E-note 6/25: A Look at VBS

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we draw near to the start of Vacation Bible School we would all do well to spend some time meditating on those acts of the apostles that give shape to this year's VBS lessons. The primary scripture texts are Acts 27 and 28. Here you not only see the acts of the apostle Paul but the Lordship of the ascended and enthroned Christ. Jesus said after his resurrection, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go..." (Matthew 28:18-19). In Acts 27 and 28 - from the deck of a fragile merchant's ship cast upon a stormy sea - we witness the sureness and stability of life for those who have the risen Christ as Captain.

As you are reading the narrative of Acts 27 and 28 keep the following five lessons of VBS before you, they will enrich your understanding.

Day 1 (Acts 27:1-12) - Christ gives me prophets. Children will see that the risen Christ gives us prophets to keep us from danger. The children will be challenged to recieve God's prophets by heeding their words in the Bible.
Day 2 (Acts 27:13-26) - Christ commands my destiny. Children will see that the risen Christ controls our life not accidents or nature. The children will be challenged not to be afraid of anything because Jesus rules over everything.
Day 3 (Acts 27:27-38) - Christ encourages me to keep trusting. Children will learn that they can wait on Jesus for he keeps his word. The children will be challenged to not let fear turn them to their own ways.
Day 4 (Acts 27:39-44) - Christ keeps his word to me. Children will learn that the risen Christ fulfills his word. The children will be challenged to love Jesus for his strength and faithfulness.
Day 5 (Acts 28:1-10) - Christ is Lord of lord and Lord of mercy. Children will learn that the risen Christ rules over all the gods of men. The children will be challenged to abandon all false hopes and trust Jesus alone.

How can you help make this summer's VBS a success? (1) Pray for the workers and God's gathering of children to each night; (2) Courageously invite neighbors, friends, grandchildren and other relatives; (3) help us build the ship Sunday after worship on July 11; (4) bring supplies that we need to the church this Sunday and next. The supply list includes:

(1) Wooden crates and barrells that look old and are sturdy (to be props for a merchant ship's deck).
(2) Gunny sacks stuffed with paper or something soft (to be props for a merchant ship's deck).
(3) Anything else that you think might help us promote merchant ship life (please ask me before you bring it in).

A special "thank you" to all who are helping us "navigate" this project of the Lord Jesus Christ's magnification here in Thetford, Summer 2010 - CRAFTS: Lauren Haren, Jean Munn and Elizabeth Morrell; GAMES: Bill Pedi, Sara Wilmot and Annie Hartley; DECORATIONS & COSTUMES: Annie Hartley, Emalie Hartley, Gunilla Kuniholm, Roger & Chris Berger; BIBLE STORY HELPERS: Scott & Christina Amado, Susan Bonina and Sara Wilmot; MUSIC: Christina Amado, Jen Hartley; REGISTRATION: Janet Stowell and Nancy Hammond. SNACKS: Women's Bible Study Group

Yours in Christ, John