Behind the scenes - Week 3
The most important part of any play is what happens “behind the scenes.” There’s lighting, wardrobe, casting, playwriting — so much has to happen perfectly to bring the production together! In the story of Esther, there is a whole lot going on behind the scenes, too. In this four-week series, our families will discover the most important character in Esther’s story isn’t always center-stage, but can often be found behind the scenes working, helping, giving support and giving peace. (Spoiler alert: It's God!)
BIG IDEA: God gives us support behind the scenes.
READ: Scene III. Mordecai Asks Esther to Help: Esther 3:8-4:17; Colossians 1:9-17
MEMORY VERSE
Elementary: "For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose." Phillipians 2:13 (NIV)
Toddler Twist: "God has good plans for us!" Philippians 2:13
WATCH:
Preschool- teaching video
Elementary- teaching video
SONG: Million Little Miracles and How Amazing
DISCIPLE:
Tell a short story about a moment growing up when you really needed support. Why did
you need help? Who supported you? How did they know you needed extra care? How did God use that person or group to change the way things were going for you? Invite your kids to imagine how God provides support for
them.
There was a time when I needed support and there was someone there for me. In the same way, God always wants the best for us and wants us to feel loved in all that we do. God gives us support behind the scenes.
Pray: God, thank you for always being there behind the scenes and giving us support. Sometimes, we feel alone or afraid, but you cheer us on and give us everything we need. Thank you for also giving us others we can lean on. Help us to be good supporters, too, and let them know how much you love us all. Amen.
DISCUSS:
What happened that made Mordecai and all the Jews in Susa weep and become afraid?
Why was Esther afraid to do what Mordecai asked her to do?
What kind of support did Esther ask Mordecai for?
Read Colossians 1:9. How did Paul support the people who were living in Colossae?
How has God given you support in the past? How do you know?
Is it possible to support someone you don’t get along with? Why do you think that?
What is one way you can support someone you know this week?