us close, When we believe and trust in Him and his holy ways.” ๐ต
๐ต
Add hand motions like “bridge arms,” “walking feet,” and “hugging arms” for younger kids!
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Please Use This Coloring Illustration For This Lesson Only:
Jesus is the Bridge KJV Lesson with Shepherd Story
Jesus Is the Bridge: A Devotional Lesson for All Ages
Introduction
There is a certain magic in bridges. They span raging rivers, connect distant lands, and bring together people who might otherwise remain apart. Have you ever stood in the middle of a long bridge and marveled at how it joins what seemed impossible to connect? As children, bridges seem like playground props or cool places to drop sticks and race leaves. As adults, we appreciate the crucial connections bridges bring to a city or community. In both wonder and practicality, a bridge means access where otherwise there would only be separation.
Yet, not all gorges are made of water, rocks, or busy highways. Some are deeper—spiritual gaps that divide us from God, from one another, and even sometimes from our own sense of purpose or hope. Into the heart of this divide comes Jesus Christ, described in the Bible as both the Good Shepherd and the Door—the one who lays down His life at the opening, protecting, guiding, and ultimately bridging the chasm between humanity and God. The story is old, but its power is ageless, brimming with meaning for children and adults alike.
This devotional lesson, rooted solidly in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, will invite you to see Jesus not just as a distant figure in religious history, but as the living bridge to salvation, safety, and relationship with God. Through storytelling, humor, theological depth, and opportunities for reflection, we invite everyone—whether you are young or seasoned, new to faith or a lifelong believer—to step onto the bridge Christ builds for us all.
Scripture: The Bridge in the Bible
The Bible is filled with images and stories of separation and reconciliation, chasms and crossings. But perhaps nowhere is the "bridge" metaphor more vivid than in the words of Jesus Himself:
John 14:6 (KJV):
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
John 10:7, 9-11 (KJV):
“Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. ... I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. ... I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”
Acts 4:12 (KJV):
“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”
These scriptures present three essential truths: there is a chasm, Jesus is the only way across it, and He lays down His life so that all may find safety and life on the other side. The bridge is not a structure made of steel or stone, but a person—Jesus, who by His own sacrifice gives us access to God.
The Story: The Good Shepherd and the Door
Let us turn now to the beautiful image Jesus gives in John 10, deepening our understanding of the “bridge”: the Near Eastern shepherd, his sheep, and the door.
Shepherds and Sheepfolds in the Ancient Near East
Shepherding in biblical times was no easy task. The land was wild, especially at night, filled with dangers—wolves, thieves, and lurking shadows. After a long day of grazing, the sheep were led into a stone-walled sheepfold, often a circular enclosure with only one narrow opening.This opening was not closed with a gate or wooden door. Instead, the shepherd himself lay down across the entrance, literally becoming the door. No sheep could leave, and no threat could enter, except over his body.
When Jesus refers to Himself as "the door" and "the good shepherd," He is evoking this tangible, protective love. Not only does He guide the sheep to pasture, but He becomes the living bridge between the safety of the fold and the dangers outside. The sheep are protected not by mere walls, but by the self-sacrifice of the shepherd.
The Good Shepherd’s Voice
In the sheepfold, voices mattered more than faces. Multiple flocks could be kept together, their only distinction being the unique call of each shepherd. When the shepherd called, his sheep followed—without hesitation or confusion. Jesus uses this detail to reveal another layer: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27, KJV). Just as in ancient times, Jesus’ followers know His voice and find safety in His calling.
Laying Down His Life
But the story goes deeper. The "laying at the door" is not just for comfort or convenience, it is an act of total self-sacrifice: “The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). Jesus is the bridge not because of how smart or sturdy He is, but because He is willing to lay Himself down, to become the way across—for you, for me, for all.
In considering this metaphor, one ancient preacher may have put it with some humor: "You never heard of a sheep that would risk its neck for the shepherd. And yet here is our Shepherd, who threads Himself like a bridge across the chasm, just so that we might get home safe." If that doesn't invite a grateful "aww," what does?
The Bridge Metaphor: Theological Insights
Sin: The Chasm We Cannot Cross
The very heart of the Christian message starts with a problem: sin. The Bible teaches that sin separates us from God—every wrong thought, word, or deed; every selfish impulse. Picture two cliffs with an unbridgeable chasm between. On one side is us, with all our brokenness and good intentions; on the other is God, holy and perfect. No amount of “good works,” religion, or positive thinking can build a bridge across this gap.
We may try to build our own bridges—by being extra nice, going to church, giving to charity, reading the Bible, or just trying not to mess up. Each effort falls short; the chasm remains. Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
Jesus: The Only Bridge
But the gospel’s “good news” begins precisely here: God himself provides the only true bridge. Jesus comes from heaven to earth, living the only perfect life, and then laying down His own life as a sacrifice. "I am the way, the truth, and the life," says Jesus; "no man cometh unto the Father, but by me" (John 14:6, KJV). Unlike human efforts, this bridge is solid, secure—anchored on the very love and faithfulness of God.
A Bridge of Relationship—not Just Rescue
Jesus is not only the bridge for our salvation but for our relationship with God day by day. At every fear, every failure, every joy, it is through Christ that we approach God confidently—not as distant strangers, but as beloved children. “In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him” (Ephesians 3:12, KJV). And just as the shepherd knows his sheep by name, Jesus knows and loves each of us individually, inviting us home, again and again.
Application: Living on the Bridge
For Children: The Bridge Activity
A classic way to share this message—with energy, fun, and memorable visuals—is the “bridge illustration” for children (and honestly, for adults too).Place two chairs across the room. Label one "GOD" and the other "MAN." Draw a rugged “chasm” (use a scarf or a piece of rope). Try to get the kids to “jump” across the gap—it’s impossible! Next, let them “build bridges”—maybe with books, sticks, or anything at hand (all will fall short). Then bring out a large cross or simply place a volunteer (or a board labeled “JESUS”) over the gap. Invite each child to walk across the bridge, showing visually and physically how Jesus alone spans the divide. For a fun twist, add a “shark pit” and have kids pretend to cross safely, reinforcing that Jesus keeps us from the dangers our own methods can’t avoid.
Reflection Questions for Kids:
Who was able to cross the gap?
What made the difference?
How does it feel knowing Jesus is the bridge for you?
For Adults: Crossing the Bridge by Faith
For adults, the challenge is much the same, though perhaps our chasms are more hidden—the regrets we cannot fix, relationships we cannot mend, weaknesses we cannot conquer. In Christ, faith is not a leap into the unknown, but a confident step onto a bridge God has built at infinite cost.
Personal Reflection:
Where are you still trying to “jump” the gap on your own?
Are you trusting Jesus as the only way, or depending on your own “bridge-building”?
How can you rest today in His finished work, knowing that “He is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him” (Hebrews 7:25, KJV)?
Humorous Interlude: If Jesus Built Bridges...
It’s been said that if Jesus were a construction engineer, He’d only need one blueprint: Himself. In fact, think of the conversation in the children’s lesson, with a character named “Archie Keystone” insisting:
“Nah, Jesus ain’t no bridge! He ain’t made of concrete or bricks, and you don’t drive your car over Him! Why would anyone try to drive their car over Jesus? Go build a bridge outta hot lava and fruit if you want, but only Jesus can bridge us to God!”
This lighthearted confusion not only keeps kids giggling, but helps everyone see: Jesus isn’t a literal piece of construction material, but in God’s design, He’s sturdier than steel.
Anecdote: There’s also the classic about the little boy who prays, “Lord, if you’re really there, help me get across this creek!” He then walks a log (wobbling and slipping, barely making it). Beaming afterward, he declares: “Thank you, Lord! And thanks for the log!” Sometimes God’s bridge is right in front of us; all we need is the courage to trust it!
The Good Shepherd Lays at the Door: Storytelling for the Heart
Imagine with me, as we settle into ancient hills dotted with olive trees. The sun has long set, and the chill of evening climbs from the dusty earth. You, a sheep, shuffle nervously among your brothers and sisters into the sheepfold. Mud walls three feet thick rise around you. Thorny brambles top the stones. The only entrance is a gap, barely wide enough for one sheep at a time.
Now the shepherd, your shepherd, settles in. He counts each one as they pass. Satisfied that all are present, he lies across the entrance, his body the only blockade between you and the dangers prowling outside. You sleep in peace, not because there are no threats, but because of who is watching—someone willing, if necessary, to give everything for your safety.
Isn’t this exactly what Jesus promises us? “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep” (John 10:11, KJV). The story is not merely to send us off with warm fuzzies—it’s to anchor us in a love deeper than fear, stronger than sin, more enduring than life itself.
Children and adults alike can close their eyes and imagine:
The shepherd’s rough hands, callused from stones.
The gentle voice that calms fretful sheep.
The warmth, the trust, the knowledge that no matter what the night holds, the shepherd is in the opening.
When you think of Jesus as your bridge, picture this: not a plank over a river, but the living Son of God, lying at your door, refusing to let thieves or wolves past, carrying your burdens, calling you by name.
Heartwarming Conclusion: “Aww” and Amen
At the very heart of the gospel is this truth: God refused to leave us stranded on the far side of the chasm. He did not send us instructions or merely call over the gap with advice. Instead, He came Himself—Immanuel, God with us. He became our bridge, our door, our shepherd, our hope.
When we were lost and unable to get to Him, Jesus built the bridge with His body and blood, then called us by name, and laid Himself down that we would be forever safe. As John 3:16 so simply and powerfully puts it, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
So, whether you first heard the story in Sunday School, or find it new and wondrous now, let it move something inside you—wonder, gratitude, even tears. For in a world that so often feels divided, disconnected, and dangerous, Christ has already spanned the gap, made a way, and whispered, “Come to me.”
And here’s the “aww” moment for anyone at any age: Whenever you feel lost, scared, or unsure of your path, remember—there’s a Shepherd lying at your door, a Bridge that will never tremble, a Savior who says, “You’re safe with me. Welcome home.”
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Peter didn’t expect much when Jesus told him to cast the net again. He’d already tried. He was tired. But obedience opened the floodgates of blessing. The boat overflowed—not just with fish, but with awe, purpose, and a new calling.
Reflection Prompt:
Have you ever felt like giving up, but chose to trust God anyway? What happened next?
Prayer:
“Lord, help me to listen when You speak, even when I’m discouraged. Teach me to trust Your timing and Your plan. Fill my heart with faith, and let my life overflow with Your goodness. Amen.”
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Luke 5:5 (KJV 1611) "And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net."
๐ Devotional: “Nevertheless, At Thy Word”
Simon Peter’s hands were calloused, his nets soaked and empty. The Sea of Galilee had offered no reward that night — just the cold sting of disappointment. He wasn’t alone; James and John, fellow fishermen and sons of Zebedee, had also labored in vain. But as the sun rose, so did a stranger on the shore — Jesus of Nazareth. He stepped into Simon’s boat, not to fish, but to teach. And then came the command: “Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.”
Simon hesitated. He had every reason to decline. The fish weren’t biting. The nets were clean. The men were tired. But then came the words that changed everything: “Nevertheless at thy word…” That phrase is the heartbeat of faith. It’s the moment when logic bows to trust, when weariness yields to obedience.
As the nets plunged into the deep, the miracle unfolded. Fish swarmed the boat, so many that the nets began to break. They called for help, and even the second boat began to sink under the weight of the catch. Simon fell at Jesus’ knees, overwhelmed not just by fish, but by holiness. “Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord,” he cried. But Jesus didn’t depart. He called.
This story is great because it’s not just about fish — it’s about calling, surrender, and transformation. It’s about how Jesus meets us in our failure and turns it into abundance. It’s about how obedience opens the door to revelation. Simon Peter, James, and John didn’t just catch fish that day — they caught purpose. They left their nets and followed Him.
The characters in this story — Simon Peter, James, John, and Jesus — represent the tension between human effort and divine intervention. Peter’s confession of sin is a turning point. He realizes that proximity to Jesus reveals our need for grace. And Jesus responds not with condemnation, but with commission: “Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.”
Biblical fact: The Sea of Galilee is actually a freshwater lake, known for its sudden storms and rich fishing grounds. Fishermen often worked at night, when fish were more active near the surface. That’s why Jesus’ daytime command was so unusual — and why the miracle was so profound.
This story reminds us that God’s timing often defies our expectations. He doesn’t wait for perfect conditions. He speaks into our emptiness and invites us to trust. And when we do, the results are more than we imagined — not just full nets, but full hearts.
๐ก Thought of the Day
Obedience to God’s word may not always make sense, but it always makes a difference.
๐ Recommended Scripture Reading
John 21:1–14 – Another miraculous catch after the resurrection
Matthew 4:18–22 – The calling of the first disciples
Isaiah 6:1–8 – A prophet’s encounter with holiness and calling
๐ Closing Verse
Luke 5:11 (KJV 1611) "And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him."
๐ Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for meeting us in our empty boats and calling us to deeper waters. Teach us to say, “Nevertheless at Thy word,” even when we don’t understand. Help us to trust Your voice more than our circumstances. May we be willing to leave behind what’s familiar to follow You into the unknown. Bless this class with courage, clarity, and a heart that longs to obey. Fill us with Your Spirit, and let our lives be vessels for Your glory.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
๐ Praise be to God, who turns empty nets into overflowing purpose!
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
[Verse 1 – Abraham’s Call] He’s my only son, the light of my days Born of a promise, not earthly
ways, But the Lord has spoken—so here I stand On this mountain high, with
trembling hands
[Verse 2 – Isaac’s Innocence] Father, I see the wood and the flame But where is the lamb to be slain
in His name? You whisper “The Lord will provide,” and believe, that God does
know what’s best for me.
[Chorus – Shared Faith] He’s my only son, yet I still believe In the love of God, in the plans
conceived From one small seed, the stars will shine Each one a heartbeat of
love divine
[Verse 3 – Heaven’s Mercy] A voice from the heavens cried “Do not harm” And there in the
thicket—redemption’s ram The knife falls away, the tears finally stream God’s
love breaks through like a gentle dream.
[Bridge – The Greater Love] As Abraham laid down his son in faith So God gave His own in redeeming
grace One Son for all, the spotless Lamb His love for the world—who else but I
AM?
[Final Chorus – Eternal Promise] He’s the only Son, sent from above Carried by mercy, anchored in love
From faith like Abraham’s, hope begins Through stars uncounted, God's light
still wins
[Outro – Children of the Promise] We are the stars, we carry His name Born from above,
shaped through His love, Our hearts still sing, our faith still runs— With love
that began in the only Son.
[Outro – Children of the Promise Today] We are the stars, still bearing His light
Called to be faithful, to walk in what's right
From Abraham’s trust to the cross and the Lamb—
We live in the gift of the great I AM
In cities and silence, in joy and in tears
His promise still echoes across all our years
For He gave His Son—love’s purest embrace
So we shine today by amazing grace
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
The coloring pages stay with the stories and are to be used
for this story only unless you ask permission.
๐ฟ A Father, A Son, and A Lamb: A
Devotional Story Inspired by Genesis 22 & John 3:16
God’s deep love and
plan for redemption through Jesus.
Abraham and Isaac walked together
beneath the quiet sky. The wind whispered through the trees, and the boy carried
wood for the fire. He looked up at his father and asked, “Where is the lamb?”
Abraham's heart trembled. He didn’t fully understand what God was doing—but he
trusted Him completely. “My son,” he said softly, “God will provide himself a
lamb.” (Genesis 22:8, KJV)
Just like Isaac didn’t know what was
coming, we don’t always understand God's plan. But one thing is clear: we’re
all born with something broken inside—it's called sin. Sin isn’t just about
doing something wrong; it’s about being separated from God. Every person, young
and old, has sinned. Jesus knew this. That's why, whether He was talking to
fishermen, children, or Pharisees, He never avoided the truth. He spoke with
love—but He also spoke with clarity. He said we must turn away from our sin and
believe.
That’s why Jesus came—He is the Lamb
God provided for us. Just like the ram in the thicket saved Isaac from being
sacrificed, Jesus saves us from the punishment our sin deserves. He didn’t
deserve the cross, but He chose it because of His love for us. John 3:16 says
it all: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son…”
That’s the heart of Abraham’s story—it shines forward into Jesus’ story, and
now into ours.
When we admit our sin and believe in
Jesus, something beautiful happens. He forgives us, washes our hearts clean,
and makes us part of His forever family. It's not because we're good—but
because He's good. And just like the stars God showed Abraham, too many to
count, that’s how many hearts God longs to reach.
Today, you may feel far from God, or
unsure what comes next. But the same God who met Abraham on the mountain is
reaching for you now. He provided a lamb for Abraham—and He provided Jesus for
you. That’s how much He loves you.
The question now is this: will you
trust Him? He’s waiting with love, forgiveness, and forever hope. And when you
walk with Him, the journey—like Abraham’s—is never alone.
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.
And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.
And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.
And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house.
And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Mark your gameboard with points in different areas.
Put the other copy up where the kids can put
a mark on the board with the color maker they have.
You will know who made the points by the color mark.
Ask all the questions then add up the points at the end.
The one with the most points wins, If they learn they win..
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Our family watched a
little boy named Jackson; we watched him from six months to almost four years old.
My daughter was hired as his babysitter, but we all spent time with him.
I only spanked
Jackson one time the entire time we watched him. He kicked me in the shin and boy did it hurt. There was another time Jackson did something
I don’t even remember what it was. I
decided to teach him something and I asked my husband to help me. I asked my husband to let me spank him to teach
Jackson about Jesus. My husband did as I
requested and he willingly let me spank him. I want to make it very clear that I never hurt
Pastor George. We did the same thing when our girls were little. Pastor George and I worked as a team to teach
Jackson that Jesus took our punishment for us.
Jackson did something worthy of a spanking, we told him he should be spanked. We put on a little skit for Jackson. We explained to him, “Pastor George is going
to willingly take your punishment today, you did something wrong, but he’s
getting spanked for it.” Pastor George even
pretended to cry.
I did spank Pastor
George but it was not hard enough to hurt him.
See, Jesus took our place of punishment for us. He didn’t have to die for us, He willingly
laid down his life for us. God loved us
so much that He sent his only Son Jesus, to take our place. We didn’t deserve forgiveness;
Jesus didn’t deserve our punishment. What
Jesus did for us was not pretend, it was real.
He was crucified upon
a cross and shed his blood for our sins.
Jesus took our place. He provided a way for forgiveness; He
provided the way of Salvation.
He provided a way for us to become adopted into God's family.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.
He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God,
even to them that believe on his name:
When we believe in Christ as our Saviour, God gives us power to become his child.
We are not his child until we believe and trust upon Christ for salvation.
If Jesus was not born we would not of had power to become God's Child.
God chose adoption and we are adopted as sons and daughters.
Joseph is an example of God. He accepted Jesus as his earthly son. Joseph loved him as his own and watched over him also as his Saviour. Go so loved and Joseph so loved.
Look
and See
Look and see, this joyous day, the Infant
Christ is here.
The
angel’s voices could be heard from the gates of pearly white.
Look and
see, in Mother’s arms, the promised child from God.
Glory
Halleluiah Christ was born upon this bless-ed night.
Oh, Glory
Halleluiah Christ is born, let us rejoice, Christ is born.
The
promised child was given, the promised child from heaven.
The
Messiah is here! The Messiah is here
and our
hearts are filled with joy!
Hello,
nice to meet you, we are shepherds from the field.
With
gladness, we are here this night to see God’s promise fulfilled.
Thank
you, God, for sending us this perfect baby boy.
A gift
of love, A gift of peace, a gift of hope, and great joy.
Oh, Glory
Halleluiah Christ is born, let us rejoice, Christ is born.
The
promised child was given, the promised child from heaven.
The
Messiah is here! The Messiah is here
and our
hearts are filled with joy!
I am
Joseph the protector of our newborn King.
God has
chosen me for this family, for this miracle
This is
Jesus, light of my life, Saviour of my soul.
I am his
earthly father and I know; that I love him so.
Oh, Glory
Halleluiah Christ is born, let us rejoice, Christ is born.
The
promised child was given, the promised child from heaven.
The
Messiah is here! The Messiah is here
and our
hearts are filled with joy!
Look and
see, the infant child that God has given me.
I am
most favored to cradle my Savior and to worship him.
Look and
know, that God loves us so, for Jesus is here.
Glory
Halleluiah Christ is born, born to save us from our sin.
Oh, Glory
Halleluiah Christ is born, let us rejoice, Christ is born.
The
promised child was given, the promised child from heaven.
I read this as a dramatic reading this morning in church.
Read with a lot of feeling and emotion.
Luke 2:7-11
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.