With God at Your Right Hand

"I have avoided the ways of the violent. My steps have held fast to your paths; my feet have not slipped. I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me, hear my words. Wondrously show your steadfast love, O savior of those who seek refuge from their adversaries at your right hand." (Psalm 17:4b-7)

Christian stewardship includes caring for one another. We are all children of God. As faithful disciples, we are called by God to offer one another compassion and mercy. The Psalmist writes this prayer, asking for deliverance from threatening enemies. The phrase "at your right hand" refers to the position of being next to God for protection and survival.

Share the following story with the children:

Once there were three boys: Max, Stan, and Tom. Max and Stan did not really like each other. Max was tall and muscular. Stan was thin and short. Each school year, they were classmates. Max did not like many of his classmates. In fact, he seemed to be angry with everyone. Stan was shy and did not make friends very easily. During their summer vacation from school, Stan was relieved to be away from Max. Stan had seen Max blow up at his one friend, Tom. Max always looked like he was ready to punch someone. Tom and Stan were afraid of Max because of Max's flaring temper. When Max would walk down the hall, Tom and Stan would turn and walk the other way. They were very good at avoiding Max.

Then, it happened. It was after school on a Friday evening. Max had stayed for detention. Stan and Tom stayed after school to complete a project. Most of the interior doors were locked at the school, and some of the hallways were gated and closed. As Max departed the detention room, he was mumbling under his breath. His eyes were looking mean. He was looking for a fight. He walked by the room where Tom and Stan were working on their project. Tom had been the brunt of Max's temper before, so he looked quickly for an escape route. However, this time he could not walk the other way. The tension was thick. Fear abounded as Max stood face to face with Tom and Stan. Would it be a stand off? Would Max take his anger out on Tom and Stan?

Ask the children to reflect on the Scripture passage and then invite them to write an ending to the story or to draw a picture depicting the ending of the story.

Prayer

Lord,
Help us to look to you in times of fear.
Help us to pray for others instead of ourselves.
Help us to be good listeners and to allow you to take the action needed in our daily life.
Amen.

Discussion Questions

• How could Max make better choices?
• How could Stan and Tom make a difference?
• With whom do you most closely identify — Max, Stan, or Tom? Why?

Ruth M. Blum is an ordained United Methodist Deacon who serves as Associate Pastor of Children and Families at Dove of the Desert United Methodist Church in Glendale, Arizona.

Posted in 2005.