Weekly Leader Training for Preschool & Kids: Unit 24, Session 5—Jesus Taught about Possessions

In our modern consumer-driven culture, Luke 12’s parable of the rich fool provides a relevant warning against the danger of greed, as well as a timely cure for the anxiety that ails us when we seek first our own kingdom rather than God’s.

In this chapter, we read about Jesus being interrupted from His teaching to break up a civil squabble between two brothers fighting over their inheritance. Jesus asked why they would want Him to serve as the judge between them and issued a serious warning, not just to the greedy brother, but to everyone in the crowd: “Be on guard against all greed, because one’s life is not in the abundance of his possessions.” The man who called out for Jesus’ help was probably not expecting a rebuke from Jesus in the form of a parable.

Jesus went on to teach them what it looks like to put God’s kingdom above their own, to seek His will for their lives rather than accumulating more money and possessions that won’t stand the test of time. He taught them what it means to treasure God above the things of this world and to receive the gift of everlasting life that will not perish.

Trusting in God’s power above your own ability to provide for yourself doesn’t come naturally to us. Though the kids hearing this story may not be as familiar with this reality as you are, reflect on what it means to trust in and treasure God above all else, to believe that we are worth more to our Creator than the beautiful sights we witness in nature. It takes faith to read these words of Scripture and to believe them with confidence and hope. Pray for a childlike faith to reign in your heart as you share this story with boys and girls this week.

Lead the kids in your class to see how worthy God is of our trust, obedience, and worship. Pray that God would soften their hearts and provide them with the peace that comes from knowing their lives are secure—both now and forever, when they trust in His Son’s words of life.