Wednesday: Mercy
Pray: Begin by making the sign of the cross and calling upon God’s name.
From God to us, from death to life, from me to you …
in the name of the Father, and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Almighty God, today as we read our Bible story together, open our minds so that we may understand it better. Thank you for this time of prayer and study, and for your mercy in our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Listen: Pay close attention as these verses from the Bible are read aloud.
John 20:14-15
As soon as Mary said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there. But she did not know who he was. Jesus asked her, “Why are you crying? Who are you looking for?” She thought he was the gardener and said, “Sir, if you have taken his body away, please tell me, so I can go and get him.” Then Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to him, “Rabboni! [Teacher].” (CEV)
Engage: Talk about the Bible by having parents respond to children’s questions.
Child: Mary thought Jesus was the gardener when she first saw him. What do you imagine he looked like?
Child: How would you feel if you thought someone very special was gone forever, and then that person came back into your life again? What would you do?
Affirm: Pray for God to put his Word into action in your daily life.
God of grace, you often surprise us when we least expect it. But all of your surprises are for our good! May we always look for the ways you are at work in the world, and be thankful for them. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Have each person in the family bless one another with these words.
May you realize that God is with you! Amen.