JESUS said, "Live out this God-created identity the way our Father lives toward us, generously and graciously, even when we're at our worst. Our Father is kind; you be kind. "Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity."

He quoted a proverb: "'Can a blind man guide a blind man?' Wouldn't they both end up in the ditch? An apprentice doesn't lecture the master. The point is to be careful who you follow as your teacher. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this I-know-better-than-you mentality again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your own part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor."

Ease 77.5%, Level 5

LESSON

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Grace and Peace be with you Christ's Soldier!

Jesus is teaching us an important lesson in today's story. The day before he had trouble with the religious police. They got mad because he healed a man in church. They were mad because Jesus gathered corn on the "rest day". They thought they were much better than everybody else. They were always quick to tell people how bad they were. They had lots and lots of rules to follow. If people didn't follow the rules just right, there was trouble! But they had things wrong with them too!

The next day Jesus had lots of people come to him to learn. Jesus told them a little story. He said, "Can the blind lead the blind?" . Jesus said "NO" If a person has a log in his eye he would be blind! How could he lead others? How could he help another person to get a speck out of their eye. The person should get the log out of their eye first. After they could see, they could help another. I don't want anyone with a log in their eye to lead you!

Now, two things. First make sure the ones you follow are good! Second, before you lead people, look at yourself to make sure you are OK. It is like looking in a mirror. Sometimes you will see your face is dirty when you do. But if you don't look at yourself, you would not know. Also, think about what is in your mind and heart. Is there anything that you do that is not good? Well, if there is, get rid of that bad thing. Wash it away. Jesus can help you to do that when you confess your mistakes and sins. When you do, then you may be able to help your friend get rid of any bad thing about him. When you do, you may be able to lead your friend to Jesus.

Bye for now. Have a great week, May God, the Father, and the Son and the Holy Ghost bless you, your family, and your friends!

/ s/ Granddaddy

Ease 93%, Level 2.8

LESSON EXERCISES

* Can you name the people in this story, and tell about them?

* In you own words, what do you think this story is about?

* Draw a picture that tells the Gospel story. (You may copy or trace the one on the lesson if you wish.)

* Make up a story (parable) or share a true story that is like our lesson today.

* Sing a song about today's story Lead them to Thee

Songs for Children

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Notice: This is an open letter to my Grandson Nathan. It is under copyright protection: The Rev. Mark Carroll, MMVI

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