September 15, 2018

The Gift of a Parable

September 15, 2018

DAILY READING

Matthew 21:28-31
This weekend’s reading: Genesis 12:1-9

FIELD NOTES

Jesus told many parables, and often times they left both the disciples and the Pharisees with their heads scratching. As we read parables today as modern disciples, we can come at them from many different angels or through many different lenses. A popular children’s Bible story curriculum compares parables to a gift—something precious that is given to us, but that comes in a box. Sometimes we are able to open them and understand what is inside, and sometimes we are not ready. Comprehending parables is a lifelong quest, and you may find something new each time you read it.
 
Read through today’s parable of the two sons and answer the questions below. Ask God to show what you need to see from this parable. Be open to hearing from God in a new way.

QUESTIONS FROM THE FIELD

  • Did your view or understanding of this parable change today? Why or why not?
  • What do you think Jesus was trying to communicate through this parable?
  • How did God speak to you today through this parable? What do you believe God wants you to learn through this story?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

  • Why do you think the two sons in the story behaved differently when the father gave them instructions?
  • Which son do you identify more with, the first or the second?

PRAYER

God, thank you for the lessons that Jesus taught us through parables. As we go about our daily lives, help us to remember and put into practice the lessons we learn through these stories that were told so many years ago. Help us to see how they still apply to our lives today. Most of all, help us to live our lives like the one who told the stories. In His holy name, we pray. Amen.