"The Lord is my Shepherd..."
Psalm 23:1a
As a shepherd takes care of his sheep so has God taken care of His people. Do you know who was the first shepherd over Israel? God's people asked the prophet Samuel for a king so they could be like the other nations. This broke Samuel's heart but the Lord told Samuel the people had not rejected him they had rejected their God. Saul did not have a shepherd's heart and was afraid of how he looked in the eyes of his people. Saul's fear led him to disobey the Lord and eventually lose his kingdom to a young shepherd boy named, David. David was actually the first shepherd of the people for he had a heart for Israel and feared God. 2 Samuel 5:2 says, "Also, in times past, when Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them in; and the Lord said to you, 'You shall shepherd my people Israel, and be ruler over Israel.'" Israel went through many kings until they finally went into captivity and ended up with no King. Many years will go by and one day a Son would be born who would give His life for the world. Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices His life for His sheep." Jesus gave his life so we could be reconciled to God. After Jesus died and rose again He appeared to all of His disciples to encourage and give them direction. He sat with Peter one of His disciples who denied him three times and asked him if he loved him and then proceeded to tell him to feed His sheep. The Lord never left us without a shepherd he appoints certain people as pastors to help us until He comes again. 1 Peter 5:1b-2 says, "As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly-not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don't lord it over the people the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor." It is an honor to serve God's people. Pastors have a big job taking care of so many people that is why the writer of Hebrews said to obey your spiritual leaders since it is their job to watch over your souls. He tells us to give them a reason to do this with joy and not sorrow. They give an account to God for what they do. That is why it is so important to pray for those in leadership. Take time today to pray for those God has placed in your life to encourage you in your walk with God.
Activity: Usually October is Pastor appreciation month but whatever month it is when you read this take time to do something nice for your pastors. Maybe send a card or take them a meal during the week. Let this be a family activity as you bless those over you.
Vocabulary Words:
I know it has been a while since I have listed some words for you so here are a few to add to your list. You can always add your own depending on the age of your children.
pastor
shepherd
embarrassed
joy
manners
Today's Reading:
Watch video of Chapter Eight - A New Flavor for Cake
Marilla invites Reverend and Mrs. Allan for tea which gets Anne super excited. Anne wants to make a good first impression on the Reverend and Mrs. Allan so she decides to bake them a cake all by herself. Unfortunately she accidentally adds liniment instead of vanilla which makes her cake not so desirable. Ask your children what would they do in a situation like Anne was in. Mrs. Allan was so kind and reassuring to Anne. When kids try things for the first time they need lots of encouragement. It is important that they know that it is okay if they make mistakes to keep the attitude of ... if first you don't succeed, try, try again!
Science:
I wanted to have the Magic School Bus video for you but was unable to find it so if you can get this book The Magic School Bus Gets Baked in A Cake by Joanna Cole
Your library might have it but if not check out Amazon. A great science study using baking a cake with Ms. Frizzle's class! One of my favorites.
Penmanship:
You can either write the memory verse above or this quote from the book The Magic School Bus Gets Baked in A Cake:
Dorothy Ann added, "Baking is chemistry because things are mixed
together to make something new."
Family Fun Activity:
Make your favorite cake together. To get you motivated enjoy this song by Patty Shukla. The song has a recipe in it if you want to make one from scratch. Take pictures for your portfolio. Enjoy!
