Be Ready for Jesus

Jesus told His disciples stories to help them get ready for His return. He wanted them to live in a way that made God happy. That message is still the same for us today.

When we know the truth about Jesus, we are given something very special—and Jesus wants us to use this special something well.

Grow Closer to God

Some people learn a lot about God from the Bible, church, or their family and friends. That’s a gift! But, knowing is not enough—we must live it.

Jesus wants us to love Him with our whole hearts, especially when it’s hard. That means obeying Him, praying, being kind, and doing what’s right, even when others don’t.

Jesus is coming again someday, and He wants to see that we’re doing what He taught us to do.

Serve with What You Have

Once, Jesus told a story about servants who were given money. The master was happy when the servants worked hard and used what they were given to make more.

In the same way, Jesus gives us gifts—like time, talents, and chances to help others. He wants us to use those gifts to serve Him and make a difference.

If you’re good at music, glorify God. If you're kind, help others feel loved. Whatever we have we should use for good.

Give with a Loving Heart

On another occasion, Jesus watched people put money into an offering box in the temple. Rich people gave a lot, but a poor widow came and gave just two tiny coins. Jesus said she gave the most—because she gave everything she had, and with love.

When we give, we should give with love, not with pride. God cares more about our hearts than about the cost of our gifts.

What Can You Do Today?

Sometimes we think we’re too small to do big things for God. If you know about Jesus, you’ve already been given something great, and God only asks that you do your best with what you have.

Remember, the more we know about God and the more He gives us, the more He wants us to use all of it for good. Let’s take heart and be devoted to living each day for Him.

Family Altar

Use these discussion questions and our prayer as a guide for your family altar.

Parents can lead the prayer and invite their children to repeat after them or encourage their children to take the lead, making family altar time a shared journey of faith.

Discussion Questions:

• How can you be truthful all the time?

• How can you be of help to someone who needs it?

• What can you do to be more selfless?

Prayer in Words:

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, we pray.

Thank You, Lord, for all You’ve given us.

Help us use our gifts and time to serve You,

Because we want to faithfully and willingly love and obey You everyday.

Hallelujah, Amen.