Family Reading for September 29

Beginning this week we'll be occasionally including suggestions for family readings and discussion connected to the sermon.  Here's a great read about Fear connected to the ideas of God's care for nature in Luke 12:22-34.

If I Never Forever Endeavor by Holly Meade (ISBN:9780763640712)

This book looks at that feeling we have in the pit of our stomach when we have to make a choice that brings us to the brink of "possible failure or possible glory."  In the book a young fledgling perched on the edge of the nest looks down and has an inner debate: Shall I endeavor to fly.? If I try, I may fail. If I stay safely in my nest I may miss what it feels like to dip and glide and soar. Tentatively the bird tries, flaps and flutters.  In the last picture the fledgling sails toward the sun.

The life of children are full of new things – making friends,  acquiring skills, going to school, playing a game, riding a bike, learning to swim.  Their lives are far more risky than we realize.  We adults also face the challenge to try, to dare in their lives as well. Our faith affirms though that God is present with us in each challenge, and we must trust that God will help us for a disciple’s life is one of risk-taking.

Some questions to continue the conversation together:

• Of what was the bird afraid?
• How do you feel when you have to try something new?
• Have you ever chosen not to try something new? Why?
• Does God plan for us to try new things? How?