4.30 Family Experience Resources

Did You Know - Week 5

Did you know that the largest Easter egg in the world lives in Vegreville, Canada? Did you know that the most popular Easter candy in the world are Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Eggs? There’s a ton of fun trivia around the theme of Easter but the best questions to ask your kids are about Jesus. Did you know we can love Jesus more than anything? Did you know Jesus is king over everything? Did you know Jesus is alive? Did you know we can trust Jesus? Whatever their answer, invite your family to go beyond the facts and win the grand prize of knowing Jesus for themselves!

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

Did you know we can trust Jesus?

MEMORY VERSE:  "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."  II Peter 3:18a (NIV)

TODDLER TWIST: "Keep learning about Jesus love." II Peter 3:18


READ: Jesus Appears to His Disciples: John 20:19-31

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Everybody Ought to Know

ACTIVITY: Review the Big Idea with your family: Did you know we can trust Jesus? Do a trust Walk together!

INSTRUCTIONS: Create an obstacle course with things you have in your environment. You can use chairs, tables, toys, plastic cups, hula hoops, etc. 

Blindfold the family member that's trying the obstacle course and explain to them that they will have to trust you (or any other family member) to guide them safely through the obstacle course.

It was hard to trust me when you couldn’t see what was going on around you, right? But I got you safely across the obstacle course.

Did you know we can trust Jesus? Yes, we can!

Just like you couldn’t see me but trusted I would help you, Jesus will always guide you and be with you, even though you can’t see Jesus.

COLORING: Jesus Appears to His Disciples


DISCIPLE: Read today's Bible story; John 20:19-31; 

Can you see the wind? No! But you can feel the wind on your face, can’t you? And you can see the trees swaying in the wind, right? God works the same way — we may not see God with our eyes, but there are all kinds of signs around us that tell us God is with us.

INSTRUCTIONS: Draw a large heart on a poster board. Leave a lot of space for your families to add to the heart. Sit in a circle and place the heart in the middle. Have crayons for everyone to use.

Sometimes, it’s really hard to trust Jesus because we can’t see Jesus with our eyes. But we have to choose every day to trust Jesus and believe Jesus wants the very best for us.

That’s why Jesus gives us people in our lives that we can see with our eyes! Can you name one person in your life you trust? Draw a picture of them inside this heart.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for sending us Jesus! Thank you for reminding us how much you love each of us. Help us to always trust you. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What happened while the disciples were together in a locked room?

How did the disciples react?

What did Thomas say when the others told him about what they had seen?

Read Acts 4:19-20. What could Peter and John not stop talking about?

How do you choose who you can and who you can’t trust?

In what ways do you show someone you trust them?

What are some things you can trust Jesus with today?

4.16 & 4.23 Family Experience Resources

Did You Know - Weeks 3 & 4

Week 3 is our Family Retreat at Tyler State Park so our resources for 4/16 and 4/23 are combined.

Did you know that the largest Easter egg in the world lives in Vegreville, Canada? Did you know that the most popular Easter candy in the world are Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Eggs? There’s a ton of fun trivia around the theme of Easter but the best questions to ask your kids are about Jesus. Did you know we can love Jesus more than anything? Did you know Jesus is king over everything? Did you know Jesus is alive? Did you know we can trust Jesus? Whatever their answer, invite your family to go beyond the facts and win the grand prize of knowing Jesus for themselves!

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

WEEK 3 (4/16): Did you know how much Jesus loves you?

WEEK 4 (4/23): Did you know Jesus is alive?

MEMORY VERSE:  "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."  II Peter 3:18a (NIV)

TODDLER TWIST: "Keep learning about Jesus love." II Peter 3:18

READ - WEEK 3 (4/16): Jesus Dies for Us: Matthew 27:32-61
READ - WEEK 4 (4/23): Jesus Comes Back to Life: Luke 24:1-12

WATCH (4/16): Bible Story Video
WATCH (4/23): Preschool- teaching video Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Everybody Ought to Know

ACTIVITY: 

Resurrection Eggs

INSTRUCTIONS: Have a store-bought set of resurrection eggs (your local Hobby Lobby sells them also) out that your kids can open and explore what’s inside them.

You can also make your own! Simply fill some plastic eggs with pictures of today’s lesson (i.e., a cross, sad faces, white cloth, a stone, a flashlight, surprised faces, happy faces, a donkey, the number three, etc.).

Have you children (if old enough) retell today's Bible story using the resurrection eggs. 

COLORING (4/16): Jesus Died for Me
COLORING (4/23): Jesus Comes Back to Life

DISCIPLE: 

Read or retell today's Bible story.

It was so sad when Jesus was inside the tomb. But I’m so glad that’s not where the story ended. Jesus was alive again!

And because Jesus is alive, we have the chance to make Jesus our friend!

I am so grateful to call Jesus my friend. Are you?

To show how grateful we are, let’s make a grateful heart together!

INSTRUCTIONS: Post a large heart where your family can have easy access. Have each family member trace their handprint on the large heart. Write each persons name in their palm print.

When we’re grateful for something, we say thank you to whoever made us feel that way. And when we are really grateful, we want to share that news with our friends and family!

One way we can tell others about how much Jesus loves us!

Pray: Dear God, thank you so much for sending Jesus for us. We are so grateful we can call you our friend. Help us to remember every day how much you love us. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did the women expect to see at Jesus’ tomb?

What did they see instead?

What did the women do when they heard the news?

Read Romans 6:8-11. What does it mean to live with Jesus?

Why is Jesus being alive good news?

What are some things we need forgiveness for?

If you were to tell someone today’s Bible story in one minute (or one sentence), what would you say?

Easter Week Resources

Easter Week Resources

These resources are designed to help your family as you talk and learn about Jesus’ death and resurrection and His great love for us during the week leading up to Easter.

Daily Resources

Sunday: Jesus’ Triumphal Entry
Our main lesson for this week - view this week’s resources HERE

Monday: Judas plans to betray Jesus
Read: Matthew 26:14-16 or Luke 22:1-6
Activity Page(s) (Elementary)
Coloring Page (Toddler/Preschool)

Wednesday: Garden of Gethsemane
Read: Luke 22:39-53
Watch: Jesus’ Sacrifice
Activity Page(s) (Elementary)
Coloring Page (Toddler/Preschool)

Thursday: Road to Golgotha
Read: Luke 22:54-72, Luke 23:1-25
Watch: Jesus’ Sacrifice
Activity Page(s) (Elementary)
Coloring Page (Toddler/Preschool)

Friday: Jesus dies / Temple veil torn
Read: Matthew 27:32-56
Watch: Jesus’ Sacrifice
Activity Page(s) (Elementary)
Coloring Page (Toddler/Preschool)

Saturday: Jesus rests in the tomb
Read: Luke 23:50-56, Matthew 27:57-66
Watch: Jesus Rises Again
Activity Page(s) (Elementary)
Coloring Page (Toddler/Preschool)

Sunday: Jesus’ Resurrection
Read: Matthew 28:1-10, Luke 24:1-12
Watch: Jesus Rises Again
Activity Page(s) (Elementary)
Coloring Page (Toddler/Preschool)

Other Resources:

Beginners Bible Easter Video [target age - toddler/preschool]
Superbook Easter Video [target age - elementary]
Easter Booklet Printable Craft
Easy Easter Craft Ideas

4.9 Family Experience Resources

Did You Know - Week 2

Did you know that the largest Easter egg in the world lives in Vegreville, Canada? Did you know that the most popular Easter candy in the world are Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Eggs? There’s a ton of fun trivia around the theme of Easter but the best questions to ask your kids are about Jesus. Did you know we can love Jesus more than anything? Did you know Jesus is king over everything? Did you know Jesus is alive? Did you know we can trust Jesus? Whatever their answer, invite your family to go beyond the facts and win the grand prize of knowing Jesus for themselves!

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

Did you know Jesus is king over everything?

MEMORY VERSE:  "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."  II Peter 3:18a (NIV)

TODDLER TWIST: "Keep learning about Jesus love." II Peter 3:18


READ: Jesus Enters Jerusalem: Luke 19:28-40

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Everybody Ought to Know

ACTIVITY: Today’s Bible story happens on a day that we call Palm Sunday!

Do you know why they call it Palm Sunday?

Yep! It does have something to do with palms. But not the palms of our hands. We’re talking about palm tree branches! Hmm, you know what? Let’s use our palms to make palm branches!

INSTRUCTIONS: Provide one piece of green cardstock and one craft stick per kid. Help your kiddos outline their hands with a marker and then cut out the two hands. They can glue the handprints any way they like onto the craft stick.

COLORING: Jesus Enters Jerusalem
DISCIPLE: Read today's Bible story; Luke 19:28-40

INSTRUCTIONS: Prepare the crown paper plate by following these instructions and making all the cuts beforehand. Have your kids decorate the crown however they want. Once they are finished, fold up the wedges to form a crown. Add gems to the top if desired. Discuss with kids as they do this activity.

Ask:

What are some things you think are powerful?

There are lots of powerful things. Dragons, superheroes, earthquakes, tornadoes . . . the list goes on!

But did you know Jesus is king over everything? That means he is more powerful than all of those things!

Let’s put on our crowns to remember that Jesus is king, and King Jesus loves all of us so much!

Pray: Dear God, thank you for being the king of everything. You are so powerful but you take care of all of us. We are safe because you are in charge! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did Jesus ask the two disciples to do?

Why do you think Jesus chose to ride a donkey?

What did the crowd do when they saw Jesus coming into Jerusalem?

Read Jeremiah 23:5-6; Zechariah 14:9. How did these prophets describe Jesus, even though they had never met him?

In what ways was Jesus not the kind of king the world might have expected?

Is it good or bad that Jesus is such a different kind of king? Why?

How can we get in the habit of putting Jesus first in our lives?

4.2 Family Experience Resources

Did You Know - Week 1

Did you know that the largest Easter egg in the world lives in Vegreville, Canada? Did you know that the most popular Easter candy in the world are Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Eggs? There’s a ton of fun trivia around the theme of Easter but the best questions to ask your kids are about Jesus. Did you know we can love Jesus more than anything? Did you know Jesus is king over everything? Did you know Jesus is alive? Did you know we can trust Jesus? Whatever their answer, invite your family to go beyond the facts and win the grand prize of knowing Jesus for themselves!

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

Did you know we can love Jesus more than anything?

MEMORY VERSE: "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."  II Peter 3:18a (NIV)

TODDLER TWIST: "Keep learning about Jesus love." II Peter 3:18


READ: Jesus Anointed by Mary: John 12:1-8

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Everybody Ought to Know

ACTIVITY: 

INSTRUCTIONS: Prepare a large bowl of water. Give each family member a coffee filter with “Jesus” written on it in permanent marker. Use washable markers and have them decorate their coffee filter however they like. Now, let’s put our coffee filter in the water and see what happens. Everything but Jesus disappeared in the water!

Jesus is better than anything because Jesus stays the same, is always there for us, and loves us so much!

What can you do to show how much you love Jesus?

There are so many things we can do to show how much we love Jesus. We can sing, we can write and draw pictures, we can treat others in a kind way . . . there are so many things we can do!

Our Big Idea this week is; Did you know we can love Jesus more than anything?

COLORING: Jesus Anointed by Mary


DISCIPLE: 

Place a series of these images face up on the floor (or show from your device). As you retell today’s Bible story (John 12:1-8), encourage your kids to find the image that goes with that part of the story.

Let’s see if we can remember the details of today’s Bible story. Today’s story starts off with two sisters and one brother named Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Can you find the picture of siblings?

Jesus and the disciples went to Mary and Martha’s house for a special meal called, Passover.

Can you find the picture of people having a special meal together?

After the meal, Mary poured her expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet! Can you find the bottle of perfume? How about a picture of feet?

One of Jesus’ disciples, Judas, was not happy about what Mary had done. Who can find the angry face?

But Jesus was happy with Mary. She was showing everyone just how much she loved Jesus.

Can find the picture of the heart?

Do you remember our Big Idea? Did you know we can love Jesus more than anything?

INSTRUCTIONS: Pass out game show ticket printable for your kids to use to invite friends (neighbors and even kids at school) to join them in Family Experience Classroom next week.

One way to show how much we love Jesus is to share Jesus with others. Sharing the great news of Jesus is so easy . . . it often just starts with an invitation!

Here are some tickets to next week’s Did You Know? Game Show. Give one to a friend so they can come with you to hear the wonderful news of Jesus!

Pray: Dear Jesus, thank you for loving us! Help us to love you more than anything else by giving you our time and attention. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did Mary pour on Jesus’ feet?

How did Judas react to Mary’s actions?

How did Jesus respond to what Mary did?

Reread Philippians 3:7-9. What are some things in your life that compete with your love for Jesus?

Is there anything in your life that you need to reduce in order to spend time with God?

Why does Jesus deserve all our love and attention?

How can we show that we love Jesus more than anything?

3.26 Family Experience Resources

Page Turner- Week 4

Page-turners are exciting books, the kind you don’t want to put down, the kind you would stay up extra late to read. Books are exciting when we can find ourselves in the stories and imagine being a part of the adventure. This month we are going to look at some of the page-turning stories of the Bible. Each of these stories has something valuable to teach us about our patient and powerful God who prepares us to fight temptation and celebrates us, the heroes in our own real-life adventures!

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

God prepares us to fight temptation

MEMORY VERSE: "But the Lord is faithful and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." II Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV)

TODDLER MV- "God protects me and gives me strength." II Thessalonians 3:3


READ:  Jesus Resists Temptation: Luke 4:1-13

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: My God is Powerful

ACTIVITY: 

If we were actually superheroes we would need to be a really good aim! When we practicing aiming at something we might use a target- Today we are going to make our own targets-- but the bullseye will help us keep our focus on Christ- who will fight for us! God will help us fight tempation!

MATERIALS: scissors, construction paper, paper plates, markers or decorating materials, glue and/or tape, popsicle sticks

INSTRUCTIONS: Decorate the paper plate to look like a target. Draw several circles, one inside the other.

In each circle, write positive things to occupy time and attention. Decorate with color or stickers as desired.

Glue a popsicle stick cross in the “bullseye” section, to remind students to keep Christ first and foremost.

If you would like to hang the craft, attach a string or pipe cleaner to the back side.

Using construction paper, write down things that might be tricky or tempting. Crumple the paper and use as “ammunition” to throw at the target. Plan on doing one of the positive options that the target offers, according to where the “dart” hits!

Should look something like this- craft

COLORING: Jesus Resists Temptation


DISCIPLE: 

Read Luke 4:1-13.

Jesus won the battle against the devil. 

Everything Jesus said to the devil was words He knew from the Bible. And we can be prepared like Jesus was, when we read and learn about the Bible. God prepares us to fight temptation. 

INSTRUCTIONS: Ask a question and share. Roll a ball to the family member who would like to respond and encourage others to listen to the person holding the ball.

Some heroes have special or secret powers that make them strong. If I had a special power, I would want to have springs on my feet so I could jump up and touch the clouds! I have always wondered what clouds feel like!

If you could have any special power what would it be? [Roll the ball to a family member. Then, have that family member roll the ball to another until everyone who has a turn.]

Do you remember who our hero was in the Bible story that we read today? Jesus! What was Jesus’ special, secret power? You’ve got it! The Bible! God prepares us to fight temptation

Pray: Dear God, thank you for preparing us to face any temptation that might come our way. We are so grateful because we don’t have to be afraid. Help us to remember that we are strong and powerful with your help and the words you have given us in the Bible. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Where did the devil tempt Jesus?

Can you name one of the ways Jesus was tempted?

How did Jesus respond to each of the temptations?

Read Psalm 91:14. What do we need to do to receive God’s protection?

What are some things that tempt you that you find hard to fight off on your own?

How can we respond to temptation like Jesus did?

How should we feel when facing temptation? Helpless or confident? Why?

3.19 Family Experience Resources

Page Turner- Week 3

Page-turners are exciting books, the kind you don’t want to put down, the kind you would stay up extra late to read. Books are exciting when we can find ourselves in the stories and imagine being a part of the adventure. This month we are going to look at some of the page-turning stories of the Bible. Each of these stories has something valuable to teach us about our patient and powerful God who prepares us to fight temptation and celebrates us, the heroes in our own real-life adventures!

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

God is patient while we grow.

MEMORY VERSE: "But the Lord is faithful and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." II Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV)

TODDLER MV- "God protects me and gives me strength." II Thessalonians 3:3


READ: Parable of the Fig Tree: Luke 13:6-9

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: My God is Powerful

ACTIVITY: 

In some storybooks, we read about creatures like fairies and elves who live in flowers! What if you were small enough to live in a flower? What kind of flower would you want to live in?

Well, in order to make a house inside a flower, you would have to be as small as your hand.

Now that you’ve created your flower out of paint, draw a stem, leaves, and decorate your fairy or elf house any way you’d like!

INSTRUCTIONS: Give each kiddo a piece of white construction paper. You will be using finger paint to help your kids create flowers with their handprints (or trace if you dont have paint on hand). Use fun stickers and other decorative items for your kids to add to their flowers, and allow them to draw pictures of themselves, too!

ASK;  What would you like about living inside a flower?

What would you not like about living in a flower house?

I would imagine living inside a flower when it rained or when it was really windy would be very tough. We would have to wait patiently for the weather to get better and for the sun to shine again.

Jesus told a lot of great stories to teach some things to other people that might have been hard to understand. The stories that Jesus told are called parables. Today we learn that God is patient while we grow!

COLORING: Parable of the Fig Tree


DISCIPLE: 

Read Luke 13:6-9.

Did you know that’s how God is with us? God knows that we have a lot of growing to do. We have so much to learn but God never gives up. God gives us time and everything we need!

INSTRUCTIONS: Share a personal story about how you had to wait for something and once you did, the outcome turned out far better than how you originally thought it would.

Think about some of your favorite stories. If every single story ended with the hero quickly getting to the ending, wouldn’t the stories be so boring? Reading about their struggles and challenges is what makes the stories so good and what makes the endings more satisfying when they win!

God is patient while we grow, so we need to learn to be patient with ourselves and with others, too.

ASK; What is one way you can be patient with yourself?

How you can be more patient with your family and friends, or with complete strangers? Having patience is one of the best ways we can show how thankful we are that God has so much patience with us.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for being patient with us. We know we have a lot of growing to do but you take care of us and give us everything we need to grow. Teach us how to be patient like you are with us. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What kind of tree was the Bible story about?

Why did the owner of the vineyard want to cut down the tree?

What did the vineyard worker say to the owner?

Read I Corinthians 10:12-13. What do you think it means when it says that God will not let you be tempted “beyond what you can bear?”

How can we show how thankful we are for all God’s patience with us?

In response to God’s patience, what are some things we can do to make sure we grow strong?

What are some ways you can show patience to others this week?

3.12 Family Experience Resources

Page Turner- Week 2

Page-turners are exciting books, the kind you don’t want to put down, the kind you would stay up extra late to read. Books are exciting when we can find ourselves in the stories and imagine being a part of the adventure. This month we are going to look at some of the page-turning stories of the Bible. Each of these stories has something valuable to teach us about our patient and powerful God who prepares us to fight temptation and celebrates us, the heroes in our own real-life adventures!

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

God is more powerful than evil

 

MEMORY VERSE: "But the Lord is faithful and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." II Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV)

TODDLER MV- "God protects me and gives me strength." II Thessalonians 3:3


READ: Jesus Chases Away Demons: Luke 9:37-43a

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: My God is Powerful

ACTIVITY: 

INSTRUCTIONS: Use a poster board or a large sheet of paper. Place a piece of paper vertically that says “God” above the other

large sheet of paper.

Have family cut and tape pictures from magazines on the bottom paper. The pictures include images that represent "power" (ie/ lightning, a grizzly bear, a snake, sickness (someone blowing their nose), a gymnast, a lightbulb, a rocketship, a football player, ocean waves, and a lion).

There are a lot of powerful things in the world, but we are going to discover that God is the most powerful of all!

Take the pictures that you've found and cut out, and glue them on the poster board. All of these things are pretty powerful, but nothing is more powerful than God!

[Hold up the word “evil” printed on a piece of paper.] This word, says “evil.” Talk about how evil is the opposite of good.

God is so good. And God is more powerful than evil. [Tape the word to the lowest piece of paper.] That means God is more powerful than everything!

COLORING: Jesus Chases Away Demons


DISCIPLE: 

Do you know what “evil” means? Evil is the opposite of good. In dreams or stories, dragons or monsters are evil, because they don’t care about others. They are mean, and they can be kind of scary, can’t they? Here’s the good news, though . . . God is more powerful than evil!

INSTRUCTIONS: Use a white piece of paper, a cotton swab, and a little bit of milk. Dip their cotton swabs into the milk and write “God.” Read Luke 9:37-43a with your family as you wait for the paper to dry. Once dry, rub the graphite (black part) of a sharpened pencil on some sandpaper over the message so that you get pencil power on the paper. Rub the pencil shavings with another cotton swab to reveal the hidden message.

A lot of stories have evil villains or scary monsters to fight, but in our lives, the evil we face is much more sinister and worse . . . invisible.

ASK; What are some examples of evil that are in our world today?

There are a ton but just to name a few, there are evils like hunger, poverty, hatred, war, and disease. But great news! We know of something (or someone, rather) that’s also invisible but way more

powerful than all these things.

Let’s unveil our hidden message and remember that God is more powerful than evil.

Pray: Dear God, we are so glad we have someone so strong on our side. You are more powerful than evil. You are more powerful than everything! I’m glad I don’t have to be afraid because you are

with me. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What was happening with the boy in today’s story?

Why do you think the disciples weren’t able to help the boy?

What did Jesus do for the boy?

Read Psalm 27:1. What words does the author of this psalm use to describe God?

Is there anything more powerful than God?

Do you think Jesus was disappointed that the disciples couldn’t help the boy who was struggling?

Why do you think that?

Why do you think it’s easy to forget that God is more powerful than evil?

Does God give us power over evil, too? How do you know?

3.5 Family Experience Resources

Page Turner- Week 1

Page-turners are exciting books, the kind you don’t want to put down, the kind you would stay up extra late to read. Books are exciting when we can find ourselves in the stories and imagine being a part of the adventure. This month we are going to look at some of the page-turning stories of the Bible. Each of these stories has something valuable to teach us about our patient and powerful God who prepares us to fight temptation and celebrates us, the heroes in our own real-life adventures!

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

God celebrates us.

MEMORY VERSE: "But the Lord is faithful and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." II Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV)

TODDLER MV- "God protects me and gives me strength." II Thessalonians 3:3


READ: Parable of the Lost Son: Luke 15:11b-32

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: My God is Powerful

ACTIVITY: 

Read Luke 15:11b-32 together before doing this activity.

It’s time to put on your imagination caps! Have you ever thought about what it would be like to shrink? What if we were the size of our fingers? What if we were the size of a blade of grass? That would be wild to be that small, wouldn’t it? The whole world would look so different! We would need somewhere really small to live instead of a giant house, right? Where would you want to live if you were the size of your pointer finger? [Hold up your pointer finger. Give your kids time to share their ideas.]

I like those ideas! Here is another idea: what about an envelope? [Hold up an envelope and open the flap.] Look! This is just like a little house!

Let’s recreate our Bible story using these materials. Don’t forget to draw some balloons and party decorations! The father was so glad for his younger kid to be home! He celebrated big time!

INSTRUCTIONS: Gather envelopes, paper, popsicle sticks, and

markers to create this craft to represent today’s Bible story. Have your kids draw each of the Bible characters on popsicle sticks, make the envelope look like a house, then glue the envelope onto

a piece of paper.

COLORING: Parable of the Lost Son


DISCIPLE: 

Read Luke 15:11b-32. 

Just like the dad in our story celebrated the return of his son when he went away, God does the same for us.

No matter where we go and what we do, we are God’s kids and God will always be happy to see us!

Imagine we live in a land where every single day is your birthday. Wouldn’t that be awesome? What’s your favorite thing about your birthday?

Here’s another awesome part about this land. . .It isn’t just your birthday, every single day is everyone’s birthday!

INSTRUCTIONS: Give your kids a piece of construction paper and strips of scrap paper. Help them make their own scrap paper birthday cake cards. Set out decorating supplies.

Use the piece of paper and drawing supplies to create a birthday card for someone who makes you feel special. It could be for your friend, mom, grandpa, aunt, or your small group leader.

Draw them pictures to show them how much you love and appreciate them. Let’s celebrate the people who make us feel special!

How do your friends and family members make you feel special?

Other than this card, how can you make others feel special?

If God were to write me a birthday card, I think God would say, “I am proud of you. You are thoughtful and kind. I love you.” What do you think God would say to you?

God celebrates us and reminds us that we are special. God also wants us to celebrate others.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for loving and celebrating me! Thank you for forgiving me when I make bad choices. Help me remember that every time I come back to you, you have a party waiting for me. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did the younger son ask for?

How do you think the father felt while the younger son was gone? What about the older brother?

What happened when the son came back?

Read II Corinthians 5:17-19. How did reconciliation happen between God and us?

Describe a way we might lose our way and wander from God. What can we do if this ever happens to us?

What can we do to reconcile with someone?

How can we celebrate others as God celebrates us?

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?