Rescuing the Fallen

Bible Reading: Luke 19:1-10

“Hey buddy, what’s wrong?” Dad asked when it was time for Emerson’s bedtime prayers.

“It’s Grandpa,” said Emerson. “He doesn’t believe in Jesus. That means he’s not going to heaven.”

“He needs Jesus,” said Dad. “Shall we pray for him?” Emerson nodded, and he and his dad prayed for Emerson’s grandfather.

The next morning, Dad took Emerson and his sister on a walk in the woods. As they went along, colorful leaves rustled under their feet. “A lot of leaves are still falling,” said Emerson. “They’re gonna get trampled on.” He grinned at his sister. “I bet I can catch more before they hit the ground than you can.”

“You’re on!” said Liliana. So as they walked, they tried to catch every falling leaf.

“Okay, let’s count them,” Emerson said as they headed back home.

“All right.” A few moments later, Liliana grinned. “I’ve got seventeen!”

“So do I!” said Emerson. “We rescued a bunch of them, didn’t we?”

Dad smiled. “I’m glad you were able to rescue those fallen leaves. It reminds me of what Jesus does—He rescues fallen people.”

“Fallen people?” asked Liliana. “I know Jesus found Zacchaeus in a tree, but he didn’t fall from it.”

“No, but he was fallen in other ways. Zacchaeus was a lost sinner, but Jesus saved him and changed him. All people are fallen sinners, and Jesus wants us to do what we can to help rescue them. He wants us to help bring them to Him.”

“People like Grandpa,” said Emerson. “I know Jesus can save him, but Grandpa’s already pretty old. We pray for him a lot, but what else can we do to help bring him to Jesus?”

Liliana looked at the leaves she had saved from hitting the ground. “Let’s press these leaves and put them in different places around the house,” she suggested. “We can pray for Grandpa every time we see one of them.”

“Good,” said Dad. “Any other ideas?”

“We could invite him to the program at church next week,” replied Emerson.

“And help him rake his yard!” said Liliana.

Dad nodded. “Those are good ways to help him know how much Jesus loves him—and how much we love him too.” – Steve Hulet

How About You?

Do you have family or friends who don’t believe in Jesus? Show them His love through your words and actions. Jesus came to save those who are fallen and lost, and He wants you to be part of the process. He loves them even more than you do, so don’t ever give up. Keep reaching out to those who need Jesus.

Today’s Key Verse:
Luke 19:10 For the Son of Man [Jesus] came to seek and save those who are lost. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Reach out to those who need Jesus