Barefoot Kids

We are so excited to be kicking off the start of a new school year in children's ministry! We have a lot of changes ahead! For starters we will are going to have a lot of kids in "big church"! The purpose is to let kids see you leading the way through worshiping, loving and honoring God. We are asking parents to sign your child (3 and up) into children’s church as you normally do, but bring them with you into big church! Don't worry too much about wiggles or little voices. We know this change will have a learning curve. Pastor Tim will dismiss the children to their groups where we will have snack and a lesson in the respective classrooms. You can pick your kids up in the youth room where we will be all together singing and worshiping with all ages 3 and up! You are welcome to stay and mingle with other parents! 

We are so excited to have the opportunity to be sharing Jesus with your children!

~Deziree Greenstreet Barefoot Kids Ministries

May 15th Family Tools

Preschool

Peter Helps Dorcas

Acts 9:36-43

BIG IDEA: One way God shows that He helps us is by providing for us.

GET TALKING:

• How did Dorcas show God's love and help those around her? (She sewed clothes for people who needed them.)
• Why did Dorcas's friends become sad? (Dorcas got sick and died.)
• Dorcas's friends asked Peter to come help. How did he show God's love and help? (He prayed for her and told her to get up!)
• How did her friends feel when they saw her alive again? (Happy, excited, thankful, praised God.)

ACTION PLAN: Name a few people God has given you to help you.

PRAYER: Tell God thank you for His help.

MAY MEMORY VERSE: 

"See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us." 1 John 3:1

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Peter Helps Dorcas

Acts 9:36-43

BIG IDEA:  One way God shows that He helps us is by providing for us.

GET TALKING:

• How did Dorcas show God's love and help to others? (She sewed clothes for people who needed them.)
• When Dorcas died, people were very sad. Who did they go get to help? (Peter)
• How did Peter show God's love and help? (He prayed for her, and then told her to get up.)
• What happened next? (Dorcas opened her eyes. She was alive!)
• How do you think her friends felt when they saw her alive again? (Happy, excited, praised God)

ACTION PLAN:  Talk about the different ways that God helps you each and every day.

PRAYER: Thank God for His love and help.

MAY MEMORY VERSE:

 "See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us." 1 John 3:1

Elementary

Who’s the Greatest?

Mark 9:33-37; 10:13-16

BIG IDEA: No matter who we are, we all have value in God’s eyes.

GET TALKING:

• What were Jesus’ friends arguing about? (Who was going to be the greatest.) What did Jesus tell them? (To be the greatest, serve others.)
• What did Jesus do when His friends chased the kids away? (Invited the kids to come to Him. Said God’s kingdom is for them! )
• What did Jesus’ friends learn? (Jesus loves children. God values every person.) 

CONNECTING TO JESUS: The stories of Jesus talking with children are usually some of our favorites from the Bible. These stories also teach us a lot about God’s kingdom and that we need to have attitudes like little children to become part of God’s family. Just like children need help from adults, we must recognize our need for Jesus’ help and welcome Him into our lives. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are the only way for anyone to become part of God’s family.

ACTION PLAN: Tell why God values each person and why I should, too.

MAY MEMORY VERSE:

 "Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."  1 John 4:11

We are also currently learning the Old Testament books of the Bible...

LAW : Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

HISTORY: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

POETRY: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon

May 8th Family Tools

Preschool

Paul's Escape

Acts 9:20-28

BIG IDEA: We can feel God's love and comfort in ALL situations.

GET TALKING:

• Why were some people angry with Paul? (They didn't like him telling people about Jesus.)
• What were the angry men going to do? (They were waiting at the gates to hurt Paul when he came out.)
• God gave Paul some good friends.  How did they help him escape the mean men? (They put him in a basket and lowered him down the city wall.) 
• How do you think Paul felt as he was being lowered? (Scared, excited, thankful) 

ACTION PLAN: Think about times when you might be afraid and how God can help you in those times.

PRAYER: Thank God for His loving care and help.

MAY MEMORY VERSE:

"See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us." 1 John 3:1

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Paul's Escape

Acts 9:20-28

BIG IDEA:  We can feel God's love and comfort in ALL situations.

GET TALKING:

• Why did some people want to hurt Paul? (They were angry that he was telling people about Jesus now.)
• God showed Paul love by giving him friends to help him. What did the friends help him do? (They helped him escape and leave Damascus, without the mean men finding him.)
• How did he escape? (His friends lowered him in a basket outside of the city walls.)
• How do you think Paul felt as he was being lowered? (Ex. Afraid, excited, trusted God to take care of him.)

ACTION PLAN:  Talk about times when you might feel afraid, and how you can trust God in those times.

PRAYER: Thank God that we can trust Him, even when we're afraid.

 MAY MEMORY VERSE:

 "See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us." 1 John 3:1

Elementary

Lunch for Everyone

Mark 6:30-44

BIG IDEA: God will help me notice and care about people’s needs the way Jesus did.

GET TALKING:

• Why were people in Bible times so anxious to see Jesus and hear Him teach? (They wanted to learn more about God’s kingdom.)
• When Jesus saw the big crowd, what did He do to help them? (Taught them about God. Fed them.)
• How did the disciples meet other’s needs, even when they were hungry, too? (Gave out food. Obeyed Jesus.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: In the story, Jesus had a hungry crowd of 5,000 people listening to him and He took care of their physical hunger, as well as their spiritual hunger, despite His own tiredness! Jesus knew what the people needed, and He met their every need. Just as Jesus cared for people when He lived on Earth, He cares for us today as our Savior and to provide for all our needs.

ACTION PLAN: Describe attitudes Jesus wants me to have when someone else in is need.

MAY MEMORY VERSE:

"Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."  1 John 4:11 

We are also currently learning the Old Testament books of the Bible...

LAW : Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

HISTORY: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

POETRY: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon

May 1st Family Tools

Preschool

Paul Meets Jesus

Acts 9:1-20

BIG IDEA:  We can experience God's love in many ways every day.

GET TALKING:

• At one point, Paul (Saul) did NOT love Jesus. What did he do to people that loved Jesus. (Put them in jail.)
• What happened to him while walking to Damascus? (He was blinded by a bright light. Jesus asked Him why he was hurting Him.)
• Jesus told Paul to go into Damascus and he didn't eat, and couldn't see for how many days? (3)
• God sent Ananias to help Paul. How did Ananias show God's love to Paul? (He prayed for Paul.)
• What happened next? (God opened Paul's eyes so he could see, and Paul believed in Jesus.)

ACTION PLAN: Talk about different ways God shows His love to you.

PRAYER: Thank God for His love.

MAY MEMORY VERSE:

"See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us." 1 John 3:1

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Paul Meets Jesus

Acts 9:1-20

BIG IDEA:  We can experience God's love every day.

GET TALKING:

• Paul (Saul) did not love Jesus at first. What did he do to people who loved Jesus? (Put them in jail.)
• Why was Paul (Saul) going to Damascus? (To try and stop people from telling others about Jesus.)
• What happened to him on the way? (A bright light blinded him and Jesus asked Paul why he was hurting him.)
• What did Paul (Saul) do for 3 days in Damascus? (He couldn't see, he didn't eat or drink anything, he prayed.)
• God showed He loved Paul (Saul) by sending someone to help. Who did God send to help? (A man named Ananias)
• How did Paul (Saul) feel about Jesus now? (He believed and started telling others about Jesus!)

ACTION PLAN:  What are some different ways that God shows you love every day.

PRAYER: Thank God for loving us.

MAY MEMORY VERSE:

"See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us." 1 John 3:1 

Elementary

Wake Up, Little Girl!

Mark 5:21-43

BIG IDEA: I can ask God for what I need and be confident in His love and help.

GET TALKING:

• What did Jairus want Jesus to do? (Heal his sick girl.)
• How did Jesus know He had healed the sick woman? (Felt power leave His body.)
• What did Jesus say to Jairus when his friends told him his daughter was dead? (Don’t be afraid. Believe.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: A desperate father and a long-suffering woman both came to Jesus because of their belief in Him. Even though there was a crowd of people, Jesus did not ignore these believing people. How Jesus healed the woman and brought Jabirus’s daughter back to life gives us a reminder of how Jesus helps and saves us. We can call on Him, not only for salvation, but also for help every day. 

ACTION PLAN: Talk about different ways God responds when we pray.

MAY MEMORY VERSE:

 "Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another." 1 John 4:11

We are also currently learning the Old Testament books of the Bible...

LAW : Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

HISTORY: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

POETRY: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon

April 24th Family Tools

Preschool

Philip & the Ethiopian

Acts 8:26-40

BIG IDEA: Everyone, both kids and grown-ups, can share the good news of Jesus.

GET TALKING:

• Who visited Philip? (An angel.)
• What did the Angel tell him to do? (God wants you to walk down the road out of the city.)
• Who did Philip see on the road?  And what was he doing? (An Ethiopian man in a chariot, reading the Bible on a scroll.)
• How did Philip help the Ethiopian man? (He helped explain the Bible and shared the good news of Jesus to the man.)
• The Ethiopian was happy to hear the news. What did he ask Philip to do? (Baptize him.)

ACTION PLAN: Think of someone you can tell the good news of Jesus to this week.

PRAYER: Thank God for the good news of Jesus' love.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

"Hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Philip & the Ethiopian

Acts 8:26-40

BIG IDEA: It doesn't matter how old we are, young or old, we can ALL tell others about Jesus.

GET TALKING:

• What did an angel tell Philip to do? (Go walk along the road, away from the city.)
• Who did Philip see on the road? (An Ethiopian riding in a chariot.)
• What was the Ethiopian doing? (Reading a Bible scroll.)
• How did Philip help this man? (He helped him understand what he was reading, and told him the good news about Jesus.)
• The Ethiopian believed, and asked Philip to do what? (To baptize him.)
• Why are people baptized? (To show that they believe in Jesus have become part of God's family.)

ACTION PLAN: Think of people that you can tell about Jesus this week.

PRAYER:  Ask God to give you chances to tell others about Jesus.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

"Hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28

Elementary

Sleeping Through the Storm

Mark 4:35-41

BIG IDEA: Jesus gives me peace in scary times.

GET TALKING:

• Why do you think Jesus continued to sleep during such a bad storm? (He knew God would take care of them. He knew He had power over the storm.)
• Why did Jesus’ friends think He didn’t care about them? (Because He continued to sleep, even through the commotion of the storm and His friends’ attempts to save their boat.)
• How did Jesus show them He would help them when they asked? (By calming the storm with the words, “Peace! Be still!”)
• Why do you think Jesus’ friends were so amazed when He stopped the storm? (They didn’t realize He had power over wind and waves. They didn’t realize how powerful He really was.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: Jesus slept through the howling storm because He was the one who made both the wind and the waves - they were His! His disciples did not fully understand who Jesus was, so His actions surprised them. But we can know who Jesus truly is because we have God’s Word, the Bible. The more we know about Jesus, the Savior sent by God, the more we can fully trust Him.

ACTION PLAN: Describe what it means to have peace from Jesus, and pray for peace in my life.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

"I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever." Psalm 52:8

We are also currently learning the Old Testament books of the Bible...

LAW : Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

HISTORY: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

POETRY: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon

April 17th Family Tools

Preschool

Food for Widows

Acts 6:1-7

BIG IDEA: When we treat others with kindness, it helps everyone be friends.

GET TALKING:

• How did Jesus' friends show God's love to people? (By sharing food and clothing.)
• Some women in the story were unhappy. What was their problem? (They were not getting enough to eat.)
• When Jesus' friends found out, how did this make them feel? (Sad. They wanted everyone to have enough.)
• How did they solve this problem? (They chose 7 men to help make sure everyone got enough food.)

ACTION PLAN: Name some people that you can be kind to this week.

PRAYER: Ask the Lord to show you people that could use a friend.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

"Hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Food for Widows

Acts 6:1-7

BIG IDEA:  When we treat others with kindness, it can help everyone be friends.

GET TALKING:

• What was the problem that some women were having? (They weren't getting enough food.)
• How did Jesus' friends feel/respond when they found out? (They were sad, wanted the women to know people cared, came up with a solution.)
• How did Jesus' friends solve the problem? (They picked 7 men to be special helpers.  They made sure everyone had enough food to eat.  They prayed for the men and that God would help them do a good job.)
• How do you think the women felt after being treated kindly? (Good, loved, cared for.)

ACTION PLAN: Name some different ways you can show kindness this week.

PRAYER: Ask God to help us show love His love by being kind.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

 "Hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28

Elementary

Working on the Sabbath?

Mark 2:23-28; 3:1-6

BIG IDEA: Do what’s right in Jesus’ eyes, even when others don’t.

GET TALKING:

• Why were the Pharisees upset with Jesus? (They cared more about their way of doing things than about showing love to others.) What did Jesus want them to do instead? (To use the Sabbath rules to help people.)
• What did the Pharisees choose to do? (They choose to be angry and plot to kill Jesus.) Why? (Because they were to invested in following the Sabbath rules.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: In today’s story, Jesus showed that He was in charge. He is in charge because He is God’s Son and has authority as our Savior. When we choose to follow Jesus, we ask Him to be in charge of our lives, as well. We choose to love Him and follow His example of loving others.

ACTION PLAN: Discuss situations in which people can choose to do good, and tell ways to do what’s right in Jesus’ eyes.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

"I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever." Psalm 52:8

We are also currently learning the Old Testament books of the Bible...

LAW : Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

HISTORY: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

POETRY: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon

April 10th Family Tools

Preschool

Barnabas Shares

Acts 4:32-37

BIG IDEA:  God helps us have what we need, which lets us share with others.

GET TALKING:

• In this story, we learned one way to show God love and obey His word is... (To share with others)
• What were some of the things that Jesus' friends shared with others? (Food and clothing, with those that didn't have enough.)
• One man, named Barnabas, was always helping others.  What did he do? (He sold a piece of land and gave the money to Jesus' friends to share it with others.)

ACTION PLAN: Identify ways you can share with others this week.

PRAYER: Ask the Lord to help you show kindness and share with others.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

"Hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Barnabas Shares

Acts 4:32-37

BIG IDEA:  God gives us what we need, so we can share with others.

GET TALKING:

• How did Jesus' friends show their love to others? (By sharing everything they had.)
• What were some of the things that they shared? (Food, clothes, money)
• A man named Barnabas sold his field. What did he do with the money? (Gave it to Jesus' friends so they could share it with people who needed it.)
• Why do you think Barnabas did this? (Because he loved Jesus and others.)

ACTION PLAN:  Discuss some ways you can share with others this week.

PRAYER: Ask God to help you show God's love by sharing with others.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

 "Hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28

Elementary

Friendship and Forgiveness

Mark 2:1-12

BIG IDEA: Jesus’ example shows me how to go beyond what is expected in helping others.

GET TALKING:

• What does it mean to be paralyzed? (Cannot move. Cannot move arms and/or legs.)
• What did the friends of the paralyzed man do to meet the needs of their friend? (They carried their friend to see Jesus. They dug a hole in a roof and lowered the man down.)
• What did the friends expect Jesus to do? (Heal their friend.)
• How did Jesus go beyond what was expected? (He healed the man AND forgave his sins.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: When Jesus healed the paralyzed man and forgave his sins, He showed how He can help us in powerful ways. Both Jesus’ words and healing act show that He is truly God’s Son. When we believe in Jesus, we too can be forgiven of our sins and be witnesses to His power in our lives.

ACTION PLAN: Describe ways to meet needs in expected and unexpected ways.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

"I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever." Psalm 52:8

We are also currently learning the Old Testament books of the Bible...

LAW : Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

HISTORY: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

POETRY: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon

April 3rd Family Tools

Preschool

The Lame Man Walks

Acts 3:1-16

BIG IDEA:  We are obeying God when we help others.

GET TALKING:

• Who did Peter and John see on their way to the Temple? (A lame man.)
• Why did this man need help? (His legs didn't work. He couldn't walk or stand.)
• What did the man asking people for? What did Peter and John do? (The man was asking for money. Peter offered something even better and said, in the name of Jesus, stand up and walk.)
• What did the man do next? (Stood up, walked and leaped into the Temple. Praised God.)

ACTION PLAN: Talk about some different ways you can help people this week.

PRAYER: Ask God to help you see opportunities to help others.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

"Hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28

Pre-K/Kindergarten

The Lame Man Walks

Acts 3:1-16

BIG IDEA:  We can help others when they need help.

GET TALKING:

• Who was sitting outside of the Temple gates? (A lame man, his legs didn't work)
• What did he ask Peter and John when they walked by? (Asked for money)
• They didn't have money to give him, but what did they do? (They told him, in the name of Jesus, to stand up and walk)
• What happened next? (The man got up and walked, he was healed. He went into the Temple jumping and praising God)
• Who actually healed the man? Was it Peter and John? (No, it was Jesus)

ACTION PLAN:  Name some ways you can obey God by helping others.

PRAYER: Ask God to help you notice when others need help, and to find ways to help them.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE:

 "Hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28

Elementary

One Busy Day!

Mark 1:21-34

BIG IDEA: I can trust Jesus to be in charge of my life.

GET TALKING:

• Who needed help in this story? (A man controlled by an evil spirit. Peter’s ill mother-in-law. Other sick family and friends.)
• What did Jesus do to show that He was a leader people could trust? (Taught about God. Helped people. Healed people.)
• What did the people in Capernaum do or say when they heard about Jesus? (They were excited and brought sick people to Jesus. They spread the news about Jesus.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: The Gospel of Mark tells us about Jesus’ actions. We learn about Jesus being the Servant, being shown what Jesus accomplished on the Earth, and how His coming changed the world. When we believe in Jesus, He helps us change the way we live, too!

ACTION PLAN: Tell why I can trust Jesus throughout my life.

APRIL MEMORY VERSE: 

"I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever." Psalm 52:8

March 6th Family Tools

Preschool

People Praise Jesus

Matthew 21:1-11, 15-16; Luke 19:28-38

BIG IDEA: Even though we're young, we can show love and praise Jesus, too.

GET TALKING:

• Jesus and his friends were on their way to what city? (Jerusalem)
• What did Jesus ask his friends to go get for him, and why? (A donkey, so he could ride on it.)
• People were excited to see Jesus, what did they put on the road in front of Jesus? (Coats and palm branches)
• The people were shouting praises, what did they say? (Hosanna! Hosanna!)

ACTION PLAN: Talk about different ways you can show praise to God.

PRAYER: Tell Jesus you love him and why.

MARCH MEMORY VERSE:

"Sing praises to the Lord." Psalm 9:11

Pre-K/Kindergarten

People Praise Jesus

Matthew 21:1-11, 15-16; Luke 19:28-38

BIG IDEA: We can join in with our church family to praise Jesus together!

GET TALKING:

• Where was everyone walking to? (the Temple, in Jerusalem)
• What did Jesus ask His friends to go get for Him? (A donkey)
• What did people lay on the road before Jesus? (Their coats, palm branches)
• What were the people shouting and singing to praise Jesus? (Hosanna! Hosanna!)

ACTION PLAN: Talk about different ways you can show Jesus praise.

PRAYER: Praise and thank God for His love.

MARCH MEMORY VERSE:

"Sing praises to the Lord." Psalm 9:11 

Elementary

Listen Up!

Matthew 21: 33-45

BIG IDEA: God’s plan of salvation is built on Jesus.

GET TALKING:

• What did you learn about Jesus from this story? (He is God’s Son. God sent Him.)
• Why do you think the religious leaders didn't accept Jesus? (They wanted people to follow them and not Jesus.)
• Why do you think Jesus told this story? (So that people would know that God sent Jesus ad would not reject Him.)
• How do people today show that they reject Jesus? (They don’t pray to Him. They don’t learn about Him.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: Jesus told the parable of the tenants to summarize how patiently and how long God has waited for His children to trust Him. He sent many prophets with His messages of hope and redemption. Jesus was the ultimate messenger - God’s own Son, sent to both Jews and Gentiles. The whole Bible tells that salvation depends on Him.

ACTION PLAN: Tell reasons why believing in Jesus is the only way to be saved.

MARCH MEMORY WORK: 

We are currently learning the Old Testament books of the Bible. 

LAW : Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

HISTORY: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther

February 28th Family Tools

Preschool

The Greatest Love of All

Mark 9:33-37; Luke 9:46-48

BIG IDEA: God wants us to serve and think of others, before ourselves.

GET TALKING:

• What were Jesus' friends arguing about? (Who was the best.)
• Jesus held a little child and said, being kind to this child is like being kind to... ? (Me)
• What did Jesus tell his friends to do instead of worrying about who was the best? (To be loving and kind and to serve others.)

ACTION PLAN:  Think of different ways you could show God's love by serving others this week.

PRAYER: Ask God to help us to be kind and help others.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"Be kind to everyone." 2 Timothy 2:24

Pre-K/Kindergarten

The Greatest Love of All

Mark 9:33-37; Luke 9:46-48

BIG IDEA: God wants us to serve others and not just think about ourselves.

GET TALKING:

• What were Jesus' friends arguing about on the road? (Who was the greatest, or best.)
• Jesus used someone as an example and told them, if you want God to think you are great, you need to be like this ____.  (A little child.)
• He said to treat children the way you would treat Me. He doesn't want us acting like we are better than others. He wants us to do what? (Treat others kindly and serve others.)

ACTION PLAN: Think of ways you can show kindness and serve others (friends or family) this week.

PRAYER:  Ask God to help you put others first and show kindness each day.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"We love because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19

Elementary

Talent Uncovered

Matthew 25:14-29

BIG IDEA: God made us in wonderful ways so that we can love Him by serving others.

GET TALKING:

• What did the first two servants do what the money they were given? (They put their money to work.)
• Why was the master angry with the servant he’d given one talent? (The servant did nothing to earn more money for the master.)
• What do you think Jesus wanted people to learn from this story? (To use the talents and abilities God gives us. To be trustworthy and dependable. To always do our best.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: In the story about the three servants, Jesus teaches us what doing our best means. In our lives, Jesus is the King we do our best for! One day, Jesus will come back to Earth. In the meantime, we do our very best to serve Him by showing His love to others. This is the kind of service we give to the King we love: King Jesus!

ACTION PLAN: Discuss abilities God has given me and plan ways to use my abilities to please Him.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

February 21st Family Tools

Preschool

The Loving Father

Luke 15:11-24

 BIG IDEA: There are ways we can show love and forgive others every day.

 GET TALKING:

• How many sons did the dad have? (2 sons)
• What did one of the sons ask for? (He asked his dad for the money early, that his dad was going to give him.)
• What did the son do? (He moved away and spent all his money.)
• How did the dad feel when his son left? (Sad.)
• The son ran out of money and food, and was taking care of pigs. What did he decide to do? (To go back home and say sorry and try to work for his dad.)
• What happened when the dad saw his son coming home? (He ran to meet him, forgave him, gave him new clothes, a ring and a party!)

 ACTION PLAN: Name ways your family shows kindness to each other.

 PRAYER: Thank God for loving us and forgiving us when we do wrong. Ask Him to help you  love and forgive others, too.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"Be kind to everyone." 2 Timothy 2:24

Pre-K/Kindergarten

The Loving Father

Luke 15:11-24

 BIG IDEA:  We can find chances to love and forgive others everyday.

 GET TALKING:

• What did the younger son ask his Dad for? (His inheritance money early.)
• After he left home, what happened to the son's money? (He spent it all on clothes, food and parties.)
• What happened when all his money was gone? (He had to get a job feeding pigs. He was hungry. He decided to go home and tell his Dad he was sorry.)
• What did the Dad do when he saw his son coming home? (He ran to him, hugged him and forgave him. Gave him a fancy robe, new shoes and a special ring. Threw him a party.)

 ACTION PLAN: Describe ways you can show love and forgiveness to people in your family.

 PRAYER: Ask God to help you love and forgive others this week.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"We love because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19

Elementary

It’s Not Fair!

Matthew 20:1-16

BIG IDEA: God’s love can’t be earned, but He gives it generously to everyone who believes.

GET TALKING:

• How much did the owner of the vineyard pay each worker? (One denarius.)
• Why did some of the workers think they should have received more money? (Because they had worked longer.)
• How is God like the owner? (He is generous in the He loves us too!)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: In the story Jesus told, the owner of the vineyard was generous and paid each of his workers the same - no matter how long or short a time they had worked. God is like this generous owner! Jesus lived, died and came back to life so that we could be forgiven for our sin and receive God’s amazing love. There isn’t anything we can do to earn it! It’s God’s free gift.

ACTION PLAN: Describe how I have responded to God’s great love.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

February 7th Family Tools

Preschool

The Good Samaritan

Luke 10:25-37

BIG IDEA: God wants us to be kind to everyone.

GET TALKING:

• What happened to the hurt man on the road? (Mean guys beat him up and took all his clothes and money.)
• How many people walked by and didn't help? (2)
• When the Samaritan walked by, how did he help the hurt man? (He bandaged his sores, and took him to an inn to take care of him.)
• Jesus told this story to tell people that we should show love to... Just our friends? (No, to EVERYONE!)

ACTION PLAN: Talk about different ways you could help someone this week.

PRAYER: Ask God to help you be kind to others.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"Be kind to everyone." 2 Timothy 2:24

Pre-K/Kindergarten

The Good Samaritan

Luke 10:25-37

BIG IDEA: God wants us to have compassion for others.

GET TALKING:

• What happened to the man hurt along the road? (Mean men beat him up and stole his money.)
• What did the first 2 travelers do when they saw the hurt man? (Walked right by him. Kept going down the road.)
• What did the third traveler (the Samaritan) do? (Took care of him. Stopped and bandaged his sores, put him on a donkey, took him to an inn and made sure he was taken care of.)
• Which traveler showed God's love to the hurt man? (3rd traveler, the Samaritan)

ACTION PLAN: Give examples of ways to show God's love to people who need help.

PRAYER: Ask God for His help to see others' needs and to show His love by helping them.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"We love because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19

Elementary

Walking on Water

Matthew 14:22-36; 16:13-16

BIG IDEA: Because Jesus is God’s Son, I can trust Him when I’m afraid.

GET TALKING:

• Why do you think Peter had the courage to step out of the boat and walk to Jesus?
• What words would you use to describe Peter at the beginning of the story? At the end?
• What amazing truth about Jesus did Peter discover? (Jesus is the Savior, the Son of the living God. He could trust Jesus to help him in every situation.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: Jesus showed His power by walking on the water. But when Jesus told His friends, “It is I. Don’t be afraid,” Jesus was telling them who He really was - God Himself! They could trust Him in every situation, and we can too!

ACTION PLAN: Discuss tough situations in which God can help me and give me wisdom.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE: 

"For I am the Lored, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

February 14th Family Tools

Preschool

The Good Shepherd

Luke 15:3-7

BIG IDEA:  We need to remember God's love and be ready to show it to others.

GET TALKING:

• In our story, how many sheep did the shepherd have? (100)
• How was the shepherd kind to his sheep? (Made sure they had food and water, and kept them safe.)
• What did the shepherd do when he found out one of his sheep was missing? (He went and looked for it, carried it home.)
• Who has God put in your life that shows you kindness? (Ex: mom, dad, grandparents, friends, etc.)

ACTION PLAN: Name some ways people have shown you kindness this week.  How can you show kindness to others.

PRAYER: Thank God for His love and kindness.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"Be kind to everyone." 2 Timothy 2:24

Pre-K/Kindergarten

The Good Shepherd

Luke 15:3-7

BIG IDEA: Because God loves us so much, we are able to share that love with others.

GET TALKING:

• What does a shepherd do? (Takes care of sheep. Gives them food and water. Protects them from danger.)
• Jesus told a story about a shepherd who had 100 sheep, but 1 sheep was missing.  What did the shepherd do? (He left the other 99 and went to find the missing sheep. Carried it back to the others.)
• Who is God in this story? Who are we? (God is the shepherd. We are the sheep.)
• How is God like the shepherd to us? (He loves us and takes good care of us. Wants us to be close to Him.)

ACTION PLAN: Name some ways you can show love and kindness to your family and friends this week.

PRAYER:  Thank God for His love and ask for His help in showing that love to others.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"We love because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19

Elementary

Who, Me? Forgive?

Matthew 18:21-35

BIG IDEA: We can keep on forgiving others because God never stops forgiving us.

GET TALKING:

• What important question did Peter ask Jesus? (When he could STOP forgiving someone.)
• What was Jesus’ answer? (To forgive 77 times; forgive over and over again, never stopping.)
• What did the king do when his servant couldn’t pay what he owed? (He forgave the debt.)
• What did the servant do to the person who owed him money? (He demanded the money be paid back and sent the person to prison.)
• Which servant are you most like?

CONNECTING TO JESUS: In the story of the forgiving king, we see how import ant forgiveness is. This story reminds us that Jesus, the King sent to Earth, is the One who makes our forgiveness possible. Jesus showed that He can truly forgive us and make us part of God’s family. Jesus is the true forgiving King.

ACTION PLAN: Tell times we need God’s help in continuing to forgive others.

FEBRUARY MEMORY VERSE: 

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

January 31st Family Tools

Preschool

The Forgiving King

Matthew 18:21-35

BIG IDEA: To understand what it means to be forgiven and to forgive others.

GET TALKING:

• There was a man who owed the King LOTS of money, but couldn't pay it back.  What did the King do? (He forgave the man, and didn't make him pay it back.)
• The man ran into a friend who owed him a LITTLE money, but couldn't pay it back.  What did the man do? (He put his friend in jail.)
• Who showed kindness in this story? (the King)
• Does God want us to only be kind to those that are kind to us? (No, God wants us to be be kind to EVERYONE!)

ACTION PLAN: Forgiveness is one way of showing kindness.  Think of times when you might need to ask for forgiveness, or times when you have forgiven others.

PRAYER: Ask God to help you be kind to others and forgive them when they hurt us.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"Be kind to everyone." 2 Timothy 2:24

PreK/Kindergarten

The Forgiving King

Matthew 18:21-35

BIG IDEA: We can show God's love by forgiving others.

GET TALKING:

• In Jesus' story, what did the man owe the King? (Lots of money)
• How did the King show the man kindness? (He forgave him the debt, said he didn't have to pay it back.)
• Then the man ran into a friend who owed HIM money. How was he unkind to his friend? (He threw the man in jail because he couldn't pay him back.)
• God wants us to ________ forgive others, even when they are unkind to us. (Possible answers: Never, Sometimes, or ALWAYS!)

ACTION PLAN: Name ways you can show God's love by treating others kindly.

PRAYER:  Ask God to help you be kind and forgive others when they hurt you.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made." Psalms 145:9

Elementary

5TH SUNDAY - FAMILY WORSHIP TIME!  

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE: 

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might and with all your strength." Mark 12:30

January 24th Family Tools

Preschool

Jesus Feeds 5,000

Mark 6:30-44; John 6:1-14

BIG IDEA: God gives us good things to show His love.

GET TALKING:

• Jesus had been teaching the crowd all day, and people were getting hungry. What was the problem, though? (There was no food around, or enough money to buy it.)
• One little boy had some food to share. What did he have? (5 loaves of bread, 2 fish)
• What did Jesus do with the food? (He thanked God for it, and had his friends pass it out to the crowd.)
• Did they have enough? (Yes, with 12 baskets leftover.)

ACTION PLAN: Name some things that God has given you to show His love for you.

PRAYER: Thank God for His gifts and love for you.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"I will sing of the Lord's great love forever." Psalm 89:1

PreK/Kindergarten

Jesus Feeds 5,000

Mark 6:30-44; John 6:1-14

BIG IDEA: God shows His love by giving us the things we need.

GET TALKING:

• What was Jesus doing with the big crowd of people? (Teaching them about God.)
• It was getting late and the disciples wanted to send the people away to eat, but what did Jesus say? (Jesus told them to feed them.)
• One little boy had some food, what did he have to offer? (5 loaves, 2 fish)
• Jesus took the food and thanked God for it, then what happened? (He gave each of the disciples food to pass out, and they fed all the people and never ran out!)
• How much food was leftover? (12 baskets)

ACTION PLAN:  Jesus showed God's love by meeting the crowd's need for food. Identify some "needs" in your life and talk about how God supplies those needs.  You may want to discuss the difference between needs and wants.

PRAYER: Thank God for giving us the things we need.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made." Psalms 145:9

Elementary

 * * * Parent Reminder: There is a 5th Sunday coming up this month, January 31st. There will be no class for the Elementary students.  We encourage families to take advantage of this opportunity to worship as a family! * * *

Which Soil Are You? 

Matthew 13: 1-23

BIG IDEA: I can let God’s Word take root and grow good fruit in my life.

GET TALKING:

• What is a parable? (A story that Jesus told.)
• What were the four kinds of soil told in the parable of the sower? (Hard, rocky ground, weedy, and good.)
• What does being like good soil mean? (Being ready to hear and read the Bible. Looking for ways to do what the Bible says.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: In the story about the sower, Jesus told about the different ways people respond to God’s Word. We can choose if we will be life hard, rocky, weedy, or good soil. One day, Jesus will come back to be our King. Until then, He wants us to obey His Word and follow Him. As God’s Son, Jesus gives us everything we need to grow good fruit in our lives.

ACTION PLAN: Describe the ways to receive, understand, and believe God’s Word.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might and with all your strength." Mark 12:30

January 17th Family Tools

Preschool

Jesus Helps a Blind Man

John 9:1-11, 35-38

BIG IDEA: To help us see different ways God shows love to us.

GET TALKING:

• In our story, we talked about a blind man. What does being blind mean? (Can't see.)
• What would you miss seeing, if your eyes didn't work?
• How did Jesus show love to the blind man? (He healed his eyes.)
• How did Jesus heal him? (Put mud on his eyes and told him to wash them in the pool of water.)

ACTION PLAN: God gives us eyes to see the many ways He loves us.  What are some things that you see that show God's love to you?

PRAYER: Thank God

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"I will sing of the Lord's great love forever." Psalm 89:1

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Jesus Helps a Blind Man

John 9:1-11, 35-38

BIG IDEA: We can be happy because God is good to us everyday.

GET TALKING:

• Was the blind man blind because he had done something wrong? (No. He was blind so God could show his goodness.)
• How did Jesus show goodness to the blind man? (He healed him, made him see.)
• How did Jesus heal him? (Jesus put mud on his eyes and told him to wash it off in the Pool of Siloam.)
• The blind man obeyed Jesus and what was the result? (He could see, and believed Jesus was God's Son.)

ACTION PLAN: Talk about ways that we can see God's goodness in our lives.

PRAYER: Thank God for loving and being so good to us.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made." Psalms 145:9

Elementary

* * * Parent Reminder: There is a 5th Sunday coming up this month, January 31st. There will be no class for the Elementary students.  We encourage families to take advantage of this opportunity to worship as a family! * * * 

Why Worry?

Matthew 6:25-34

BIG IDEA: When I’m worried, I can talk to God because He loves me.

GET TALKING:

• What did Jesus use as examples of God’s care? (God feeds the birds and clothes the flowers.)
• What did Jesus tell the people not to worry about? (What they would wear. What they would eat and drink.)
• What did He tell them to do instead of worry? (Remember God’s love and care. Love and follow Him.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: Jesus came to Earth and taught as God’s Son and as the King who will one day rule the world. But Jesus did not come to take over the governments of the world. He came to be the King, or ruler, of our lives. When we follow Him, He gives us peace when we are worried. He gives us EVERYTHING we need.

ACTION PLAN: Tell times kids worry and why it is good to remember God’s love. 

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE: 

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might and with all your strength." Mark 12:30

January 10th Family Tools

Preschool

Jesus Stops the Storm

Matthew 8:23-27; Mark 4:1, 35-41

BIG IDEA: Jesus is powerful and can help us when we are scared.

GET TALKING:

• What was Jesus doing in the boat when the storm started? (Sleeping)
• How did Jesus friends' feel during the storm? (They were afraid.)
• When he woke up, what did he say to the wind and waves? (To be quiet, be still.)
• What happened next? (The storm stopped. The wind and waves obeyed Jesus.)

ACTION PLAN: Just like Jesus showed love to his friends to help them feel safe, Jesus can do the same for us.  Think of times we might be afraid, and what are some ways Jesus might help us to feel safe.

PRAYER: Thank Jesus for always being with us and helping us feel safe.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"I will sing of the Lord's great love forever." Psalm 89:1

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Jesus Stops the Storm

Matthew 8:23-27; Mark 4:1, 35-41

BIG IDEA: We can feel safe because we can trust in Jesus' power and love for us when we're afraid.

GET TALKING:

• After a long day of teaching, what did Jesus do, as they sailed across the water? (He fell asleep in the back of the boat.)
• What happened while Jesus was sleeping? (There was a storm with big waves.)
• Why were Jesus' friends afraid? (The boat was filling with water and starting to sink.)
• When His friends asked for help, how did Jesus show them love when they were afraid? (He woke up and told the wind and the waves to stop.)
• When can we ask God for help? (Examples: when we get hurt or lost, when we're afraid, anytime.)

ACTION PLAN: Talk about times when we might feel afraid, and how we can ask Jesus for help.

PRAYER: Ask Jesus to help us to trust Him when we are afraid.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made." Psalms 145:9

Elementary

* * * Parent Reminder: There is a 5th Sunday coming up this month, January 31st. There will be no class for the Elementary students. We encourage families to take advantage of this opportunity to worship as a family! * * *

Desert Temptation

Matthew 4:1-11

BIG IDEA: I can follow Jesus’ example and rely on God’s Word when I’m tempted.

GET TALKING:

• What is one of the ways Satan tempted Jesus? (Asked Him to turn stones into break. Told Him to jump off the Temple to show that God protected Him. Offered to give Him all the kingdoms in the world.)
• What helped Jesus to not give in to temptation? (He spent time praying to God. He knew what God’s Word says.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: Satan offered Jesus a shortcut to the Kingdom He had come to claim through the long and painful way of the cross. But Christ came to be our Savior first and then a King. Because Jesus NEVER sinned, He was the only one who could take et punishment for our sins so that we could join God’s family. He love you and me that much!

ACTION PLAN: Identify Bible verses that will help me know how to live.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE: 

 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." Mark 12:30

January 3rd Family Tools

Preschool

Jesus Tells of God's Love

Matthew 6:25-34; Luke 12:22-31

BIG IDEA:  To be thankful for God's loving care.

GET TALKING:

• What does God do to take care of the birds? (He gives them food from the fields and trees to sleep in.)
• What does God do to take care of the flowers? (He gives them rain and sun to help them grow.)
• God cares for US more than the flowers and birds! How does God take care of you? (Ex: loving family, warm home, clothes to wear, etc.)

ACTION PLAN:  Talk about how God cares for the birds, the flowers and for YOU!

PRAYER:  Thank God for taking care of you.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"I will sing of the Lord's great love forever." Psalm 89:1

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Jesus Tells of God's Love

Matthew 6:25-34; Luke 12:22-31

BIG IDEA: We can be sure that God loves and cares for us.

GET TALKING:

• How does God care for the birds? (He gives them food to eat.)
• How does God care for the flowers? (He gives them sun and rain to grow.)
• Jesus was teaching people that they shouldn't worry about things. If God cares for the birds and flowers, how much more will he care for you! What are some ways God cares for you? (Examples: family, friends, warm homes, food, clothes, etc.)

ACTION PLAN: Talk about different ways that God takes care of you and your family.

PRAYER: Thank God for always caring for us.

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made." Psalms 145:9

Elementary

River Wonders

Matthew 3:1-17

BIG IDEA: Following God means loving Him and doing what He wants me to do.

GET TALKING:

• What was something unusual about John? (He wore camel’s-hair clothing)
• What did he like to eat? (Locusts and honey)
• What did John want people to know? (Jesus was the One sent by God.)
• Why do you think Jesus wanted to obey God? (He wanted to follow God. He knew God’s ways are the best ways.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: Jesus is the Savior the people had been waiting for. To prepare for Jesus’ coming, John told the people that they needed to stop doing wrong and start doing what was right. When we believe that Jesus is the Savior, stop doing wrong and start doing what is right, we show that we welcome Jesus as our King.

ACTION PLAN: Evaluate the things I do, say and think, and plan ways to show love to God.  

JANUARY MEMORY VERSE:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." Mark 12:30

December 27th Family Tools

Preschool

Wise Men Give Gifts

Matthew 2:1-12

BIG IDEA:  We can thank God for Jesus by singing and praying.

GET TALKING:

• How did the wise men find baby Jesus? (They followed the star God put in the sky.)
• What town did they end up finding Jesus in? (Bethlehem)
• They showed their thanks to God by giving Jesus gifts. What did they give him? (Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh.)
• What are some ways we can show God our thanks? (Singing, praying, going to church, etc.)

ACTION PLAN:  Name something that you are thankful for.

PRAYER:  Tell the Lord thank you for what you named above.

DECEMBER MEMORY VERSE:

"God loved us and sent His Son." 1 John 4:10

CHRISTMAS VERSE: 

 "And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Wise Men Give Gifts

Matthew 2:1-12

BIG IDEA: Our songs and prayers are like gifts to God.

GET TALKING:

• What were the wise men looking for? (a new King that was born.)
• How did the wise men find Jesus? (They followed a bright star in the sky.)
• What did the wise men do when they found Jesus? (They worshipped Him, and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense & myrrh.)
• What can you do to worship & praise God? (Pray. Sing songs to God.)

ACTION PLAN: Name different ways you can praise and thank God this week.

PRAYER: Thank and praise God for His Son, Jesus.

DECEMBER MEMORY VERSE:

"God loved us and sent His Son." 1 John 4:10

CHRISTMAS VERSES: 

 "In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.  And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened." Luke 2:8-9

Elementary

In My Father’s House

Luke 2:41:52

BIG IDEA: Even as a child, I can grow in my faith and please God.

GET TALKING:

• Why did Jesus and His family go to Jerusalem? (To celebrate Passover.)
• What did Joseph and Mary learn about Jesus? (They learned that Jesus was very wise and  knowledgeable about God’s Word.)
• How would you describe Jesus as He grew? (He grew physically strong and in wisdom and knowledge.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: The story of Jesus at the Temple helps us know a little bit about what Jesus was like as a kid. But Jesus wasn’t just an ordinary boy. When He talked to the Temple teachers - and in everything He did - Jesus showed that He is truly God’s Son who made it possible for us to become part of God’s family.

ACTION PLAN: Describe the results of growing in faith and choose a way to please God.

CHRISTMAS VERSES:

"But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.  This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”  And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."" Luke 2:10-14

December 20th Family Tools

Preschool

Angel Tells the News

Luke 2:8-20

BIG IDEA: We can be excited to share the news that Jesus was born.

GET TALKING:

• Who visited the shepherds in the field? (An angel.)
• What did the angel tell them? (Don't be afraid. Jesus, the Savior, has been born.)
• Where did the angel say they could find baby Jesus? (Lying in a manger.)
• Then the sky filled with many angels singing and praising God. After they left, what did the shepherds do? (Hurried to Bethlehem to find baby Jesus.)
• After finding and worshipping Jesus, did they quietly return to the field? (No, they told everyone they saw about Jesus being born!)

ACTION PLAN: Draw a picture of the Christmas story and share it with someone. (Ex. Jesus in the manger, angels and shepherds in the field, etc.)

PRAYER:  Thank God for His love and for Jesus.

DECEMBER MEMORY VERSE:

"God loved us and sent His Son." 1 John 4:10

CHRISTMAS VERSE: 

"And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7

Pre-K/Kindergarten

Angel Tells the News

Luke 2:8-20

BIG IDEA: To be so glad and thankful for Jesus that you want to tell others.

GET TALKING:

• Who came to visit the shepherds out in the fields?  (Angels)
• What good news did the angels tell the shepherds? (That Jesus, the Savior, was born that night in Bethlehem. And they could find him in a manger.)
• What did the shepherds do after they heard the good news from the angels? (They hurried to Bethlehem to find baby Jesus!)
• After they found baby Jesus, what did they do? (They told lots of people about what they had seen and heard, as they went back to their sheep.  They thanked God for sending Jesus!)

ACTION PLAN: Name people you can tell about Jesus' birth.

PRAYER: Thank God for sending Jesus and ask Him to help you share the Good News!

DECEMBER MEMORY VERSE:

"God loved us and sent His Son." 1 John 4:10

CHRISTMAS VERSES: 

"In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened." Luke 2:8-9

Elementary

Wise Worshipers

Matthew 2

BIG IDEA: The best gift I can give to Jesus is to worship Him.

GET TALKING:

• Why did the wise men make such an effort to find and worship Jesus? (Because they knew that Jesus’ birth was very important and they wanted to meet this very special King who had been born to the Jews.)
• How did King Herod respond to the news about Jesus’ birth? (He was surprised and upset that a new King was born.)
• Why did he respond that way? (He didn’t want anyone else to be King.) 
• Why do we worship Jesus? (He is God’s Son. He loves us. He died on the cross to pay for our sins and then came back to life again to make a way for us to live forever in God’s family.)

CONNECTING TO JESUS: When the wise men came to worship Jesus, they gave us a sneak peek of the time when Jesus will come back. When He returns, people from all over the world will worship Jesus as Savior and Lord. Everyone will know that Jesus really is God’s Son!

ACTION PLAN: Discover and participate in different ways of worshiping Jesus.

CHRISTMAS VERSES: 

 "But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”  And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."" Luke 2:10-14