Mr. Rogers

I have to admit, even after my kids were in school full days, I would still sit down with a sandwich and turn on Mr. Rogers at 12:30. If everyone were like Fred Rogers, what a wonderful world this would be. OK, I know some of you weren’t as enamored with him. He was one of those – either you loved him or couldn’t stand him. I personally wanted to live in his neighborhood. It was so radically different than the world we live in.

Think about it, he only owned six sweaters and a pair of tennies. Modest furnishings, basic craft supplies, none of those sparkly markers and glow-in-the-dark paints. His friends were just simple, down-to-earth people.

Yet, he lived such a content and peaceful life there in the neighborhood.

Hmm…

I think he was living that abundant life Jesus talks about in John’s gospel.

Not abundant in material things, but abundant in what makes life wonderful: peace, joy, contentment, and happiness. We obtain those things by surrendering our needs to the Father and not conforming to this world. Not letting the world tell us what real happiness is, but letting God tell us. And what he tells us is to “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all the rest will be added.”

Simple isn’t it?

Kind of like Mr. Rogers.

Scripture Verses:

Matthew 6:19-21
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroy, nor thieves break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.

Luke 12:29-31
As for you, do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not worry anymore. All the nations of the world seek for these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these other things will be given you besides.

Romans 12:2
Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.

Discussion Questions:

1. What does the world tell us will bring true happiness?
2. In your everyday actions and decisions do you “seek first the kingdom?” If not, why not?
3. Can you recall a time when you let God have control of your day? What happened?
4. How can you start today to simplify your life?
5. In what areas of your life are you conforming to this age?

Listen