What’s Next - Week 2
Puzzles don't come with step-by-step instructions for solving them. That's what makes them so much fun. You have to try to figure out the next best step to take. When Jesus left Earth, his followers had to wonder the same thing — "What's next?" In this 4-week series about the Early Church, kids will see how Jesus' followers solved the puzzle of what to do next and the ways we can follow in their footsteps. As kids discover what to do next, they'll learn they can follow Jesus, pray for others, love like Jesus did, and share the good news.
BIG IDEA: We can pray for others.
BIBLE: Peter Prays for Tabitha: Acts 9:36–43; James 5:13–16
MEMORY VERSE
Elementary: "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)
Toddler Twist: God directs my steps. Ephesians 5:1-2
WATCH:
Preschool- teaching video
Elementary- teaching video
SONG: I'm trusting you and Fly
DISCIPLE:
INSTRUCTIONS: For this activity, create a simple path using rope or painter's tape across a room (you can also use sidewalk chalk and do this outside if you desire). Have your kiddo (or kids) take turns starting at the entrance and praying silently until they reach the center (help them pray if they are young).
Say: We can lift up prayers for others at any time, even when we're walking from one place to another. As you go through this maze, think about one person and pray for them until you reach the center.
Praying can be this simple. We do not have to beg or convince God to do something when we pray. God loves us and wants the best for us. We can be honest about our hopes and wants. That means:
We can ask God to make our sick family members well.
We can ask God to help our friends do well in their new schools.
We can ask God to let there be peace in different parts of the world.
As we pray these things, we can also ask God to help us be okay with whatever the outcome is because God knows more than we do.
We can pray for others and trust that God will take care of them.
Pray: Dear God, thank you for letting us talk to you at any time through prayer because of Jesus. Help us remember to not only pray for ourselves but also for our loved ones, neighbors, and people all around the world. Amen.