2.26 Family Experience Resources

Opposite Day - Week 4

Up is Down. Right is Left. Cold is Hot. That’s right, we’re celebrating opposite day this whole month (or should we say, not celebrating? This could get confusing!) This series will give our families a chance to talk about the counter-culture things Jesus said. It sounds impossible to believe that struggles bring us closer to Jesus or that our enemies can teach us about love. However, these beautiful opposites remind us that a God we can’t see is always with us and that it’s better to follow Jesus than our own instincts. Happy Opposite Day!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

Jesus is with us even though we can’t see him.

Preschool/Elementary MV: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." II Corinthians 12:9a (NIV)

TODDLER MV- "God's power makes me strong"- II Corinthians 12:9

READ: The Transfiguration: Luke 9:28-36

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: I Have Decided

ACTIVITY: 

Ask your family these questions... Do you know what a wind chime is? (show them one if you have it on hand)  Do you know what makes the wind chime play it's beautiful music? The wind! Can you see the wind? no, but we know it's there because it makes the chimes move and produce beautiful sounds. This reminids us that Jesus is with us even though we can't see him! 
 INSTRUCTIONS: Today we will make a wind chime. See this link for instructions on how to make a DIY wind chime.

COLORING: The Transfiguration

DISCIPLE: 

Read Luke 9:28-36.

Jesus didn’t suddenly become God’s son, but suddenly everyone who was there on the mountain could it, too. Even though they couldn’t see Jesus shining anymore, Moses and Elijah were gone, and God wasn’t speaking through a cloud, because of this experience, Peter, James, and John knew for sure that Jesus was truly the son of God and that he was going to be with

them always.

PART 1

Describe a time to your family when you felt alone and you felt like no one understood you. If you could talk to yourself in that moment, knowing what you know about Jesus now, what would you tell yourself?

PART 2

INSTRUCTIONS: Print a map of your city.

Let’s look up some cool places on Google Maps you’ve been to or places you’ve heard other people have traveled to.

Why do we use navigating apps like Google Maps? That’s right, when we don’t know how to get somewhere, these kinds of apps give us step-by-step directions. It also tells us what’s next, if there’s danger ahead, how long a trip might take, and if we’ve made a wrong turn.

Jesus being with us is like having a guide through life who can help us navigate our lives. Even though we can’t see him, we can talk to him. When we remember the things Jesus taught us in the Bible, we can always figure out which direction we need to go. And no matter where we go in life, God will never leave our side! Write the Big Idea on top of the map of our city to remind you that you are never alone.

Jesus is with us even though we can’t see him.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for giving us the kind of faith that knows you are with us even when we can’t see you. Help us to remember you’re always there, in both good times and bad, and to always make room to spend time with you. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What happened to Jesus on the mountain?

How did the disciples do when they saw this?

At the end of the story, what did they hear God say?

Read Romans 8:38-39. Which of those things mentioned can separate us from God’s love?

Why do we tend to forget that Jesus is always with us?

What can we do differently because we know Jesus is with us?

What is one kind of opposite thing Jesus said or did that you remember from this month’s Bible stories?

2.19 Family Experience Resources

Opposite Day - Week 3

Up is Down. Right is Left. Cold is Hot. That’s right, we’re celebrating opposite day this whole month (or should we say, not celebrating? This could get confusing!) This series will give our families a chance to talk about the counter-culture things Jesus said. It sounds impossible to believe that struggles bring us closer to Jesus or that our enemies can teach us about love. However, these beautiful opposites remind us that a God we can’t see is always with us and that it’s better to follow Jesus than our own instincts. Happy Opposite Day!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

Our enemies help us learn to love

Preschool/Elementary MV: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." II Corinthians 12:9a (NIV)

TODDLER MV- "God's power makes me strong"- II Corinthians 12:9

READ: Love Your Enemies: Luke 6:27-38

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: I Have Decided

ACTIVITY: Our big idea today is "Our enemies help us learn to love." Make a fun spinner with your family and watch your love (heart) spin!

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cut out 2 circles from heavy card stock for your kiddos. Have them draw and color a heart on one side and write today's big idea on the other circle, "Our enemies help us learn to love." Tape  twine to the back of one side of either circle. Then glue the two back sides together (so the twine is sandwiched in the middle). Twist twine and watch "your love spin!!"

COLORING: Love Your Enemies

DISCIPLE: 

INSTRUCTIONS: Share a story of an exchange you had with someone you might consider an enemy. Talk about your struggles with showing them love even though they were treating you in an unkind way. Then ask your kids why loving our enemies is so hard.

In the Bible, there are stories that share the importance of loving everyone . . . even those people we believe don’t deserve our love. That sounds really hard to do, right? Why do you think it’s so hard to love our enemies?

That’s right! When someone is mean to us, it’s so easy to be mean right back and decide to treat them in an unkind way.

There are many possible reasons why someone becomes our enemy and why they treat us poorly. Sometimes, those enemies might have been mistreated by someone else which causes a lot of fear and anger to build up inside of them. Then they release it by being mean to everyone else.

That said, it’s never okay for someone to be unkind to you — whatever the reason — and you should always tell a trusted grownup if you don’t feel safe. The enemies we’re talking about today are people who hurt our feelings, not people who hurt us physically. However, one way we can begin to love our enemies is to show compassion. There might be more to their story than you know and Jesus cares deeply about that person, too.

Read Luke 6:28-38.

INSTRUCTIONS: Give each family member a coffee filter and have them write the Big Idea (Our Enemies Help Us Learn to Love) and decorate it however they’d like. Afterward, have them fill a pipette with water and drop water on their design then watch the colors run and spread throughout.

Just like how the colors spread throughout the filter, we can spread love, too. It might start small, but the more often we love and the more people we show love to, the more we can grow! We get to know God more each time we love. After all, our God is so loving that even our enemies can help us learn to love!

Pray: Dear God, even though it’s not easy, help us to show your love to people we don’t usually get along with. Thank you for showing us how to love, especially in the way you sent your son, Jesus, for us! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Who would you consider an enemy?

How does Jesus want us to treat our enemies?

Why should we do that?

Read I John 4:8. Why does this verse tell us that if we don’t love, we don’t know God?

Which is better — to stay mad at someone or forgive them? Why?

Is your enemy God’s enemy? How does God see your enemy?

What is one thing you can do to love someone that’s an enemy?

2.12 Family Experience Resources

Opposite Day - Week 2

Up is Down. Right is Left. Cold is Hot. That’s right, we’re celebrating opposite day this whole month (or should we say, not celebrating? This could get confusing!) This series will give our families a chance to talk about the counter-culture things Jesus said. It sounds impossible to believe that struggles bring us closer to Jesus or that our enemies can teach us about love. However, these beautiful opposites remind us that a God we can’t see is always with us and that it’s better to follow Jesus than our own instincts. Happy Opposite Day!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

Our struggles bring us closer to Jesus

Preschool/Elementary MV: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." II Corinthians 12:9a (NIV)

TODDLER MV- "God's power makes me strong"- II Corinthians 12:9

READ: Blessings and Woes: Luke 6:17-26

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: I Have Decided

ACTIVITY: 

INSTRUCTIONS: Use a yellow piece of construction paper, draw an outline of a snowman in pencil and help kids outline it with glue. Give your kids mini marshmallows to glue on to create their own summer snowman. They can draw in the face and arms before they glue on the marshmallows if they want.

Ask: What normally happens to snow in summer?

Disney's Olaf (from the movie Frozen) dreams about summer even though he’s a snowman. But he doesn’t think about all the things that could go wrong for him during summertime — like melting! Olaf talks about all the

fun things he could do!

We can try to be a little bit like Olaf. Whenever we struggle with something, we might cry or scream. We get sad or angry.

But what is our Big Idea? Our struggles bring us closer to Jesus. That means, instead of doing what we normally do, we can tell God about it.

Let’s make our own snowman in summer to help us remember to think about how much Jesus loves us and cares about us even when we are struggling.

COLORING: Blessings and Woes

DISCIPLE:

Read Luke 6:17-26 as a family. The reason Jesus said these things is because when our life is full of blessings only, it’s easy to forget about God. When we don’t need anything, we don’t talk to God. But when we have woes in our life, we remember that we are not alone. Even when we are sad or lonely, we remember that God loves us. So a lot of times, it’s during times of woe that we get closer to God!

INSTRUCTIONS: Gather newspapers, magazines, scissors, glue sticks, a poster board or large paper ahead of time. Have you family draw a large outline of the word "BLESSING" on a poster paper. Fill in the block letters with images that remind your family of blessings. Designate a space on a wall where you can put the posters up on display.

As you work to create your collage, don’t forget that blessings are not only the

good things in life. See if you can spot some images to include that might not look like a typical blessing, but you know that it can be when you bring it to Jesus! Because many times our struggles bring us closer to Jesus.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for showing us that we don’t have to face our struggles alone. Even when times are tough, help us to always remember we can talk to you about anything and we can grow closer to you even in our struggles. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What was an example of a “blessing” in today’s story?

What was an example of a “woe”?

Why did Jesus call such good things a “woe” instead of a blessing?

Read Jeremiah 17:8. What is the benefit of a tree that’s planted by the water? How is that like someone who trusts in God?

What are some struggles that are going on in your life or in the world we live in?

How does a struggle bring us closer to God?

Can you think of a struggle that brought you or someone you know closer to God?

2.5 Family Experience Resources

Opposite Day - Week 1

Up is Down. Right is Left. Cold is Hot. That’s right, we’re celebrating opposite day this whole month (or should we say, not celebrating? This could get confusing!) This series will give our families a chance to talk about the counter-culture things Jesus said. It sounds impossible to believe that struggles bring us closer to Jesus or that our enemies can teach us about love. However, these beautiful opposites remind us that a God we can’t see is always with us and that it’s better to follow Jesus than our own instincts. Happy Opposite Day!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

Following Jesus is the opposite of following ourselves

Preschool/Elementary MV: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." II Corinthians 12:9a (NIV)

TODDLER MV- "God's power makes me strong"- II Corinthians 12:9

READ: Jesus Calls the Disciples; Luke 5:1-11

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: I Have Decided

ACTIVITY: 

Read Luke 5:1-11.

Think about how Simon must have felt when he wasn’t catching any fish even though he tried all day. But when Jesus showed up, he told Simon to “go fish” again. Jesus wanted Simon to trust him when he said that this time would be different. Let’s try our own game of “Go Fish!”

INSTRUCTIONS: Play a game of Go Fish with “life-size” cards. Using construction paper, draw numbers one through nine on eighteen pieces of paper shaped like fish. Give each kid one card depending on how many kids are playing the game. Make sure there are a few cards left over for the “deck” in the middle of the room.

Everyone, hold up your Go Fish card so that your number is showing. When I tell you to go, everyone hurry and find your match. If you can’t find your match, you must “go fish” and look in the deck in the middle of the room to see if one of those cards is your match.

COLORING: Jesus Calls His Disciples

DISCIPLE: 

INSTRUCTIONS: Prepare a glass of water that’s filled halfway. Give each family member a paper cup and a permanent marker. You can also have them draw a cup on a piece of paper and have them write on a flat surface.

Ask: How would you describe this glass of water? Is it half-full or half-empty?

This example is often used to tell the difference between people who are optimists (people who think positively) and those who are pessimists (people who think negatively). That doesn’t mean that an optimist’s life is happier than a pessimist’s. It just means that an optimist has learned to look on the bright side of things even when things aren’t great.

Because this glass is both half-full and half-empty – they’re both true. But we can choose to focus on the more positive, hopeful things.

When we follow Jesus, we can do a similar practice. There are times when we are going to do things our way and there’s nothing wrong with that. But sometimes our ways can be selfish and unkind. Whenever we want to react that way, we need to pause and override what we would normally do and choose what Jesus would want us to do!

Draw a line all the way around the middle of your cup.

On the top part, write or draw something that worries you or brings you down.

On the bottom part, write or draw a way that you can see your situation differently because you have Jesus in your life.

Instead of dealing with things on our own, we can take them to God and ask for help because following Jesus is following the opposite of ourselves.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for always knowing what’s best for us. Help us to follow your ways because your ways are better than anything we can do on our own. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Did the fishermen on the boat catch a lot of fish at the beginning of the story?

What happened when they let down their nets into the water?

What did Jesus tell the fishermen they would be catching instead of fish?

Read Isaiah 55:8-9. Is it a good thing that God’s thoughts are not like our own? Why?

What is an example of following yourself instead of Jesus?

How can you follow Jesus today?

Who is a person you can “fish for” by telling them about Jesus?

1.29 Family Experience Resources

A Day at the Museum: Week 5

Museums have the unique ability to transform learning! Instead of merely reading words on a page, we can experience them through all of our senses! A Day at the Museum is a series all about helping kids interact with the stories of Jesus and connecting them to God. Jesus’ life and early ministry helps all of us experience (see, hear . . . even taste!) and follow God in new, tangible, and real ways.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video

Following God makes us stand out

MEMORY VERSE: 
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

READ: Jesus Leaves His Hometown: Luke 4:22-30

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: To God Be The Glory

ACTIVITY: 

Read Luke 4:22-30. Today's big idea is following God makes us stand out. That means people are going to notice us whenever we say things or do things that show that we believe in God. That's a wonderful thing!

• INSTRUCTIONS: Print this template for kid(s), have them color, and cut out the people figures. Glue them on the globe and have them write our Big Idea at the top "Following God makes me stand out."

• We don't have to hide what we know about God. When we share with others about God, it helps us grow!

COLORING: Jesus Leaves His Hometown

DISCIPLE:

Jesus wanted everyone to know that God loves everyone. This really made him stand out! You know what else? We get to love everyone, too! This kind of love will make us stand out in a crowd!

Ask; How did the people react after Jesus taught in the synagogue? Yes, that's right. They became angry.

Do you remember what happened to Jesus when people got mad at him for this? That's right. He left his hometown.

Did Jesus stop loving everyone because some people became angry with him and made him go away? No way! He may have left his hometown, but he never stopped loving people. That's pretty amazing!

Let's do this activity that will remind us of God's gigantic love for everyone!

INSTRUCTIONS: Draw a large heart on a poster board. Have your family cut out magazine clippings of people of different demographics. Have kids glue the photos of the people inside the heart.

Pray: Dear God, Thank you for always being with us. We know we are never alone – even when we stand out from the crowd. Help us to always be brave for you. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What were the different ways people reacted to the things Jesus taught?

Why do you think Jesus teaching in his hometown affected how people received him?

Why did Jesus leave Nazareth?

Read Psalm 71:5–6. How can these verses encourage you as you follow God and stand out for God?

Can you describe a time when you might have been afraid of standing out?

What is one way that you stand out because you are a follower of Jesus?

Why is standing out for Jesus a good thing?

1.22 Family Experience Resources

A Day at the Museum: Week 4

Museums have the unique ability to transform learning! Instead of merely reading words on a page, we can experience them through all of our senses! A Day at the Museum is a series all about helping kids interact with the stories of Jesus and connecting them to God. Jesus’ life and early ministry helps all of us experience (see, hear . . . even taste!) and follow God in new, tangible, and real ways.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video

The Bible shows us how to experience God

MEMORY VERSE: 
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

READ: Jesus Teaches in the Synagogue: Luke 4:14-21

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: To God Be The Glory

ACTIVITY: 

Read today's Bible story- Luke 4:14-21. Jesus stood up in the synagogue and started to teach. Do you remember what he read from? A scroll Bible... today we'll make our own scrolls with our memory verse to help us remember that The Bible Shows us how to experience God

INSTRUCTIONS: Create scrolls by using flat craft sticks, glue and parchment paper. Have the kids write their Bible verse on the paper. Glue the craft sticks to both ends and rolling up the parchment to resemble a scroll. 

COLORING: Jesus Teaches in the Synagogue

DISCIPLE:

Today we learned that Jesus read from a scroll while teaching in the synagogue. Ask; Do you remember what he was reading? He was reading words that we can find in our Bibles today! The Bible shows us how to experience God. That makes it the most important book we will ever read! When we read our Bibles, we get to know God and that is super amazing!

Ask; When is a good time for you to read your Bible? Maybe in the morning before school or at night before bed? You can have a special Bible reading time every day!

Spend some time making a bookmark! A bookmark is used to mark the place in a book to remind you where you left off with your reading. You can use it for when you read the Bible! (Use whater supplies on hand to make your bookmark special)

Pray: Dear God, thank you for giving us the Bible! Help us love and remember all the Bible stories we hear and read. We want to experience you! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did Jesus do at the synagogue?

How did the people react after Jesus read the scroll of the prophet Isaiah?

Who did Jesus say the scroll was talking about?

According to II Timothy 3:16, what is the Bible useful for? Why is this important?

What are some ways you can experience God through the Bible?

Name one way you can build reading the Bible into your daily routine.

What is one thing you’ve learned from the Bible that you can teach someone else about?

1.15 Family Experience Resources

A Day at the Museum: Week 3

Museums have the unique ability to transform learning! Instead of merely reading words on a page, we can experience them through all of our senses! A Day at the Museum is a series all about helping kids interact with the stories of Jesus and connecting them to God. Jesus’ life and early ministry helps all of us experience (see, hear . . . even taste!) and follow God in new, tangible, and real ways.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video

Jesus gives us a taste of God’s power

MEMORY VERSE: 
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

READ: Jesus Changes Water into Wine: John 2:1-11

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: To God Be The Glory

ACTIVITY: Read John 2:1-1; the story of Jesus's first miracle!

Ask, what miracle did Jesus performed? Turned the water to wine. That's right! By performing this miracle, Jesus gives us a taste of God's power. Have your children make this craft 

COLORING: Jesus Changes Water to Wine

DISCIPLE:

Prepare a small cup for each family member with of kool-aid powder. Have water available.

Jesus performed an amazing miracle in today's Bible story. Do you remember what Jesus did? That's right! He turned water into wine. Believe it or not, I can do it, too! Okay, maybe not exactly how Jesus did it. But we can all make some punch today!

Next, pour a little water into each persons cup. Instruct them to mix it up with a plastic spoon.

It's so cool to see the water change right before our eyes! How do you think the master of the banquet felt when he learned Jesus turned water into a fancy drink?

Jesus actually changed water into a super fancy party drink/wine. What we did was just mix up some Kool-aid! Jesus did this because Jesus was filled with the power of God. Jesus gives us a taste of God's power when Jesus performed miracles that humans cannot do.

We may not be able to do miracles like Jesus but we can be brave and strong because we can trust in God's power!

Pray: Dear God, thank you for Jesus who shows us that you are powerful and can do amazing things! Help us to look for the many ways you show us your power! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What problem did the people at the wedding have?

Who went to Jesus for help? Why do you think she did that?

What miracle did Jesus perform?

Read Psalm 34:8. What do you think it means to “taste and see that the Lord is good?”

How do you know that the miracles Jesus did were only a “taste” of God’s power?

Which display of God’s power in your own life or from stories you’ve heard was the most surprising to you? Why?

What are some ways we can experience God’s power today?

1.8 Family Experience Resources

A Day at the Museum: Week 2

Museums have the unique ability to transform learning! Instead of merely reading words on a page, we can experience them through all of our senses! A Day at the Museum is a series all about helping kids interact with the stories of Jesus and connecting them to God. Jesus’ life and early ministry helps all of us experience (see, hear . . . even taste!) and follow God in new, tangible, and real ways.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video

We can hear God’s voice if we listen

MEMORY VERSE: 
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13
READ: Jesus is Baptized: Luke 3:15–17, 21–22

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: To God Be The Glory

ACTIVITY: Today we'll be exploring another way we can use our senses to experience God. Let's make a DIY aquarium sensory bottle with our own ocean animals. 

Here is an idea of how to make your own sensory bottle, just add small ocean themes animals, shells, or blue glitter. 

You will need; wide mouth bottle, baby oil, water, small ocean animal toys, glitter (if desired), and food coloring (your choice of color). 

COLORING: Jesus is Baptized

DISCIPLE:

In today's story, God looked down at Jesus from heaven and spoke loving and kind words to Jesus.

Do you remember what God said to Jesus? (Read Luke 3:22b.) Many people got to hear God's words.

When God speaks to us, we can share them with others. When we are told that we are loved and special, we can tell others that, too, so that they can hear God's voice through us!

Spend this time to make a special cards of encouragement to share with one of your church or school leaders.

We can hear God's voice if we listen, and God wants us to share God's voice with others.

Pray: Dear God, we know we can hear your voice if we listen. Thank you for speaking to us! Help us to know where your voice is coming from by listening to the people who care about us. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did John mean when he said he was not worthy to untie Jesus’ sandals?

Why do you think John was so shocked that Jesu wanted to be baptized by him?

What did God say when Jesus came out of the water?

Read Luke 3:21. Why do you think Jesus chose to get baptized even though he had no sin?

What is some “noise” you can cancel out in your life so you can hear God’s voice better?

Imagine God sitting with us right now. What do you think God would say to you?

What are some things you know God is saying to you through the Bible or through others?

1.1 Family Experience Resources

A Day at the Museum: Week 1

Happy New Year, Families!!

Museums have the unique ability to transform learning! Instead of merely reading words on a page, we can experience them through all of our senses! A Day at the Museum is a series all about helping kids interact with the stories of Jesus and connecting them to God. Jesus’ life and early ministry helps all of us experience (see, hear . . . even taste!) and follow God in new, tangible, and real ways.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video

We can see God through Jesus

MEMORY VERSE: 
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

READ: John the Baptist: John 1:1-18

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: To God Be The Glory

ACTIVITY: 

Read John 1:1-18; John 14:6-11. Sometimes our eyes need extra help and that's when a magnifying glass comes in handy! Magnifying glasses help us see things better, because they make small things look bigger. They help us notice things that are hard to see.  We are going to make magnifying glasses. Have family members put it up somewhere you can see it easily so you can remember our big idea: We can see God through Jesus!

• INSTRUCTIONS: Guide families in making their own magnifying glasses to take home. Check out detailed instructions here.

• What was your favorite part of our story today?

COLORING: John the Baptist

DISCIPLE:

When we want to see ourselves, what do we do? We look in the mirror! Let's pretend being mirrors of each other. Facing each other at an arm’s distance apart. Assign one person as the “leader” and ask them to perform simple movements in place. Tell their partner to copy the leader as a mirror reflection.

You had to pay careful attention to each other so you could copy what your friend was doing, right?

When others see us, we want to make sure the things we say and do are things that show who God is . . . kind of like God's little mirrors!

We can see God through Jesus, so let's let others see God through us, too!

Pray: Dear God, thank you for giving us our sense of sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch, so we can have many ways of learning about you. Thank you for giving us the best way to know you – Jesus! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Name three things you remember about John the Baptist.

What part did John play in the story of Jesus?

Do you think John the Baptist’s job was an easy one? Why or why not?

In John 14:6–7, Jesus talks about being “the way.” How is Jesus the way?

What is one quality John had that you want to have yourself?

What are some real ways we can be the guide to Jesus for our friends?

If you could guide someone closer to Jesus, who would it be?

12.25 Family Experience Resources

WAIT FOR IT: Week 4
MERRY CHRISTMAS, FAMILIES!

A 4-WEEK SERIES ON ADVENT & CHRISTMAS

Who doesn’t love a board game? Waiting for the the game to unfold is a part of the fun, but it can be frustrating if kids don’t know why they are playing or what they need to be a part of it. In, Wait For It, our kids will learn how to watch for and put their hope in Jesus. Everyone will meet John, Mary, Simeon and Anna— people who waited for a Savior to change their lives. Kids will learn that everyone needs a Savior, that the Savior will change everything, that God will do impossible things, and that Jesus is the one they’ve been waiting for!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video.

Jesus is the one we've been waiting for

MEMORY VERSE:

"But as for me, I watch and hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me." Micah 7:7

READ: Simeon and Anna Welcome Jesus: Luke 2:22-40

WATCH: 

Preschool: teaching video

Elementary: teaching video

SONG: Celebrate

ACTIVITY: 

Every week in this series, try out a new board game with your kids to reinforce

the idea of having to wait before getting a win. You can play any game you have available.

IDEA: Check out “The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel,” a game that involves a little strategy!

COLORING: coloring sheet

DISCIPLE: 

Read Luke 2:22-40 together.

Family Activity:

Print out this printable and make sure each kid has a chart, stable, and Bible people. Cut out the people. Choose one kid to start and tell them to roll the dice. Then, look to see which person corresponds with that number and put that person in the manger. Keep rolling until all of the people are in the manger! Repeat the game, if time allows, so everyone has a chance to roll the dice.

For younger kidos, cut out each of the items and create stands for them out of paper or stick them in pieces of play do. Have kids play with the characters as you retell the Christmas story.

The story of Jesus is filled with lots of important people, and most of them are talked about before Jesus was born. But we know the real reason for the Christmas season: Jesus is the one we’ve been waiting for!

Pray

Dear God, we thank you for sending Jesus. You kept your promise to the people in the Bible, like Simeon and Anna, who were waiting for the Savior and you keep your promises to us. We love you. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What was the name of the man in Jerusalem waiting for Jesus?

What was the name of the woman in Jerusalem waiting for Jesus?

Who promised Jesus would be coming?

Read Galatians 4:7. What does it mean when it says we are "God’s own child?"

Simeon listened to God and God guided him to the temple on the right day at the right time to meet Jesus. How can you listen for God?

Anna prayed and fasted while waiting for God. How can you spend time growing closer to God while waiting?

Who is someone in your life you can tell about God who doesn't know about God yet?

12.18 Family Experience Resources

WAIT FOR IT: Week 3

A 4-WEEK SERIES ON ADVENT & CHRISTMAS

Who doesn’t love a board game? Waiting for the the game to unfold is a part of the fun, but it can be frustrating if kids don’t know why they are playing or what they need to be a part of it. In, Wait For It, our kids will learn how to watch for and put their hope in Jesus. Everyone will meet John, Mary, Simeon and Anna— people who waited for a Savior to change their lives. Kids will learn that everyone needs a Savior, that the Savior will change everything, that God will do impossible things, and that Jesus is the one they’ve been waiting for!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video.

Wait and see, God will do impossible things

MEMORY VERSE:

"But as for me, I watch and hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me." Micah 7:7

READ: An Angel Appears to Mary: Luke 1:26-38

WATCH: 

Preschool: teaching video

Elementary: teaching video

SONG: Celebrate

ACTIVITY: 

Every week in this series, try out a new board game with your kids to reinforce

the idea of having to wait before getting a win. You can play any game you have available.

IDEA: Check out “Pancake Pile Up,” a fun relay game!

COLORING: coloring sheet

DISCIPLE:

Read Luke 1:26-38 together. Have one family member retell the story in their own words.

Family Activity

Give each kid a lollipop, a styrofoam cup, 3 coffee filters, and one gold pipe

cleaner. Help the kids put together their angel in this way: Turn the cup upside down, then cover it with a coffee filter. Then poke the lollipop through the filter and center of the cup base, but leave a little but of the stick showing. Take a second filter and now cover the lollipop and the cup. Make a small circle out of the pipe cleaner and rest it on top of the lollipop, then wrap the rest of it around the lollipop stick and second filter. Take the last filter, fold it in half to make wings, and glue it to the back of the angel. (here is what final product might look like.)

God used angels to announce that God would be doing impossible things with Jesus’ help. Let this angel you made today remind you that God can do anything! Wait and see, God will do impossible things.

Pray

Dear God, Thank You for sending Gabriel to tell Mary about Jesus. Help us to believe that you can do impossible things, like Mary did. We know that you have the power to do anything, like sending Jesus to us! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What was the name of the angel that God sent to tell about Jesus?

Why would Mary have thought that what the angel was saying would be impossible?

How did Mary respond to the message?

Read Psalm 89:6-8. What does it mean that no one can compare to God?

What is something that you are waiting on God to do in your life (or in someone else's life) that seems impossible?

How can we be more like Mary while waiting?

Why do you think it is important for us to praise God while waiting for the impossible?

12.11 Family Experience Resources

WAIT FOR IT: Week 2

A 4-WEEK SERIES ON ADVENT & CHRISTMAS

Who doesn’t love a board game? Waiting for the the game to unfold is a part of the fun, but it can be frustrating if kids don’t know why they are playing or what they need to be a part of it. In, Wait For It, our kids will learn how to watch for and put their hope in Jesus. Everyone will meet John, Mary, Simeon and Anna— people who waited for a Savior to change their lives. Kids will learn that everyone needs a Savior, that the Savior will change everything, that God will do impossible things, and that Jesus is the one they’ve been waiting for!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video.

Wait and see, the Savior will change everything

MEMORY VERSE:

"But as for me, I watch and hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me." Micah 7:7

READ: John Tells People About Jesus: John 1:19-28

WATCH: 

Preschool: teaching video

Elementary: teaching video

SONG: Celebrate

ACTIVITY: 

Every week in this series, try out a new board game with your kids to reinforce

the idea of having to wait before getting a win. You can play any game you have available.

IDEA:  Check out “Gobblet Gobblers,” which is a fun twist on tic-tac-toe!

COLORING: coloring page

DISCIPLE: 

Read John 1:19-28 together.

Because John was telling everyone around him about the Savior and baptizing them, the Jewish leaders sent people called the Levites to ask John who he was. John explained to the Levites that he was not the Savior, but a messenger. John told them he was making way for the Savior. But the Pharisees and the Levites were still confused. They asked why he was baptizing people if he was not the Savior? John told them when he baptized people with water, he didn’t really wash away their sin – he just helped people decide in their hearts to ask God for forgiveness. But the Savior could actually wash away our sins! John said that the Savior was coming and they should all be ready to receive his message.

Our big idea is Wait and see, the Savior will change everything!

Family Activity: Can you think of something that changes into something completely different over time? The first thing I thought of was a caterpillar!

Give your kiddos a handful of pompoms, half a pipe cleaner, and a clothespin.

Have kids glue pompoms on one side of the clothespin. Open the pin and insert the pipe cleaner, forming the antenna. Then give kids a small piece of colored gift tissue and have them pinch the paper in half to form a butterfly. example photo

You see how your caterpillar became a butterfly! In real life, a caterpillar takes about nine to fourteen days to become a butterfly. And when it becomes a butterfly, it looks almost completely different than what it looked like as a caterpillar. And it can even fly now!

Sometimes change happens very slowly and it’s easy to get impatient. But God reminds us that waiting for our Savior, Jesus, is worth the wait. When Jesus came to earth, everything was better. That’s the message John the Baptist was telling everyone – wait and see, the Savior will change everything.

Pray

Dear God, sometimes we might not like change because it makes us give up something we are used to. But remind us that when it’s Jesus making the change, the change is always good. Thank you for changing everything. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Who came to question John the Baptist?

Who are some people they thought John was?

Was John "the Messiah"? What will be different about the Savior when compared to John?

Read Psalm 126:3. What great thing has God done for us that fills us with joy, like this verse says? (Hint: What is today's Big Idea?)

What change would you like to see in our world today?

Why do you believe Jesus cares about this?

How can you work with Jesus?

12.4 Family Experience Resources

WAIT FOR IT: Week 1

A 4-WEEK SERIES ON ADVENT & CHRISTMAS

Who doesn’t love a board game? Waiting for the the game to unfold is a part of the fun, but it can be frustrating if kids don’t know why they are playing or what they need to be a part of it. In, Wait For It, our kids will learn how to watch for and put their hope in Jesus. Everyone will meet John, Mary, Simeon and Anna— people who waited for a Savior to change their lives. Kids will learn that everyone needs a Savior, that the Savior will change everything, that God will do impossible things, and that Jesus is the one they’ve been waiting for!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video.

Everyone needs a Savior

MEMORY VERSE:

"But as for me, I watch and hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me." Micah 7:7

READ: John Prepares for Jesus: Mark 1:1-8

WATCH: 

Preschool: teaching video

Elementary: teaching video

SONG: Celebrate

ACTIVITY: 

Every week in this series, try out a board game with your kids to reinforce the idea of having to wait before getting a win. You can play any game you have available.

IDEA: “Chickapiglets,” a fun twist on your traditional memory and matching game.

COLORING: coloring sheet

DISCIPLE:

Read Mark 1:1-8 together. 

John the Baptist traveled and taught many people about God and about the Savior who was coming. . .Jesus! John the Baptist baptized people and helped them get ready for Jesus’ arrival. John the Baptist helped Jesus by preparing the people around him to know that they needed Jesus to rescue them. And just like they needed Jesus as their Savior, we do, too!

Family Activity: 

We talked about how everyone needs a Savior — that includes your friends, your family, your teachers, and yourselves!

Who is someone you can talk about Jesus with?

Ask your kiddos to cut out the paper Scrabble tiles from this printable and glue them on a piece of paper to spell out that person’s name (e.g., mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, friend’s name, etc.).

(If you have young children ask them to name the people in their lives. You can write their names or draw pictures for them that they can color. Then ask, “Who needs a Savior?” Then guide kids to circle every name/picture to show that everyone needs a Savior!)

Ask:

Who did you pick?

How can you be kind to this person this week?

What can you tell them about Jesus?

Pray

Dear God, we thank you for giving us a Savior and for sending John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus. Thank you for sending Jesus to save us. We love you. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What message did John the Baptist have for the people?

Why did people come to see John? How do you think you would have responded to John's message?

How did this prepare the way for Jesus?

Read Isaiah 40:1-8. Who is the one "crying out in the wilderness" and who is the one who will bring glory to God?

What are some ways we can remember we need a Savior?

How can you make room for Jesus this week?

Who in your family or circle of friends needs a Savior?

11.27 Family Experience Resources

Breaking News: Week 5

A 5-WEEK SERIES ON THE PROPHETS

Our kids may not be absorbing the news cycle like adults are, but they are experiencing the news cycle through others around them. It’s tough to know what news is helpful and what news is true. This month, our families will have a chance to journey with a few prophets – Micah, Amos, Zephaniah, Ezekiel, and Isaiah – to discover news they can count on. Breaking News will help them develop a strong identity in an ever-changing world. We will learn that when things go wrong, they can choose what’s right; when they worship God, they can be sincere; when times are tough, they can count on God; when they are lost, God will guide them, and that they can be faithful just like God is faithful.

MEMORY VERSE: "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13
Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

I can be faithful like God is faithful

READ: Isaiah 64:1-9

WATCH: 

Preschool: teaching video

Elementary: teaching video

SONG: Through It All

ACTIVITY/CRAFT:

In the book of Isaiah, it says we are the clay and God is the potter.

Today, you get to be the potter! Explain that Isaiah was saying that God is the potter who molds (or transforms) our hearts into something beautiful. 

INSTRUCTIONS: Give your kiddos some modeling clay or play do and encourage them to make a beautiful creation. Then, have them share what they made. 

COLORING: coloring page

DISCIPLE:

Read Isaiah 64:1-9 together. 

God didn’t think the actions of the people of Israel were all that great, according to Isaiah’s message, but we see that Isaiah also reminds everyone of the good things God has done. Sometimes, when things are difficult, we have to remember the good things God has done for us and other people. They remind us that God is faithful. We can be faithful because God is faithful! 

Activity: Pick 2 family members and tell them to put one hand behind their back, giving each person one free hand. Then, give them an unopened box of cereal (or something of that nature) and tell them to work together to open the box. (If you have young children have her/she work to unwrap it. 

When we are faithful, we work together.

Pray

Dear God, thank you for always being there for us. Today, help us to remember that we can be faithful just like you are faithful to us. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What can you tell me about Isaiah?

What does it mean to be faithful?

Who is your favorite prophet that we heard about this month?

Let's look at I Corinthians 1:9. In your own words, what do you think this verse means?

How have you seen God be faithful in your life?

How can we be faithful to God?

How can we be faithful to others?

11.20 Family Experience Resources

Breaking News: Week 4

A 5-WEEK SERIES ON THE PROPHETS

Our kids may not be absorbing the news cycle like adults are, but they are experiencing the news cycle through others around them. It’s tough to know what news is helpful and what news is true. This month, our families will have a chance to journey with a few prophets – Micah, Amos, Zephaniah, Ezekiel, and Isaiah – to discover news they can count on. Breaking News will help them develop a strong identity in an ever-changing world. We will learn that when things go wrong, they can choose what’s right; when they worship God, they can be sincere; when times are tough, they can count on God; when they are lost, God will guide them, and that they can be faithful just like God is faithful.

MEMORY VERSE: "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13
Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

When I am lost, God guides me

READ:  Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24

WATCH:

Preschool: Bible story

Elementary: Bible story

SONG: Through It All

ACTIVITY/CRAFT: 

DIY Sheep

Give each family member a sheep printable, a few cotton balls, and glue. Tell the kids to place the cotton balls on the sheep.

Today, we are going to talk about a shepherd taking care of sheep. Let’s make a sheep for you to take care of.

Glue the cotton balls onto the sheep to make it soft and fluffy. Now, don’t let your sheep get lost!

COLORING: coloring page

DISCIPLE:

Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24

God spoke through Ezekiel, sharing a message of hope. Let’s think about it like this: God is the shepherd, and the people are God’s sheep. Sheep like to wander off, or follow the wrong person by mistake. Ezekiel was saying that God will always find us, and that we will be led to where we need to be.

Activity: (parent) Go to one end of the room and put on a blindfold. Tell your family they are going to help you make it from one end of the room to the other by giving you directions.

say: "I wonder if you can guide me. I am going to put this blindfold on and I want you to work together to tell me how to go to the other side of the room. Now remember, you have to keep me safe while you guide me...."

"Whew! I’m glad I made it safely to the other side of the room. That was hard, wasn’t it? It’s a good thing we have God to help us when we are lost. When I am lost, God guides me."

Pray

Dear God, thank you for being our shepherd. We sometimes feel like we’ve lost our way. When we feel lost, help us to remember that when we are lost, you guide us. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What can you tell me about Ezekiel?

What metaphor did God use to describe the people and their leaders?

How were the leaders being poor shepherds?

Let's look at Psalm 95:2. Why do you think we are instructed to "shout triumphantly to God?"

What are some ways we might feel lost?

When we are lost, what can we do?

How can we make sure we are listening to God?

11.13 Family Experience Resources

Breaking News: Week 3

A 5-WEEK SERIES ON THE PROPHETS

Our kids may not be absorbing the news cycle like adults are, but they are experiencing the news cycle through others around them. It’s tough to know what news is helpful and what news is true. This month, our families will have a chance to journey with a few prophets – Micah, Amos, Zephaniah, Ezekiel, and Isaiah – to discover news they can count on. Breaking News will help them develop a strong identity in an ever-changing world. We will learn that when things go wrong, they can choose what’s right; when they worship God, they can be sincere; when times are tough, they can count on God; when they are lost, God will guide them, and that they can be faithful just like God is faithful.

MEMORY VERSE: "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13
Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

When times are tough, I can count on God

READ: Zephaniah 1:7,12-18, 3:14-17

WATCH: 

Preschool: teaching video

Elementary: teaching video

SONG: Through It All

ACTIVITY/CRAFT:

Print this Trust Chain printable, and have your kids trace each of the words. Then have them cut along the dotted lines to create four strips of paper. Help each kid make a paper chain with their strips, using tape or glue to connect the ends together.

Let’s make a paper chain to help you remember the Big Idea "When times are tough, I can count on God."

Connect the edges of the first strip, “When times,” to make a circle. Then, loop the second strip, “are tough,” through the first one and connect the ends of that strip. Next, add the third strip, “I can,” and then the fourth strip, “count on God.”

Now, you have a chain to remind you when times are tough, I can count on God.

COLORING: coloring page

DISCIPLE: 

Read Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18, 3:14-17 together. 

This sounds a lot like the breaking news from the stories we heard before! God told a prophet to warn everyone about what could happen because of their actions.

Zephaniah called for the people to pay more attention to God instead of other things. That is something we can do, too. Whenever we are upset or when we don’t know what to do, instead of trying to find the answers ourselves, we can look to God first!

Activity Have family stand in a line, side by side while holding hands. When mom or dad says, “Go,” work together to pass the hula hoop from one end of the line to the other without letting go of hands. Set a timer and see how fast your family can do it. (If you have smaller children; hold up a hula hoop for each other while your children goes through).

Counting on others and being someone others can count on is important. Let’s count on each other to get this hoop from one end to the other!

Pray

Dear God, please help us to remember the words of Zephaniah. Help us to trust you no matter what is happening around us. Help us to remember that when times are tough, we can count on You. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What can you tell me about Zephaniah?

What was the bad news?

What was the good news?

The Bible verses we read in 1 Thessalonians tell us to “not be like the others, who are asleep." What do you think this means for you and me?

Has there ever been a time when you felt like you weren't sure you could trust God?

How can we trust God in our everyday lives?

How will you trust God in your life this week?

11.6 Family Experience Resources

Breaking News: Week 2

A 5-WEEK SERIES ON THE PROPHETS

Our kids may not be absorbing the news cycle like adults are, but they are experiencing the news cycle through others around them. It’s tough to know what news is helpful and what news is true. This month, our families will have a chance to journey with a few prophets – Micah, Amos, Zephaniah, Ezekiel, and Isaiah – to discover news they can count on. Breaking News will help them develop a strong identity in an ever-changing world. We will learn that when things go wrong, they can choose what’s right; when they worship God, they can be sincere; when times are tough, they can count on God; when they are lost, God will guide them, and that they can be faithful just like God is faithful.

MEMORY VERSE: "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13
Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

When I worship God, I can be sincere.

READ: Amos 5:18-24 

WATCH: 

Preschool: teaching video

Elementary: teaching video

SONG: Through It All

ACTIVITY/CRAFT:

Whole Heart Craft

INSTRUCTIONS: Print this heart and use colored pieces of construction paper to cut into pieces, and then glue those pieces onto their heart. When we worship God, we need to do it with our whole heart. So, cut your construction paper into a bunch of pieces. The pieces of the construction paper represent the things that make a “whole heart” — our actions, words, thoughts, and feelings.

Glue the pieces onto your paper until your whole heart is covered.

Let this remind you when you worship God, you can be sincere.

COLORING: coloring page

DISCIPLE:

Read Amos 5:18-24 together.

God, through Amos, was letting the people of Israel know that they were not being sincere in their worship. They had forgotten to take care of each other and instead, chose not to help those in need.

Worship has always been about living out the words we sing to God. That’s what it means to be sincere.

Let's play a game. Give each person 10-15 seconds to

another family member a sincere compliment. The reciever of the compliment then has 10-14 seconds to do the same. Repeat this a few times to make sure everyone in the family recieved a sincere compliment or two!

God is happy when we treat others nicely. Let’s practice this by saying nice things about each other.

Pray

Dear God, thank you for the words you gave the prophet, Amos, and for showing us that our worship must be sincere. Teach us how to be kind and fair to everyone. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What can you tell me about Amos?

What was the breaking news Amos had for the people of Israel?

How did God expect the people of Israel to be sincere?

Let's look at Matthew 25:13. What do you think this verse has to do with what we heard about today?

Why do you think it was important for Amos to share this message with the people?

How do you think we can worship God sincerely?

How will you choose to show genuine worship to God this week?

10.30 Family Experience Resources

Breaking News: Week 1

A 5-WEEK SERIES ON THE PROPHETS

Our kids may not be absorbing the news cycle like adults are, but they are experiencing the news cycle through others around them. It’s tough to know what news is helpful and what news is true. This month, our families will have a chance to journey with a few prophets – Micah, Amos, Zephaniah, Ezekiel, and Isaiah – to discover news they can count on. Breaking News will help them develop a strong identity in an ever-changing world. We will learn that when things go wrong, they can choose what’s right; when they worship God, they can be sincere; when times are tough, they can count on God; when they are lost, God will guide them, and that they can be faithful just like God is faithful.

MEMORY VERSE: "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13
Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

When things go wrong, I can choose what's right

READ: Micah 3:5-12

WATCH: 

Preschool:teaching video
Elementary: teaching video

SONG: Through It All

ACTIVITY/CRAFT: 

Make a Microphone

Have your kids will create and decorate their own microphone! Cut a paper towel tube in half or use a toilet paper roll and wrap it in construction paper. Cover the Styrofoam ball with a piece of aluminum foil, then, use a hot glue gun to attach the ball to one end of the paper towel tube (Parents please help with this to stay safe!). Once dry, let the kids have fun coloring and decorating their microphones.

COLORING: coloring page

DISCIPLE:

A prophet brings people the news, kind of like a person you might see on TV who shares what’s happening in the world.

But a prophet brings news from God. Sometimes, that made people not like them, but they had to be truthful about what God had to say.

Sometimes, the breaking news was exciting! Other times, it was a bit scary. 

Read Micah 3:5-12 as family. 

Micah’s news might have made some of these other leaders upset. But they

needed to hear that the things they were doing were not what God wanted.

But here’s the awesome thing about Micah and his news: Micah followed and listened to God. No matter what others did, Micah chose to stand up for what’s right.

Family Activity: Read the scenarios below and invite your kids to make a happy face if the scenario is right, or a sad face if the scenario is wrong.

You hear someone saying mean words.

Your friend shared their toys with you.

Your mom gave you a Band-aid when you got hurt.

Someone ate a cookie when they weren’t supposed to.

When we see people making poor choices around us, it can be hard to know what to do. The right thing is we should do whatever God would want us to do. Remember: When things go wrong, I can choose what’s right!

Pray: Dear God, thank you for being with us even when times are hard. Help us to trust you and to remember to always do what is right. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What are prophets and what did they do?

What are some of things that were wrong around Micah's time?

How did Micah stand up for what was right?

Let's look at 1 Thessalonians 2:10 again. Why is it important to remember that we have "eyewitnesses" in our lives?

If it were your job to bring news to your friends from God like Micah did, how would you feel delivering it?

As people who follow Jesus, why is it important to remember that people can notice how we live?

How will you choose to do what's right this week?

10.23 Family Experience Resources

Road Trip: Week 4

A 4-WEEK SERIES ON THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

Have you ever been on a road trip? When we think of road trips, we might think of gas station snacks, singing along to our favorite songs, and taking in the sights — but when the Israelites went on a "road trip" of their own through the wilderness, it was a little less glamorous. Okay, it was a lot less glamorous. In this series, we'll introduce our families and kids to some of God's "rules of the road," from Moses and the ten commandments all the way to what Jesus called the Greatest Commandment — to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Together, we'll discover that we can love God and others by putting God first, worshiping God, loving our families, and loving everyone.

MEMORY VERSE:

"Love the Lord your God will all your heart and with all your strength and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself." Luke 10:27
Click HERE to watch our memory verse video for this month!

We obey God by loving everyone

READ: The Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Commandments:Exodus 20:15-17; Romans 13:8-10; (I Thessalonians 2:7-8)

WATCH:

Preschool: Bible Story

Elementary: Bible story

SONG: Give it Away

ACTIVITY/CRAFT:

Today, our bible story tells us how important it is that we love all people everywhere. What does that mean to you, to love everyone?

Give your kiddos crayons, colored pencils, or markers and scissors and encourage them to make road signs that help them answer the statement: “Loving everyone means __________.” Talk with them as they work and about how they answered the statement. There are so many great ways to love people!

See our CCP Families Facebook page to participate in our "loving our community" project. 

COLORING: coloring page

DISCIPLE:

Read Exodus 20:15-17 together

Then tell the following story using toy cars, place them on the ground, back-to-back, each time "Travis lies, steals, or covets." Then ask your kiddos what Travis should do to fix his situation, and start reversing the cars out of the “jam.”

"There once was this kid named Travis. One day, as he was walking out of school, he found this really cool toy on the ground that he’s always wanted.

He knew he should take it to the lost-and-found, but he really, really wanted it. [Place a car.] And it looked brand new. So he picked it up and put it in his backpack. [Place a car.] As soon as he got home, he showed his little brother the cool toy. When his brother asked where he got it, he told him, he said someone gave it to him. [Place a car.] His little brother told his parents, and his parents asked Travis who had given it to him. So Travis said it was their neighbor, Dee. [Place a car.] Travis’ parents say they should go to Dee’s house to make sure that it’s okay that Dee gave away such a nice toy. Travis tries to convince his parents that they know about it already and they don’t need to ask. [Place a car.] Travis then calls Dee and asks her to say that she gave him the toy. [Place a car.] Then one of Travis’ classmates, Young, calls Travis’ house and asks if Travis saw a toy he lost today – the exact same one Travis brought home. Oh no. Travis is in quite the traffic jam! What can Travis do to make things right?"

Make it clear that we can obey God by loving others and doing the right thing.

Pray;

"Dear God, Help us to love others enough to respect their things, to tell the truth, and be happy for the good things they have. Teach us each day to show our love for You through our love for others. Amen"

DISCUSSION:

What is commandment number eight?

What is the ninth commandment? What does it mean?

What does it mean to 'covet?' Why is that not a good thing?

Re-read Romans 13:8-10. What does it mean to "love your neighbor as yourself?"

Why do you think God gave us the Ten Commandments?

Do you find it easy or hard to love everyone? What makes it easy? What makes it hard?

How would keeping commandments eight, nine, and ten help us love others?

10.16 Family Experience Resources

Road Trip: Week 3

A 4-WEEK SERIES ON THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

Have you ever been on a road trip? When we think of road trips, we might think of gas station snacks, singing along to our favorite songs, and taking in the sights — but when the Israelites went on a "road trip" of their own through the wilderness, it was a little less glamorous. Okay, it was a lot less glamorous. In this series, we'll introduce our families and kids to some of God's "rules of the road," from Moses and the ten commandments all the way to what Jesus called the Greatest Commandment — to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Together, we'll discover that we can love God and others by putting God first, worshiping God, loving our families, and loving everyone.

MEMORY VERSE:

"Love the Lord your God will all your heart and with all your strength and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself." Luke 10:27
Click HERE to watch our memory verse video for this month!

We obey God by loving our families

READ: The Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Commandments: Exodus 20:12-14; Matthew 5:21-24; (I Thessalonians 1:2-7)

WATCH:

Preschool: Bible Story

Elementary: Bible story

SONG: Give it Away

ACTIVITY/CRAFT:

Family I.D.

Even though our lives at home may look different from someone else’s, your family, whatever it looks like, is who God has chosen to put in your lives. Our families help make us into the people we are supposed to be.

Give your kids a sheet of paper and access to an ink pad. Tell them to draw their perfect road trip vehicle, helping them as needed. Encourage them to be creative and invent their own, if they want to. Tell them to use their thumbprints to make each member of their/your family, including their pets, inside their vehicle. Tell them to draw faces and hair for each person/pet.

Encourage the kids to decorate it. Then, they can add their thumbprints as the wheels. These are some unique vehicles! Those thumbprints remind us that we are each different, but all one family of God!

COLORING: coloring page

DISCIPLE:

There are so many ways to love our families, but one way is to share a meal together! There are a lot of yummy foods we can make to eat. Make a list of meals your family loves to eat and choose one.

As a family, plan a special time you can prepare a meal and enjoy it altogether! If you have young children, let them watch or play worship music while they learn by watching or feeling vaious textures of foods.

Explain that sharing and enjoying the company of our family is one way we show how much we love God and are grateful for his blessing of FAMILY.

Pray;

"Dear God, thank You for each person in our family. Help us to love each person by using kind words to them and doing kind things for them. Help us to remember that when we show love to our families, we are showing our love for You! Amen."

DISCUSSION:

What commandments did we hear about today?

Who are these commandments telling us to show love to?

What reason does the Bible give us for honoring our parents?

Re-read I Thessalonians 1:3 aloud. Who in your family has been a good example of showing love? How have they done that?

What makes ithard to show honor and respect to your parents?

What are some things God would want us to do when someone upsets us?

Why is it important to keep your promises?