INTRODUCTION

Zacchaeus Climbs a Tree to See Jesus

Bible Point:

Jesus accepts everyone.

Key Verse:

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20).

Big Picture:

Learn that if we take steps of faith toward Jesus, He will meet you and care for you.

Zacchaeus Climbs a Tree to See Jesus

Luke 19:1-10

It is normal to want to be accepted. You want to know that your friends, family, and even teammates like and value you. You might also wonder if God truly accepts you too. The good news is that Jesus already does. Jesus wants to be part of your life and cares about you completely.

In this week’s study, you will have a chance to think about what might be getting in the way of your relationship with Jesus. Maybe it is fear, worry, or trying too hard to fit in. Whatever it is, remember that Jesus’ love and acceptance are not things you have to earn. They are already yours. As you keep learning, you will see that God’s love gives you the confidence to be yourself and to share that same love with others.

TRY THIS

Have each person in the family decorate a door in your house. Decorate the door in a way that shows that person’s own unique skills, goals, talents, hopes, and dreams. Take time during the week to have each person explain to the rest of the family what’s on his or her door.

DAILY CHALLENGE

• INVEST some time this week in praying for people you find hard to accept as they are. Ask God to help you see them through Jesus’ eyes.

• GO to an “outcast” in your school or neighborhood and open the door to talking with that person.

• THINK of the ways that God has been trying to get your attention, and respond to him.