Christ for Today

Today's Sunday lesson: Matthew 9:1-8
(1) Jesus stepped into a boat, crossed over and came to his own town.
2) Some men brought to him a paralytic, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven".
3) At this, some of the teachers of the law said to themselves, "This fellow is blaspheming".
4) Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, "Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts?"
5) Which is easier to say, 'Your sins are forgiven' or to say,'Get up and walk?'
6) But, so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.." Then he said to the paralytic, "Get up, take your mat and go home."
7) And the man got up and went home.
8) When the crowd saw this, they were filled with awe; and they praised God, who had given such authority to men.

Simple lesson shared with children & "innocent minds answered": Who is the Son of Man? "Jesus"; Who was forgiven? "The paralytic man"; Who knew their thoughts? "Jesus"; Who gave permission or authority? "God"; Who was the man given authority? a) paralytic b) teachers c) Jesus d) anyone or thing?...answer (c) " Jesus"... Out of the mouths of children, listening only to God's Word.
I just called my grandson to quiz & confirm the right scriptural answers.

Now for a quote from a 'mall version', sound strange? Well, listen up to an even stranger suggestion. Printed in Reader's Digest Catholic leaders have launched efforts aimed at persuading more parishioners to get in on the act. One example: (and I quote) "Three Capuchin friars now hear confessions at a Colorado mall. Protestant denominations are also joining this urge to purge. Last summer, the country's second-largest Lutheran branch passed a resolution encouraging private confession, after largely ignoring the rite for more than 100 years. I;; have to ask my best friend back east about that one.
Other sects suggest symbolically feeding sins into a paper shredder(!?).
Also popping up: websites where sinners can unburden themselves". I just have one word 'unbelievable'.

I believe, therefore I think Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God...Romans 10:17 (that says it all).
I leave you with this one precious thought...
There is one God and one Mediator between God and man, Christ Jesus.(1 Timothy 2:5)

From Our 'One' Front Porch to Yours...Andy & Ana.

Credit: God's precious & clear word/Readers Digest(Dec.2007)