You may remember Zacchaeus, the tax collector, who was a man of small stature. Today’s unnamed tax collector is also a man whom Jesus desired to honor. Jesus tells a story about how the humble tax collector prayed in the right manner in his heart, acknowledging his sinfulness and asking for God’s forgiveness. In contrast, the proud Pharisee wanted people to see him praying so he would look spiritual on the outside even though he wasn’t that way on the inside. Jesus told this parable because He wants people to know that God looks at the inside, not simply the outside.

Invite students to think about their prayer life. Are they praying in front of people at church to be noticed, praised, or sympathized with? Are they glossing over things that need to be confessed? God sees what is really going on in our hearts. It is good to pray together and care for each other by sharing requests and petitions before God, but it is important to be careful of our motivation and spiritual condition. God sees our heart condition as it truly is.

Earlier, we watched a video about Kodi. Many people, ourselves included, might make negative and misleading assumptions or judgments about Kodi because he appeared different.  He needed a cane to get around because of his blindness and was often misread because of his autism. But, inside he had great potential and talent. God knew this about Kodi whether he was a contestant on a game show or not. God also knows everything about us. He sees the inside and the outside of us just like the parable teaches.

Have students get together in groups of two, three, or four (depending on class size) and discuss how they think others see them and how they think God sees them. Allow for interaction. This is a great way for students to encourage each other. Have each student remind another person in their group that God sees them on the inside and totally gets them even if others sometimes don’t! Also remind them that trying to hide something from God just doesn’t work; clearing the lines of communication through confession is the best way. Have groups take a few minutes to pray sentence prayers for each person in the group asking for strength to see themselves as God sees them on the inside, not simply the outside.

If possible, have these students share contact information so they can be in touch this week. Invite each one to take time this week to text or call or hang out with one of these group members and see them for who they really are and how God sees them this week. Knowing that we are seen

and understood deeply because of our bond in Jesus Christ is huge. Reminding each other that God sees us that way always is also vital.

Remind students of how God looks at the inside, not simply the outside. Hand out sticky notes and markers and have students write themselves a note as a reminder of that truth. Encourage students when they go home to put it on their mirror.

Close in prayer thanking God for truly seeing how we are on the inside. Praise Him for creating us exactly how we are and ask for wisdom and insight to see others as God sees them.