As we wrapped up our Called to Be series on Sunday, Pastor Heath brought us to a powerful encounter in Luke 7:36–50.

Two people were in Jesus' presence. One was a respected religious leader who struggled to see beyond another person's past. The other was a woman who knew just how much she needed His grace.

Both needed forgiveness. But only one seemed to understand what a remarkable gift it was.

Jesus challenged Simon to truly see the woman, not simply her reputation or her mistakes, but a person worthy of love, mercy, and forgiveness.

It's a challenge for us, too.

Sometimes it's easier to recognize someone else's need for grace than to acknowledge our own. Yet none of us can earn the forgiveness Jesus freely offers. And when we begin to understand how much we've been forgiven, it should change how we see and love others.

Forgiven people are called to be loving people.

As Heath reminded us, our confession to the world isn't just something we say. It's something people should experience through us.

What might change if we looked at others through the grace we've received rather than the mistakes they've made?

This week, take Jesus' words to Simon to heart: “Do you see this woman?” (Luke 7:44)

Think of someone you may have been quick to judge, dismiss, or misunderstand.

Instead of focusing on what you know, or think you know, about their circumstances, ask God to help you see them with compassion.

Then take one small step to demonstrate His love. Offer encouragement, listen without judgment, extend kindness, or simply make room for someone who might otherwise feel overlooked.

And take a moment to remember the grace you've received yourself.

Our challenge: Let someone experience the love of Jesus through the way you treat them this week.

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.” (1 John 4:7)

This week, our Kids' Church lesson explored something every child has, even if they don't realize it: influence!

When Jesus' disciples wondered who was greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven, Jesus pointed them toward the humility of a child. His message reminds us that greatness in God's Kingdom isn't about popularity, age, or importance.

Our children are learning that they can make a difference right now through their words, their choices, their kindness, and the way they treat others. Each one can help someone discover the love of Jesus.

This week's Prayer Covenant adds a beautiful invitation:

“Make me a messenger of your grace, truth, and justice.”

Little voices and little actions can carry a very big message!

Take It Home | Your Influence Matters!

A little conversation for the week ahead

Ask your child:

“Is there someone you'd like to tell about Jesus? What would you want them to know?”

Then share your own favourite thing about Jesus. It might be His kindness, His forgiveness, His love, or the way He welcomes everyone.

A tiny family challenge: Choose one way to share Jesus' love this week. It could be welcoming someone new, encouraging a friend, standing up for what's right, or praying for someone who needs help.

Remind your child that they don't have to wait until they're older to make a difference.

Pray together: “Jesus, help us show others your grace, truth, and justice through the way we live. Amen.”