Based on Acts 9:20-25
May 20, 2020
Saul did not believe in Jesus and he was very good at hurting people who did. One day while traveling he had an extraordinary experience, became blind, and was cared for by a stranger and Christ-follower named Ananias. As a result, his heart was changed, his eyes were opened, he was filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to see all people with love instead of hate. After this change Saul is often called Paul. He began preaching and teaching about Jesus in the city of Damascus. He became stronger in faith and this confused people. Some of the leaders wanted to kill him.
Paul heard about a plan to kill him and asked his new friends for help. Late at night they lowered him in a basket through an opening in the city wall. Paul escaped to safety with the help of his friends.
Read the scripture in Acts 9:20-25 and answer these questions:
- Why is Saul sometimes called Paul?
- How did Paul’s friends help him escape from Damascus?
- Do you think Paul was scared when his friends were helping him escape?
- Do you have 2 names? A middle name? Or nick name?
- What makes you feel safe?
- Who makes you feel safe?
Paul was afraid for his life; he trusted his friends to help him escape from a dangerous situation. They had a plan for safety. We can plan to be safe in an emergency, too. At school we have fire/dire drills. At home we have plans or can make safety plans in case of a fire. Create or review those plans today. What other actions or plans can you make to be safe?
Do you touch a hot stove? Do you look both ways before crossing the street? Do you wear your helmet when riding your bike?
It is good to be safe and have plans. It is good to ask for help and to give help. Let us pray for courage and strength to receive and give help.
Video recorded 05202020 By Carmen Talbott
