Bodies are for blessing not for use

This Week's Text: Luke 7:36-49 (see the sermon, "Jesus loves the sexually immoral" Sept. 13, 2009 at www.riversidestl.org)

Theme: Bodies are for blessing not for use

Intentional Activity:

1. For younger children, watch "Madagascar 2" together. Notice the journey that Gloria the Hippo has relationally. She is flattered by Moto Moto. She believes his advances demonstrate true love and makes her unique among the other hippos (women) he has had. Over time however, his moves and lines, are seen to be hollow. She begins to recognize that he likes her body (the way she looks) but sees little or cares little for who she is. Even though Gloria realizes this, she is still hesitant to leave this flattery. It feels good and makes her feel wanted. She is finally able to put the flattery aside when she hears the Giraffe, speak of his love for her. Highlight the contrast between how Moto Moto and the Giraffe relate to Gloria. Moto Moto is aggressive, forward, filled with complimentary words. The Giraffe is shy, hesitant and does not push himself on Gloria. Gloria learns that her longing to be known not just seen is a right longing. The Giraffe learns that to speak his love and respect for Gloria not only enables him to relate truly, but also strengthens her. Moto Moto doesn't seem to learn anything, even though he has been invited to change his way of relating to hippos (women). Take five minutes after the movie and highlight this with your kids. Ask them: (1) Do you remember Moto Moto? Did you think his voice was funny? How did he treat Gloria? (2) How did the Giraffe treat Gloria? (3) Why did Gloria ultimately choose the Giraffe and not Moto Moto?

2. For older kids (teens), watch an episode of The Office, season 1, entitled "Hot Girl." Have a light and fun atmosphere. With the freedom to laugh also notice and highlight three things with your kids. (1) How everyone treats Pam when the "hot girl" arrives. Pay particular attention to how Roy and Michael treat Pam in contrast to Jim. Notice also how Pam handles this. (2) Notice how Michael treats other men in light of the "hot girl." Notice also how Michael interprets the "hot girl's" need for a ride. He is ready to use her need for help as a plan for much more (3) Notice how the "hot girl" handles the advances of foolish men (Dwight she handles well, but why does she struggle to resist Michael even though she clearly dislikes him?) Notice also that she acknowledges that her best customers are men even though what she sells is purses. How does she use her body and looks to help her sales? Finally, consider Jim's proposal and her acceptance of a date. What do you think?

Random Life Moments:

1. Begin to notice how commercials, movies, ads, conversations assume that men and women are to relate to one another on the basis of their bodies rather than on the basis of who they are. Take note of how bodies are disconnected from the dignity and story of the person and offered for use, for flattery or for pleasure. In a natural and brief way, highlight these things from time to time when you see them. Do so in such a way that you yourself are a learner too.

2. If you have a son or daughter and are rubbing their back over their shirt and they are around 11, 12 or 13 years old, consider saying something like the following: (Dad to daughter) "One of these days a boy is going to want to rub your back in a way that is similar to what I'm doing. It might feel really good and you might really want him to do this. I want you to know that my touch is safe on your back and you have come to learn that it is because we have had years of laughter, crying, hardship, fun and forgiveness together. You know my weaknesses and sins and I know yours. We've been through a lot. You also know that I've not touched you in ways that make you feel uncomfortable. Whenever the time comes that a boy wants to touch you in this way, how do you know if his touch is safe and real or just because he wants something from you? One way is to ask yourself, "Does this boy know me? Does he know my weaknesses and sins? Does he know what it is to ask forgiveness from me and to give it when I need it? Is there a pattern here of safety and regard for me?"