I loved reading Bible stories to my students and to my own children when they were young. In addition to reading and discussing the story and its message, I always enjoyed sharing the pictures from the Bible story book we were using.
The stories of Joseph and the coat of many colors, and baby Moses in a basket floating in the reeds at the side of the river, protected by God for a great purpose for His people, the Christmas story and the events of Easter. I have a mental picture of these events, not only from Scripture, but also from Bible story books and Sunday School leaflets.
The story of the two men on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24 is another favorite. Two men are walking along from Jerusalem to Emmaus, talking about the recent events when Jesus joins them on the walk. Of course, Jesus knows what they are talking about, but He asks them what they are discussing. Not knowing that it is Jesus walking with them, they describe what has happened to Jesus, his crucifixion, and that angels appeared to women at the tomb who said he is alive, and they don't know what to believe. Jesus proceeds to tell them about himself, the prophecies in Scriptures and why he had to die for the salvation of mankind, and when he reveals himself to them, he vanishes from their sight.
The story in Luke and the picture, encourage me that to know Jesus, I must study Scripture, who He is and what He has done for me. Jesus walking along the road reminds me that Jesus is with me every day, walking beside me. He knows I'm pretty discouraged with staying home, and the events going on (or not) right now in my life. Let us ever walk with Jesus ...
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. -Hebrews 12:2-3
-Ellen Pratt, School Ministries Staff Assistant