Here you'll find an array of activities for elementary children that can be used in Children's Ministry, after-school programs, in the classroom and by homeschoolers.
Our nature nugget in this lesson is the Emperor Penguin. The daddy penguin cares for the egg and the little chick, like God cares for us. God wants us to be near Him. He is listening to our call. He not only gives us our daily bread, but so much more, too! Jesus taught his disciples to pray and loves it when we pray also.
In choosing to forgive, we are choosing to abandon our negative emotions associated with someone’s hurtful behavior. We choose to let God deal with them and celebrate his mercy towards each of us. In this presentation we look at the story of the unmerciful servant and why we should forgive and forgive s’more (Let’s make S’mores!) and forgive even 70 x 7 times! Have a backpack and cans ready along with S’more makings.
James and John (or was it their mother) requested that they be able to sit on either side of Jesus in His kingdom. At a banquet, there was a similar problem. People were clamoring for the best seats. Jesus stated “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Humility is our focus. Our craft is the toy pictured.
Nicodemus wanted to know God’s plan. He went to talk with Jesus at night. Jesus told him God’s plan, but Nicodemus had a hard time understanding. Jesus gave illustrations that tell us that the only way we can really know God’s plan is to experience it. Jesus came as part of God’s plan to save all who will turn to Him. He said, “I, if I be lifted up, will draw all people to myself.” John 12:32. Remember John 3:16-17. The kids will have an opportunity to retell the story of salvation through the Savior Souvenirs.
Jesus was busy teaching. Was He too busy to see the children? The disciples assumed He was, but Jesus was not. He invited the children to come and He blessed them. Are we too busy to see the people that have come to see us; to ask about God; to ask for a favor? This lesson hits home for me. Oh to be like Jesus!
What are the two greatest commandments? Love God and Love your neighbor as yourself. Who is your neighbor? Jesus responded with the story of the Good Samaritan. In this presentation, we read the account from the book of Luke. We reenact the story and learn some basics of first aid. The craft reminds us to love one another.
In Matthew 7:24-27 and Luke 6:46-49 Jesus tells a parable of a wise and foolish builder. Those who not only listen, but also do what God says are like the wise man builds his house on a rock. Our rock is Jesus. His words are true and are a firm foundation. He is a strong refuge. In this presentation we also learn about the Golden Rule and the importance of loving God and, like he does, love everyone. Activities include acting out the story of the wise and foolish builders using flour, water, and a little house. The house falls, but we use the water and flour to build a firm rock and foundation for another house.
Jesus wants us to know how much He cares for us. He told the story of the Good Shepherd. Like the good shepherd, Jesus (God) protects us from evil, provides us with food and water, finds us when we are lost and brings us to a safe place. Jesus knows us by name and we know His voice and follow Him. Jesus was even willing to die to save our lives. He gives us eternal life! He is the way, the truth, and the life. In this presentation, the kids build the setting of a sheep pen, grass and stream. Then with Lego people or other action figures, they illustrate or act out the story while it is read. There also is a craft, songs, and a game similar to Duck, Duck, Goose.
This parable is full of truth for all of us. Jesus is a generous sower sowing seeds everywhere. Who are ready to listen and take in the message? During this presentation we will learn about seeds, act out the parable, color, sing, and plant seeds in soft soil.
Lost and Found — Luke 15 — Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Lost Prodigal Son
This presentation combines the three Lost and Found stories in Luke 15. The lost sheep, lost coin, and the prodigal son teach us how much God loves us! Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. All heaven rejoices when even one sinner turns their heart towards God. He is so ready to forgive! During this presentation, the kids get to play hide and seek with objects, act out the story, and finish with a party, rejoicing that they too are found, saved, and very precious to God!
In choosing to forgive, we are choosing to abandon our negative emotions associated with someone’s hurtful behavior. We choose to let God deal with them and celebrate his mercy towards each of us. In this presentation we look at the story of the unmerciful servant and why we should forgive and forgive s’more (Let’s make S’mores!) and forgive even 70 x 7 times! Have a backpack and cans ready along with S’more makings.
Will there be a reward for those who work for the Lord? Yes. But don’t be surprised if those who work less or join the work force later get the same reward. What does it mean to work for the Lord or work in his vineyard? God is interested in each of us producing much fruit. When we care for others and share God’s love, we are producing good fruit in us and others. In our craft we learn how to train grape vines. In the presentation we also talk about the importance of doing a good job at your work.
We have the hope and promise that Jesus is coming again! Jesus wants us to be ready when He comes. It seems like it is taking Jesus a loooooong time, but the time of His coming is getting closer! We need Him, his Holy Spirit, in our hearts and lives. Our prayer is that we will be forever faithful to Him. In this presentation the kids get to make little clay lamps. We put battery operated tea lights in ours. Just like it’s important to have an extra battery in case we have to have our lights on for a long time, it is important to keep Jesus in our hearts each and every day. He will give us the energy to live faithfully forever!
In Luke 14:15-24 Jesus tells a parable of a great feast. This is an invitation to accept Jesus gift of salvation and be in heaven for a banquet. The time is near, though we don’t really know when.
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