Winning-Recognition (by Tim Johnson)
THEME:Recognizing a church youth member for outstanding athletic acheivements.
BIBLE VERSE: "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." 1st Corinthians 9:24
COMMENT: It is important to recognize and share with church members the acheivements of youth who are part of the congregation. When individuals receive awards for outstanding performances in sports in the community or at school, the Children's Message can be a great way to honor the athlete and let the church know about their success.
PROMPT: Have the trophy, ribbon, or plaque that the youth member received displayed or presented during the children's sermon.
MESSAGE:
After calling the children to the front, share the verse with the group, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." 1st Corinthians 9:24.
Today we would like to recognize one of our own youth members for doing just that, winning the prize. Call the award winner to the front and describe to the children the specific acheivement that brought the honor. You may display the trophy or award to the younger children so that they and the church can also view it.
Ask the individual two or three questions about what the award represents and then finish with a question, "was it hard work to win this award?" After they answer, share with the children a final thought. "Winning people for Jesus is more important than winning trophies or awards and many times far more difficult. In the Bible it even says winning an earthly trophies is a "crown that will not last." So while we are very proud of (name athlete), what I hope we remember today is that we are running a race to win people for Jesus. Now that is a special prize.
Congratulate the youth again and dismiss the children.