This week we continue Jesus parable of the Lost Son in Luke 15:21- 32. Although the son returns ready to work off the money he took from his father, the father welcomes his Lost Son home, and even throws a giant party! But not everyone’s too happy about this. The kid’s older brother has obeyed dad all his life—without a single party to show for it. He’s sulking in the backyard until his dad shows up. And if big brother isn’t willing to let this whole thing go, he’ll miss out.
 
Bottom Line: When you don’t forgive, you miss out. The same thing is true for us. When we don’t forgive we have the potential to miss out on all that could happen through that relationship. God can give us the strength we need to forgive. And when we do, we get to find out the amazing things that God can do when we decided to forgive.
 
Bible Verse:  Matthew 6:14 – If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you.
 
Just a note about next week’s worship service…6 people have chosen to be baptized during next week’s service.  As a Team we want the children in Reign Forest to participate in this wonderful celebration service!
The children will only be dismissed for the last part of the service after the baptisms are over.  And don’t forget, we will also have a fellowship meal following the service.
 
May you find your joy in Jesus this week!
~The Reign Forest Team

We continue our look at forgiveness with one of Jesus’ most well known parables. In Luke 15:11-24, Jesus talks about a kid who thinks he’s got it all together. He demands half of his dad’s money and takes off to spend it on himself. It’s only when the money is gone he realizes he’s made a HUGE mistake and needs forgiveness. He’s got just one hope: that his dad will let him come home and be a servant. 
 
Bottom Line: Everyone needs to be forgiven, even me. Realizing one’s need for forgiveness is a huge step for anyone. But through Jesus’ story, we hope kids realize that everyone needs forgiveness, even them.
 
Bible Verse:  Psalm 86:5 – O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help.
 
Blessings
The Reign Forest Team