Start conversations (3 mins.) INFORMAL PREACHING. Start a conversation after someone does or says something kind (lmd lesson 1 point 4).
Setting: In a supermarket checkout line, the publisher talks with a mother about raising her children and her concerns about the future. He shares a Bible-based hope with her and invites her to visit jw.org to learn more about God’s promises to families.
Publisher: Excuse me, please go first. I see you only have a couple of items and my cart is quite full.
Assistant: Oh, thank you so much! That's very kind of you. I am in a bit of a hurry, actually.
Publisher: With pleasure. By the way, I noticed she's carrying some children's books and materials. What a great choice.
Assistant: Thank you. They're for my children. I always try to find things that teach them good values.
Publisher: It's noticeable. These days it's not so easy to find content that truly helps children develop good principles.
Assistant: Exactly. Sometimes I worry a lot about what they see and hear. The world seems to be getting more and more complicated for raising children.
Publisher: I completely understand what you're saying. Many parents feel something similar. What worries you most when you think about your children's future?
Assistant: Well, insecurity, violence, and also a lack of values. You want them to grow up happy, but sometimes you don't know what awaits them.
Publisher: It's a very natural concern. All parents who love their children want to see them safe and happy. You know, there's a promise in the Bible that has always given me great peace of mind when I think about the future.
Assistant: Oh, really? What's that promise?
Publisher: Yes. It speaks of a time when children can live without fear. If you'll allow me, I'll show it to you quickly on my phone.
Assistant: Sure, go ahead.
Publisher: It is Isaiah 11:8, 9. It says: “The baby will play over the hole of a cobra, and a little child will put his hand over the nest of a poisonous snake. They will cause no harm or destruction in all my holy mountain, for the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah, just as the waters cover the sea.”
It mentions here that animals we would consider dangerous today will live together peacefully. Furthermore, it says that a child will be able to be near a cobra without suffering any harm. Finally, it concludes by stating that no one will cause harm or destruction because the earth will be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah.
Assistant: How interesting. The image of a child playing safely really conveys a lot of peace.
Publisher: That's right. Beyond the image itself, the main message is that God promises a world where security will be complete. Imagine what it would mean for parents to know that their children can play and grow up without fear of violence, crime, or evil.
Assistant: That would be wonderful. I think it's something all parents would want.
Publisher: I agree. And what's interesting is that the Bible doesn't present this as a mere wish, but as a purpose God has for humanity.
Assistant: I had never seen it that way.
Publisher: I'm glad to hear that. Look, it's almost time for me to pay, but I'd like to leave you this card with the address for jw.org. There you'll find Bible-based information about why we can trust these promises, as well as helpful advice for families and raising children.
Assistant: Thank you very much. I'll check it when I get home.
Publisher: Excellent. It was a pleasure speaking with you. And congratulations on your interest in your children's education and well-being.
Assistant: Thank you. Likewise, thank you very much for the conversation.
Publisher: Have a great day.
Assistant: You too. Goodbye.
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