Thursday, 21st March was the fourth day of the 2024 Vacation Bible School.
The sessions started at 6 pm with opening prayer followed by common sessions, singing sessions, senior and junior classes. The theme for the day was "Divine Joy", for which the children and teachers dressed in Yellow.
The common sessions were led by Mr. Jacob Elias, the VBS Director. The children were initially taught a Powerful Practical Tip for Christian living (PPT-CL) about "Choosing the least". This principle involves having a heart like Jesus, to consider other's needs before our own. This means letting others also to experience best things, by takng a step back and choosing the least things when given a choice (Illustrated by the analogy of taking a less fresh fruit for yourself, while leaving the best fruit to others in your group).
He also taught the story of King Nebuchadnezzar and the wise men Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. They didn't agree to bow down before the huge golden statue made by King Nebuchadnezzar. King Nebuchadnezzar was furious and threatened to throw them into the blazing furnace for their disobedience. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us[c] from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Daniel 3: 16-18) These words of the wise men are a demonstration of Jesus's Gethsemane prayer : “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew 26:39). The wise men, because of their determination to believe that "Worship belongs to God alone", were saved unhurt from the fire. When we believe in Jesus, His invisible protection will be a fence to us, giving us Divine joy like what Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego experienced in the blazing furnace. Our God is stronger than any fire and is present amidst us in all our situations, to deliver us.
The students also particpated in the Love Feast, understanding the importance of sharing and caring. The fourth day of the VBS ended with closing prayer.
VBS 2024 Day 4 Photo Gallery: https://www.csidubai.com/gallery/64/vbs-2024
VBS 2024 songs video link: https://wvbs24songsu