Children's Lessons

Home , An Everlasting Love, Together We Are One

COMMUNITY OF CHRIST LESSONS

CHILDREN 29 November 2020 – 21 November 2021

1 COMMUNITY OF CHRIST LESSONS

Lifelong Disciple Formation in Community of Christ is the shaping of persons in the likeness of Christ at all stages of life. It begins with our response to the grace of God in loving community and continues as we help others learn, grow, and serve in the mission of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, discipleship is expressed as one lives the mission initiatives of the church through service, generosity, witness, and invitation. We invite you to use these lessons for your class, group, or congregation. Lectionary-based: The weekly lessons connect the Revised Common Lectionary for worship with Community of Christ identity, mission, message, and beliefs. Quick, easy: The lessons are designed for approximately 45-minute class sessions with two to three pages of ideas, discussion starters, and activities. Additional preparation help may be found in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament (with focus on the gospel according to Mark) and Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament (semicontinuous readings). Lessons are available for three age groups. Recognizing each age group represents multiple stages of development, the instructor is encouraged to adapt lessons to best meet the needs of the class or group. When possible, optional activities are provided to help adapt lessons for diverse settings. Children (multiage, 6–11): Help children engage in the Bible and introduce mission and beliefs with stories, crafts, and activities. Youth (ages 12–18): Engage teens in scripture study and provocative questions about identity, mission, and beliefs. Adult (ages 19 and older): Deepen faith and understanding with reflective questions, theological understanding, and discussion ideas. Note: Unless otherwise noted, all Bible scripture references are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright 1989, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. A Word Concerning Copyrights Community of Christ International Headquarters endeavors to comply fully with copyright regulations regarding the reproduction of words and music and urges its congregations and members to do so. A conscientious effort has been made to determine the copyright status of all the materials used in this publication. Most words and music under copyright appear with permission granted by the copyright owner. We have made a good-faith effort to contact all known copyright owners to secure permission. Time constraints have made it impossible to obtain a response from every owner, especially where the address of the copyright holder was unavailable. Efforts to secure permission will continue.

Focus Scripture Passage: Isaiah 64:1–9 Lesson Focus: Oppressed people pray for God to come. Objectives The learners will… • discover how people were waiting for generations for the Messiah to come. • consider ways they can pray to God. • explore how they can be open to God’s direction in their lives. • hear about Advent and preparing for coming of Jesus. Supplies • Pottery dishes, other handmade items • Modeling clay—quick drying, if possible (could also provide small bowls or dishes found at thrift stores, one for each student) • Wrapped box that contains enough slips of papers for each student and others who might attend. Each slip has the line “Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me” on it. • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Isaiah 64:1–9 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 21–22, available through Herald House.

Note to teacher: This is the first Sunday of Advent. Advent is a time of waiting for the Christ and is recognized as the four Sundays before Christmas. This Sunday’s focus is Hope. The hymn "Hope Is a Light" CCS 398 could be used each week as part of Advent preparation. The corresponding stanzas could be read or sung together in class: stanza 1 for the Sunday of Hope, stanza 4 for the Sunday of Love, stanza 2 for the Sunday of Peace, and stanzas 3 and 5 for the Sunday of Joy and the coming Christmas Day.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 3 Children Community of Christ Lesson The hope of those living in Old Testament times was for a Messiah, someone to deliver them from their lives of captivity and oppression. This scripture lesson shares how people can lose sight of God when they feel things are not going the way they expected them to. Children may have practice in praying to God at specific times: meals, bedtime, church services. They may also be starting to ask for help or give praise to God. In this lesson, they can see that God wants them to pray at all times. Have a wrapped package near where the class gathers. Inside will be the slips of papers with “Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me” from "Spirit of the Living God" CCS 567 that will be used at the end of the class. Give students a moment to think about what might be in the package. Then ask if they have had experiences where they have had to wait: a trip, special visitors arriving, a new baby in the family, a special day. • How did they feel during the waiting time? • Did the event go as planned or hoped?

Before you read the scripture passage, share with the students that “Old Isaiah” has been in other stories. He is a prophet who lived many years before Jesus was born. Often, he was frustrated that the people didn’t listen or remember God. Many people in Old Testament days believed God would get angry with them and leave them alone to deal with their problems. The prophets would talk to the people, hoping they would listen and learn that God is with them all the time. At holiday times, our focus is on the coming of Jesus because we know of his birth. In Isaiah’s time, they were hoping for someone to come and help save them from their oppressors. Read "God's Strong, Gentle Hands" based on Isaiah 64:1–9 in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 12–13. Discuss the following to deepen understanding of scripture: • When Isaiah is upset that no one is thinking about God, he says he wants God to get angry, to shake the mountains and have smoke and fire. How do students respond when someone gets angry because they didn’t finish a task or follow through on something they did? • Isaiah then is reminded that God is good and kind. God created each one. What does Isaiah mean when he says that God wants to "hold us and shape us with gentle, strong hands”? How can people be shaped by God? • A prophet is someone who helps people understand more about God. In Community of Christ, one of the Enduring Principles is Continuing Revelation. In part it reads, “In humility, individually and in community, we prayerfully listen to understand God’s will for our lives, the church, and creation more completely” (Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 29). Through our Prophet-president, we continue to hear good news but also truth that can sometimes be hard to hear. Members are encouraged to pray to learn more about what God wants us to do. Ask students how they have prayed for help in their lives. What other times do they pray?

Ask the students to think of something they have created. • Did they have a plan when they started? • What materials did they use in the process? • How long did it take? • How did they feel after it was completed? • How did it compare to what they had hoped or imagined when starting out? Share the pottery and other art items that were brought. Discuss how they think the items were made. How can they be used? Potters often created vessels, or containers. They could be tall or short. They could have thin openings to contain liquids. Others could be larger to serve food or for people to eat from. Each one had a purpose, and the potters would work to create the vessel that would fill that purpose. Give each student some modeling clay and time to create a vessel, a type of container. Explain that because of the material being used, their vessels won’t be for food but could hold small items. (As an option, give each student a small dish to use for the next parts of the class.)

Ask who knows the song “Spirit of the Living God” CCS 567 that is often shared at camps and reunions. Did they realize it is a prayer spoken to God? Read stanzas 1 and 2 together. • What does “fall afresh on me” mean to them? • How does it fit with today’s scripture passage? (People had drawn away from God, but Isaiah is hoping they will come back to God.) Read stanza 3. Pause after each comma and ask: • What is being asked for by the one praying, the singer? • How does this fit with the scripture and Isaiah’s thoughts about God? (Isaiah saw God as the potter who could shape people.) • Ask them to look at their dish and think of how God can use them to share the good news with others. Sing the entire song as a class. If possible, sing in one of the other languages. Remind students that prayer is part of all communities within the world.

Bring the wrapped package to the group. Have someone open it and take out the small slips. Give one to each student and read the line together. Share that your hope is for them to let others see Christ through them and their lives and actions. They can keep the prayer slip in their vessel. It can remind them to go to God in prayer anytime in their day. Offer a prayer (or have a student pray) for the coming week.

Focus Scripture Passage: Isaiah 40:1–11 Lesson Focus: God’s people are comforted. Objectives The learners will… • define what love means to them. • identify how God’s message of love came through Isaiah and others through generations. • explore ways that love can be shown to others. • explore the Mission Initiative Abolish Poverty, End Suffering. • name ways they can show love in their lives. Supplies • A covered box filled with items that a child could use to serve someone in the community. Items could include: bandages (injuries), dishes (setting the table), food (hungry), crayons (to occupy a small child waiting at a doctor’s office), toys (for someone who has lost everything in a fire or a child who won’t get toys at Christmas), baby clothes (for a new baby), hats and gloves (for people who are homeless during cold weather), or school supplies (for a new student). • Cut-out hearts and markers or crayons • Poster board or large chart paper • Matching Card Game – Activities and Needs (end of this lesson) • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Isaiah 40:1–11 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 22–23, available through Herald House.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 7 Children Community of Christ Lesson Note to teacher: As children arrive, ask them what they did to get ready for church. Let each one share. Shuffle the Activities and Needs cards and deal them out so each student has a similar amount. Then let one student place a card on the table. If a student places an Activity card, the others look for the Need card in their hand that corresponds. Continue until all cards are played. Discuss how the cards fit together. • Can some Need cards help prepare in other areas? • Are items needed for some of the Activities other than what were on the cards? • What are some activities they participate in, and what items are needed to prepare?

The two stories in the scripture passages for today are about preparing for the coming of God’s chosen one. Both Isaiah and John the Baptist are helping people prepare for Jesus, even though there were many years between them. The words that John speaks are from the words that Isaiah wrote generations before. Read the stories “Get Ready” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 16–18, and “John the Baptizer” on pp. 19–21. Discuss the following to deepen understanding of scripture: • Isaiah spends time with those who are poor and sick and sad. During his time with them, he would pray for them. When have you heard other people pray? What have they prayed for? When have you prayed? • Rebekah asks what the song that Isaiah sang meant. What do you think it means? What does it mean for you? • Isaiah talks about the Lord caring for people like a shepherd. Shepherds care for a specific flock of sheep. The sheep recognize their shepherd and will come when called by the shepherd. How do the students feel when their name is called by someone who cares for them? How do they think the people of Isaiah’s time felt when they heard they would be cared for as a shepherd cared for their sheep?

Ask the students to define love and give examples of how they know love in their lives. They may mention ways family members show love, the love between couples they know, and love from friends. Share the idea that love shown to others is how people can bring God’s love to the world. From Sharing in Community of Christ, “Ministry is humble service offered according to the model of Jesus, who calls every disciple to share in ministry for the world” (p. 37).

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 8 Children Community of Christ Lesson Bring out the covered box of items. Have the students take turns reaching into the box and pulling out an item. Let them share their ideas about when this item could be used to help someone. Have they ever served someone in this manner? Do they remember being served by someone else? How? The church is committed to serving God by helping people. The Mission Initiative Abolish Poverty, End Suffering is Christ's mission of compassion. This initiative says, "We are poised to be Christ's hands and feet, reaching out through compassionate ministries that serve the poor and hungry and stop conditions that diminish the worth of persons." Giving to Outreach International, HealthEd Connect, World Accord, and Abolish Poverty, End Suffering (Oblation Fund) allows church members to help meet the needs of people in their community and the larger community of the world. If your congregation has a specific way to serve in your community, discuss that with the students. No one group can meet the needs of everyone. Instead, each person is called to look for ways to serve the people they meet. As a group, make a list on the poster board or chart paper of ways the students can serve. Where can they find people who need help? How can they discover their needs? Sometimes simple things like opening a door for someone with their arms full or playing with a younger brother or sister while dinner is being fixed can mean the most to someone in need.

Using the list, have each student choose one to two ideas they can complete in the coming week. Have them write each idea on a heart to take with them. Ask them to bring the hearts back with them next week.

Reread the words of Isaiah (Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 16–17): “Comfort them, Comfort my people,” says our God. “Speak so tenderly to all of them, and tell them for me, that I love every one of them and that I am coming to help them.” While the people of Isaiah’s time didn’t know that Jesus was the one to come, we do know that. Jesus came to help all people know how to love one another. The message for all time is that God loves all people. Each one can be in service to God and Jesus by loving others. Close with a prayer for the coming week.

ACTIVITY NEED

Pots and pans / Mixing bowls / Cooking Spoons

Race / Ball game Tennis shoes / Sneakers

Ball game Bat and ball

Trip / Vacation Suitcase

Schoolwork / Tablet Pen / Pencil

Learn about God / Jesus / Church Bible

Art / Easel with canvas Paint / Brushes

Garden Seeds / Trowel

Band / Concert Instrument

Fishing Pole

Focus Scripture Passage: Isaiah 61:1–4, 8–11 Lesson Focus: The Good News of Deliverance Objectives The learners will… • recognize baptism as a way to prepare for following Christ. • consider how community makes a difference in their lives. • thank those who are a part of their congregational life. Supplies • Puzzle that can be finished by students in a short time • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Poster board or white board to make a list • Activity Sheet “Serving Together” (end of lesson) • A stack of notecards (could be recycled holiday cards) with the front design cut apart so that writing can be done on the back) • Markers or crayons • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Isaiah 61:1–4, 8–11 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 23–24, available through Herald House.

Note to teacher: Spend a few minutes letting the students share about the Heart activities from last week. Some may want to discuss in general terms: how they felt, for example, without giving exact details. Others may want to tell more. If students are attending this week that weren’t in class last week, let someone describe what they were doing and why.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 12 Children Community of Christ Lesson This sharing activity can lead into the Advent theme of Peace. By caring for each other, people can share the peace of Jesus Christ with others. This is an example of the Mission Initiative Experiencing Congregations in Mission. As students arrive, have a puzzle they can work on together. Encourage each student to have an opportunity to add to the picture being created. After the puzzle is completed, gather students together. Ask how working together helped them (less time, some saw where pieces went faster, fun to work together). Talk about community and being part of a larger group. Going Deeper: Have students reflect on the Enduring Principle Blessings of Community from Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 31–32. Focus on word such as vulnerable, compassion, solidarity, community. Blessings of Community • The gospel of Jesus Christ is expressed best in community life where people become vulnerable to God’s grace and each other. • True community includes compassion for and solidarity with the poor, marginalized, and oppressed. • True community upholds the worth of persons while providing a healthy alternative to self- centeredness, isolation, and conformity. • Sacred community provides nurture and growth opportunities for all people, especially those who cannot fully care for themselves. • We value our connections and share a strong sense of trust in and belonging with one another— even if we never have met. • Some disciples are called and ordained to particular priesthood responsibilities and ministries for the sake of the community, the congregation, and the world. • We are called to create communities of Christ’s peace in our families and congregations and across villages, tribes, nations, and throughout creation.

As with last week’s scripture passages, there are two stories that complement each other, one from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament. John the Baptist often referred to Isaiah and his call to “get ready for the Chosen One.” When John is asked if he is the Chosen One, he clearly lets the listeners know that he is not. But John will know the Chosen One when he comes. Read “Isaiah Becomes a Prophet,” p. 126 and “Who Is God’s Chosen One?” pp. 24–25 in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B. Discuss: • Why do you think the leaders were mad at John the Baptist? • How did John the Baptist think baptizing people with water would prepare them for the Chosen One?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 13 Children Community of Christ Lesson • Isaiah has often said that being a prophet is hard work. What news do you think would make it hard to be a prophet? How do you think people respond when he gives good news? In Isaiah’s story, he didn’t think he should be with God in his vision. He had done and said bad things. But the angel helped cleanse him with the burning coal. Baptism is a promise between an individual and God. It is a personal decision. Through baptism a person is promising to try to live each day as a disciple of Christ. Following the example of Jesus, people in Community of Christ are baptized by immersion. Emerging from the water symbolizes washing away the old and starting new with Christ. (Of Water and Spirit: Preparing for Baptism and Confirmation in Community of Christ, from Herald House, is available to help people prepare for baptism.) • Have those who have been baptized share how their pre-baptismal class helped prepare them for what would happen in the waters of baptism. • Discuss how Isaiah’s experience was like baptism by immersion.

While baptism is a personal experience, baptism is not done alone. “Baptism is a public act announcing you are choosing to follow Jesus Christ with all your heart, might, mind, and strength. It is a decision that marks a significant point in recognizing God’s initiative in your life, turning toward God, and entering a covenant relationship to the community of disciples and God” (Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 44) • Discuss where the students were baptized or where they have seen baptisms. • Why do they think baptism is a community time? Being part of a community means both having responsibility and having others help and care for you. Distribute the “Serving Together” activity sheet. Discuss who can help. Ask students for other ideas to add to the list based on their personal activities. Decide if it is a way they can serve or if they can work with others to complete the activity. As a group, make a list of those who help in the congregation. List the name of the person and what they do. Include those who pray, teach, play music, watch the children. Help them think of others whose service may be less obvious: those who prepare the worship bulletins, fix things that break, run the sound system, pay the bills, listen and talk to them, greet people who arrive, etc.

Community of Christ believes God’s vision for creation is revealed in the life of Jesus Christ and is expressed in shalom. Sharing the peace of Jesus Christ means living as Jesus did. This means telling and inviting others, being generous and compassionate, bringing justice and wholeness to others, and living a life of healthy relationships in community. Jesus came to restore people to

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 14 Children Community of Christ Lesson right relationships with God, others, creation, and themselves. This restoration is part of God’s vision for creation. This is why we proclaim Jesus Christ! —Of Water and Spirit, p. 31 In addition to proclaiming Jesus Christ, Community of Christ's mission is to promote communities of joy, hope, love, and peace. Have each student choose one or two of the people listed on the board. If possible, have all names chosen. Using the notecards, have them write a thank-you note to each person they have selected. They can sign with their name or the name of the class. When they are dismissed, have them deliver their cards to the persons they have chosen.

Read or sing “Let There Be Peace on Earth” CCS 307. Share in a prayer thanking God for those who are part of their community family.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 15 Children Community of Christ Lesson SERVING TOGETHER Being in a community means that we work together. Below are some of the responsibilities you might have at home, school, church, or in the community. Which ones can you do yourself? Which ones can you do with help? Check the boxes that fit. If you check the “I can do this with help,” write in the name of someone who can help you.

RESPONSIBILITY I can do this by myself. I can do this with help.

Walk the dog

Eat healthy foods

Set the table

Donate clothes and toys

Study my homework

Make my bed

Read the scriptures

Brush my teeth

Rake leaves

Pick up trash

Watch a small child

Visit an older member of

congregation

Play on a sports team

Receive the offering during

worship

Focus Scripture Passage: Luke 1:26–38 Lesson Focus: God is constantly surprising people, disrupting their plans, but God’s Spirit is present with us. With God, nothing is impossible. Objectives The learners will… • discuss the disruption God's call sometimes makes. • think about the gifts they can give to God. Supplies • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Star and angel Christmas tree toppers • Christmas tree handout, one for each child • Crayons, markers, pencils, glue • (Optional) star and angel stickers • Construction paper cut into approximately 1 x 2 in (2.54 x 5.08 cm) strips. Cut enough for each great for younger children) child to have 3–5 strips. Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 1:26–38 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p. 23, available through Herald House.

Welcome children to the group and gather them in a circle. Ask if anyone remembers what the word Advent means. Advent comes from the Latin word adventus which means “arrival” or “to come.” Discuss whose arrival we are waiting for. Remind them that each week during Advent, as you wait for the arrival of the Christ child, we've focused on hope, love, and peace. Today we focus on joy. Sing together “Hope Is a Light” CCS 398, stanza three. This song works well as a call and response. The teacher can sing a line and have the children repeat it.

Ask the children who is excited about Christmas. Tell them you understand that Christmas is so close, but it is still Advent. We are still waiting for the birth of the Christ child. Hold up two Christmas tree toppers, a star and an angel. Ask the students if they know what these are used for. Discuss what their families have at the top of their trees. Ask if the children know why a star and an angel are used as symbols of Christmas. Discuss the star that rose in the east to guide the wise men or magi to Bethlehem. Ask if anyone knows of a Christmas scripture that talks about angels. Some may remember the angels appearing to the shepherds. Let the students know that today’s scripture passage also talks about an angel that was part of the Christmas story. They might think that today’s scripture story should be about the nativity, but, in fact, this story happened much earlier. Tell the students that in today’s scripture story they are going to learn about a very special messenger who came to visit Mary. Read “Mary Learns about Her Baby,” based on Luke 1:26−38, from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 26−27. Ask: • How do you think Mary felt when the angel came to visit her? How would you feel? • God asked Mary to do something that was difficult to do. She worried about what other people would think and say. Have you ever felt like God was asking you to do something difficult? Did you ever worry about what others would think? • When Mary said “Yes!” to God, it was a gift. Think about the gift Mary’s life became. How was being a mother to Jesus a gift to God?

Give students the Christmas tree handout and a few of the construction paper strips. Have the children fold the construction paper strips in half to create squares. Ask the children to think about what gifts they could give to God this week. (be kind to siblings, help clean the house, or give to someone in need) Invite the children to write what they want to give on the inside of the folded piece of paper. Have the students glue their gifts under the tree on the handout so the flap can be opened to reveal their gift. Allow time for students to color and decorate their trees. Ask them to add a star or angel to the top of their tree when they are finished. Have stickers available or have students draw their own.

Tell the students that Mary was a regular person like me and you, but because she said “Yes!” to God, her life became an amazing gift. Ordinary, regular people have amazing gifts to give. Invite each student to share at least one of the gifts to God they plan to give this week.

Read or sing “No Obvious Angels” CCS 418 as your final blessing.

Focus Scripture Passage: Luke 2:22–40 Lesson Focus: The Spirit guided Simeon and Anna as they became instruments of God’s blessing to Jesus and his parents. We need to always open ourselves to the Spirit’s guidance. Objectives The learners will… • explore the sacrament Blessing of Children. • discuss God's promises • determine their own promises to God. Supplies • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Doll • Paper, two sheets per child • Construction paper, one sheet per child • Pens, markers, crayons, etc. • Stapler Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 2:22–40 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p. 25, available through Herald House.

Welcome children to the group and gather them in a circle. Ask children about their celebration of Christmas. • What did their family do to celebrate? • Did they include other family members or friends? • What food did they eat? • Did they receive or give someone a special gift?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 21 Children Community of Christ Lesson Listen to them share and remind them that Christmas is about family and being together, but it's mostly about welcoming baby Jesus. Ask if anyone has a story about how they prepared and welcomed Jesus on Christmas. Tell students that in today's scripture story Jesus is a baby. His parents, Mary and Joseph, take him to the temple to be blessed. This is similar to one of our church sacraments Blessing of Children. Blessing of Children When Jesus was a young child, Mary and Joseph took him to the temple “to present him to the Lord” (Luke 2:21–35 NRSV). During Jesus’ adult ministry, parents brought their children to him to be blessed (Mark 10:14). When families bring their babies to be blessed by the elders, they are responding to God’s grace by choosing to raise their child in God’s loving community and promising to provide guidance and nurture throughout the child’s lifetime. The congregation also commits to being a loving community in which the child can thrive and grow as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Two elders administer the blessing of children, usually during a worship service in the presence of the child’s family and the congregation. The elders hold, support, or place their hands on the child, and one elder offers a prayer of blessing. Children from newborn through age 7 may be blessed. This sacrament is available to any child regardless of the family’s membership in Community of Christ. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 48

Talk to the students about the new year that is about to arrive. Ask if anyone has ever made a New Year’s resolution. Have children give examples of resolutions they have made or heard others make. Explain that a New Year’s resolution is like a promise you make to yourself to do something different or better in the coming year. Sometimes people don’t work very hard to keep their New Year’s resolutions because they’re just promises to ourselves. But promises are important to keep. When God makes a promise, God keeps it. In today's scripture story God made a promise to Simeon. Have children choose roles: Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna. Use a doll to represent Jesus. Have the children act out the story as you read the scripture. You can repeat several times until everyone has a chance to play a role. Read “Jesus Is Presented at the Temple,” based on Luke 2:22−40, from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 37. Tell the children that Simeon and Anna felt so happy when they saw Jesus. God had kept his promises. There were several other promises in the story. Ask the children what promises they remember hearing. (Joseph and Mary promised to teach Jesus to be good and kind to others. God promised to love everyone.) God made Mary a promise, too. Ask if they heard what it was. (God would always be with her.) Knowing that God would be with her helped Mary feel less afraid about what was to come.

Hand out two sheets of white paper and one sheet of construction paper to each child and have them fold the sheets in half to make a book. Use the construction paper as the cover and the white paper inside the book. Staple the books together. Have the children write “My Promise Book” on the front cover. Inside they can write and draw pictures of the promises they want to make this year—promises for things they want to do better and also promises they want to make to God.

Have the students bring their promise books and sit in a circle together. Tell the children you are going to play a promise guessing game. Ask each student to think of a promise in their book that they can act out. Have the children take turns acting out one of their promises and allow other children to guess what those promises might be. At the end ask how they might act out God’s promise to love everyone.

Choose three or four actions from the promise guessing game to create a body prayer. Begin the prayer by asking God to be with the students as they work to keep their promises. Then act out the chosen promises. End the body prayer with the action that represents God’s love for everyone, and say, “Amen.”

Focus Scripture Passage: John 1:1–18 Lesson Focus: The Word Lives among Us Objectives The learners will… • identify times they have shown they are followers of Jesus. • consider ways to help others learn about God’s love for each person. • understand that they can be examples of Jesus by the life they live. • look at ways they can share the love of Jesus with others. • explore the Enduring Principle Worth of All Persons and the Basic Belief about Jesus Christ. • discuss the Community of Christ practice of the Lord’s Supper (Communion). Supplies • Poster board or white board • Sharing Time activity page, one for each student (end of lesson) • Practices of Discipleship, either one to use as a group or one per student www.CofChrist.org/common/cms/resources/Documents/Disciple-Practices-Chart.pdf • Wooden craft sticks or strips of cardstock of similar size (10 per student), ribbon or yarn, glue • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 1:1–18 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p. 26, available through Herald House.

As students come in, ask about their week. Let them share both positive and difficult situations. Write the situations on the left side of the poster board or white board.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 24 Children Community of Christ Lesson Have the students repeat the Saint Patrick’s breastplate prayer after you (Of Water and Spirit: Preparing for Baptism and Confirmation in Community of Christ, p. 53). Christ be with me Christ before me Christ behind me Christ in me Christ beneath me Christ above me Christ on my right Christ on my left Christ where I lie Christ where I sit Christ where I arise Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me Christ in every eye that sees me Christ in every ear that hears me. Salvation belongs to the Lord. Amen.

Note to teacher: For some of the students, understanding that the Word became Jesus may be confusing, an abstract concept. Yet they will think of Jesus as a baby, growing and learning as they do. In A Way of Life: Understanding Our Christian Faith, the author, Anthony J. Chvala-Smith, discusses the first verses of today’s scripture passage (John 1:1–18) in chapter 15. God’s “Word” is not speech or words written on a page. It also is not a book. John meant something far more majestic and personal. The term Word in the author’s Greek language is Logos. It is the root of such terms as logic or biology. Originally, it referred to the rational, ordering principle behind everything (p. 115). Basic Beliefs: Jesus Christ (from Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 34) We believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, the Word made flesh, the Savior of the world, fully human and divine. Through Jesus’ life and ministry, death and resurrection, God reconciles the world and breaks down the walls that divide. Christ is our peace. See the Christology statement “We Proclaim Jesus Christ” on page 58 or www.CofChrist.org/we-proclaim- jesus-christ.

The scripture passage for this lesson is from the Gospel of John. While the students have heard stories recently about John the Baptist and how he prepared for Jesus, the author of this book in the Bible is not the same John. But John the Baptist is mentioned in this part of the scripture. John the Baptist is telling the people that the Chosen One will come and live with them. In that way, the people would be able to follow his example by seeing how he lived here on Earth. Read “The Light of the World” on page 37 of the Lectionary Story Bible, Year A. This scripture passage shares that God sent Jesus to the world, and that through Jesus, people will learn the way of God. Share that the scriptures are one way we learn about Jesus and what he wants us to do. By reading and learning about Jesus, we can find our direction. We can also learn from others by watching their lives.

Ask the students to name activities they do: music, sports, art, cooking, cleaning, yardwork. • How did they learn what to do? • Who helped them or showed them the steps? • Was it easier with directions only or with support? Ask students who has helped them learn about Jesus. Help them identify people in their families, at church, in their communities. How did they find out who Jesus is and what they are to do as disciples? Share the Practices of Discipleship with the students. Using the chart and ideas from the students, make a list of words that identify activities they can do to follow Jesus: worship, believe, study, share, sing, pray, love, grow, help. Have them write one word on each wooden craft stick or piece of cardstock of similar size. Give each student a strand of yarn or ribbon (48 in/ 122 cm) and have them fold in half, with the loop at the top. Then have them glue each word to the yarn or ribbon in two places (see example). When they have finished, they will have a hanging reminder of how they can live to follow Jesus.

As it is Communion Sunday, share the following: Community of Christ congregations celebrate the Lord’s Supper (Communion) regularly throughout the world, remembering with all Christians the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In this sacrament, we eat bread and drink wine (usually grape juice) as symbols or emblems representing Jesus’ body and blood…

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 26 Children Community of Christ Lesson The Lord’s Supper (Communion) is an opportunity to celebrate again our baptism and confirmation covenants, reconcile relationships, and mutually recommit to the church’s mission. —Of Water and Spirit, p. 51 Jesus came to Earth to live by example. If possible, go to the location where the bread and wine are prepared and let the students watch as it’s being prepared. Discuss with them what an emblem or symbol is.

One of Community of Christ’s Enduring Principles is the Worth of All Persons. • God views all people as having inestimable and equal worth. • God wants all people to experience wholeness of body, mind, spirit, and relationships. • We seek to uphold and restore the worth of all people individually and in community, challenging unjust systems that diminish human worth. • We join with Jesus Christ in bringing good news to the poor, sick, captive, and oppressed. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 29 How does this Enduring Principle fit with the life Jesus lived when he was on Earth? How can the students’ lives be examples for others? Go back to the list the students made as they arrived. Look at each item and ask the following questions for each situation, adding their answers to the right side of the poster. How did they either show others that God and Jesus loved them or how were they shown love by someone else? If neither was present, how could the situation change next time by their actions? Have students complete the Sharing Time worksheet. Talk about other ways we can help friends, family members, schoolmates know that Jesus is alive and part of our lives and theirs. Let students draw pictures on their Sharing Time page of other ways to share Jesus’ love.

Play “I Danced in the Morning” CCS 23. Some of the older students may have heard the song at camps or reunions. Have students sing or accompany the music in a joyful manner. They may even dance around. When finished, bless them and send them out with joy. Remind them that Jesus will “lead you all wherever you may be.” Another option is “God Forgave My Name in Jesus’ Name” CCS 627. Have them focus on the chorus: “Go in my name and because you believe, others will know that I live.” As followers and disciples, they can show that Jesus lives by the way they love others.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 27 Children Community of Christ Lesson Sharing Time Sharing is one way we follow Jesus. You have things you can share with others: a smile, a snack, clothing, toys you’ve outgrown, or extra food. Pretend you meet each of these people. Follow the directions to help your new friends.

Brandon has no coat. Can you draw one for him? Sarai is hungry. Can you draw her dinner?

Angelica is lost. Can you draw her home? Stefan hurt his knee. Can you bandage it?

Focus Scripture Passage: Genesis 1:1–5 and Mark 1:4–11 Lesson Focus: God brings order out of dark, formless, watery chaos. Objectives The learners will… • compare the two baptisms in Community of Christ. • learn how God and Jesus provide examples for disciples to follow. • explain an activity they know how to do. • discover that they are also examples and lights of the world. Supplies • Flashlights • Small battery-operated candle for each student • Paper and pens, markers, crayons • Candle pattern for each student • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Genesis 1:1–5 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 33–34, and Mark 1: 4–11 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B, New Testament, pp. 29-30, available through Herald House.

Before the students arrive, tip some of the chairs over and move others away from the table. Put several items on the floor or spilled over the table. Turn off the lights, leaving the door open for those who have trouble with complete darkness. Stand by the light switch so the students can’t turn it on. As the students arrive, say nothing about the room arrangement. If some start to pick up, let them. After most have come into the room, ask what they thought when they saw the room. What might help them

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 29 Children Community of Christ Lesson straighten the room? Turn on the flashlight and work with them to bring the room to order. As they continue to pick up, turn on the full light.

The scripture for today is from the beginning of time. Read the Basic Beliefs statement below on Creation: Creation As an expression of divine love, God created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them, and called them “good.” Everything belongs to God and should be cherished and used justly according to divine purposes. God sees creation as a whole without separation of spirit and element. God calls people of every generation to join with God as stewards in the loving care of creation.” —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 34 Read Genesis 1:1–5. In this scripture passage, the listener hears how God brought order out of chaos and created day and night. If God can do that, God can be with us through whatever we encounter. Discuss aspects of nature around them or places they have seen. Consider the awesome power and beauty of a God who created a world like the one in which they live. The other scripture passage (Mark 1:4–11) is the story of Jesus’ baptism. For years, John the Baptizer had been telling people he was to prepare them for the Chosen One. People would listen to him and repent of their sins before they were baptized of water. Then Jesus arrived. Ask the students to imagine if Jesus came to them. How would the students feel? What would they think or do? For John, this was an amazing experience. He had known the Chosen One would be coming, and John had said he would recognize him. John had been waiting and preparing, but when Jesus came, he surprised John. Jesus asked to be baptized just as all the other people had asked! But John didn’t think he should baptize Jesus. He thought Jesus should baptize him. But just as God made things orderly by bringing light to the darkness, Jesus came to Earth to help people learn how to love each other and follow God. He was to be an example and wanted people to follow what he did. Read the story of Jesus’ baptism, “You Are Chosen,” in Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 78–79. Discuss what happened with Jesus at his baptism. At first, his baptism was like all the others. John took him into the water and he was immersed. But then, after his baptism, the heavens opened, and a dove came to him. Read about the sacrament of confirmation below. Confirmation As Jesus came out of the water (Matthew 3: 3–16), the Holy Spirit, represented as a dove, descended on him. As followers of Jesus, we are baptized of water and the Holy Spirit. Following baptism of water, new disciples take part in the sacrament of confirmation. It "confirms" membership in Community of Christ, and affirms the Holy Spirit’s continued blessing for each disciple —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 45

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 30 Children Community of Christ Lesson Ask those who have been baptized and confirmed how the baptism and confirmation of Jesus is connected to their experiences. How did they feel during each part: the baptism of water and the confirmation of the Holy Spirit? For those who haven’t been baptized, ask if they can see why Jesus asked to be baptized. (Be cautious when sharing about baptism for those who aren’t yet baptized. Sometimes it isn’t completely their choice as parents must be part of the decision, but it is also valuable to talk about baptism and students’ feelings about it. Often we forget to ask, and someone has been waiting for our invitation.)

Have the students draw pictures of two or three activities they like to do, either indoors or outdoors: cooking, reading, math, science, playing an instrument, sports, drawing, building items, riding a bike. • How did they learn to do these activities? Some activities are part of growing up: learning to crawl, to smile, to talk, to walk. But others require someone to show them what to do: learning another language, running for a race. • Whom do they want to teach them? • What qualities do they look for in a teacher? • Where can they look for help? With technology, many directions can now be found on the internet. • How do they know they are finding the right teacher? Help them understand that those who can do an activity are the best to teach them. That is why Jesus came to earth and was baptized. God wanted the people to follow the example of Jesus. Just as the people came to John to be baptized, Jesus came, too. Just as God knew to organize the chaos, he knew the people on Earth needed someone to guide them and show them the way. Have each student pick one of their activities they most enjoy or feel strong in. Let them share what it takes to be successful and help their classmates know what is necessary. If a larger group, have them form pairs and take turns teaching their partner basic elements of the activity. Encourage students to ask questions to help them understand what is being shared. At the end, ask if anyone is considering learning something new based on what they saw or heard.

God created light out of darkness and brought order to chaos. Jesus brought light to the world and is often referred to as the Light of the World. What other stories, songs, or scripture passages have students heard about light? (“This Little Light of Mine” might be mentioned.) Discuss how one candle, one light can change a room. What can happen when many lights are lit?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 31 Children Community of Christ Lesson Disciples or followers of Jesus are God’s light on Earth. Each person can make a difference, no matter how big or small, or how young or old. Each person has their own gifts to share with those around them. They can be the example to those around them who may not know God or Jesus. Have students list ways they can make a difference during the coming week. Have them color the picture of the candle. Put their name on the candlestick as a reminder that they are a light. Surrounding the picture they can write ways they can make a difference in the world. Tell the students to put their candle pictures in a place where they can remember that they are called to be a light to the world.

Stand in a circle. Give each student a battery-operated candle. Have one student light their candle. Then turn out the lights and ask the students to go around the circle lighting their candles. Read the words “I Wish God’s Love to Be with You” CCS 663 as a blessing on them. Collect battery candles.

Focus Scripture Passage: 1 Samuel 3:1–20 Lesson Focus: God calls to the boy Samuel. Objectives The learners will… • learn about ways that God and Jesus have called people to follow them. • consider that they have choices every day to follow God. • reflect on ways they can respond to God’s call. • identify talents, treasures, time, and testimony as whole-life stewardship. Supplies • Examples of invitations • Activity Sheet “Whole Life Response” • Copies of the Mission Prayer on cardstock or heavy paper for each student • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 1 Samuel 3:1–20 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 34–35, available through Herald House.

Ask students if they have ever received an invitation. What was the invitation for? How was the invitation shared? (a card, personal invitation, email, or phone call) How did they respond? People are given invitations to follow Jesus. Each person must make a choice. How are some of the ways that people might find out about Jesus? (reading the scriptures, hearing someone talk about Jesus or God, going to church) Share that in today’s lesson, they will hear about people who were given an invitation and then made their decision to follow God.

Read "God Calls Samuel," the story of Samuel responding to God’s call, in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 131–132. Stop after Eli tells Samuel to answer God and Samuel says he is listening. Discuss: • Ask the students how they would feel if they heard someone calling their name at night. Have they ever felt God calling them? Asking them to do something? Help them think of times when they might have felt an urge to talk with someone at school who was alone or help someone in need. Sometimes the voice of God is very quiet and inside their heart or head. Continue the story. Remind students that prophets often had to give bad news to people. Have they ever had bad news they didn’t want to share? (bad paper at school, something was broken) Why didn’t they want to share? • Discuss how Eli helped Samuel know that sharing the bad news is part of following God, and that a prophet also helped people hear what God wanted them to do. Then people always had a choice about what they would do. The news made Eli sad, but he knew that what God told Samuel was true. Jesus also invited people to follow him. The story “Jesus Finds Some Friends” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 50–51 tells of Jesus inviting Philip and then Nathanael to follow him. • Discuss how Jesus invited them.

Samuel responded to God completely. He gave his life to God and helped others know what God wanted. As with many prophets, it was not easy to tell people the bad news when they were not following God. But Samuel spent his life following God’s call to share with the people around him. This is called whole-life response. Instead of pondering what we will return to God, whole-life stewardship asks how we generously use everything for God’s purposes. It is not just about what we return to God through tithing of our time, talent, treasure, and testimony. It is also how we use what we keep in a way that remains faithfully focused on God’s purposes. —Choose Generosity: Discovering Whole-life Stewardship, Herald House, 2019, p. 15 Time and Talents How we spend our time, the gifts and talents we have, our belongings, and our story of Jesus in our lives is our response to the invitation to follow Jesus. We are not called to only give part of our life to God but to have every aspect focused on the mission of Jesus Christ. Not just during church hours but in all hours of our lives. Choice is involved. Each of us has the same amount of time in a day, but how that time is spent is up to each person. The same is true with how we use our talents.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 35 Children Community of Christ Lesson • What talents do they see in themselves? • What talents do they see in the other students in the class? • How can those talents be used to show others of God’s love? Treasure For many people, treasure means money. Many of the students may have little money except for that which they are given by others (allowance for chores, birthday money, etc.). Help them think about what they do with the money they receive and discuss other things that could be considered their treasures. Testimony A testimony is a way to share the story of Jesus in our lives. • Ask about testimonies they have heard at church. How did they feel after hearing them? • Ask if they have shared their story with anyone. • Does a testimony always have to be words? • Have them think of someone at church or in their community who has helped them. How did they feel? Did that person give a testimony through action? • How can their lives be a testimony for others to see? Give each student a copy of the “Whole-Life Response” sheet. Have them write or draw pictures in each section, showing what they have to offer. Reflect and remind them of the activities they shared last week. Then discuss that their response will grow and develop as they learn more about God and about themselves. Share the Mission Prayer. Go through each line and discuss the meaning of the words. Explain that the meaning will change as they grow in their discipleship. Encourage them to put the prayer somewhere they can see it each day and to read it regularly. If you have time, you may want to let the students decorate around the Mission Prayer card. Post a copy in the classroom if one isn’t there already.

Read together the refrain of “I, the Lord of Sea and Sky” CCS 640. Ask how these words fit with the story of Samuel. (He was called but at first wondered what he could do as he was so young.) Then read through each verse, pausing after the first two lines to discuss how God sees the people: • Verse one: they are in the dark and sinning. • Verse two: they are in pain but turn from God. (This could be considered the bad news that a prophet often has to share by letting the people know how they are not following God’s ways.) But God loves all people. Because of that, each verse ends with good news: • Verse one: their darkness will be brightened. • Verse two: their hearts will be turned to love.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 36 Children Community of Christ Lesson Verse three is somewhat different. The poor and lame may have been oppressed or hurt through life. In this verse, the good news again is that God will provide for them through the love shown to all people. Read the final line of each verse: • Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send? • I will speak my word to them. Whom shall I send? • I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? Remind students that God’s work on earth is done by people, people who will share their testimonies and their love. Reread the refrain, thinking of how they are the ones being called in the night. They are the ones to hold God’s people in their hearts.

Close by reading the Mission Prayer together: God, where will your Spirit lead today? Help me be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant me courage to risk something new, and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen Going Deeper: Have older students read through “Send Me Forth” CCS 651. As a prayer to God, the words of the hymn are asking for help to do the things that they are called to do. Have them choose the phrases that most matter to them. Is it having their fears melted? Proclaiming God’s love to all? Being joyful? End by reading the refrain, sharing the promise is there to work together hand in hand.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 37 Children Community of Christ Lesson WHOLE-LIFE RESPONSE Samuel gave his whole life to God. Think of your life and how you can share with God what you have been given.

TIME TALENT

TREASURE TESTIMONY

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 38 Children Community of Christ Lesson © 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 39 Children Community of Christ Lesson LESSON 9 24 January 2021 THIRD SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 1:14–20 Lesson Focus: We are called to invite others to join in the mission of Jesus Christ and proclaim the good news. Objectives The learners will… • compare fishing for fish and fishing for people. • discuss ways to invite people to Christ. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Chart paper or whiteboard and markers • Snack supplies: goldfish crackers, pretzel sticks, cream cheese or peanut butter (Be aware of any food allergies and provide alternatives as needed.) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 1:14–20 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p. 33, available through Herald House.

Welcome the students to class and gather together. Ask how many of the children have ever been fishing. Invite the students to explain how to catch a fish. Allow children to answer with basic steps of fishing (place something on a hook, cast line into water, wait, or reel in fish). Ask if anyone has ever caught a fish and what that was like.

Tell the students that today you are going to read a story from the Bible about some fishermen. Read Mark 1:14–20 or “The Calling of Simon” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 56–57. When you finish reading, begin a discussion about the story using these questions: • Simon and Andrew had been fishing for a long time, but they weren’t having much luck. How were they feeling about that? • What did Jesus invite Simon and Andrew to do? • Go fishing for people? That sounds a little strange! What do you think Jesus meant by that? Have a discussion with children about the idea that Jesus wanted to travel and teach people about God. Say: I think Jesus talked about fishing for people because he was talking to fishermen. He was using words his friends would understand. If he were talking to farmers, he might have used different words. How would telling people about God be the same as fishing? Guide the children to understand that when we fish, we throw out the line and see what we catch. With people we share the word of God and see who pays attention. Fishing for fish and fishing for people both take patience! It’s a good thing Jesus had his friends with him to help! Look around you; you’ve got friends to fish for people with you, too!

Create a chart with “Fish” and “People” as headings at the top. Along the side write, “Where do we go?” “What goes on the hook?” and “How do we catch?” Once you have the chart drawn, begin a discussion about each section. Always start with fish and then compare to people. “Where do we go?” Suggestions: • Fish—river, lake, ocean • People—school, neighborhood, sports team “What goes on the hook?” Suggestions: • Fish—worms, bread • People—things you could say to others about God “How do we catch?” Suggestions: • Fish—cast the line, use a net • People—with your words, with your actions

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 41 Children Community of Christ Lesson To wrap up your activity, serve the children a fishing snack—goldfish crackers, a pretzel stick, and a bit of cream cheese or peanut butter. To fish for your snack, dip your pretzel in the cream cheese or peanut butter and then see if you can catch a goldfish. Be aware of food allergies and adapt as needed.

Sing together “We Are One in the Spirit” CCS 359. If you have time, use some of the ideas from your chart and write your own verses to the song. For example: We will speak to each other with very kind words, We will speak to each other with very kind words. We will speak to each other with very kind words. And they’ll know we are Christians by our love…

Ask if someone in the class would like to say the closing prayer.

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 1:21–28 Lesson Focus: Jesus was a gifted teacher whose teaching still continue to show us how to live in God's way. Objectives The learners will… • explore what makes a good teacher. • practice teaching someone else. • consider what they could teach about God. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Chart paper or whiteboard and markers • Paper and pencils or pens • Optional: supplies for students to use when "teaching" their partners • Timer or chime Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 1:21–28 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 34–35, available through Herald House.

Welcome the children to class and gather together. Ask the students: • Have you ever been taught something in school that was confusing to you? • How did you figure it out? • Did someone explain the idea to you in a simpler way that made more sense? • Who was it that helped you figure it out? Allow children to share who helped them.

Let the students know that today you are going to read another story from the Bible about Jesus. Ask if they remember last week when you talked about how Jesus gathered some fisherman to go out with him and fish for people and how he surrounded himself with friends so they could travel together and teach people about God. This story tells us about the kind of teacher Jesus was. Read Mark 1:21–28 or “Jesus Goes to the Synagogue” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 58–59. Say to the students, “Let’s talk about the man in the story that was yelling at Jesus. Have you ever been mad or confused and said things you didn’t really mean?” Allow children to share times they felt that way or share a story from your own experience. • What did Jesus tell the man to do to help him feel better? Allow children to respond. Say, “He encouraged the man to sit quietly for a few minutes. Has anyone ever told you that? To sit quietly and maybe take a few breaths to help you calm down? Jesus was showing this man that he loved him even though the man had been yelling at him. Sometimes people get confused and they just aren’t sure what God wants them to do. Jesus was good at helping people understand that God loves us no matter what, and God wants us to love each other, too. He was an excellent teacher. And we still are learning from Jesus’ example today. By reading these stories in the scripture about Jesus, he continues to teach us how to live God’s way.”

Ask the students to think of the very best teacher they know. Have them share one thing that makes that person a great teacher. Allow each child to share about their favorite teacher. Summarize the characteristics you heard and create a list on chart paper or whiteboard. Title the chart “A Gifted Teacher Is...” Ask the children if there is anything else that should be added to the list. The students can be excellent teachers, too! Let them know that today they are going to teach something to someone else. Divide the class into two groups. Each group will decide on a skill they can teach. You may want one adult to guide each group. Some ideas of what the children might teach one another are a game, a song, a skill like bouncing a ball, or even some information they are knowledgeable about. Each small group should spend some time deciding what they are going to teach and practicing it. Every person in the group will be responsible to teach someone else so all participants need to be able to accomplish the skill. When everyone in both groups is ready, pair a person from Group A with a person from Group B. If you have an odd number of students, someone can pair with one of the adults. Once everyone has a partner, begin the teaching. Remind the students that when it’s their turn to be the teacher, they should use the characteristics they listed. When it is their turn to be the student, be polite and really listen to what the “teacher” is teaching (even if they’ve done it or heard it before). It’s their job to listen, not to teach. Allow the Group A partners three to five minutes to teach their Group B partners the skill. When everyone has learned the new skill, switch roles and allow the Group B partners to teach

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 44 Children Community of Christ Lesson the Group A partners their skills. Once everyone is done, call the group back together. Let the children know that while it’s not easy to teach others, as followers of God it is up to us to teach others just like Jesus did!

Give each child a piece of paper and something to write with. Ask the students to make a list of what they know about God and Jesus that they could teach someone else. Encourage them to try it out this week and see if they can teach someone about God’s love.

Close by reciting the mission prayer as adapted below. God, where will your Spirit lead this week? Help me be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant me courage to risk something new and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen.

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 1:29–39 Lesson Focus: Jesus brings wholeness through his healing touch. Faithful disciples respond to Jesus' healing by ministering and serving other. Objectives The learners will… • learn about Jesus as healer. • consider how they can use their hands for healing. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Optional: Of Water and Spirit Facilitator Guide • Construction paper and art supplies for making cards (markers, crayons, stickers, etc.) • Blank paper • Pens and pencils Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 1:29–39 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 36–37, available through Herald House.

Welcome the children to class and gather together. Say to the students, “I’ll bet you have been sick before, right? When you feel sick is there anyone who helps you feel better?” Allow children to share who helps them to feel better when they are sick. “What does your [mom, dad, or friend] do to help you feel better?” As children share, focus your response on anything done with hands. If the child says something like, “My mom hugs me,” you might say, “That must feel good when your Mom uses her hands to hold you tight.”

Let the children know that this week the Bible story shows us that Jesus helped people feel better when they were sick. Read Mark 1:29–31 and Psalm 147 or “Jesus Helps Eunice Feel Well” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 61–62. Jesus was a busy man, but he took time to sit with Eunice and help her feel better. Say to the children that you noticed how Jesus used his hands to help Eunice feel better. Ask if they remember how he used his hands. Allow children to answer. Say to the students, “That reminds me of some of the things you told me earlier about your [moms, dads, and friends]. Many of them used their hands to help you feel better, too. Do you remember some of the ways people use their hands to help others feel better?” Allow children to list some of the ways already mentioned, and perhaps some new ways they have thought of. Say, “This story tells us that when Eunice felt better, she started helping others. Now we don’t know if she got up right away, or if it took her a little while to feel better. But she knew how important it was to live like Jesus and help other people, especially those who were sick or hurting. That is what Jesus asks us to do—use our hands to help those who are sick and hurting. Going Deeper: Discuss with the students how we use our hands In the various sacraments. You may use the Of Water and Spirit Facilitator Guide pp. 52–53, 58–60 as a resource to discuss the different sacraments.

Remind the students that you talked about the way Jesus and others use their hands for healing. Ask if they realized they can use their hands for healing, too. This would be a good time to discuss the difference between healing and curing. Healing brings wholeness and peace to persons; curing suggests the successful treatment of disease. Review with the children the ways to use hands for healing that you have already discussed. If they have not thought of making get well cards, suggest that now. Let the children know that today they are going to use their hands to make get well cards. They can make them for someone they know is sick or that could be sent to anyone. It would be awesome to have a supply of extra get-well cards to use in the future. If there is anyone in the congregation who is sick or hurting, suggest making cards for those people. Ask if there is anyone who would like to make get well cards for specific people and if there is anyone who would like to make cards that are blank inside. If needed, you may suggest some get well greetings as examples for children to use. When they have finished, thank the children for working so hard to bring healing with their hands! Let them know they are definitely servants of Jesus.

Give children a blank piece of paper and invite them to trace one of their hands. Ask them to think about how they can use their hands for healing this week. Have them write one idea on each finger of their paper hand.

Sing together “Jesus’ Hands Were Kind Hands” CCS 585 as your closing prayer.

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 9:2–9 Lesson Focus: Mountaintop experiences can be hard to leave. As we reflect on those experiences over time, we discover new lessons. Objectives The learners will… • learn about the Transfiguration of Jesus. • list the characteristics of Jesus they have learned from the Gospel according to Mark. • reflect on mountaintop moments in their lives. • participate in a breath prayer. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Chart paper or whiteboard and markers • Paper for each child and art supplies (markers, crayons, pencils) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 9:2–9 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p. 45, available through Herald House.

Welcome children to class and gather together. Ask if anyone has ever experienced something so amazing that they wished they could have just stayed in that moment forever. Share with the children a time in your life (preferably from your childhood) when you felt that way. It doesn’t have to be deep and meaningful, just a moment that you didn’t want to end. Then allow children to share a few ideas from their lives.

Let the students know that in today’s scripture passage some of the disciples had a moment with Jesus that was so special they wanted to stay there forever. Invite them to pay attention to what Peter said to Jesus as you read the scripture. Read Mark 9:2–9 or “Jesus on the Mountaintop” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 74–75. Ask the children if they can imagine being with Jesus and watching him begin to shine like the sun and then hearing a voice from the sky. Say to the students, “I’m not surprised the disciples felt a little scared by that experience. I would be, too! Now remember I asked you to pay special attention to Peter. Does anyone remember what Peter said to Jesus in that moment?” He asked Jesus if he should build some houses and just stay there. Later, Peter knew that what he said was probably a little silly. But he was so amazed by the experience that he didn’t know what to say. He just wanted to stay right there forever. Discuss with the children what we can do to help remember the moment when something special happens to us. Allow children to generate ideas (Example: take a picture, write about it, draw about it, or video it) Remind the students of what Mark said in the story. When he was listening to Peter’s story, he said, “I don’t understand. Every time I think I understand, I hear something new. Then I have to think about it all over again.” Special moments are like that. They mean one thing to us right when they happen, but then as we think about them again the next day, or the next week, or even the next year they can begin to mean something new. Understanding Jesus is like that. We learn and understand more every day. And as our ideas and understandings change, so does our relationship with God.

Remind the children that over the last few weeks they have been learning about what Mark has to say about Jesus. Talk about some of the things you’ve learned from Mark about who Jesus was. On chart paper or whiteboard write “Jesus according to Mark.” Together generate a list of characteristics of Jesus. Children may say things such as Jesus healed people when they were sick, Jesus asked people not to talk about the things he did, or Jesus taught about God’s love. You may even want to review some of the scripture passages from Mark read over the past few weeks. Say to the children, “By reading the book of Mark, we’ve begun learning about who Jesus was. What kinds of things can we do today to be more like Jesus? Since we have talked about this in previous weeks, it’s ok to review ideas we’ve already mentioned.” Give each child a piece of paper. Invite the students to think about a moment when they felt really close to Jesus. Once they have thought of their moment, write or draw about it so that they can remember it forever!

Give time for anyone who wants to share their mountaintop moment with the class. Let children know that it is OK if they would rather not share.

Gather together in a circle to participate in a breath prayer. Ask each child to think of a word or phrase that reminds them of their mountaintop moment. They do not have to share this word or phrase; just hold it in their mind. Invite the children to think that word or phrase as they take a deep breath in, and then say, “Thank you, God,” as they breathe out. Let the children know that you will take five deep breaths together. Guide their slow, deep breaths as the children reflect on their words and their thanks to God. Finish by saying Amen.

Focus Scripture Passage: Genesis 9:8–17 Lesson Focus: God covenants with Noah, the human community, and all the creatures of the earth saved from the flood. Objectives The learners will… • hear or review the story of Noah and the flood. • explain why God flooded the earth and the purpose of the rainbow. • define covenant and give examples of covenant. • define Lent and be introduced to Lenten or spiritual practice. • identify the Enduring Principle Sacredness of Creation as it relates to Noah. Supplies • Candle and lighter • Coloring page (one per student and extra for visitors) and tools (crayons, colored pencils, or markers). • Bible • Craft supplies (silver rings, rainbow colors of yarn, scissors) • (Optional) Noah story cards for memory game • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Genesis 9:8-17 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 52–53, available through Herald House.

Lent is a good time to introduce rituals to the class. They provide continuity from week to week that most children appreciate. For example, by lighting a candle and offering a prayer to start will emphasize that class is beginning after children have arrived and discussed the past week. As students gather, ask them about their week and what they did that was exciting. Encourage the group to sing “Rise and Shine” as a light-hearted way to begin. Find lyrics and tune at https://www.metrolyrics.com/rise-and-shine-lyrics-children.html.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 52 Children Community of Christ Lesson Lenten Spiritual Practice: Prayer Light a candle in the center of the table or in a worship center. Today is the first Sunday of Lent. This is a time of preparation for Easter when we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many Christians think of the 40 days of Lent as an opportunity to become closer to God. At the beginning of each class between now and Easter we will have a special Lenten spiritual practice. Today we will begin class with a prayer. Offer a brief prayer thanking God for Sunday school and asking for help in learning today. Children may enjoy blowing out the candle as a group. Note to teacher: If congregation policy requires that an artificial candle be used, be careful to light and extinguish it in such a way that the artificialness doesn’t distract from the opening activity. Pairs Game Make a game of naming things that commonly are in pairs (examples: peanut butter and jelly, sugar and spice, salt and pepper, hot and cold). Be sensitive that all children may not have the same experience (for example: mom and dad, mother and father). The Bible has a story about pairs that go together. Can you guess what it is about? Let’s look in the Bible for the answer. Use this as a beginning point to summarize the story of Noah and the flood or read it from a book to the point where God establishes the covenant (verse 9). Optional Activity: Memory Game Photocopy the page at the end of this lesson on card stock and cut out the squares. Introduce a memory-type game with the cards. Students take turns trying to match the cards that are identical. If printing shows through the paper, an additional page may be glued on the back prior to cutting out the squares. The children may know various different rules for this type of game. For example, sometimes it is played so that when one finds a match, he or she gets another turn. With the relatively small number of cards it would be better to not have another turn so each one will have a turn.

Summarize the Noah story up to the rainbow at Genesis 9:8–17. Students who know the story from movies they have seen may enjoy telling it to the class. Pass out the coloring page and tools (crayons, colored pencils, or markers). Students may color while the story is read and told. Read Genesis 7:8–9. Story Summary: God was disappointed and angry. The humans were harming the beautiful world God had created. They were choosing wickedness and sin instead of relationship with God. Finally, God decided to destroy the entire world with a flood and start over. Noah and his family were the only righteous people, so God decided to save them from the flood. God told Noah to build an ark (a large boat). Noah built the ark exactly the way God asked. God brought two animals of every kind, one male and one female, and all

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 53 Children Community of Christ Lesson the plants to Noah to put on the ark. Then Noah closed the ark just as God said, and the flood started with rain falling and other water sources opening up. The water covered all the land and even the mountains. It lasted for 40 days. Then Noah sent out a bird to see if there was any dry land. After seven more days he sent out the dove. The dove returned to him with a fresh olive leaf. After seven more days the dove did not return to him. Then Noah knew there was dry land. Noah released all the animals and planted the plants he had saved. Read Genesis 9:8–17 or “God Sends a Rainbow” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 76–77 for younger children. Then God said to Noah and to his sons with him, “As for me, I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the domestic animals, and every animal of the earth with you, as many as came out of the ark. I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of a flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.” God said, “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh. When the bow is in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant that I have established between me and all flesh that is on the earth.” Discuss the various parts of the coloring page picture as they relate to the story.

Discuss the meaning of covenant to deepen understanding of scripture. Draw on material from the pre- baptismal material Of Water and Spirt. Some children may be familiar with the concept of covenant from taking a pre-baptismal class. Covenant=promise and commitment with God We are in relationship with others in community, and with God who blesses that community. That relationship is called covenant. Covenant begins with God extending love and invitation to us. We respond with a commitment, a promise. This commitment is what we make when we are baptized. When we respond to God’s invitation, with our commitment and promise through baptism, we experience the blessings of community and can share those blessings with others. —Of Water and Spirit: Preparing for Baptism and Confirmation in Community of Christ, Herald House, 2013, p. 50 • What did God promise? (Never again will there be a worldwide flood. Genesis 9:11) • What is the symbol of the covenant? (a rainbow) The rainbow reminds us of the Enduring Principle Sacredness of Creation. Sacred means that God created and loves the earth and all the plants and animals. Because God loves the earth, we must care for it. What are some ways we can to that? (not littering, conserving water and electricity, etc.)

Introduce the rainbow craft. If there are time limitations for class, some parts of the craft may need to be prepared in advance. God told Noah (v. 18) that God would see the rainbow and remember the everlasting covenant God made with Noah and all creation. Rainbows are special to us also. They are pretty. They do not happen every day. They can remind us of God’s faithfulness. Rainbow Ring Craft Cut rainbow colored yarn into two-foot (61-cm) pieces. Tie each piece of yarn to the ring with a lark’s head knot (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlcNLlV2pZ8) and pull it tight. Each student can cut the yarn to the length desired. A loop of string or a rubber band can be added for hanging the Rainbow Ring on a doorknob or other hook. As the children work, review what the rainbow and covenant mean for us today. The rainbow can remind us that God is with us, loving and protecting us.

Invite students to hold hands sitting around the table or standing in a circle. Invite each student and adult to say their own name. Offer the one-line statement: “Go and live in covenant with God in the name of Jesus Christ.” End with everyone saying, “Amen.” Note: Because of the emphasis on covenant throughout Lent the blessing statement is repeated each Sunday. In a larger class it may not be feasible to say each student's name.

Focus Scripture Passage: Genesis 17:1–7, 15–16 Lesson Focus: God covenants with Abram and Sarai Objectives The learners will… • hear the story of Abram and Sarai and how their names were changed. • review the meaning of covenant and apply the understanding to the story of Abraham and Sarah. • understand what God promised and what Abraham and Sarah had to do. • identify ways the Abraham and Sarah story illustrates the Enduring Principle Blessings of Community. • review the meaning of Lent with a Lenten or spiritual practice. Supplies • Candle and lighter • Coloring pages (one per student and extra for visitors) and tools (crayons, colored pencils, or markers) • Activity worksheet (one per student and extra for visitors) • Bible • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Genesis 17:1–7, 15–16 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp.53–55, available through Herald House.

Lent is a good time to introduce rituals to the class. They provide continuity from week to week that most children appreciate. For example, by lighting a candle and offering a prayer to start will emphasize that class is beginning after children have arrived and discussed the past week. As students gather ask about their week and what they did that was exciting. Encourage the group to sing the familiar campfire song, “Father Abraham” as a light-hearted way to begin the topic. Find melody and lyrics at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbLvpd9bUL4.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 58 Children Community of Christ Lesson Today is the second Sunday of Lent. This is a time of preparation for Easter when we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many Christians think of the 40 days of Lent as an opportunity to become closer to God. At the beginning of each class between now and Easter we will have a special Lenten spiritual practice. Lenten Spiritual Practice: Silence Light a candle in the center of the table or in a worship center. Let’s talk about listening. Sometimes our world gets very noisy. Think about how loud your school’s gymnasium is during indoor recess. Is your school lunchroom noisy or quiet? Sit quietly and listen for 30 seconds. What did you hear? (other students breathing, the clock, students talking in the next room, the organ in the sanctuary) Sometimes we need to just sit quietly and listen to what God wants to tell us. Silence is a spiritual practice, a way to get closer to God during Lent and beyond. Today’s lesson is about God’s promise to a man that he would have a very large family that would become a blessing to many people. A blessing is someone or something that helps us. Let’s think of five people or things that make us happy or safe or help us learn what God wants for us. We will do this as a group and count the blessings on our fingers. Offer a brief prayer thanking God for Sunday school and asking for help in learning today. Children will enjoy blowing out the candle as a group. Having everyone in the class hold hands around the table or in a circle can help keep attention on the prayer. Note to teacher: If congregation policy requires that an artificial candle be used, be careful to light and extinguish it in such a way that the artificialness doesn’t distract from the opening activity.

Pass out the coloring page and tools (crayons, colored pencils, or markers). Before you begin reading the scripture passage, briefly summarize the story of Abraham and Sarah or read “A Baby Called Laughter” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 80–81. Abram and Sarai moved their family several times as God directed them to their final homeland. They were faithful and obedient to God, and God promised that they would have children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, enough to fill nations with people. The problem was that they were old and didn’t have any children. Continue with reading Genesis 17:1–7,15–16 NRSV. Discuss the following to deepen understanding of the scripture verses: • Review the meaning of covenant as seen in the story. • How did the meaning change for Abraham and Sarah? (The Abraham covenant required Abraham and Sarah to live in God’s way.)

Enduring Principle: Blessings of Community God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah was that their family shall become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed. Abraham’s descendants would be a blessing to many people. Descendants are children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and so on for many generations. In fact, many years later one of those descendants would be Jesus. He blessed many people with his teaching and healing and through his crucifixion and resurrection. We can say that through Abraham God blessed many communities. One of the Enduring Principles of Community of Christ is Blessings of Community. People working together to do God’s purposes bless others with their love and service. The Enduring Principle restated in child-friendly words says: The gospel of Jesus Christ is expressed best when people become aware of God’s grace in themselves and each other. True community includes caring for the poor and oppressed. It upholds the worth of persons and provides nurture and growth for all. We share a strong sense of belonging with each other. We are called to create Christ’s peace in our families and congregation and throughout creation.

Blessings of Community Activity (at the end of the lesson) For today’s activity we will each draw a picture of a community of people. With very simple lines we will fill part of the paper with faces (see sample below). Using the take-home page at the end of the lesson, draw the faces one at a time. This is not a race. As time permits, children may want to color the faces.

Abraham and Sarah shall become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in them.

Invite students to hold hands sitting around the table or standing in a circle. Invite each student and adult to say their own name. Offer the one-line statement: “Go and live in covenant with God in the name of Jesus Christ.” To end the prayer, everyone says, “Amen.” Note: Because of the emphasis on covenant throughout Lent the blessing statement is repeated each Sunday. In a larger class it may not be feasible to say each student's name.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 62 Children Community of Christ Lesson Blessings of Community Using phrases from We Share by Monica Bradford, Herald House, 2012 We follow Jesus. Our mission is to live like him in community with others. We trust in and belong to one another even if we have never met. We value the sacred story, the story of people in relationship with God.

Abraham and Sarah shall become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in them.

“As for me, this is my covenant with you: You shall be the ancestor of a multitude of nations. I will establish my covenant between me and you, and your offspring after you throughout their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. —Genesis 17:4, 7

Focus Scripture Passage: Exodus 20: 1–17 Lesson Focus: The Ten Commandments Objectives The learners will… • hear the story of how the Ten Commandments were given. • define “commandment.” • gain an age-appropriate understanding of the meaning of each of the Ten Commandments. • identify “commandments” that are not in the Ten Commandments. • learn the Enduring Principle Responsible Choices. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Coloring page (one per student and extra for visitors) and tools (colored pencils, crayons, or markers) • Scissors • Of Water and Spirit: Preparing for Baptism and Confirmation in Community of Christ, (Herald House, 2013, ISBN 9780830915699) • The 11th Commandment: Wisdom from Our Children, by The Children of America, Sandra Korinchak, Editor (Jewish Lights Publishing, 1996, ISBN 9781683363583) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Exodus 20: 1–17 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 55–56, available through Herald House.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 64 Children Community of Christ Lesson Encourage the group to sing “Pharaoh, Pharaoh” as a light-hearted way to introduce the day’s topic. If you’re not familiar with the song, find music and lyrics at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PkMC7O1lq0. Today is the third Sunday of Lent. Who can explain what Lent is? (This is a time of preparation for Easter, when we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many Christians think of the 40 days of Lent as an opportunity to and become closer to God.) At the beginning of each class on the Sundays between now and Easter we have a special Lenten practice. Lenten Spiritual Practice: Do One Thing Light a candle in the center of the table or in a worship center. Small acts of kindness and compassion help us to share God’s love with others and to live the way Jesus taught us to live. It’s easy to make a habit of these acts by choosing each day or each week one thing to do for a neighbor, a classmate, a friend, a family member, a stranger. Think about it. What is one thing you could do today for someone? (Ideas from Ten Simple Spiritual Practice Ideas for Children and Youth. Today's lesson is about commandments, statements of what God wants us to do or not do. Let’s think of five things that our parents, teachers, or other adults have told us to do. We will do this as group and count the commandments on our fingers. (Examples might include do the dishes, clean your room, be quiet during the test, etc.) Offer a brief prayer thanking God for Sunday school and asking for help in learning today. Children may enjoy blowing out the candle as a group. Having everyone in the class hold hands around the table or in a circle can help keep attention on the prayer. Note to teacher: If congregation policy requires that an artificial candle be used, be careful to light and extinguish it in such a way that the artificialness doesn’t distract from the opening activity.

Pass out the coloring page (included at the end of this lesson or search the internet for a different one) and tools (crayons, colored pencils, or markers). Before you begin reading the scripture passage, summarize the story of Moses and the Exodus or read the “The Ten Commandments” from Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 84–85 or from another children’s Bible. Often, children are familiar with Moses from watching movies about the Ten Commandments. They may enjoy telling what they remember. Read Exodus 20:1–17 NRSV. Discuss the following to deepen understanding of scripture: • The meaning of commandment and examples of commandments • The reason for the commandment Going Deeper: The 11th Commandment: Wisdom from Our Children offers children’s suggestions for an 11th commandment. It is humorous and revealing of children’s concerns. Read some of the ideas to the students; then invite them to express their own ideas. Arrange with the worship presider or speaker for the children to stand up and read their commandments after the scripture is read in the worship.

There are 613 commandments in the Old Testament including the Ten Commandments. There are two commandments that Jesus said were the most important. With the class, find and read Matthew 22:34–40. What did Jesus mean by saying that these are the greatest commandments? (All the other commandments are to be followed in the light of these. They express love for God and love for neighbor in specific everyday terms.) Examples: • “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.” There were many rules about exactly how the Sabbath could be kept holy. They needed clarification about what was important. Certain activities were not allowed, and there were limits on how far walking was allowed. • How should a person “honor father and mother”? What questions do you have about how to obey this commandment? What should I call my parents to honor them? Is mommy and daddy okay? Do I have to do the chores they ask me to do? Going Deeper: Why do you think there were so many commandments in the Old Testament? It may have been because the people loved God so much that they wanted to do exactly what God wanted them to do. For example, God said, “Keep the Sabbath day special,” and the people wanted to know exactly how they could do that. Could they feed their animals, cook their meals, walk to synagogue? Do you think loving God and living the way God wants would be more or less difficult if there were very specific rules? Enduring Principles Community of Christ has nine Enduring Principles. We have already talked about two of them during Lent. Today’s principle is Responsible Choices. It says that “We learn to make good choices…decisions that make our world a better place” (Monica Bradford, We Share, Herald House, 2012, p. 24). God’s commandments, especially the “Greatest Commandments” and the Ten Commandments, guide us in living the way God wants us to. Our choices are responsible when we remember and use these commandments as a guide. Post or hand out a list of the Enduring Principles with explanations from We Share (provided at the end of this lesson). All nine Enduring Principles help us do what God wants us to do. Let’s think about some examples: 1. You are eating a hamburger and shake in the parking lot of the store where you bought them in the drive through. When you are finished you open the car door and put the wrappings on the pavement beside the car. Stop! You reconsider your actions because of the Enduring Principles. • Which ones guide you? • What do you do next (drive away or pick up your trash and take it to a receptacle)? You see that the classmate at the next desk doesn’t have a pencil to work on an assignment. Should you loan your extra pencil, tell the teacher, or keep your head down and ignore the problem? • Which Enduring Principles will help you decide what to do?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 66 Children Community of Christ Lesson • What is your decision? This would be a good time to sing the Enduring Principles from Of Water and Spirit, p. 83.

Ten Commandments Wall Hanging Before class duplicate the commandment pages at the end of the lesson, one set for each student. Students cut two strips of construction paper about 2 in / 5 cm wide, then glue two strips, overlapping 3–4 in / 9 cm to make one long strip. Cut out the commandment strips along the lines indicated. Trim the ends of each strip to different lengths by trimming closer to the words. Glue each commandment strip to the construction paper strip leaving space between. Trim the construction paper strip closer to the last commandment paper.

Invite students to hold hands sitting around the table or standing in a circle. Invite each student and adult to say their own name. Offer the one-line statement: “Go and live in covenant with God in the name of Jesus Christ.” To end the prayer, everyone says, “Amen.” Note: Because of the emphasis on covenant throughout Lent the blessing statement is repeated each Sunday. In a larger class it may not be feasible to say each student's name.

Have no other gods but God.

Do not worship statues.

Be careful with God's name.

Keep the Sabbath day special.

Honor your father and mother.

Do not murder

Keep your marriage promises.

Do not steal.

Do not lie.

Do not covet.

Focus Scripture Passage: John 3:14–21 Lesson Focus: God loves us unconditionally, and we are challenged to share generously and graciously from our hearts. Objectives The learners will… • explore God's unconditional and immeasurable love for us. • discuss the concepts of grace and salvation. • learn about the Enduring Principle Grace and Generosity. Supplies • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Optional: measuring tools such as ruler, measuring cup, or watch • Optional: report cards for each student-see the Gather section, included with lesson • Optional: storybook-see Engage section • Cross template, included with lesson • Scissors, glue • Blue and green paint • Optional: Earth template, included with lesson • Markers or crayons • Pens or pencils Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 3:14–21 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 53–54, available through Herald House.

Today is the fourth Sunday of Lent. Who can explain what Lent is? (This is a time of preparation for Easter, when we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many Christians think of the 40 days of Lent as an

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 71 Children Community of Christ Lesson opportunity to and become closer to God.) At the beginning of each class on the Sundays between now and Easter we have a special Lenten practice. Lenten Spiritual Practice: Measure God's Love Light a candle in the center of the table or in a worship center. Greet children as they enter and ask them to form a circle. Invite them to sing “Jesus Loves Me” CCS 251. Display several measuring tools and ask the children what each of the tools is for. Relate each item to God’s love. For example, hold up a measuring cup and ask, “What is this?” (a measuring cup) “What could it be used for?” (measuring sugar to make cookies) “How much love does God have for us?” A watch is used to measure time, so how long will God love us? A ruler is used to measure length, so can we measure God’s love from beginning to end? (adapted from sermons4kids.com/measuring_gods_love.htm. Used with permission.) Alternate activity: Do you get report cards at school? What are they for? (they measure how well you are doing) If God gave us a report card, what sort of categories would it have? (allow students to respond) What grades do you think God would give us? (Accept all responses, but help the children understand that God wants to give us all “A’s” because God loves us and wants us to be the best that we can be. You could use the report card at the end of this lesson or prepare all-A report cards for each child ahead of time with categories such as kindness, courage, peace, forgiveness, and joy.) (adapted from worshipingwithchildren.blogspot.com/2015/02/year-b-fourth-sunday-in-lent-march-15.html. Used with permission.) Note to teacher: If congregation policy requires that an artificial candle be used, be careful to light and extinguish it in such a way that the artificialness doesn’t distract from the opening activity.

Today’s scripture passage is about how much God loves us. Read together John 3:14–21 or “Everyone Needs a Bright Light” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 87–88. The gospel is good news, and part of that good news is that God loves us no matter what. Read a story about unconditional love. Suggestions include Mama, Do You Love Me? by Barbara M. Joosse, The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown, or Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney. Alternatively, have children list people who love them and describe what those people do for them because of that love. God loves us and wants what is best for us. Do you know what “grace” means? We do not have to earn God’s love. Similarly, we cannot do anything to lose God’s love. Of course, we sometimes do things that God does not like, but God will always love us more than we can imagine. That is called grace. It’s an unconditional love—love that we receive no matter what. Simply out of love, God offers us the gift of salvation through Jesus. Community of Christ describes salvation not only as the forgiveness of sin, but also being healed from separation, brokenness, and…violence. This healing is for everyone and can be ours through faith and repentance. Jesus represents our salvation; we know God’s grace has no bounds, and God’s love is greater than we can know (Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 34–35).

Community of Christ has nine Enduring Principles that define who we are as a faith community. One of those Enduring Principles is Grace and Generosity. God’s grace is generous and unconditional. After receiving God’s grace, we respond by generously and graciously sharing with others. God loves and forgives us despite our mistakes, and we should do the same for others. Hand each child a cross copied from the end of this lesson. Have them cut out the cross or do so yourself ahead of time. God loves us so much God allowed God’s son, Jesus, to come to earth as a human and teach us about love. Jesus’ radical words of God’s unconditional love that includes all people—no matter what—led to his crucifixion on a cross. Our challenge is to love others as God loves us. Sometimes we know people who are hard to like or even tolerate. But God calls us to show them love graciously and generously. Think of some people or groups of people whom you find difficult to love. Draw pictures or write their names on your cross as a reminder that God’s love is unconditional and ours should be, too. (adapted from worshipingwithchildren.blogspot.com/2015/02/year-b-fourth-sunday-in-lent-march-15.html. Used with permission.) “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life” (John 3:16). Have the children repeat this scripture several times until they have it memorized. They can whisper it, shout it, say it with various accents, or say it in a high or low voice. God So Loved the World Craft To remind us about God's love for all of the world, let's make a representation of the Earth with our hands. To make an Earth, paint the palm of one hand blue with some green splotches and place it on the poster paper. Alternatively, you can print out the Earth at the end of this lesson for children to color.

Faithful disciples respond to an increasing awareness of the abundant generosity of God by sharing according to the desires of their heart (Doctrine and Covenants 163:9). As disciples we share our lives in response to the overwhelming gifts God has given…God loves us with an everlasting love, with abundant grace and generosity, out of God’s heart…We are called to also give from our hearts (Of Water and Spirit, p. 97). Have each student brainstorm something he or she can do this week to practice grace and generosity (reach out to someone with whom you have had a disagreement, try not to complain or gossip, sit or eat with someone you usually avoid). Each can write and finish the following sentence under his or her earth: “This week I will…”

Gather together and have the children state what they will do this week to generously share God’s love. Offer a prayer of blessing and reconciliation for the names written on the crosses. Invite children to sing “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,” thinking about how much God loves everyone, including each of them.

Year:______Teacher: GOD

CLASS GRADE

Joy A

Courage A

Kindness A

Peace A

Forgiveness A

Love A

Patience A

______’s Report Card

Year:______Teacher: GOD

CLASS GRADE

Joy A

Courage A

Kindness A

Peace A

Forgiveness A

Love A

Patience A

Focus Scripture Passage: Jeremiah 31:31–34 Lesson Focus: God Makes a New Covenant with Israel/Judah Objectives The learners will… • hear about the story of Jeremiah and God writing God’s commands on the hearts of the people. • apply Jeremiah’s prophecy to their own lives. • identify the Enduring Principle Continuing Revelation as it relates to the prophecy of Jeremiah. • define covenant and give examples of covenant. • review the meaning of Lent with a Lenten or spiritual practice. • learn about prophets—Jeremiah and Stephen M. Veazey. Supplies • Candle and lighter • Coloring page (one per student and extra for visitors) and tools (crayons, colored pencils, or markers) • Bible • Doctrine and Covenants • We Share by Monica Bradford, illustrated by Sue Cornelison (Herald House, 2012, ISBN 9780830915224) • Photo of Steve Veazey at end of this lesson or at www.CofChrist.org/staff/111477/Veazey-Steve • Craft supplies: construction paper, glue sticks, scissors, scripture printed on card stock • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Jeremiah 31:31–34 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 58–60, available through Herald House.

As students gather ask about their week and what they did that was exciting. Encourage the group to sing “Jesus in the Morning.” Search the internet for lyrics and tune, if needed.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 78 Children Community of Christ Lesson Today is the fifth Sunday of Lent. Can anyone explain what Lent is? (Lent is a time of preparation for Easter, when we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many Christians think of the 40 days of Lent as an opportunity to and become closer to God.) At the beginning each class on the Sundays of Lent we have a special Lenten practice. Lenten Spiritual Practice: Examen Light a candle in the center of the table or in a worship center. Our Lenten spiritual practice today is called Examen. It is a funny word that looks like someone forgot how to spell “examine,” but it is a special word for a special kind of prayer. It means to take a careful look at our day, to see the day as God sees it. It’s a good thing to do when you first go to bed at night. Think about your day, what was good and happy and what was not so good. Thank God and ask for help where it is needed. Let’s practice Examen right now. Sit quietly and think for a minute about your day so far; then I will say a prayer. Offer a brief prayer thanking God for Sunday school and asking for help in learning today. Children will enjoy blowing out the candle as a group. Note to teacher: If congregation policy requires that an electric candle be used, be careful to light and extinguish it unobtrusively so that the artificialness doesn’t distract from the opening activity.

The Jeremiah verses are not a narrative so it may be most effective to summarize the story of Jeremiah (see below) or read the story from a children’s story book. Read “Written on Your Hearts” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 89. This story includes the calling of Jeremiah to the prophetic role and highlights the prophecy recorded in Isaiah 31. Pass out coloring pages and tools. As a boy, Jeremiah was called to be a prophet who would tell God’s desires to the people of Judah. He thought he was too young, but God assured him that God would be with him and tell him what to say. Some of the things he said were encouragement and some were warnings to follow God’s commandments. In the verses of today’s lectionary scripture Jeremiah tells of God’s love for God’s people. He tells them how God will help them remember what God wants them to do. Listen for how God will do that. Read Jeremiah 31:31–37. Older students can be encouraged to find the verses in the Bible. Discuss any words that the students do not understand. We have learned about five covenants now. Can we name the people who were involved in each one? (Noah, Abraham and Sarah, Moses, Jesus, disciples, Jeremiah) What do you remember about covenants? (A covenant is an agreement between God and God’s people.)

Do you remember this verse? “But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people” (Jeremiah 31:33). This is a message of hope sent from God through Jeremiah. The new covenant is a new try by God to raise up an obedient people (Feasting on the Word, Year B, Vol 2, Louisville, Kentucky: Westminster John Knox Press, 2008, p. 123). God promises to WRITE God’s law on our hearts and put it in our minds. That doesn’t happen unless we read it, hear it, know it. To explore the meaning of the clean heart, have fun imagining the literal possibility of removing a person’s heart, scrubbing it down, then stuffing it back into place. Next tell about an old car engine or bicycle clogged up with dirt and rust. Describe how poorly it works, how it can be cleaned up, and how it works afterwards. Finally point out ways we can get too clogged up with bad feelings to work properly. We feel so terrible about mean things we have done, we forget we can do kind deeds. We have been so mean to someone that we hide from them. Describe how we can let God clean us up so that we work again like a clean heart or bike or engine. Be concrete and specific. —Carolyn C. Brown, Forbid Them Not Year B: Involving Children in Sunday Worship, Nashville, Tennessee: Abington Press, 1993, p. 69 Community of Christ has nine Enduring Principles. We have already talked about four of them during Lent. Today’s principle is Continuing Revelation. It means “we listen for God every day” (We Share, p. 18). Through great Bible heroes—like Jeremiah, Moses, Abraham, Sarah, Noah, and others we have talked about this year—God continually helped the people know and remember how God wanted them to live. God helps us this way, too, with instructions and commandments recorded in the scriptures. Today God does this through the prophet-president of Community of Christ. Show picture of Steve Veazey. Ask: Do you know who this is? His name is Steve Veazey. Maybe you have seen him or met him at World Conference or______(for example: “when he was here for our family camp”). President Veazey opens his heart and mind to focus on God’s direction for the church.

Craft: Three-layer Heart Completing the craft will result in a three-layer heart with the words “God’s Law Is Written on My Heart— Jeremiah 31:33" in the middle of the smallest heart. Prior to class: Print the scripture quote on papers approximately 3 in x 1 in /8 cm x 2 cm, one per child. Prepare heart cutouts in three sizes—6 in, 5 in, 3 in /15 cm / 13 cm / 8 cm, for example—cut out or drawn in advance depending on the skill level of the students. Assemble a sample or use the photo.

Distribute three hearts of different sizes to each student. Ask students to write their names on the back of the largest heart. Students will glue each heart in the next larger heart and the scripture quote to the middle of the smallest one, or they may choose to write their own scripture verse. There are many variations of this craft. For example, you may use a heart-shaped doily for the middle heart. An internet search of “three-layer heart craft” will provide many ideas. Students could make extra hearts to share with others.

Invite students to hold hands sitting around the table or standing in a circle. Invite each student and adult to say their own name. Offer the one-line statement: “Go and live in covenant with God in the name of Jesus Christ.” End the prayer as everyone says, “Amen.” Note: Because of the emphasis on covenant throughout Lent the blessing statement is repeated each Sunday. In a larger class it may not be feasible to say each student’s name.

https://www.cofchrist.org/staff/111477/Veazey-Steve

Focus Scripture Passage: Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29 and Mark 11:1–11 Lesson Focus: Enter the gates; blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Objectives The learners will… • hear Psalm 118:1–2,19–29 with emphasis on selected verses. • identify the Enduring Principle “Sacredness of Creation” as it relates to Psalm 118. • review the meaning of Lent with a Lenten spiritual practice. • hear about the story of Jesus and the Triumphal Entry (optional). Supplies • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Candle and lighter • Psalm 118:1–4,19–29 printed • Coloring page (one per student and extra for visitors) and tools (crayons, colored pencils, or markers) • Craft supplies: sturdy paper or canvas boards (one per student and extra for visitors), chalk, painters’ tape, container of water Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Psalm 118:1–2,19–29 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 60–62, and Mark 11:1–11 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 57–58, available through Herald House.

Note to teacher: Due to the emphasis this year on Old Testament scripture verses from the lectionary, this lesson is mostly about Psalm 118. See suggestions at the end of the lesson material for connecting the Psalm to the Palm Sunday story. You may visit with worship planners about how the Palm Sunday story will be incorporated in the worship. The alternative ending of this lesson should be adapted for a smooth transition to the worship. One idea is to have the Sunday school lead the congregation singing one of the songs from class at the beginning of the worship. They may also be involved with the Call to Worship. As students gather ask how their week has been and what they did that was exciting.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 84 Children Community of Christ Lesson Encourage the group to sing: “This Is the Day” based on Psalm 118:24 (see words and music help here: https://gospelchoruses.wordpress.com/2014/12/04/this-is-the-day-that-the-lord-has-made/) or “Ho-Ho- Ho-Hosanna.” Search the web for lyrics and tune if needed. Today is Palm Sunday. Today we begin the last week of Jesus’ earthly life. By Friday Jesus will be crucified and next Sunday we will celebrate his resurrection on Easter Sunday. Lenten Practice Let’s review Lent for a minute. Can anyone explain what Lent is? (Lent is a time of preparation for Easter. Many Christians think of the 40 days of Lent as an opportunity to become closer to God.) At the beginning of each class on the Sundays of Lent we have had a special Lenten practice and we will have one today. Light a candle in the center of the table or in a worship center. Offer a prayer for the class or invite children to offer prayers. Children will enjoy blowing out the candle as a group. Note to teacher: If congregation policy requires that an electric candle be used, be careful to light and extinguish it unobtrusively so that the artificialness doesn’t distract from the opening activity.

Some of the verses of Psalm 118 relate directly to the events of Palm Sunday and will be discussed at the end of the lesson. Having the scripture passage printed for each learner will help them be more involved in the psalm. Pass out the scripture pages. Invite learners to read along with you as you read or invite the learners to each read one verse. Invite learners to underline any words they do not understand. Discuss what the words mean. Likely words include steadfast, righteousness, salvation, cornerstone, beseech, festal procession, and extol. It is a good idea to prepare explanations for these in advance of the class (some definitions are provided below). Difficult Words in Psalm 118 Steadfast—loyal, unwavering; firm in purpose Righteousness—always behaving according to the rules Salvation—saving from harm; overcoming sin through Jesus Christ Cornerstone—the first corner of a new building Beseech—to ask earnestly or beg someone to do something Festal procession—a happy parade Extol—praise somebody or something Invite learners to highlight verses 1, 22, 24, 26, and 29. Psalm 118 is one of the most quoted psalms. The five verses you highlighted are the most quoted. Let’s talk about two of them: v. 1 (same as v. 29) and v. 24.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 85 Children Community of Christ Lesson Psalm 118:1 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever! We said above that “steadfast” means loyal and unwavering. In fact, another version of the Bible (The Message) uses “never quits” in place of steadfast. • What do you think the psalmist meant with this verse? (We feel gratitude to God not because he gives us good things but because he is good and loves us all the time. God’s love never quits.) Think about how you feel about a pet. Do you love it? Probably. Do you always love it, even when it chews up your favorite book? Probably. You would be angry about the book but still love the pet. That’s how God loves us. Another word is “unconditionally.” It means that God loves us no matter what, even if we don’t love God back. Psalm 118:24 This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. This is the verse we sang at the beginning of class (and the one depicted on today’s coloring page). • What are some different kinds of days? (Birthdays, holidays, snow days, good days) • What about bad days or sick days? The psalmist says that we should be happy and thankful for every day because God is good and gives us each day. Even if it turns out to not be a good day, if we get a bad grade on a test or if a bully decides to pick on us, God is always with us and will help us through both good and bad days. Remembering that can make us happy. Optional: Coloring page for Psalm 118:24 For younger children who may have difficulty with exploring the details of the scripture passage, consider using the coloring page at the end of the lesson while you read or tell about the scripture. Going Deeper: Last Sunday we talked about two prophets. Do you remember who they were? The prophet Jeremiah and Community of Christ Prophet-President Stephen M. Veazey. Let’s talk for a little bit about what prophets do. Prophets are people who are very close to God and are very good at listening to God. Sometimes they talk about the future. Rather than just telling about the future, the main job of a prophet is to point to what God is doing in the world. Highlight the verses in Psalm 118 where the psalmist points out God’s work.

Each Sunday during Lent we have explored one of the church’s nine Enduring Principles. Do you remember one? Look at this list. Let’s read them together. Enduring Principles from We Share by Monica Bradford, illustrated by Sue Cornelison, Herald House, 2012, pp. 14–30. • Grace and Generosity: We receive God’s love and share that love with everyone.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 86 Children Community of Christ Lesson • Sacredness of Creation: We care for all God has created and is still creating. • Continuing Revelation: We listen for God every day. • Worth of All Persons: We value and love all people just as God does. • All Are Called: We all are given gifts from God. We use them to do good. • Responsible Choices: We learn to make good choices…decisions that make our world a better place. • Pursuit of Peace (Shalom): We are peacemakers. We work with God for shalom. • Unity in Diversity: We are different in many ways. Together, this diversity makes us stronger. • Blessings of Community: We trust in and belong to one another even if we have never met. The Enduring Principle for today is Sacredness of Creation. It reminds us that we are part of God’s vision for creation where all live peaceably together. We care for all God has created and is still creating. Look at your copy of Psalm 118. One of the verses is about God creating. Can you find it? Verse 24 says “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” God makes our days so we can live together in peace with people and creation.

Craft: Painting with Chalk and Water Materials needed: • Colored sidewalk chalk • Water • Bowl • Painters’ tape • Sturdy paper or canvas boards, if available People love drawing on sidewalks, chalkboards, and a variety of paper. For a simple twist on a classic activity, just add water; it feels almost like you are painting. The colors will appear richer and deeper than the dry chalk. See “Easy Cross Craft for Kids—Painting with Chalk and Water” www.housingaforest.com/easy-cross-craft-for-kids/

Invite students to hold hands sitting around the table or standing in a circle. Invite each student and adult to say their own name. Offer the one-line statement: “Hosanna! Go [name]. Go and live in covenant with God in the name of Jesus Christ.”

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 87 Children Community of Christ Lesson End the prayer with everyone saying, “Amen.” Note: Because of the emphasis on covenant throughout Lent, the blessing statement is repeated each Sunday. In a larger class it may not be feasible to say each student's name. Optional Palm Sunday Lesson Ideas If you decide to use the Palm Sunday lectionary verses Mark 11:1–11, present the story in the most dramatic way available. Suggestions: • The Lectionary Story Bible, Year B includes the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. See “Jesus Gets Ready to Die” on page 93 and “Jesus Goes to Jerusalem” on page 95. • Drama script. Using the scripture, tell the story from the point of view of a news reporter. • Read or summarize the story from Mark 11:1–11. Alternative or Additional Class Ending Direct the learners back to the Psalm 118 scripture page. At the beginning of our class today we sang “Ho, Ho, Ho Hosanna.” Hosanna is a word that we use to praise God. Psalm 118:26 says “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord…” In the Gospel of Mark is the story about Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey; people put palm leaves in front of him as he came into the city. They sang, “Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.” You will probably hear this verse several times in worship today. You might even shout it yourself as you walk into the sanctuary. Remember that you are quoting Psalm 118. Let’s practice it a couple of times. The learners will enjoy saying it loudly for the end of class.

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; This is the day that the Lord has made;

his steadfast love endures forever! let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Let Israel say, Save us, we beseech you, O Lord!

“His steadfast love endures forever.” O Lord, we beseech you, give us success!

Open to me the gates of righteousness, Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. that I may enter through them We bless you from the house of the Lord. and give thanks to the Lord. The Lord is God, This is the gate of the Lord; and he has given us light. the righteous shall enter through it. Bind the festal procession with branches, I thank you that you have answered me up to the horns of the altar. and have become my salvation. You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; The stone that the builders rejected you are my God, I will extol you. has become the chief cornerstone. O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, This is the Lord’s doing; for his steadfast love endures forever it is marvelous in our eyes.

90 LESSON 19 4 April 2021 EASTER SUNDAY

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 16:1–8 and John 20:1–18 Lesson Focus: Mary and others experienced the empty tomb; the Resurrection story continues today as we live Jesus' mission. Objectives The learners will… • discuss how expectations can affect how people respond to circumstances. • explore and compare two scripture texts. • learn about our sacred story. • identify ways to live in mission. Supplies • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Optional: video Will You Pass the Attention Test? found at www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1saQoMRD8A • Pack of gum prepared ahead of time (see Engage section) • Black, yellow, and gray paint • Optional: empty tomb template, included with lesson • Markers or crayons • Pens or pencils • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 16:1–8 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 66–67 and John 20:1–18 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 64-65, available through Herald House.

Before the children arrive for class, move things around in your classroom. Reorient a table, turn chairs upside-down, or put supplies in different places. Try to make the room look as shockingly different as possible. Observe the reactions of the students as they enter. • What is the matter? Why do you look so surprised?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 91 Children Community of Christ Lesson Discuss how the children felt and what they thought when they first entered the room. Lead them to understand that the room did not meet their expectations. Show the video Will You Pass the Attention Test? found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1saQoMRD8A. Discuss what the children saw and what they didn’t notice. Were you expecting something to happen with the car and missed what happened with the buildings? Alternatively, ask the children to share times when they had specific expectations that were not met. When we have certain expectations, it’s hard for our minds to switch gears if something else happens.

Today’s scripture passage tells about some women visiting Jesus’ tomb after he died, but their expectations were altered by the reality of the empty tomb. Read together Mark 16:1–8 or “Jesus Is Alive Again” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 100–101. This passage in Mark begins three days after Jesus died. Mary Magdalene and the other women came to the tomb to prepare Jesus’ body and to mourn his death. But instead they found an empty tomb and were told Jesus was back in Galilee. Because this was not what they expected, they simply could not understand. In terror, they ran away and told no one what happened. Before class, prepare a pack of gum with empty wrappers. Offer the children sticks of gum. Observe and discuss their reactions to the empty wrappers. Directions can be found here, beginning at 4:05: https://dskidsermons.com/2015/03/04/april5th2015eastersunday/. Used with permission. Just like Mary Magdalene, you were focused on the shock of getting an empty wrapper instead of a stick of gum. It probably took you a moment before you started to try to figure out how it happened. This is an example of how confused Mary Magdalene was and possibly why she didn’t tell anyone what she saw. (You may choose to offer the children actual gum now or later in the lesson.) Empty Tomb Craft To make an empty tomb, paint the fingers of one hand yellow and the palm of that hand black. Place the hand on the paper fingers- down and spread wide. Draw a brown “hillside” between the black “tomb” and yellow “sunrays.” After washing the hand, make a fist and paint the small surface grey. Place the fist to the side of the black hole to create a stone that has been rolled away. Alternatively, you can print out the empty tomb template at the end of this lesson for children to color, cut out, and attach to poster.

Most stories that have been around for a while have different versions. There are many books written that tell the story of the “Three Little Pigs.” Some versions change the characters; some add or take away specific scenes. All of them tell the basic story that two characters built houses out of materials that the villain could destroy, so they had to take refuge in the strong house built by the third character. Though the specifics are different, the broad message and lesson remains the same. The same goes for Bible stories. If you read the same story in different books of the Bible, you will hear different particulars and perspectives. Now we will read the story of the empty tomb as told in the book of John. Read together the version of John 20:1–18 that follows or “Mary of Magdala Sees Jesus” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year A, pp. 98–99. You may choose to act out the story. When the Sabbath was over, Mary of Magdala, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices to embalm Jesus. Soon after sunrise on the first day of the week they went to the tomb, and they said to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the door?” But they found that the stone, although very large, had been rolled to one side. On entering the tomb they saw a young man in a white robe sitting on the right, and they trembled and were afraid. But he said to them, “Do not be afraid. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen; he is not here. See the place where he was laid! But go and tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see him, as he told you.’” Then they remembered Jesus’ words, and returning from the tomb they told these things to the eleven disciples and to all the others; but to them, the story seemed to be nonsense, and they were not believed. Peter, however, ran to the tomb, but when he looked in, he saw only the linen bandages; and he went home wondering what had happened. But Mary of Magdala stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she stooped down and looked into the tomb and saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said, “Because they have taken away my Master and I do not know where they have laid him!” When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. “Woman,” said he, “Why are you weeping? For whom are you looking?” Supposing that he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned to him and cried out, “Master!” Jesus said, “Do not touch me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and to your Father, to my God and your God.’” Mary went to the disciples with the news, “I have seen the Master,” and to tell them what he had said to her. —http://biblehub.com/childrens/Jesus_Conquers_Death.htm • What are some differences you noticed in this version of the story? (Focus on the fact that Mary sees the resurrected Christ and runs to tell everyone what she saw.) “Those who witnessed the resurrection appearances did not keep silent. They were transformed.” These testimonies changed the world. “Followers continue to encounter the Risen Christ to this day. Sharing that testimony still makes a difference. Resurrection is not a one-time event, but is a daily event that occurs as people receive God’s grace, love, and new life through Jesus” (Sermon and Class Helps, p. 64). As we feel

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 93 Children Community of Christ Lesson God’s guidance and respond to God’s mission, we help continue the resurrection promise. Community of Christ believes that sacred story is the “unfolding drama of God’s reconciling work in the world” (Of Water and Spirit, p. 18). The story started a long time ago, but it is not complete. We all are characters in the book, and more characters and plot twists are being added every day. • What does the sacred story mean to you? • What is your part of the sacred story?

For the Resurrection story to continue, we must act as disciples and continue Jesus’ teachings. “Following Jesus Christ into mission means living as he did—it means being generous and compassionate, sharing witness and ministry, and living in a community of shalom” (Of Water and Spirit, p. 18). Have each student brainstorm something they can do to fulfill the mission of Jesus (invite others to church, help someone in need, be a role model for a friend or sibling, stand up for someone who is being picked on). Each can write and complete the following sentence under his or her empty tomb: “God calls me to ______.”

Gather together to read “That Easter Morn, at Break of Day” CCS 480. Have the children take turns reading the stanzas and sing the chorus together. Let the children state what God is calling them to do. Start a circle prayer with each child asking God to be with them as they follow Jesus in mission.

Focus Scripture Passage: John 20:19–31 Lesson Focus: Jesus appears to the disciples. Thomas doubts Jesus' resurrection until he sees proof. Objectives The learners will… • understand that doubt is part of each person's faith journey. • explore the Enduring Principle Pursue Peace. • tell ways they can pursue peace in the world. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • 8 ½ x 11 sheet of paper for each student • Tape • Optional: crayons or markers • Small ball, beanbag, or other object, possibly with a peace sign on it • Music or timer • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 20:19–31 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 68-69, available through Herald House.

Play a game called Doubt. Tell the children three things about yourself. Two of the things should be true and one should be false. For example, you might say, “I have three brothers. I have been to the ocean. My favorite color is blue.” After each statement, the children should say, “That is true,” if they think the statement is true. They should say, “I doubt it,” if they think the statement is false.

Today’s scripture passage is about a time when someone doubted whether something was true. Read “Thomas Asks Questions” from the Lectionary Story Bible: Year B, pp. 102–103, or John 10:19–21 NRSV. Discuss: • How did Thomas act when he was told Jesus had risen from the dead? • What did it take for him to believe? • When have you doubted something someone told you? • What did it take for you to believe? • When have you had doubts about God? • What do you think Jesus is saying about these doubts? Reassure children that doubt is a normal part of faith. In our walk with Jesus, there will be times when we doubt he is with us, or times when our faith is shaken. Jesus says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.” Jesus assures us that we will be blessed, even in our doubts. God loves us and is with us, no matter what. Thomas Tube Thomas needed to see the holes in Jesus’ hands in order to believe that it was really Jesus. This craft creates an optical illusion that makes it appear that there is a hole in your hand when you look through a rolled piece of paper. Materials • 8 ½ x 11 sheet of paper for each student • Piece of tape for each student • Crayons or markers (optional) Directions • Roll the piece of paper lengthwise into a narrow tube. • Tape it to keep it from unrolling. • Hold the tube with your left hand and look through it with your left eye. • Hold your right hand with the palm flat, facing your face, in front of your right eye. Slowly move your right hand along the side of the tube until you see a hole in your right hand. Try it again with the tube on your right eye. For some people, one eye works better than the other for this trick. • For more details: www.exploratorium.edu/snacks/hole-in-your-hand • (Optional) children use crayons or markers to decorate the tube.

When Jesus first appeared to the disciples before he appeared to Thomas, he said, When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you” (John 20:19–21). In Community of Christ, one of our Basic Beliefs is Peace, “Jesus, the Prince of Peace, came to preach the kingdom and to be our peace through the cross” (Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 38). That means Jesus came to bring us peace. One of our Enduring Principles is the Pursuit of Peace (Shalom): “Led by the Holy Spirit, we work with God and others to restore peace…to creation” (Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 30). Jesus wants us to feel peace, even when we have doubts about our faith, ourselves, or other people. Jesus also wants us to share the peace of Jesus Christ with the world. Pass the Peace Sit in a circle. When the music starts, children begin passing an object such as a ball or beanbag. When the music stops, the child holding the object tells the group one way he or she could share the peace of Christ or pursue peace. The group can then offer compliments or affirmations for that child. Restart the music and continue the game without eliminating anyone.

Ask the children to close their eyes and picture the story as you reread John 20:26–29: Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.” Discuss: • What are you still wondering? • What would you tell a friend about this scripture passage? • What did you learn today about peace? Faith? Doubt? Something else?

Sing “Put Peace into Each Other’s Hands” CCS 309 or “I’ve Got Peace like a River.”

Focus Scripture Passage: Luke 24:36b–48 Lesson Focus: Jesus appears to the disciples and the promise of the Spirit Objectives The learners will… • understand that Jesus' disciples moved past fear to better understand Jesus. • respond to Jesus' command to be witnesses of Jesus by sharing the good news of Christ with others. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Yarn or tape down the center of the room • White paper • A white crayon for each child • Watercolor paints and paintbrushes • Dominoes • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 24:36b–48 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p.70, available through Herald House.

Draw a line down the center of the room or mark the center of the room with a piece of yarn or tape. Invite children to stand on one side or the other based on their answers to the following questions: • Are you more afraid of snakes or spiders? (Stand in the center if you are not afraid of either.) • Are you more afraid of the dark or high places? • Are you more afraid of getting lost or losing something? People are afraid of all sorts of things. Tell someone next to you something you are afraid of.

Today’s scripture passage is about a time Jesus’ disciples were very afraid. The disciples knew Jesus had been killed, and people had been telling stories about seeing Jesus alive again. The disciples were afraid; was Jesus a ghost or a spirit? It didn’t make sense to them. Read “That’s Why These Things Happened” from the Lectionary Story Bible: Year B, pp. 105–106, or Luke 24:36b48 (NRSV). Invite children to act out the story, playing the parts of Jesus and the disciples. Another option is to use small toys or figures to represent the characters in the story as you tell it. Discuss: • Why were the disciples so afraid of Jesus? • How else do you think the disciples were feeling? (hopeful, confused, amazed) • What did Jesus do to prove that he was really alive and not a ghost? • What did Jesus do after the disciples knew he was alive? (studied scripture with them) • What did Jesus tell the disciples to go and do? (tell others about Jesus) Jesus Appears Invite children to draw a picture of Jesus with a white crayon on white paper. When they finish, let them paint over the entire drawing with watercolor paints. The white drawing of Jesus will “appear” on the paper through the paint.

When Jesus sat down with the disciples, he talked to them about scriptures. What does the word “scripture” mean to you? In Community of Christ, scripture is “writing inspired by God’s Spirit” (Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 36). Our church’s foundational scripture is the Bible. We also use the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants as scripture. When Jesus talked to the disciples about the scriptures, he helped them understand the scriptures more deeply. When they were no longer afraid, they were able to learn more about Jesus and go tell others about Jesus. Discuss: • When have your fears or doubts kept you from understanding God? Maybe children have been too afraid to ask a question in Sunday school or afraid to ask for help when they needed it. • When have your fears or doubts kept you from helping others or sharing the peace of Jesus Christ? Maybe children have been too fearful to stand up to a bully or too afraid to befriend a new student.

In today’s scripture passage, we read that Jesus doesn’t want us to be afraid. We read that when we overcome our fears we can learn more about God and go out and help others. It’s amazing to think that Christianity started with Jesus and the disciples all those years ago. After Jesus said, “You are witnesses of these things,” they went out and told others about Jesus. Then those people told others, and so on until today. It is like a row of dominoes. One falls and touches the next, and the next, and the next. Let’s try it out! Let children explore and play with dominoes. Discuss how each of us makes a difference to the people we encounter. If dominoes are not available, children can stack blocks or even line up rows of sticks or cards. Discuss how moving or changing one part affects the whole, just as their peaceful actions affect others around them.

Invite children to complete the sentence: “I was afraid, but Jesus helps me feel ______.”

Focus Scripture Passage: Psalm 23 Lesson Focus: The Lord is my shepherd. Objectives The learners will… • determine what it means to be a good shepherd. • identify ways a shepherd tends to the needs of the flock, based on the scripture passage. • identify how God, the master shepherd, takes care of them in the same way. • identify what it means to be a good and obedient member of their congregational “flock.” • relate how this passage supports the Mission Initiative Pursue Peace on Earth and the Enduring Principle Sacredness of Creation. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Drawing paper or notecards • Writing or drawing utensils such as crayons, pencils, or markers • Optional: a shepherd’s cloak and staff Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Psalm 23 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 71–73, available through Herald House.

Note to teacher: This lesson provides opportunity for exploration of the ways a good shepherd tends to the needs of the flock and how God, in the same way, tends to our human needs. It also provides opportunity for a discussion of what being a good member of the congregation means to the students. Read “God Is Like a Shepherd” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 107, as students gather. Instruct them to listen quietly. Ask them to draw an image or images that come to their minds as they listen.

Explain to the students that a shepherd is someone who cares for the needs of the flock they tend. King David, the author of Psalm 23, was a shepherd as a youth, so he was familiar with each of the shepherding elements he includes in the passage. Relate that God similarly takes care of our needs—just like a shepherd. Read the Psalm 23 or reread the story; explain each of the various shepherding tasks. Ask students to share their ideas about the phrases listed below. Encourage them to continue adding to their drawings any new insights they discover along the way. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. • Everything needed to be happy and content is supplied for us by God. • He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters. • Food to eat and clean water to drink is provided for all living creatures. • Food for our minds and hearts is also supplied through God’s words in the scriptures we study. • He restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name's sake. • If we become lost, God will look for us and bring us back to the fold. Forgiveness and restoration are given to all who ask. • The right paths for living in God’s name include love, faithfulness, kindness, and more. Even though I walk through the darkest valley; I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me. • When things grow dark or sad, God is always with us. The rod and staff are tools used by the shepherd to guide his sheep, just as God leads and guides us back to happier times. • You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. • Shepherds place oil on the sheep’s heads to protect them from pests. This helps calm the sheep. • In King David’s time, along with providing a table filled with food and protection from intruders, a gracious host also anointed the heads of the guests with oil, providing them an extra blessing. In this passage, the blessing extends to us as we share in the protective and fulfilling love of God. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long. • Just as a shepherd is good and merciful with each of his sheep, so God is with us for all of our lives both here on earth and forever in heaven.

Choose one student to be a shepherd and another to be a narrator. Have remaining students pantomime each verse of the passage as it is read by the narrator. The children can decide if they will be sheep or humans before the role play begins. Allow time between verses to fully play out each scene. At the conclusion, have them sing or read in unison the words to “The Lord’s My Shepherd” CCS 259.

Have students share the images they drew during the gathering exercise. Ask if they want to add more detail based on what they learned today. Discuss how the congregation is like a flock of sheep in this story. • Can the students identify the shepherds of the congregation? • How can the congregation promote peace and stewardship of the Earth within their community? Consider the elements of the Enduring Principles Sacredness of Creation and Pursuit of Peace (Shalom) listed below. Sacredness of Creation • In the beginning, God created and called it all good. • Spirit and material, seen and unseen, are related. • Creation’s power to create or destroy reminds us of our vulnerability in this life. • God is still creating to fulfill divine purpose. • We join with God as stewards of care and hope for all creation. Pursuit of Peace (Shalom) • God wants shalom (justice, reconciliation, well-being, wholeness, and peace) for all of creation. • Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s shalom (peace), reveals the meaning of God’s peace in all aspects of life. • The vision of Zion is to promote God’s reign on Earth, as proclaimed by Jesus Christ, through the leavening influence of just and peaceful communities. • We courageously and generously share the peace of Jesus Christ with others. • Led by the Holy Spirit, we work with God and others to restore peace (shalom) to creation. • We celebrate God’s peace wherever it appears or is being pursued by people of good will. If we cannot achieve agreement, we commit to ongoing dialogue and lovingly uphold our common faith in Jesus Christ and the mission of the church.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 104 Children Community of Christ Lesson • We confess that our lack of agreement on certain matters is hurtful to some of God’s beloved children and creation. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 28–30 • How can being part of this congregation help bring you closer to God? • What is the role of the students in the class for caring for other members of the congregation?

Read Psalm 23 as an echo prayer. The leader will read each verse or a portion of each verse. The students, in unison, will repeat or echo the leader.

Focus Scripture Passage: John 15:1–8 Lesson Focus: Jesus, the True Vine Objectives The learners will… • discover what it means for Jesus to be the True Vine. • describe how they can "bear fruit" in the world. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Grapes • Spoons • Bowls • White paper for each child • Empty toilet paper tubes or tubes made from sturdy paper • Purple paint • Green crayons or markers Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 15:1–8 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 73–74, available through Herald House.

Challenge children to work together in pairs or small groups to do a relay race. They need to carry grapes on a spoon, one at a time, from a bowl at one end of the room to a bowl at the other end of the room. They must stay connected to their partners; each person needs to be touching the spoon as they carry the grapes. Tell children that today’s scripture story is about grapes and staying connected.

Read John 15:1–8 or “Big, Juicy Grapes” from the Lectionary Story Bible: Year B, pp. 113–114. Discuss: • What happens to a branch when it is cut off of the grapevine? (It withers or dies.) • What happens when a branch stays on the vine? (It produces fruit.) • God is like the grapevine: God wants us to be near God, or connected to God, just like the branches on the grapevine. God wants us to “bear fruit.” • What does it mean for us to bear fruit in our lives? (It could mean we are living God’s way—being kind to others and taking care of God’s Earth.) • The good things we do in life are like the grapes on the vine. Allow each child to taste a grape. Discuss how the sweetness of the grape is like the good things we do in the world.

Bear Fruit Create a painting of a bunch of grapes. Use a cardboard tube or rolled piece of sturdy paper for each child. Children dip the tube in purple paint and stamp circles on paper to make individual grapes. Then children can use a green crayon or marker to make a stem and vine on the bunch of grapes. As children work, continue to discuss the things in their lives that are the “fruit” of living a life with God. You might create one before class as an example.

One of the Enduring Principles of Community of Christ is Blessings of Community. Our church believes: • the gospel of Jesus Christ is expressed best in community life. • true community includes helping and including the poor and needy. • true community upholds the worth of persons. • sacred community provides nurture and growth opportunities for all people, especially those who cannot fully care for themselves. • we value our connections and share a strong sense of trust in and belonging with one another— even if we never have met.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 107 Children Community of Christ Lesson • we are called to create communities of Christ’s peace in our families and congregations and across villages, tribes, nations, and throughout creation. —adapted from Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 31–32 Jesus is the True Vine who connects us to each other and to other people around the world. Invite each child to name something they can do to be a blessing to others in their church family, local community, or to the world. Discuss how the grapes on a vine are all connected just as we are all connected to each other. Allow children to eat another grape.

End with a prayer: “Thank you, God, for being the True Vine. Thank you for supporting us so we can bring good things to the world through you. Help us to stay connected to you always. Amen.”

Focus Scripture Passage: Psalm 98 Lesson Focus: Celebration and praise to God for all creation Objectives The learners will… • define a psalm as a song of praise. • identify ways nature praises God. • identify ways individuals can praise God. • practice praising God through song. • connect Psalm 98 with the Enduring Principle Sacredness of Creation. Supplies • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Musical and rhythmic instruments, if available • Background music with a rhythmic tempo • Optional: craft supplies to create wrist bells. You need the following supplies for each child: o 9 in / 23 cm of wide, colorful ribbon o 1.5 in / 4 cm of Velcro® o Glue o 4 medium-sized jingle bells o Needle and thread Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Psalm 98 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 75–76, available through Herald House.

Provide background music and instruct the students to choose a musical or rhythmic instrument to quietly play along with the music.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 109 Children Community of Christ Lesson Alternatively, have the children create wrist bells using the supplies listed above. Glue the Velcro® pieces to each end and on opposite sides of the ribbon, so it will close when worn around the wrist. Sew the four bells to the ribbon. Wear the wrist bell like a bracelet.

Explain that a psalm is a sacred song or poem used in worship. Before you begin reading the scripture passage, let the students know they will hear how the psalmist David describes how to praise God for God’s victory over death through a variety of ways. An explanation of Christ as the right hand of God and Christ’s promise of salvation will help students better understand the deeper meaning of the passage beyond singing praises to God. Read Psalm 98. Discuss the following to deepen understanding of the scripture: • In what ways can you praise God? • How can we offer praise to God through prayer and song? Sing or read the words of “Learn from All the Songs of Earth” CCS 141.

Read vv. 4–9 again; have students use the instruments or their voices to respond to the scriptures that describe how nature offers praise to God. If the weather permits, move the class outdoors to listen to the sounds of nature in the church neighborhood. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises. • Have students shout out “amen,” “praise the Lord,” “praise God” or whatever they choose. Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody. • Act as if they are playing a harp, piano, or violin. With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord. • Play all instruments at once. Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it. • Shout praise phrases once again. Let the floods clap their hands; • Clap hands or use rhythmic instruments. Let the hills sing together for joy at the presence of the Lord… • Make a joyful noise through instruments and song.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 110 Children Community of Christ Lesson Begin a discussion about the Enduring Principle Sacredness of Creation. Sacredness of Creation • In the beginning, God created and called it all good. • Spirit and material, seen and unseen, are related. • Creation’s power to create or destroy reminds us of our vulnerability in this life. • God is still creating to fulfill divine purpose. • We join with God as stewards of care and hope for all creation. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 28–29 Discuss ways in which nature offers praise to God, such as • wind through the trees. • waves crashing into the shore. • birds singing. • other ways. Have students imitate each of the sounds they describe as they continue to praise the Lord. Ask: How can we help preserve the sacredness of the Earth God has provided for us by being conscientious stewards of the environment?

Sing “The Trees of the Field” CCS 645, adding students’ instrumental accompaniment.

Alternate noisy praise with quiet prayer, allowing the children to praise God through both activities. End by reciting Psalm 98:1 as a chant, accompanied by instruments. O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things.

Focus Scripture Passage: Luke 24:44–53 Lesson Focus: Ascension of Jesus Objectives The learners will… • describe the Ascension of Jesus. • tell a way they can be a blessing to others. Supplies • Ball • Helium balloon, a picture of balloons, or a picture of a hot air balloon • Blue paper or plastic cup for each child, with a small hole in the bottom • Cotton balls • Glue or tape • Small picture of Jesus for each child, included with lesson • Piece of string or yarn for each child (approximately 18 inches long) • Small pieces of paper or sticky notes • Pens or pencils Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 24:44–53 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp.77–78, available through Herald House.

Hold a ball in the air. Ask children what will happen when you let go of the ball. They will predict that the ball will fall to the ground. Ask children if they can think of anything that rises in the air when you let go of it. Children might mention helium balloons or hot air balloons. If possible, show children a helium balloon, a picture of balloons, or a picture of a hot air balloon. Our scripture passage today is about what happened on the day Jesus rose up to heaven. It is called the Ascension of Jesus.

In today’s story, the disciples had been through a challenging time. On Good Friday, Jesus died on the cross. Then on Easter Sunday, Jesus rose again. The disciples were sad when Jesus died and very happy to see him again when he rose from the dead. Now at this point in the story, Jesus is getting ready to leave them again. He wants to make sure they understand why he is leaving. Jesus explained to them that everything that happened was predicted in the scriptures that said Jesus would die and rise again on the third day. The scriptures also said people would go out and tell others about Jesus. Jesus helped the disciples understand these things. After that, Jesus blessed the disciples. Originally, this passage was written in Greek. The original Greek word for bless means “to speak well of.” Jesus speaks well of them and praises them. This means Jesus compliments the disciples and says kind things about them. Jesus asks God to help them have peace. We also have God’s blessing. God sees the good in us and wants us to have peace. As disciples, we are called to share that blessing with others. There are many people in our lives who need blessings. God wants us to “speak well of” them—notice the good things in them—and ask God’s Spirit to give them peace. As Jesus blessed the disciples, he rose into heaven. Can you imagine what it must have been like for the disciples to watch Jesus rise into heaven? They weren’t sad, because Jesus had explained that they would have the Holy Spirit to be with them after he left. When he was gone, the disciples worshipped him with joy. Discuss: • Why do you think Jesus blessed the disciples before he returned to heaven? • What do you think Jesus said to the disciples when he blessed them? • Who are some people in your life who need blessings? Is there someone who is lonely or sad who needs a blessing? • What would Jesus say to us today if he blessed us? • Why were the disciples happy even after Jesus returned to heaven? Ascension of Jesus Give each child a cup with a hole in the bottom, cotton balls, a piece of string, and a picture of Jesus. Push the string through the hole in the cup and tie a knot on both ends. Turn the cup upside down. Attach the Jesus picture to the bottom of the string. Attach cotton balls to the cup to make it look like clouds. When children pull the string, Jesus will rise into the cup and appear to be rising into the sky like Jesus at the Ascension.

Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he blessed the disciples. He said kind things about them and wanted them to feel peace. Blessing Others Invite children to write “blessings” on small pieces of paper or sticky notes. Children could write “God loves you” or “You are special” or “Peace be with you” or something else. Place the notes around the church building so others will feel blessed.

Jesus blessed the disciples before ascending to heaven. One of the sacraments in Community of Christ is called evangelist blessing. The evangelist blessing is a special prayer of blessing. It provides words of thanksgiving, assurance, and counsel. When the time comes for the blessing, a minister of the church places his or her hands on the head of the person and offers a special prayer of blessing. A printed copy of the prayer is given to the person after the sacrament. Individuals are encouraged to reread the prayer throughout their lives for guidance and assurance. The sacrament of evangelist blessing is available to all who are at least eight years old. —www.CofChrist.org/sacraments If possible, share your testimony of your evangelist blessing. Discuss with children: How is the sacrament of evangelist blessing like the blessing Jesus gave the disciples before the Ascension? (It gives assurance; it helps the recipient throughout his or her life.)

We can be a blessing to others! Pass the ball around and have each child say one way he or she has been blessed by God. Pass the ball again and have each child name one way they can be a blessing to others. End with the prayer, “Thank you, God, for these blessings! Amen.”

Focus Scripture Passage: John 15:26–27; 16:4b–15, Acts 2:1–21 Lesson Focus: Coming of the Holy Spirit, Work of the Holy Spirit Objectives The learners will… • describe the Holy Spirit. • describe ways the Holy Spirit helps us. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Piece of white or colored paper for each child • Piece of white paper for each child • Red, orange, and yellow washable paint (thinned with water if the paint is thick) • Drinking straws • Colorful streamers • Sticks (craft sticks, dowels, or sticks found outside) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 15:26–27; 16:4b–15, Acts 2:1–21 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 79–82, available through Herald House.

Help each child accordion fold a piece of paper into a fan shape. Invite them to use the fans to create a breeze or wind. Ask children how God is like the wind. (God is everywhere and moves through all of creation.) In our scripture passage today, Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit to be with the disciples. “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my behalf” (John 15:26). The “Advocate” refers to the Holy Spirit. When the Spirit appeared to the disciples, there was the sound of a strong wind. Many people describe the Holy Spirit as being like wind or air.

Read “The Birthday of the Church” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 124–125. Or read Acts 2:1– 12. “Peter explained that from now on, God’s Spirit would be with everyone who believed in Jesus. We would not be able to see Jesus alive again the way the disciples had seen him. But Jesus would be alive in our hearts. Peter called it ‘the Holy Spirit’” (Lectionary Story Bible, p. 124). Holy Spirit Painting Children will use their breath (a metaphor for the Spirit) to make paintings. During the Pentecost story, the Holy Spirit arrived with the sound of rushing wind, and flames appeared. Invite each child to squirt some red, orange, and yellow paint onto a piece of white paper. Children should blow gently through a straw to spread the paint, so it looks like flames. As children are working, discuss: • Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would be an “advocate.” What does that mean? • Jesus said the Holy Spirit is “the Spirit of truth.” How can the Holy Spirit help us know the truth in our lives? • The Holy Spirit is described as a Helper or Comforter. When have you felt the Holy Spirit in your life?

The disciples had the Holy Spirit with them, helping them as they went out to tell others about God’s love. We are called by the Holy Spirit to do the same. We always have the Holy Spirit with us. We can pray to God for help, comfort, protection, or guidance, and we know we always have the Spirit giving us those things. The Holy Spirit has been compared to the wind because it is all around us and moves through all of creation. Spirit Streamers Help each child attach colorful streamers or ribbons to a stick.

Invite children to imagine they are the Holy Spirit. Let them dance or move around the room with their “spirit streamers.” Invite them to say words that remind them of the Holy Spirit, such as truth, comforter, advocate, peace, help, gift, or joy. Next, sing “Come, Holy Spirit, Come” CCS 154.

Invite each child to finish the statement, “The Holy Spirit is like ______.” End with a prayer of thanks for the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Focus Scripture Passage: Isaiah 6:1–8 Lesson Focus: Isaiah’s experience in the Temple; commitment to mission Objectives The learners will… • define seraphim. • learn about King Uzziah. • identify ways they can respond to the call of discipleship. • relate the lesson to the Enduring Principle All Are Called. • relate the lesson to the Mission Initiative Invite People to Christ. • design a personal banner of discipleship for others to follow. Supplies • Paper plates • Crayons or markers • Large craft sticks • Glue or paste • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Isaiah 6:1-8 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 80–81, available through Herald House.

Note to teacher: This lesson provides opportunity for discussion about God’s forgiveness and the call to discipleship for all Christians. Before you begin reading the scripture passage, tell the students they will hear about Isaiah’s vision of seeing the Lord, which resulted in his call to service for God.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 119 Children Community of Christ Lesson Explain that King Uzziah was the ninth king of Judea. He was only 16 years old when he became king. He remained the king for 52 years until he died around 750 BCE. Explain that seraphim or seraphs are described in the passage as angels with six wings: two to cover their faces, two to cover their feet, and two to fly with. Medieval Christian theology places seraphim in the highest choir of the angelic hierarchy. They are the caretakers of God's throne, continuously singing "Holy, holy, holy” (Wikipedia).

Read Isaiah 6:1–8. For younger children, you may read “Isaiah Becomes a Prophet” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 126–128. In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. Seraphs were in attendance above him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.” The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke. And I said: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!” Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.” Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!” Discuss the following to deepen understanding of the scripture text: • What images do you have of God sitting on his throne wearing a robe with a train long enough to fill the temple? • What images do you have of the seraphim and the sound they made as they called out to each other? • Lead students in repeating the seraphim’s chant “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts! The whole earth is filled with his glory!” • Why did Isaiah first say he was doomed? • What might be the significance of the hot coal placed on Isaiah’s lips? • How would you respond if God directly asked you the question, “Who will go for us?”

Explain that in ancient times, each of the 12 tribes of Israel carried a flag or banner to guide tribal members within each tribe as the people journeyed together. Each flag was a specific color and had a unique symbol or emblem on it. The students will design banners to represent themselves so others can follow them as they walk with God. • Have students draw a picture of their face on the front side of a paper plate. • Around the top edge of the paper plate have students write “Here Am I.” • Around the bottom edge of the paper plate have students write “Send me.” • On the back side of the plate have them list a few ways they can be a messenger for God. • Glue a craft stick to the back of the plate. • Allow time to share their personal banners with one another. • Lead a march around the classroom or building repeating the seraphim’s chant as they march: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.”

Discuss how the Enduring Principle All Are Called applies to them, and how they can share the message of God and Christ with their friends, classmates, and family members. All Are Called • God graciously gives people gifts and opportunities to do good and to share in God’s purposes. • Jesus Christ invites people to follow him by becoming disciples who share his life and ministry. • Some disciples are called and ordained to particular priesthood responsibilities and ministries for the sake of the community, the congregation, and the world. • We respond faithfully, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to our best understanding of God’s call. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 29–30 Discuss how they can be involved in the Mission Initiative Invite People to Christ. Invite People to Christ—Christ’s mission of evangelism We are poised to share the peace of Jesus Christ with those who are waiting to hear the redeeming words of the gospel. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 23

Sing together “I, the Lord of Sea and Sky” CCS 640.

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 3:20–35 Lesson Focus: God views all people as having great and equal worth. Jesus loves all people. Objectives The learners will… • read a passage from Mark's Gospel to learn Jesus' message of love for all people. • study words from a hymn "Who Is my Mother, Who Is my Brother?" CCS 336. • act out scenes that show students' understanding of God's love for all people. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bibles • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Pencils or markers • Poster board or paper • Globe or world map • It's a Small World by Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman (Disney Press, 2011, ISBN 9781551455648) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 3:20–35 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 85–86, available through Herald House.

Gather the class around a globe or world map. Find where you and the class members live. Ask students these questions: • Do you know anyone who lives in another city? • Do you know anyone who lives in another state or country? • What do you know about other places in the world? Share with students that today’s lesson is learning how God loves all people, no matter where they come from.

Invite students to find today’s passage from Mark 3:20–35 in their Bibles. For younger students you may read “Who Are My Family?” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 137–138. Students need to understand that Jesus was teaching people the way that God views people on Earth. Jesus said, “…whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” Jesus is showing us that God wants all people to experience wholeness of body, mind, spirit, and relationships. Mark 3:20–35 … and the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. When his family heard it, they went out to restrain him, for people were saying, “He has gone out of his mind.” And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebul, and by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons.” And he called them to him, and spoke to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but his end has come. But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered. “Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven for their sins and whatever blasphemies they utter; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin”—for they had said, “He has an unclean spirit.” Then his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside, they sent to him and called him. A crowd was sitting around him; and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside, asking for you.” And he replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” Sometimes scripture can be hard to understand. Community of Christ Sings is a great tool for disciples to learn about what Jesus wants us to do. Ask students to locate “Who Is My Mother, Who Is My Brother?” CCS 336. Divide the students into four groups and give each group a stanza. Ask them to write their stanza on a piece of paper or poster board; then rewrite the stanza in words their friends would understand. Help students understand bigger words like status, stigmas, and enigmas.

Read It’s a Small World by Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman (or any children’s book on diversity) to move students from just talking about God loving everyone to seeing what this means for them in everyday life. After reading the book, invite students to go back into their groups from the previous activity. Reflecting on the words of the hymn, ask them to create a scene, using the stanza they were assigned, that illustrates how they would love and accept someone who is different from them.

Act it out! Have students act out their scenes for the class. After each scene have a discussion with students using these questions: • What happened in their scene? • How was it an example of the words from the hymn? • How did they illustrate Jesus’ message of loving everyone?

Ask a student to end the class with a prayer. Encourage them to use words from their posters in their prayer. End the class by singing “Who Is My Mother, Who Is My Brother?” CCS 336 or reading the verses created by the students.

Focus Scripture Passage: 1 Samuel 15:34—16:13 Lesson Focus: Samuel is guided by God to David. Objectives The learners will… • discover how David was chosen and anointed as the future king of Israel. • understand the plan God made with Samuel to keep him safe from King Saul. • explore what the ritual of sacrifice meant in ancient times and how the term is reflected in the principle of stewardship today. • identify the Community of Christ sacrament that involves being anointed with consecrated oil and understand how it is different from the anointing story of King David. • associate this passage with the Enduring Principle All Are Called and the Mission Initiative Develop Disciples to Serve. Supplies • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Copies of the word search puzzle • Pens or pencils • (Optional) A container of consecrated olive oil used in the Community of Christ sacrament of laying on of hands for the sick Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 1 Samuel 15:34—16:13 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 85–86, available through Herald House.

Note to teacher: This lesson provides opportunity for discussion of why some individuals are called and set aside for a particular position. Begin the discussion by introducing the Enduring Principle All Are Called (see below). Invite several priesthood members to the class and tell of their experience of being called and ordained to their priesthood office.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 126 Children Community of Christ Lesson All Are Called • God graciously gives people gifts and opportunities to do good and to share in God’s purposes. • Jesus Christ invites people to follow him by becoming disciples who share his life and ministry. • Some disciples are called and ordained to particular priesthood responsibilities and ministries for the sake of the community, the congregation, and the world. • We respond faithfully, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to our best understanding of God’s call. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 29–30

Before you begin reading the scripture passage, let the students know they will hear about the anointing of David, the youngest son of Jess, who was chosen as a young boy to be the next king of Israel after King Saul. An explanation that Saul had disobeyed the commands of God will help your students understand why the Lord was sorry he had ever made Saul king of Israel, the opening scripture of this passage. Explain that in the time of Samuel rituals of sacrificing animals to God were a requirement for the Israelites as an act of obedience to God. This will help students understand the practice as mentioned in this passage. Read 1 Samuel 15:34—16:13. For younger children, read “God Chooses a Child” from the Lectionary Story Bible, pp. 139–140. Discuss the following to deepen understanding of scripture: • How David was called to serve as the next king over his older brothers • How all are called to serve God, no matter their age • What it means to make sacrifices of time and possessions to show obedience to God as Christians through acts of stewardship Going Deeper: For thousands of years and in different ways, people have used special oil to signal or to mark something or someone as holy or set apart from others. Community of Christ also has a practice of using consecrated oil (oil that has been blessed by ordained elders for the specific purpose of blessing and healing). The oil is used by ministers as a symbol in the sacrament of laying on of hands for the sick. This sacrament includes prayers meant to bring blessings of peace and healing to the person in times of sickness or personal trouble. The oil is not magic, but it points to God’s blessings in times past and asks for God’s blessing now for the person in need. Laying on of Hands for the Sick Jesus blessed those who were hurting in many ways. The disciples anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them (Mark 6:13). We find many stories of blessing the sick in the New Testament, reflecting God’s desire for wholeness and shalom for all creation.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 127 Children Community of Christ Lesson During times of physical, mental, or emotional distress, people may seek this sacrament from ministers. This sacrament opens a way for healing in whatever form it comes. Usually two elders provide this sacrament together. They visit with the person to find out more about the person’s need. One elder places a drop of consecrated oil on the forehead of the person, places hands on the person’s head, and offers a statement of purpose and blessing. The second elder then places hands on the person’s head and offers a prayer for wholeness and well- being. This may be done privately or in the presence of family, friends, and the congregation. This sacrament is available to all seeking wholeness of body, mind, and spirit. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 48–49

Before class, read 1 Chronicles 2:13—15:13 so you can introduce students to all the sons of Jesse, including David. Jesse was the father of Eliab his firstborn; the second son was Abinadab, the third Shimea, the fourth Nethanel, the fifth Raddai, the sixth Ozem and the seventh David. Hand out copies of the word search puzzle, allowing time for completion. Discuss each of the terms or names included in the puzzle as a reinforcement of today’s scripture passage.

Reread the statement from 1 Samuel 16:7: But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” Ask students if they’ve ever overlooked or ignored someone because of their appearance, or if they’ve ever felt overlooked or ignored because of their appearance. Introduce the Mission Initiative Develop Disciples to Serve and remind students of the Enduring Principle All Are Called from the Gather section. Then lead a discussion on how all of us are called to be of service to God, no matter what we look like or our perceived abilities. Develop Disciples to Serve—Equip individuals for Christ’s mission We are poised to equip men, women, and children to be true and living expressions of the life, ministry, and continuing presence of Christ in the world. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 23

Sing “Jesus Loves Me” as a personal affirmation that God’s love is for everyone, including each one of them!

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 129 Children Community of Christ Lesson Name: Created with TheTeachersCorner.net Word Search Maker 1 Samuel 16: 1-13 Word Search Puzzle R A V F W C Y M U S W U O V P N X M E J L A N N I F O R J R N U D D C Z W D F Z P E B P Q E Z E D F Q C H I C L R S H W M I M E O K L P Y Y T J P M E O I T K V X Q G E T H K D T Z E V C Q L S F Q G C N D R H Y H D R L S P T B B W M I F U P P M S S O M L A S M O C Q N M J Z E N C P X G A B H Y E V E T P I Z S A C D A T I I L B K Q J S H I M E A J Y I A G T N V F E A N S T B A E D K L C C X B B Y C G T M I V I U B V G M I E U X O T P Z U M T W L O H I A S O K Y U X A X M A J F G V D E T N I O N A O L M D P S Q J C Z F P O R A L D Z D T J X A D L R G A A V N G S D F A G W L T J N S Y O W I F U U F E A O N X M L I I I D O F M Y L F P T E B C O J S T I O L Z X U E F N C V E R I J Z C N M F J O Y S O I J B A N T P V X C Z Q C N A M C M K H B S X T M O F E J E B J I J C V X C I G J T A N Y I H Z ABINADAB ANOINTED BETHLEHEM DAVID ELIAB FIELD GOAT JESSE LORD SAMUEL SAUL SHEEP SHIMEA

Focus Scripture Passage: 1 Samuel 17:1a, 4–11, 19–23, 32–49 Lesson Focus: David and Goliath Objectives The learners will… • draw parallels between modern-day bullies and the giant Goliath. • discuss how individuals can stand up to bullies with God’s help. • discuss the armor of the giant as described in the passage. • discuss how David’s previous experience and skills helped him defeat the giant. • connect the story to the Enduring Principles Worth of All Persons and Pursuit of Peace (Shalom). Supplies • Large, thick rubber bands • Cotton balls • A target for slingshot practice • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 1 Samuel 17:1a, 4–11, 19– 23, 32–49 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 86–88, available through Herald House.

Note to teacher: This lesson provides opportunity for discussion of how God can help individuals defeat bullies who taunt them. Some practical ideas for dealing with bullying are found here: www.wikihow.com/Stand-Up-to-Bullies As the students gather, provide large, thick rubber bands for slingshots and cotton balls for stones for a practice session to slay a mighty giant. Provide a target for them to sling their cotton balls toward. Instruct them to aim at the target only and not at one another. Discuss how hard or easy it was to hit the target using their rubber band slingshots and cotton-ball stones.

Before you begin reading the scripture passage, let the students know they will hear the story of David and Goliath and how God helped the weaker and smaller David stand up to and defeat the stronger and larger Goliath. Note to teacher: This is lengthy passage to read. It is suggested the passage be well marked and rehearsed prior to the class session, enabling the reader to read the passage fluently without pause or interruption. Alternatively, read “David and Goliath” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 143–144. Read 1 Samuel 17:1a, 4–11, 19–23, 32–49. Discuss the following to deepen understanding of the scripture passage: • In ancient times Goliath was labeled a champion, but in modern times he would be labeled a bully. • David’s background and experience helped him defeat his foe. • Why do you think such a detailed description of Goliath’s armor is included in the story? • How was King Saul like a parent to David, helping him protect himself against the bully Goliath? • How does the story connect with the Enduring Principles Worth of All Persons and Pursuit of Peace (Shalom)? Worth of All Persons • God views all people as having inestimable and equal worth. • God wants all people to experience wholeness of body, mind, spirit, and relationships. • We seek to uphold and restore the worth of all people individually and in community, challenging unjust systems that diminish human worth. • We join with Jesus Christ in bringing good news to the poor, sick, captive, and oppressed. Pursuit of Peace (Shalom) • God wants shalom (justice, reconciliation, well-being, wholeness, and peace) for all of creation. • Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s shalom (peace), reveals the meaning of God’s peace in all aspects of life. • The vision of Zion is to promote God’s reign on Earth, as proclaimed by Jesus Christ, through the leavening influence of just and peaceful communities. • We courageously and generously share the peace of Jesus Christ with others. • Led by the Holy Spirit, we work with God and others to restore peace (shalom) to creation. • We celebrate God’s peace wherever it appears or is being pursued by people of good will. If we cannot achieve agreement, we commit to ongoing dialogue and lovingly uphold our common faith in Jesus Christ and the mission of the church.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 132 Children Community of Christ Lesson • We confess that our lack of agreement on certain matters is hurtful to some of God’s beloved children and creation. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 29–30 • How are God and adult role models available to help and encourage them to stand up for themselves, without getting into a fight?

Have students role-play the part of the story where David stands up to and defeats Goliath. Have larger students take the part of Goliath and smaller ones David. Give them the option of speaking their lines or performing in pantomime as another student narrates it. Allow time for discussion of bullying behavior they may have encountered personally or witnessed among their friends or siblings. Allow them to share how the situation was handled. Include a discussion on how God, along with their parents and teachers, is always available to help them in difficult situations.

Have students positively respond to the following taunts. If time allows, have them come up with their own responses. Encourage them to always respond positively to negative statements or taunts they might encounter in the future. Taunt: “Why won’t you stand up and fight with me? Are you afraid?” Possible response: “I’m not afraid to fight you. I just don’t want to.” Taunt: “Don’t be ridiculous! You can’t fight me all by yourself!” Possible response: “If I did want to fight you, I would not be alone because God is always with me.” Taunt: “Come over here and I’ll teach you a lesson or two!” Possible response: “I’m not afraid of you, but I’m not going over there. God, my parents, and my teachers teach me everything I need to know.”

Close with singing “Let There Be Peace on Earth” CCS 307 and a circle prayer. Ask God to help them promote peace among their friends and classmates each day.

Focus Scripture Passage: 2 Samuel 1:1, 17–27 Lesson Focus: We Voice Our Lament, David laments the deaths of Saul and Jonathan Objectives The learners will… • learn about David mourning the deaths of Saul and Jonathan. • explore healthy ways to express our emotions. • discuss the Enduring Principle Blessings of Community Supplies • Bible • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Paper plates or construction paper circles • Craft supplies (yarn, glue, stickers, and other supplies) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 2 Samuel 1:1, 17–27 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 88–89, available through Herald House.

Play a game of charades in which players act out a feeling (sad, happy, nervous, excited, scared) and the other children guess the feeling. Today’s scripture passage is about someone who felt very sad.

Read “A Sad Song about a Good Friend” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 148. Or read 2 Samuel 1:17–27. As background for this passage, tell students that David grew up in King Saul’s household as a musician for the king. David became like part of the family and was like a brother to Saul’s son Jonathan. David became a soldier, and during the war King Saul and Jonathan were both killed. David loved them very much. Discuss: What makes you feel sad? What helps you feel better when you are sad?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 134 Children Community of Christ Lesson It is OK to be upset, angry, or sad. God is always with us and puts people in our lives who can help us feel better.

One of the Enduring Principles of Community of Christ is Blessings of Community. We believe “The gospel of Jesus Christ is expressed best in community life where people become vulnerable to God’s grace and each other” (Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 31). When we are feeling sad, we can turn to our church family, our family at home, our friends, and God. They will lift us up. Lifting Each Other Up Activity Have one child sit in a chair and have everyone else gather around. Have four children put their hands under the arms and legs of the person in the chair. They will work together and try to lift the person off the chair using only two fingers and thumb on each hand. It will be difficult. Then have the children hold their hands over the head of the seated child. Their hands are stacked one on top of the other but do not touch. Have them place their right hands first and then follow around the circle with their left hands. Next, remove their hands in the opposite order in which they stacked them. Remember not to touch hands. Have the children try to lift the seated child again. Cue them by counting to three. It will be much easier this time. This trick works because the children are prompted to lift together on the second try. Search online for “Finger Lift Challenge” to see more explanations of this trick. Remind children that we can “lift each other up” in many ways, including listening to someone, saying kind things, or praying for them.

Give each child a thin paper plate or a circle of construction paper. Invite them to decorate one side of the plate with a happy face and the other side with a sad face. Provide yarn or other paper and craft supplies so children can add hair and other details to their faces. As they work, remind children that it is OK to have different emotions, and that talking to someone and praying can help them cope with those emotions. Just as David cried out to God when Saul and Jonathan died, we can cry to God and we can turn to others to help us feel better.

Say a prayer for the group, thanking God for being with us even when we are sad or upset.

Focus Scripture Passage: 2 Samuel 5:1–5, 9–10 Lesson Focus: Fulfill God’s Purposes/David is accepted by the tribes of Israel as king Objectives The learners will… • hear the story of David becoming king. • make a crown. • explore the Enduring Principle All Are Called. Supplies • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Large paper and markers to make a list of David’s character traits. Keep this to use during upcoming lessons. • Paper, tape or staples, stickers, and markers to make paper crowns • Building blocks Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 2 Samuel 5:1–5, 9–10 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 89–91, available through Herald House.

Play Guess Who Is King. Players sit in a circle. One player is the Guesser and leaves the room. The teacher selects another player to be the King. When the Guesser returns, the King leads the other players in doing different actions (clapping, snapping fingers, patting their noses, etc.). The Guesser must guess who the King is. Other players should try not to make it obvious that they are watching the King for directions. Tell the children our story today is about David becoming king of Israel.

Read “David Becomes the King” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 152. Or read 2 Samuel 5:1–5, 9– 10. (David will be an important character in the next several stories we read.) Today, start a list of character traits that describe David. The children will learn over the next few weeks that David was not all good or all bad. He was a complicated man, yet God still chose him and loved him. Today, you might add words to the list such as good, humble, popular, and brave. As you discuss the scripture passage, explain that when David named Jerusalem as the City of David, he chose it because it was neutral territory. He was pulling people together from many tribes. For the first time, those tribes gave up some rivalries and disagreements to build community with people who were different from them.

Craft: Provide paper strips long enough to encircle students’ heads, stickers, markers, and other materials for children to decorate a paper crown to represent David becoming king. Use tape or staples to form the paper into a crown the children can wear.

One of the Enduring Principles of Community of Christ is All Are Called. David was called to be king, and he gathered people together. Activity: challenge the children to work together to build a “city” out of blocks. Remind them that the Enduring Principle All Are Called means everyone does their part, and no one is left out.

Gather and reflect on how we worked together to build our “city.” What did we do to make sure everyone was included? How is God calling us to help others and serve our communities? Say a prayer of blessing and thanks for those ways God is calling each of us.

Focus Scripture Passage: 2 Samuel 6:1–5, 12b–19 Lesson Focus: Delight in God’s Presence: David dances before the ark of God and the ark is moved to a new city. Objectives The learners will… • hear the story of David dancing before the ark. • create an “ark.” • learn about the Community of Christ Temple in Independence, Missouri, as a holy place. Supplies • Bible • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Music • Shoe box or another box • Two broomsticks or pool noodles • For each child: small box, such as a jewelry box, painted gold OR gold paint so children can paint their own boxes • Straws or sticks • Glue • Construction paper • Picture of the Community of Christ Temple in Independence, Missouri Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 2 Samuel 6:1–5, 12b–19 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 91–92, available through Herald House.

Welcome children to class by playing music and inviting them to dance to the music. Today’s scripture passage is about David dancing for God.

Read 2 Samuel 6:1–5, 12b–19 or read “King David and the Holy Ark” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 155–156. Invite children to act out the story as it is being told. To create an ark for acting out the story, use a box and allow children to carry the box on two pool noodles or two broomsticks. As children act out carrying the ark to Jerusalem, have one child pretend to be David and dance with joy. Then have all the children start dancing, except one who will pretend to be Michal in the story. Discuss: • Why was David dancing? Why do you think he was excited about moving the ark to Jerusalem? What was special about the ark? • Why was Michal upset? Like Michal, do we sometimes worry too much about what other people think, so we fail to celebrate and be joyful? • Do we sometimes have special things or special places that help us feel close to God? Maybe campgrounds, church buildings, special books, or items used in worship services? Do you think the ark made David feel close to God?

Ark of the Covenant craft: Give each child a small box that has been painted gold (or give them gold or yellow paint so they can paint the box). Have them attach sticks or straws to the sides of the box and draw small angels on gold paper to attach to the top of the box. Give them small pieces of paper to represent the stones with the Ten Commandments on them. They can place the “stones” in the box. Example: www.daniellesplace.com/html/bible-lessons-tabernacle.html#arkcraft

Show the children a picture of the Community of Christ Temple in Independence, Missouri. In our story today, David celebrated because he was so excited to be taking the ark to Jerusalem. In our own Community of Christ history, our people celebrated when the Temple was built in Independence, Missouri. Just as the ark and Jerusalem were considered holy places, the Temple is a holy place. The Temple is shaped like a spiral. The spiral shape symbolizes a spiritual journey inward and outward. We enter the Temple to encounter God and have a sacred experience. We leave the Temple, ready to go out into the world and share God’s love and peace.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 139 Children Community of Christ Lesson Similarly, we come to church to learn about God. We leave church and are called to go into the world to share God’s love and peace. Invite children to stand in the middle of the room. Choose one child to be the leader and start moving in a spiral from the middle to the edge of the room. The other children can follow. They might even want to dance with joy like David did in the story! Going deeper: Learn more about Community of Christ’s two temples in Independence, Missouri, and Kirtland, Ohio. See Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 51–57, for images and information. www.CofChrist.org/common/cms/resources/Documents/Sharing-in-Community-of-Christ-4thEd-WEB.pdf

Invite children to sit in a circle. Go around the circle and on each child’s turn, they can jump up and say the name of something that brings them joy. When everyone is standing, thank God for these things that bring us joy. Turn the music on and dance again.

Focus Scripture Passage: 2 Samuel 7:1–14a Lesson Focus: Listen to the Prophetic Voice: Nathan counsels David Objectives The learners will… • hear the story of Nathan counseling David about the building of the temple. • discuss ways we can be aware of God’s presence all around us. • build a “temple.” • learn about the Community of Christ Temple and our call to be a people who proclaim peace. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Play dough • David’s character traits chart from previous weeks • Building materials, such as blocks, pipe cleaners, craft sticks, paper, tape, or recycled items such as paper tubes and plastic containers • Copy of the peace seal coloring page for each child • Crayons or markers Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 2 Samuel 7:1–14a in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 93–94, available through Herald House.

Give each child a ball of play dough. Invite them to build a house or temple out of dough, then smash it. In our story today, David thinks he should build a grand temple for the Ark of the Covenant. Nathan, a prophet, tells him that God doesn’t want him to build a temple. God is not just in one place, like a temple or the ark. God is everywhere!

Read 2 Samuel 7:1–14a or “A House for God” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp.158–159. Discuss what character traits David displays in today’s story. If you started a list of David’s character traits a couple of weeks ago, add to the list today. In the story, David listens to Nathan, who tells him what God wants. You might add “good listener,” “willing to change his mind,” or “believes in God” to the list of David’s character traits. In this scripture passage, David learns that God has been with him in the wilderness and in the desert, and God is with him everywhere. He does not need to build a temple to have God with him. Nathan also helps him realize he wanted to build a temple to glorify himself and to make himself look good. Discuss: • David learned that God is with us everywhere. Where have you felt God's presence? Are there special places, like campgrounds, where you feel God's presence more? How can we start noticing God's presence all around us? • David also learned that he wanted to build the temple to glorify himself, not God. Can you think of other Bible stories where someone was trying to glorify themselves? (Example: the story of the widow's offering in Mark 12:41–44)

Give children a variety of building materials. Ideas include blocks, pipe cleaners, craft sticks, paper, tape, or recycled items such as paper tubes and plastic containers. Challenge the children to work in groups to build the tallest “temple” they can. Celebrate each group’s success. Discuss how we could glorify God in other ways besides building a temple. Ideas include being kind, helping the poor, or giving generously.

Last week we talked about the Community of Christ Temple in Independence, Missouri. The Temple was built as a place to worship God, but also a place to learn about peace and proclaim peace to the world. The Temple is dedicated to “the pursuit of peace, reconciliation, and healing of the spirit.” Give the children a picture of the church seal coloring page. Invite children to color the peace seal. As they color it, discuss the seal. Talk about how the lion, lamb, and child represent peace and remind us to proclaim peace. You might even read Isaiah 11:6: The wolf shall live with the lamb,

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 142 Children Community of Christ Lesson the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them.

As a people of the Temple, we in Community of Christ are called to be peacemakers. Sing “Let There Be Peace on Earth” CCS 307.

Focus Scripture Passage: 2 Samuel 11:1–15 Lesson Focus: When We Lose Our Way: David’s immoral behavior Objectives The learners will… • hear the story of David and Bathsheba. • learn about self-control as one of the fruits of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22–23. • discuss the Enduring Principle Responsible Choices. • consider choices they have made or might make. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • David’s character traits chart from previous weeks • a pipe cleaner for each child • beads in multiple colors (see list in section 3) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 2 Samuel 11:1–15 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 94–96, available through Herald House.

Note to teacher: This lesson provides opportunities to discuss Responsible Choices. The story of David and Bathsheba contains situations which can be challenging when presenting to children. Be prepared to tell the story in a way that is appropriate to the age of your students. Play a game of “Stand Up If You…” Have children stand if the statement is true for them or sit if it is not. Say: Stand up if you... • have ever wanted something badly. • ever wanted something that didn’t belong to you. • have known someone who stole something. • try to think of others when you make a choice.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 145 Children Community of Christ Lesson • have heard of the fruits of the Spirit. • have ever done something hurtful to someone else (be honest!). • remember learning about King David from last week’s lesson.

Today’s scripture passage is about King David, who has been the main character in our scripture stories for the last few weeks. If you have been keeping a list of David’s character traits, review that now. Tell children that in today’s story, we start to see some of David’s negative character traits as he makes some terrible choices. We learn that David is an imperfect person. Read “David and Bathsheba” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 163–164, or 2 Samuel 11:1–15. (Note: The Lectionary Story Bible combines this week’s story with next week’s story. You can read the story both weeks, or you can read part of it today and part of it next week. Next week, we learn that David’s actions had consequences, and he repented. This week, we only see his bad behavior.) After reading the story, explain to children that in David’s time, women were not in control of their lives. Bathsheba and her husband were immigrants. David was a powerful king. When he saw her and wanted her for his own, he was thinking only of what he wanted. He wasn’t thinking of how he was hurting Bathsheba or her husband. Add words to the list of David’s character traits. You might include words like greedy, selfish, or hurtful. David is sometimes portrayed as a great hero of the Bible, but he was human and fallible like anyone else.

David didn’t think about others. When we want to do something, we need to stop and think about how our actions will affect other people. The Bible tells us that one of the fruits of the Spirit is self-control. This means that when we rely on the help of the Holy Spirit, we can have self-control. Self-control means we stop and think of others before we do or say something. Read Galatians 5:22–23: “By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.” These are some of the good things that the Holy Spirit gives us. Invite children to make simple bracelets to remind them of the fruits of the Spirit. Give each child a pipe cleaner and colored beads. Have them string the beads as listed below. As they work, talk about each fruit of the Spirit. Did David demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit? How can we demonstrate these qualities?

love red

joy yellow

peace light blue

patience dark blue

kindness orange

goodness clear

faithfulness purple

gentleness pink

self-control green

In Community of Christ, one of the Enduring Principles is Responsible Choices. We believe we are called to make responsible choices so we will not be hurtful to ourselves or others. “We learn to make good choices…decisions that make our world a better place” (Monica Bradford, We Share, p. 24). Read more about this Enduring Principle below. Responsible Choices • God gives humans the ability to make choices about whom or what they will serve. • Some people experience conditions that diminish their ability to make choices. • Human choices contribute to good or evil in our lives and in the world. • Many aspects of creation need redemption because of irresponsible and sinful human choices. • We are called to make responsible choices within the circumstances of our lives that contribute to the purposes of God. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 30 Responsible Choices Game Have children stand on a line in the center of the room. Read each choice and have them move to the right or left side of the line depending on which choice they would make. You can also discuss which fruits of the Spirit are being demonstrated by their choices. 1. You see someone drop money in the parking lot of the grocery store. Do you pick it up and keep it, or give it back to them?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 147 Children Community of Christ Lesson 2. You are playing and you break a lamp in your house. No one sees you do it. Do you tell the truth, or pretend you don’t know what happened? 3. Your best friend tells you some interesting gossip about another kid at school. Do you tell someone else, or keep it to yourself? 4. You see someone at recess who has no one to play with. You are having fun with your friends. Do you stop and invite the other kid to play, or just keep playing with your friends? 5. You see an eraser you really like at the school bookfair. Your parents didn’t give you any money for the Book Fair, but you really want the eraser. No one is looking. Do you take the eraser, or go home and ask your parents for money for the eraser? 6. You forgot to study for your spelling test. Your teacher probably won’t notice if you peek at your word list during the test. Do you look at the list during the test, or just do your best without cheating?

Gather in a circle. Have each child touch the appropriate bead on their bracelet as you name the fruits of the Spirit. Pray that God will help the children demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit.

Focus Scripture Passage: 2 Samuel 11:26—12:13a Lesson Focus: Repent and Turn Toward God: David marries Bathsheba Objectives The learners will… • hear the story of David repenting. • discuss the importance of apologizing. • explore the connection between the sacrament of Communion and confession and repentance. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Board game Sorry! • Play dough Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 2 Samuel 11:26—12:13a in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 96–97, available through Herald House.

Spend a few minutes playing the board game Sorry! Tell children that today’s lesson is about how important it is to say we are sorry when we have done something wrong. If the game is not available, play a quick game of tag, but have kids say “Sorry!” whenever they tag someone.

Read “David and Bathsheba” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 163–164, or 2 Samuel 11:26— 12:13a.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 149 Children Community of Christ Lesson In the Lectionary Story Bible, today’s scripture passage is presented in one story along with last week’s passage. In last week’s passage, David sins. In this week’s passage we learn about the consequences of David’s actions, and David repents. If you read the story last week, you can read it again this week but focus on the part where David repents. In this passage, Nathan tells David a story about a rich man who had plenty, yet he took from the poor man. David is outraged by the story, but then learns that he is like the rich man. God gave him everything and he still had Uriah killed and took Uriah’s wife. David realizes what he has done, confesses his sin, and asks God to forgive him. Note to teacher: Sin can be a difficult topic to discuss with children. Community of Christ’s Basic Beliefs statement on sin states: God created us to be agents of love and goodness. Yet we misuse our agency individually and collectively. We take the gifts of creation and of self and turn them against God’s purposes with tragic results. Sin is the universal condition of separation and alienation from God and one another. We are in need of divine grace that alone reconciles us with God and one another. —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 34 When teaching children, it is helpful to focus on sin as a state of being separated from God or others, such as when we have made a bad or hurtful choice. We can confess and ask forgiveness when we sin.

Talk about times we do things without stopping to consider how those actions are affecting other people (pushing your way to the front of the line in class, pushing past others to get a ball at recess, taking something that doesn’t belong to you, telling a lie, or spreading a rumor about someone). Discuss: • Why is it important to apologize? (it makes us feel better; it makes others feel better; it repairs relationships) • Why is it important to apologize even if what you did was an accident? (so the other person understands it was an accident) • It is important to apologize specifically for what was done and then try to make the situation better. For example, if a child pushes another child, they might say, "I'm sorry for pushing you. Are you OK? I won't do it again." • How can we respond when someone apologizes to us? Sometimes we say, "It's OK," even though it really isn't OK. A better response might be, "I accept your apology." • If we have made someone angry, they might not be ready to accept our apology right away. We can still apologize. Have children take turns role-playing scenarios in which one of them apologizes to another. Use the ideas above or ideas the children suggest.

On the first Sunday of each month in Community of Christ, we participate in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper or Communion. Communion is an opportunity to remember our baptism and confirmation. It is also an opportunity to confess our faults, ask others for forgiveness, and forgive others. The Lord’s Supper (Communion) Jesus gave his disciples a piece of bread and a drink of wine and said to them: “‘Take, this is my body’….‘This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many’” (Mark 14:22–24 NRSV). The Gospel of Luke further says, “‘Do this in remembrance of me’” (Luke 22:19 NRSV). The Communion meal is shared the first Sunday of each month in the congregation and on special occasions. All who believe in Christ, which usually is expressed in water baptism, whether members of Community of Christ or not, are welcome to share the Lord’s Supper. This is an opportunity to celebrate again our baptism and confirmation covenants, reconcile relationships, and mutually recommit to the church’s mission. It plays an important role in healing and strengthening the congregational community. Preparation should include reconciling with others, confessing our faults, and asking for and offering forgiveness. We cannot be reconciled with God if we are not reconciled with others (Matthew 5:23–24). —Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, pp. 46–47 Invite children to use play dough to create models of the Communion emblems: a loaf of bread and a cup of juice. As the children work, talk about how the emblems represent the body and blood of Jesus, which was sacrificed for us. Talk about how our sins are forgiven because of Jesus’ sacrifice.

Sing “Let Us Break Bread Together” CCS 521 or “Eat This Bread” CCS 528.

Focus Scripture Passage: John 6:35, 41–51 Lesson Focus: Jesus as the bread of life offers the gift of eternal life, which is realized now when we live like Christ. Objectives The learners will… • read and understand the focus scripture passage. • related the phrase "bread of life" to their modern-day lives. • brainstorm ways to follow Jesus. Supplies • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Poster board, scissors, glue, and old magazines • Social Situations handout (end of lesson), cut into strips • Paper and pencils or pens Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 6:35, 41–51 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 101–102, available through Herald House.

Greet the children as they enter and invite them to form a circle. Ask the children about their week. As they tell about events in their lives, gently joke with each of them in disagreement or disbelief (for example, “You didn’t do that!” “That could not have happened!” “I don’t think you’re remembering that correctly.”). After a few minutes of fun, announce that you were just joking and that you do believe and appreciate everything that happened to them. Jesus described himself as the bread of life, a loving relationship that will be with us forever. What do you think the people thought about that statement? (Listen to responses.) Just as I pretended to doubt your stories, many people did not believe or understand Jesus. Invite the children to sing “Eat This Bread” CCS 528.

If you plan to read today’s scripture passage from the Bible rather than the Lectionary Story Bible, say: Before we read today’s scripture, I want to remind you about a story in the Old Testament. After Moses led the Hebrew people out of Pharaoh’s control in Egypt, they wandered around the desert for a long time. Not surprisingly, they didn’t have enough food and they became hungry. Moses assured the people that God would provide. That night a flock of quail landed in their camp and the people cooked the birds for dinner. The next morning they discovered all over the ground a sticky bread called “manna” that tasted like a biscuit made with honey. Through Moses, God promised to provide the manna every day. —Exodus 16:2–4, 9–15, adapted Now listen for references to Jesus as the bread of life and the manna God sent from heaven (if you read from a Bible). Read together John 6:35, 41–51, or “Some People Won’t Listen” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 174–175. Bread played an important role during this time in Palestine. People ate it with every meal, usually with yogurt, cheese, or vegetables. Bread was a staple, their only starch. Potatoes and corn (maize) originated in the New World and rice was never mentioned in the Bible. Though rice is eaten in that area today, the climate is too dry to grow it, so rice is imported from other areas of the world. However, wheat and barley grow easily in the region, so whole-grain flour made dense and nutritious bread. Without this nourishing staple, many people would have starved. When Jesus calls himself the bread of life, he conveys that without his nourishment, our hearts and souls will starve. Bread helps keep our bodies fed and alive; Jesus helps keep our souls fed and alive. —www.sundayschoollessons.com/pent9kles.htm With scissors, glue, a large poster board, and magazines, ask the children to create a class collage of modern-day bread of life. Find pictures of items they consider essential, as the ancient Palestinians knew bread was necessary in their daily diet. On the top or in the middle of the finished collage write, “We All Need…JESUS!”

Bread was important for the Palestinians’ physical needs and also their spiritual lives. Loaves were offered as sacrifice in the temple, and stale bread was replaced with fresh bread regularly. So the ancient people understood that when Jesus called himself the bread of life, he not only could sustain their needs, but would also offer a sacrifice for them. It was not as payment for the debt of sin but as a gift for the world to know eternal life. Community of Christ believes we share in eternal life now. “The bread of life is an invitation…to come and follow Jesus…To live in ways that bring God’s divine presence into everyday actions” (Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p.101). Half of our church’s mission statement—how we describe

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 153 Children Community of Christ Lesson ourselves—says, “We proclaim Jesus Christ.” As Christians and as Community of Christ “we become Jesus’ disciples by following him and sharing his peace with others” (Of Water and Spirit, p.39). Ask: What can we do to follow Jesus? (Listen to responses.) We can be generous and compassionate, bring justice to others, and build healthy relationships with others. Have each child select a social situation cut from the handout at the end of the lesson. After reading the sentence aloud, brainstorm as a class how to address the situation as a follower of Jesus. Invite the children to offer their own scenarios.

Have the children select something on the collage that is important to them. Quickly go around the class and let each student state the item they chose. Explain that what they chose is important to them just as bread was important to the people in Jesus’ time. It made sense for Jesus to compare himself to bread because that conveyed how important Jesus is. Ask the students to think about how their item is like Jesus. For example, a cell phone is like Jesus because it is always connected; a nap is like Jesus because it provides rest; a donut is like Jesus because it brings joy. Have them write their “is like” sentence on a piece of paper and add it to the collage. Think back to the social situations you discussed. Think of something specific you could do this week to share Jesus’ peace with others. Complete the sentence, “This week I will…” You will share your idea in a moment.

As a class read “Make Us, O God, a Church That Shares” CCS 657. Take turns reading each line or stanza. Begin a prayer thanking God for the gift of Jesus as our ultimate role model. One by one, have students share their “This week I will…” statements created earlier. Close the prayer asking for faith and courage to complete these acts.

A student in school is sitting by herself at lunch.

Your friend drops his books in front of his locker.

A man sits on the ground with a sign that reads “hungry.”

You see someone break something, but someone else gets in trouble.

Your mom arrives home with a car full of groceries while you are playing video games.

Your brother asks to play with your favorite toy.

You want to play a board game with your family, but your younger sister doesn’t know how to play.

A friend in class scored a D on a test and you got an A.

Your friends start making fun of another student during recess.

Your mom asks who you want to invite to your birthday party; you are friends with everyone in the class except one person.

Some friends ask you to play laser tag, but you already have plans to watch a movie with one friend.

As you leave a store, you see a man unknowingly drop a $10 bill.

Someone at church announces a clothing and toy drive for the local shelter.

Your friend writes a mean post about someone on social media.

Focus Scripture Passage: 1 Kings 2:10–12, 3:3–14 Lesson Focus: Just as Solomon was granted wisdom from God, we must discern God’s calling and make responsible choices. Objectives The learners will… • hear the stories of Solomon receiving and using God’s wisdom. • discuss the meaning and purpose of wisdom. • explore the Enduring Principle Responsible Choices. • learn about and practice discernment. Supplies • Blindfold (optional) • Bible (NRSV recommended) or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Small bowl of sugar and small bowl of salt • Copies of the Mission Prayer (end of lesson) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 1 Kings 2:10–12, 3:3–14 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 99–101, available through Herald House.

Greet children as they enter and play Fish-Fish-Wish. Students stand in a circle with one child in the center wearing a blindfold or with their eyes closed. With one arm extended from the center, child spins around while saying, “Fish…fish…wish!” The child stops spinning on the word “wish” and points at a classmate in the circle. That student announces a wish to the class. Then that student goes to the middle and the original student takes a place in the circle so the game can be repeated.

Say: It’s fun to wish and hope for things. We hear fairytales and myths about fairies and genies in bottles who grant wishes. We make a wish when we blow out birthday candles. We make gift wish lists for holidays. Today’s Bible story is about a time when God granted a wish to a man named Solomon. Read together 1 Kings 2:10–12, 3:3–14, or “Solomon Becomes King” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 176–177. Ask: • What did God ask Solomon? (What do you wish for? I will give it to you.) • What did Solomon ask for? (wisdom like his father, King David) • What did God give Solomon? (wisdom as he asked, and since Solomon was not selfish, God promised him a strong army, long life, and riches) Say: What does it mean to be wise? (Listen to responses.) Is wisdom the same as intelligence? (Listen to responses.) There is a joke that says, “Intelligence is knowing that a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is knowing that a tomato does not belong in a fruit salad.” We often have knowledge and information, but it takes wisdom to decide what to do with that information. Later in King Solomon’s reign he was approached by a woman asking for guidance and King Solomon had to use the wisdom God gave him. Read, retell in your own words, or have the students act out the story from 1 Kings 3:16–28. Say: King Solomon may or may not have known which woman was telling the truth. Instead of deciding for them, he wisely presented a scenario in which the true mother would be identified. Do any of you wear glasses or know someone who does? (Listen to responses.) If someone takes off their glasses, they probably can still recognize that an object in front of them is a tree or a house. But when they replace the glasses, they can more clearly identify the detailed aspects of an object. Wisdom gives us the opportunity to see clearly and make good decisions and judgments.

Say: In Community of Christ we have identified nine Enduring Principles that show how we live the gospel of Jesus Christ and express who we are as a people. One of these Enduring Principles is Responsible Choices. God allows us to make choices in our lives, and the choices we make have an impact on the world around us. Every day we are faced with decisions, and God calls us to make responsible choices that benefit ourselves and other people and that further Christ’s Mission. Play Wise or Unwise? Designate one side of your class space as the WISE side and the opposite side as UNWISE. All the students should start by standing in the middle of your area. Describe a scenario in which someone made a decision and instruct the children to think about the response. After a few moments say, “GO!” and let the children walk to the side of the room that corresponds with their opinion about the decision. You may want to have a brief discussion before the children return to the middle to await another scenario. Students may suggest their own scenarios, or ideas can be found here:

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 157 Children Community of Christ Lesson www.thebettermom.com/blog/2017/3/20/wise-or-not-wise-a-biblical-wisdom-game-for-kids. Used with permission. Say: How do we know what decision to make? Is it always easy? (Display a small bowl of sugar and a small bowl of salt.) I have two bowls here. One is filled with sugar and one contains salt. They look very similar, but they taste very different. Each has a different effect in cooking and baking. How can we tell which is which? (Listen to responses.) We could smell, touch, or taste them to tell which is which. (Allow children to examine the elements as they wish.) Similarly, we can use discernment to determine what choice to make in various situations. Discernment means to use spiritual guidance and understanding to make a decision. What are different ways you can discern what God is telling you? (Listen to responses.) Ideas include prayer, meditation, speaking with parents or other trusted adults, reading scriptures, thinking about right and wrong or what is best for everyone involved, or having a gut feeling.

Say: Today we are going to practice the art of meditation as a form of discernment. Find a comfortable position; you may close your eyes if you wish. Think about a decision you will have to make or a question that has been weighing on your heart. If you can’t think of one of these, you can simply clear your mind and be open to God’s Spirit. Listen to my words as I read a hymn. When I pause, focus on your breath, and allow your heart and mind to receive God’s love and calling. Read “Holy Wisdom, Lamp of Learning” CCS 55 and pause between stanzas. Ask: Does anyone want to share their experience?

Distribute copies of the Mission Prayer. Say: Community of Christ shares the Mission Prayer in which we ask God to present us with opportunities to join in Christ’s mission and share Christ’s love to others. Saying the prayer is the first step. We must then be open to these opportunities in our lives. Let us say the Mission Prayer together and work this week to listen for God’s calling. Mission Prayer God, where will your Spirit lead today? Help me be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant me courage to risk something new and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen. Invite students to display the Mission Prayer in a prominent place at home—refrigerator, bathroom mirror, for instance—as a reminder to ask God each day where God’s Spirit will lead them.

Focus Scripture Passage: 1 Kings 8:1, 6, 10–11, 22–30, 41–43 Lesson Focus: Solomon dedicated the temple but realized God is much bigger than a building. Objectives The learners will… • identify meaningful aspects of their worship space. • learn about Solomon’s temple. • distinguish between serving God in the church building and in the world. • write a prayer of dedication and blessing. Supplies • Mama Built a Little Nest by Jennifer Ward, illustrated by Steve Jenkins (Beach Lane Books, 2014, ISBN 9781442421165) • Bible (NRSV recommended) or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Chart paper and marker • Paper and pencils • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Notes to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for 1 Kings 8:1, 6, 10–11, 22–30, 41–43 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 101–102, available through Herald House. The ideas for this lesson have been adapted from Carolyn Brown’s work found at http://storypath.upsem.edu/lectionary-links-sunday-august/ and are used with permission.

Greet children as they enter; then sing stanzas 1–3 of “Meet Me in a Holy Place” CCS 162. Invite the students to listen as you read Mama Built a Little Nest by Jennifer Ward. Say: If we look at an animal’s house, we can often tell something about that animal. A beaver builds a dam of sticks on water, which tells us that the beaver can cut wood and swim into the home. An eagle builds its very large nest high in a tree, which tells us it is a large animal that can fly high. Can you think of any other animal homes that give us information about their inhabitants? (Listen to responses.) Today’s scripture tells the story of King Solomon building a house for God.

Say: Before we read about God’s house in today’s scripture passage, we are going to talk about God’s house today. The early Jewish people in our scripture story believed that God lived in the Ark of the Covenant, which was a box created to house the Ten Commandment stone tablets. Today we know that God is all around and is always present with us, but we create church buildings as a place to gather and learn about and worship God. Just like animals’ homes, our church home tells us something about our practices. Because worship services and important events happen in the church, there are many parts of the church made to be special or symbolize something important. We are going to take a walk around the church building and look for these places and items. Walk together around your building or worship space and look for symbolic and meaningful places and items. Once something is identified discuss its significance. Ideas include baptismal font, Communion table, a pulpit, offering plates, Communion cups and trays, pictures and artwork, a steeple, or a cross.

After you return to your class space, say: Now we are going to read a scripture story about King Solomon building a temple for God. Read together 1 Kings 8:1, 6, 10–11, 22–30, or “Solomon Builds a House for God” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 179–181. If you read the scripture text directly, preface the reading with this information from the Sermon & Class Helps: After the exodus from Egypt, the Hebrews used a tent-like tabernacle in the wilderness to represent God’s presence with them on their journey. Inside was the Ark of the Covenant, a portable throne for God that housed the Law of Moses. The Ark accompanied them into battle when settling in Canaan and was their central religious symbol. After unifying the tribes, David wanted to build a permanent temple to house the Ark and to honor both himself and God. However, God spoke through the prophet Nathan, telling David that his son would build the temple. Say: Lots of people worked very hard and King Solomon was very proud of his temple. “Many historians consider the temple the crowning achievement of Solomon’s reign” (Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, p. 101). But still Solomon knew God was bigger than the temple. Solomon gave a prayer to dedicate the temple and said, “We call this temple God’s house, but we know that the whole earth and all of heaven isn’t big enough for you” (Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 180). Write “CHURCH” across the top of a large piece of chart paper. Under the word divide the paper in half vertically. At the top of one half write “SANCTUARY” and at the top of the other half write “LIVING” (see image below).

Say: Many people think of the church as the building we attend or the sanctuary in which we worship. But the church is much more than that. What are some things we, the church, do in our building and in our sanctuary? (Listen to responses and record them on the chart. Ideas include participate in sacraments, listen to sermons, eat potluck, generously give offering.) Now what are some things we, the church, do outside the building in our daily lives? (Listen to responses and record them on the chart. Ideas include volunteering in the community, showing kindness and love to others, helping sick or impoverished people.) This is not to say that one column is more important than the other. Instead we can continue to honor the practices and traditions we experience in our building because they are meaningful and useful. But we should also recognize that God is not limited to this physical space and we must continue to serve Christ’s Mission and look for ways to praise, worship, and honor God after we leave these walls each week.

Say: Community of Christ has built two temples. The Kirkland Temple in Ohio, USA, was dedicated in 1836, and served as a meeting and worshiping house, a place for learning and teaching, and offices for official church business. Construction on the Temple in Independence, Missouri, USA, began in 1990 and that building is dedicated to the pursuit of peace, reconciliation, and healing of the spirit. Just like Solomon’s temple, when the Temple in Independence was completed in 1994, there was a big ceremony with many people and special speeches and prayers to dedicate the Temple. Reread the prayer Solomon prayed to dedicate the temple in verses 22–30 or p. 180 of the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B beginning with “Then Solomon stood up.” Say: Most of your time probably is spent in your home or at school. If you were to say a prayer of dedication for your home or school, what would you say? (Listen to responses. Brainstorm ideas together.) Take a moment to write a prayer of blessing and dedication for your home, your room, your school, or your classroom. What aspects of that space are you thankful for? What specific need or activity do you want God to bless?

Sing stanzas 4–6 of “Meet Me in a Holy Place” CCS 162. Offer a prayer of blessing and dedication for your class space.

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 7:1–8, 14–15, 21–23 Lesson Focus: As followers of Christ, we need to focus on what is important and make sure our actions reflect our beliefs. Objectives The learners will… • examine the scripture story. • discuss traditions and when and how they distract from what is important. • learn the beginning of our story as Community of Christ. • explore the idea that actions speak louder than words. Supplies • Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Small treats for each child • Two packages: a rock in a fancy gift bag or wrapping paper and snacks (enough for everyone) in a plain paper sack • Copies of "The Well-Loved Traditions" (end of lesson) • Bulletins or order of worship • Paper plates, scissors, clear contact paper, tissue paper, and a stapler or tape • Optional: construction paper, markers or crayons, and scissors Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 7:1–8, 14–15, 21–23 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p. 107, available through Herald House.

Prior to class, rearrange your meeting space. For example, rotate a table 90 degrees, move an easel to a different corner, switch the placement of a bookshelf and a cabinet. Do not stand or sit where you usually do. Greet the children as they enter and ask them to sit in a circle but in a different spot than usual. Invite the children to praise God by singing stanza one of “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise” CCS 13.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 164 Children Community of Christ Lesson Tell students you have something to give each of them. Have them form a line so you can hand it out. Once the children have formed a line, start at the end of the line to hand out the treats (stickers, candy, small toys). Has anything surprised you this morning? (Listen to responses.) Our class area looks different and you are sitting in new seats. Does that seem strange? (yes) Why? (It is not what we have traditionally done.) You expected me to give out the treat starting at the front of the line, but I started at the back of the line. Did that seem strange? (yes) Why? (It is not what we have traditionally done.) In our scripture story today, Jesus challenges a traditional rule that has been followed for many years. Before we read it, I want you each to make a choice. (Display the two prepared packages.) I want to give you a gift, but you must choose which one you want to receive. Given the choice, who would choose the first package? And who would choose the second one?

Read together Mark 7:1–8, 14–15, 21–23, or “Jesus Turns Things Upside Down” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 186–187. Sing the first stanza of “The Well-Loved Traditions” to the tune of CCS 13. The well-loved traditions have gotten us through, Yet see your disciples—the things that they do! Some leaders told Jesus, “They have no respect! The old ways we follow are what they reject!” Just like today, many people in Jesus’ time had traditions. What are some of your traditions? (Allow a short time to share.) Traditions can be very beneficial and important. They help us feel part of a community. Traditions remind us of past events and help us know what to expect in various situations. Jesus was not telling the Jewish leaders that their traditions were wrong or bad. Jesus was concerned that in this situation, the Jewish leaders were missing the point. Sing the second stanza of “The Well-Loved Traditions.” The Lord said, “Isaiah has shown who you are! You wash every bottle, container and jar. You’re clean in appearance. Yet look deep within: You’re distant from God and content in your sin!” Show the class the printed order of worship for your congregation. Ask: What is this? (a bulletin) What is it for? (It shows us what will happen in the worship service.) Is it helpful? (yes) Do we need one in order to worship God? (no) What are some of the traditions in our congregation? (Listen to responses.) Have you ever heard someone say, “But this is how we do it,” or “We’ve never done it that way”? Do you think God would be upset if we did something different? (no) For example, sometimes people debate whether the offerings during the Disciple's Generous Response should be received before or after the prayer, or whether the ushers should start at the front or back of

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 165 Children Community of Christ Lesson the sanctuary. The way the offering is received is not nearly as important as the reason we are giving our treasure to God. It is very easy to focus on the specific details of worship and service and to lose sight of what is important: being in right relationship with Christ and others. In the scripture story, the leaders were focused more on rules than understanding the needs of the people. —adapted from www.sermons4kids.com/true-worship.html Sing the third stanza of “The Well-Loved Traditions.” Forgive us, Lord Jesus, for caring too much For rules and traditions and standards and such. For while they are useful and good in their place, In keeping them, sometimes we overlook grace. Community of Christ was founded by someone who changed tradition. Joseph Smith Jr. and his family were searching for a church that was like the stories of Jesus in the Bible. They wanted to be a part of Christ’s community that accepted everyone. Other people wanted this, too, but not everyone agreed with how it could happen. There was a lot of quarreling. Joseph was a young teenager; he was confused by all of the arguing. He read a scripture passage in the Bible that said, “If you lack wisdom, ask God” (James 1:5). He went to a quiet place by himself to pray. God gave him guidance, and he began a journey with Christ that led to new scripture and eventually our church today, Community of Christ (See Of Water and Spirit, p. 69).

Play a version of Simon Says. Give the children directions to do one thing, but demonstrate doing another. For example, say, “Pat your head,” while you rub your stomach. Repeat the idea several times with different actions and allow interested children to take turns being the conflicted leader. Ask: • Was it difficult to follow my directions? • Why or why not? • Which directions did you follow—the words I said or the action I did? Sometimes people say one thing but do another. An adult may tell you not to lie, but then call in to work sick when they are actually healthy. A friend could complain that you won’t teach them a new card trick, but then refuse to help tie a sibling’s shoes. Someone could go to church every Sunday, but gossip about people during the week. Can you think of any other examples? (Listen to responses.) Sing the fourth stanza of “The Well-Loved Traditions.” Our worship is proper, yet some feel left out. We celebrate faith, then pass by those who doubt. We pray at our tables yet sometimes ignore The hungry and homeless, the outcast and poor.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 166 Children Community of Christ Lesson Not only was Jesus concerned that the leaders were focusing on the rules rather than the people, but the leaders were worried about the wrong kind of clean. What did the leaders want to be clean? (hands) What did Jesus want to be clean? (hearts) Pull out the gifts from earlier. Let the children gather into two groups based on the choice they made earlier. Quickly discuss why each child made his or her choice. Give each group their bag and allow them to open it. Sometimes people focus on how things look like on the outside. They may try to look like a Christian by going to church regularly, wearing a cross necklace, or always carrying a Bible. Those actions are all fine, but we need to make sure that our hearts are in the right place. The gift bag looked nice on the outside, but inside was a rock. The plain paper bag was not fancy on the outside, but the inside contained a yummy snack. We shouldn’t just look like Christians; we also need to act like Christians. How can we do that? (helping others, using kind words, or being truthful) Those of you who chose the plain bag, how could you act like a Christian? (share the snack with the whole class)

Make a heart sun catcher. Pass out paper plates with a large heart shape cut out of the middle; let students color them as time allows. Give them each a pile of small pieces of tissue paper and two eight- inch (20 cm) square pieces of clear contact paper. Peel the backing off one sheet of contact paper. Spread tissue paper pieces in one layer on the sticky side. Peel the backing off the other sheet of contact paper and place it on top of the other sheet so the sticky sides are together. Trim the contact paper so it fits on the plate and staple or tape it in place. Hang the sun catcher so the sun shines through the colorful heart. Jesus wants our heart to be full of love that will shine through our actions. Or, have the children each cut a heart out of construction paper. Ask them to write on their hearts what they can do to be followers of Jesus.

Sing the last stanza of “The Well-Loved Traditions” as a prayer asking God to help us match our actions to our words. O Lord, may appearances match what’s inside. Take all our hypocrisy, hatred and pride. Lord, fill us with good things from heaven above, Till old ways and new ways are bursting with love.

“The well-loved traditions have gotten us through, Yet see your disciples—the things that they do!” Some leaders told Jesus, “They have no respect! The old ways we follow are what they reject!”

The Lord said, “Isaiah has shown who you are! You wash every bottle, container and jar. You’re clean in appearance. Yet look deep within: You’re distant from God and content in your sin!”

Forgive us, Lord Jesus, for caring too much For rules and traditions and standards and such. For while they are useful and good in their place, In keeping them, sometimes we overlook grace.

Our worship is proper, yet some feel left out. We celebrate faith, then pass by those who doubt. We pray at our tables yet sometimes ignore The hungry and homeless, the outcast and poor.

O Lord, may appearances match what’s inside. Take all our hypocrisy, hatred and pride. Lord, fill us with good things from heaven above, Till old ways and new ways are bursting with love.

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 7:24–37 Lesson Focus: Jesus helped people who were sick and hurting. We follow Jesus by doing the same. Objectives The learners will… • hear stories of Jesus' healing ministry. • talk about the sacrament of laying on of hands for the sick. • think about how we can care for people who are sick and hurting. Supplies • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • First aid kit or various first aid items, such as bandages, gauze, tape • Optional: children's doctor kit • Consecrated oil vial • Congregational prayer list (with addresses) • Card stock or construction paper (cut to size to fit in an envelope) • Envelopes and stamps • Markers or crayons • Optional: stickers Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 7:24–37 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, p. 108, available through Herald House.

As children arrive, have a first aid kit, first aid items, or children’s doctor kit (optional) on a table. Ask children how the items are used. Allow children to share stories of times they have been sick or hurt and needed a bandage, medicine, or other first aid.

Tell the scripture story from Mark 7:24–37 (NRSV—paraphrased): Jesus traveled great distances with his disciples. He taught people about God’s love and helped people who were sick. In one place he was tired and went into a house where he hoped he could be alone for a while. But a woman whose daughter was sick found out he was there and went to see him. She bowed down at his feet and begged him to make her daughter well. Jesus told her that was not why he was there. But she begged him again, and Jesus had compassion for her. He told her to go home and she would find her daughter healed. When she went home, she found the child lying on the bed, and the child was no longer sick. Then Jesus traveled to another place. People brought a man to him who was deaf and mute. He could not hear or speak. They begged Jesus to lay his hands on him and heal him. He took the man away from the crowd, put his fingers in his ears, and he spit and touched the man’s tongue. Then he said, “Be opened.” At once, the man could hear and speak. Jesus told the people not to tell anyone, but they were so excited they told everyone they saw, “Jesus can even help people who are deaf to hear and mute to speak!” Optional activity: Look up several references to Jesus’ healing people. Ask children to read or read the passage for younger children. Ask children what ailment or condition Jesus healed in each story. • Matthew 8:14–15 (fever) • Matthew 9:20–22 (hemorrhages or bleeding) • Mark 10:51–52 (blindness) • Luke 6:17–19 (diseases) • Luke 9:10–11 (those who needed to be cured) • John 4:46–53 (fever) Jesus loved and helped people when they were sick and hurting. Jesus asks us to follow his example by loving and helping people. Ask: • Who helps you when you are sick or hurting? • What helps you feel better?

If your congregation has a room or place where the sacrament of laying on of hands for the sick is traditionally offered, take a walk to this location. Show children an oil vial of consecrated oil used in the sacrament.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 170 Children Community of Christ Lesson In Community of Christ, we share sacraments that help us know God loves us. Laying on of hands for the sick is a prayer of blessing someone can request if they are sick or hurting. Two ministers will put a drop of oil on the person’s forehead, lay their hands on the person’s head, and say a prayer asking God to bless the person. Ask if children have seen this sacrament, know someone who has received this sacrament, or have received this sacrament themselves when they were sick. Laying on of Hands for the Sick Jesus blessed those who were hurting in many ways. The disciples anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them (Mark 6:13). We find many stories of blessing the sick in the New Testament, reflecting God’s desire for wholeness and shalom for all creation. During times of physical, mental, or emotional distress, people may request this sacrament from ministers. This sacrament opens a way for healing in whatever form it comes. Usually two elders administer this sacrament together. They visit with the person to learn about the person’s need. One elder places a drop of consecrated oil on the forehead of the person, places hands on the person’s head, and offers a statement of purpose and blessing. The second elder then places hands on the person’s head and offers a prayer for wholeness and well-being. This may be done privately or in the presence of family, friends, and the congregation. This sacrament is available to all seeking wholeness in body, mind, and spirit. —www.CofChrist.org/sacraments Ask: • Do you know someone who is sick or hurting or sad or lonely? • How can we show our care for someone who is sick or hurting or sad or lonely? If your congregation has a prayer list, read the names on the list to the children. Ask if children know any of the people on the prayer list. Ask if children know someone who is sick or hurting or sad or lonely (a friend, teacher, neighbor) who could be added to the prayer list. Caring Cards Provide children with card stock or construction paper. Ask children to make a caring card for someone on the prayer list or a name they have mentioned. Help children write caring thoughts in the cards and sign their names. Ask children to decorate the cards with crayons or markers and stickers (optional). If time permits, children can make more than one card.

Help children put the cards in envelopes, address, and add stamps. Walk together to put the cards in a mailbox where they will be picked up; or tell children you will mail the cards. If the card is for someone a child named and whose address is not available, invite the child to deliver the card in person with their parents.

Teach children “O Lord, Hear My Prayer” CCS 192 as a call and response. Ask each child to complete this prayer sentence with the name of the person who will receive their card: “O Lord, hear my prayer for ______.”

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 8:27–38 Lesson Focus: Jesus asks us to be strong and show God's love. Objectives The learners will… • hear the story of Jesus giving Simon (Peter) a new name and Peter saying Jesus is the Messiah. • talk about what it means to be strong. • think about how to be strong in love. Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible (The Message) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Optional: Community of Christ Sings vocal recording, available from Herald House • Several rocks (one per child, large enough to step on) • Optional: poster board or construction paper • Permanent markers • Optional: tacky glue or glue gun • Optional: objects to glue to rocks (buttons, wiggle eyes, fabric, feathers) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 8:27–38 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 109–110, available through Herald House.

As children arrive, have a pile of rocks on the floor. Ask children to work together to create a path with the rocks (example: a straight path, a spiral, a circle). If rocks are not available, cut rock shapes in advance from poster board or construction paper. Then ask: • What do you know about rocks? • How do rocks feel? • How can rocks be used?

Read “Strong as a Rock” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 193–194. If Lectionary Story Bible is not available, read Mark 8:27–32 and Matthew 16:13–18 (The Message). As the story is read, ask questions after each section: • What is Simon’s new name? What does it mean? • Why do you think Jesus changed Simon’s name? • How is a rock strong? • Why was Jesus being quiet? • Who did Simon (Peter) say that Jesus is? (the Messiah) Many people living in Jesus’ time had hard lives. People were poor, hungry, and treated violently by their leaders. They were looking for a messiah—a leader who would overthrow the cruel leaders and help them to have a better life. Peter said he thought Jesus was this messiah. Jesus told Peter he was right that he was the Messiah, but that he was not going to be a human leader that would overthrow the current leaders. In fact, the cruel leaders would kill him. He was a messiah that would teach people about God’s love so they could help create a better world. Peter was very confused. Jesus wanted Peter and the other disciples to be strong, but not with power, money, or armies. Ask: • What do you think it means to be strong? • How can our bodies become strong? • How can our minds become strong? Jesus wanted the disciples to be strong with God’s love. Jesus wants us as disciples today to be strong with God’s love. • Can you think of a time someone treated you badly or hurt you? • How did you act? Did you act badly or hurt them back? • How could you be strong and show God’s love?

Ask each child to choose a rock. Use paper cutouts if rocks are not available. Ask children to write their names with a permanent marker on the bottom of their rocks. Note: Cover table and supervise young children with permanent markers. Ask children to think about words that remind them to be strong and show God’s love.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 174 Children Community of Christ Lesson • What would you like your “strong” name to be? Have them write the name they choose on the bottom of the rock. • Why did you choose that name? • What would [your strong name] look like? Decorate the rock with permanent markers. (Optional) Glue decorations on the rocks with tacky glue (or hot glue with adult supervision).

Stand in a circle and sing “Jesus Is the Rock for You and Me” CCS 265. If children are not familiar with the song, teach it as a call and response. Use motions to act out “above, below, in front, behind, and all around.” Try to sing in French, English, and Spanish. (Optional) Play the French vocal recording, available from Herald House, and ask children to dance and act out motions.

As children stand in a circle, ask, “What is one action you can take to be strong and show God’s love?” Close with this brief prayer: “Thank you, Jesus, for being our rock. Help us to be strong. Amen.”

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 9:30–37 Lesson Focus: Jesus used the example of a child to show his disciples how to be part of God's peace. Objectives The learners will… • hear what Jesus told his disciples when they were arguing. • learn about the Enduring Principle Responsible Choices. • think about what Jesus meant when he said, "The first will be last and the last will be first." Supplies • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Bible • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Jigsaw puzzle • Copy of Peace puzzle for each child (end of lesson) • Crayons or markers • Optional: card stock, scissors, glue sticks • Chair for each child • Something to play music (CD player or sound dock) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 9:30–37 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 111–112, available through Herald House.

Place on a table a jigsaw puzzle that is age-appropriate for the children in the class. As children arrive, ask them to work together to complete the puzzle. Observe how children interact. When the puzzle is complete, ask questions about their experience. • Was it easy or difficult to put this puzzle together? • How did it feel to work together? • Did you have any disagreements putting the puzzle together?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 176 Children Community of Christ Lesson • Is it easier to work together or complete a puzzle by yourself? • Did everyone have a chance to help with the puzzle?

In our story today, Jesus’ disciples were having a disagreement. Read “Jesus and the Child” Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 196–197 or Mark 9:33–37 NRSV. Ask: • What were the disciples arguing about? • Do you ever argue? With whom do you argue? • What do you argue about? • What happens when you argue? • How did Jesus feel when his friends were arguing? • What did Jesus do? • Why do you think Jesus told his disciples to become like children? Role play Using examples children provided about what they argue about, ask children to role play what they would say during an argument. Ask children to role play again, thinking about what Jesus would say. Help children think of kind and peaceful solutions to the conflict. Jesus…took a child and told his disciples that welcoming a child is the same as welcoming him. Today, we might think such an action to be cute or interesting. However, in Jesus’ time, this was most unusual. Children were seldom seen or heard. They spent their time with women and not men. There would have been no place for a child in important conversations between a rabbi (Jesus) and his followers. However, Jesus made a place for a child—not just as someone present as he talked with his disciples, but as an example of what was basic to discipleship. The child, least important among the people, was made the greatest by Jesus as he talked about humility and what is required of a true servant minister. —“Exploring the Scripture,” Sermon & Class Helps, p. 111 Jesus said, “Unless you become like a little child, you will not be part of God’s shalom, God’s peace.” Children were not important in Jesus’ time, but Jesus made a place for a child as an example to the disciples of the choices they should make. In Community of Christ, we embrace Enduring Principles to help us hear and follow Jesus. The Enduring Principle Responsible Choices asks us to think about the choices we make, how we treat people, and how we care for the Earth. (For more about the Enduring Principle Responsible Choices, see at Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 30.)

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 177 Children Community of Christ Lesson Peace Puzzle Provide each child a copy of the Peace puzzle found at the end of the lesson. Ask children how they can make Responsible Choices to take care of themselves (Me), solve problems (Us), understand how people are the same and different (Everyone), and care for the Earth (Planet). Allow children to color the puzzle. (Optional) Glue puzzle sheet on a piece of card stock with a glue stick. Color the puzzle. Cut out the pieces on the lines to create a puzzle.

Jesus also said the people who think they should be first will be last, and the people who think they are last will be first. Do you have an idea about what Jesus means? Ask children to share examples of times they have been first or wanted to be first (first in line at school, first in the car, first to use a new toy). Do you ever argue with friends or brothers and sisters over whose turn it is? (Allow children to respond.) It is sometimes hard to think about how other people feel when we really want something. First and Last Game Play musical chairs in the traditional way. Have a circle of chairs facing outward with a chair for each child. Have the children walk around the chairs in a circle while music plays. Then stop the music. When music stops, children find a chair and sit. When music starts again, remove a chair. The child who does not have a chair to sit in is “out.” Continue until only one child remains with a chair. • How did it feel to be “out”? • Ask the winner, “How did it feel to be the last one in a chair?” Now play reverse musical chairs. Start with one chair. The person who won the first game is “out” and must sit in the chair for the entire game. As music plays, add a chair. The person standing closest sits in the chair when the music stops. Continue until everyone is sitting. • Ask the first winner, “How did it feel to be ‘out’ before the game started?” • How was this game different?

Sing together “Jesus Loves Me” CCS 251. Most children are familiar with the first stanza. If children do not know the second and third stanzas, teach as a call and response. After singing, ask children to name ways to treat others with love and kindness like Jesus did.

Use stanza three of “Jesus Loves Me” CCS 251 as a closing blessing. Substitute each child’s name for “me” to bless each child. For example, “Jesus loves [child’s name] still today, walking with (him, her, or them) on (his, her, or their) way…”

Focus Scripture Passage: Esther 7:1–6, 9–10; 9:20–22 Lesson Focus: Esther and Vashti showed courage by standing up to do the right thing even though it was dangerous. Objectives The learners will… • hear Queen Vashti’s story and discuss how she bravely stood up for herself. • listen to Queen Esther’s story and examine how she had courage to do the right thing. • explore the Enduring Principles Worth of All Persons and All Are Called. • identify ways to be a disciple that are both comfortable and challenging. Supplies • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Bible (NRSV recommended) or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • String and tennis ball prepared before class (see Gather section) • Metal or plastic lids (or circles cut from card stock), ribbon, hole punch or hammer and nail, permanent markers (requires some preparation before class) • (Optional) paper plates, scissors, markers or crayons, glue, and various craft supplies such as stickers, ribbon, pompoms, glitter, or jewels (requires some preparation before class) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Esther 7:1–6, 9–10; 9:20– 22 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 109–110, available through Herald House.

Before class tie a string around a tennis ball and hang the string from the ceiling, from a light fixture, or in a doorway so the ball hangs two to three feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) above the floor. Greet children as they enter and ask for one volunteer. Instruct the volunteer to stand about two feet (0.6 meters) away from the hanging ball. Swing the ball up towards the child and hold it just below their chin while keeping the string straight. Ask: Do you trust me? (Listen to responses.) What do you think will happen if I release the ball? (Listen to responses.)

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 181 Children Community of Christ Lesson Promise everyone that the child will not be struck by the ball. Tell the student to stand still no matter what. Let go of the ball and observe its movement and the reaction of the student(s). Like a pendulum the ball should swing away and then return, but not quite as high as its original location. Repeat the activity for as many students who wish to try it. —www.futureflyingsaucers.com/esthers-courage-object-lesson/ Used with permission Say: During this activity you had to trust that I would not let you get hurt, but you also had to show courage when you stood still instead of moving out of the way. Today’s scripture story is about two women who were very brave. God wants all of us, even children, to have courage to do the right thing. Take turns reading the stanzas of “Strong, Gentle Children” CCS 223.

Say: As we follow the three-year cycle of the lectionary, this is the only day devoted to the Book of Esther in the Bible. Today we are going to learn about the two brave, main characters in this book: Queen Vashti and Queen Esther. Retell the story from Esther 1 in your own words or read “The Story of Vashti” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 199–200. Say: Vashti was put in a bad position by her husband, the King, who was not valuing her as a person. She was brave and stood up to him by saying, “No!” The King’s friends told him he had to show Vashti and all other women that men are more important and that wives had to listen to their husbands. They decided to send Vashti away to make a point. Vashti lost everything she had, but she had courage to stand up for what is right. Have the children each make a bravery medal. Before class use a hole punch or nail and hammer to punch a hole near the outer edge of a plastic or metal lid. Let the students run a ribbon through the hole and tie the ends together to make a necklace. Say: Today in most countries all persons have equal rights. But many people worked long and hard to make it that way. Others are still working to bring equality to all. Community of Christ has nine Enduring Principles that tell what our faith community is like. One of those Enduring Principles is the Worth of All Persons. God created each of us and knows that we all have worth, or value. As Christians we, too, see the value of all people and want to be sure that value is recognized. We join Christ’s mission to do the right thing and stand up for those who are treated unfairly, even if it means losing everything like Vashti did. Using a permanent marker, let the children write “All Have Worth” on one side of their bravery medal.

Today’s lectionary scripture reading doesn’t cover the entire story of Esther’s bravery. To present the scripture story, I encourage you to retell the story in your own words, find a children’s book (example: The

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 182 Children Community of Christ Lesson Story of Esther: A Purim Tale, retold by Eric A. Kimmel or Queen Esther Saves Her People, retold by Rita Golden Gelman), show a video, or read “The Story of Esther” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 201–203. Say: Like Queen Vashti, Queen Esther also had to take a stand against her husband, the King. This time it was to save the lives of the Jewish people. Esther did not come from an important family like Vashti. Prior to this event, no one in the palace knew she was a Jew. By exposing her secret, she was also placing herself in danger. Even though Esther’s background was very plain, she knew she had to do something. That is why she was able to save her people, a victory that Jewish people still remember and honor today during their celebration called Purim. If time allows, let the students make a paper-plate crown. Before class cut a paper plate for each student as shown:

Let the children decorate the plate as they wish with markers or crayons, ribbon, stickers, jewels, pompoms, glitter, or other decorative items. Once they are finished, bend each of the eight pie-shaped pieces up and place the crowns on their heads. Say: Esther was not your “usual” queen because she did not come from a royal or important family. Do any of you have kings or queens for parents? Does that mean you can’t do anything important? (Listen to responses.) Another Enduring Principle that Community of Christ proclaims is All Are Called. Jesus invites all of us to be disciples. We all have been given gifts that allow us to serve God and share God’s love with others. This applies to everyone, no matter your gender, ethnicity, age, background, sexuality, financial status, or education level. Everyone is called by God to be a disciple. Using the permanent marker, let the children write “All Are Called” on the other side of their bravery medal.

Say: It takes courage to be a disciple. God does not call us to sit back and relax. Instead God calls us to stand up in the face of adversity to support others in need and do what is right. Draw the following on a large piece of paper or white board:

—https://engagetheirminds.com/2014/08/28/courage-zone/ Used with permission Say: What are things you do right now as a disciple of God? (Listen to responses. Ideas might include attend church, show kindness, share my money generously, study the scriptures, attend Sunday school.) Write the comments in the “Comfort Zone” circle. These are all wonderful things you are doing to learn more about God and share God’s love with others. Do you think there are other things you could do? Maybe some things that sound uncomfortable or difficult? (Listen to responses. Ideas could include tell my friend about Jesus, invite my neighbor to church, tell my classmates about my church camp experiences.) Write the comments in the “Courage Zone” rectangle. As disciples of Christ we are called to serve God when it’s easy…and when it’s hard. The second part is difficult and takes practice. Even adults struggle. But with courage we can make a difference like Vashti and Esther. Hold a medal ceremony for the class. Place each child’s medal around their neck and say, “Be strong and bold. God is with you” (adapted from Deuteronomy 31:6).

Say: Sometimes when you’re scared or frightened you can calm down and feel courageous by focusing on your breath. Take a deep breath (pause) and release the air slowly (pause). Take another deep breath (pause) and release the air even more slowly (pause). Sing “With God All Things Are Possible” CCS 15 several times. After each time, pause to inhale deeply and exhale slowly.

Focus Scripture Passage: Job 1:1; 2:1–10 Lesson Focus: God’s grace is better than a world filled with punishment and rewards. Objectives The learners will… • identify that you should always praise and follow God—even when things aren’t going well. • compare the story of Horton Hatches the Egg with the story of Job. • identify and understand the Enduring Principle Grace and Generosity. • identify someone in need of grace. Supplies • Paper plates (one per child) • Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss, Random House, 1940 • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Venn diagram poster and cards (end of lesson) • GRACE Hands (template provided) for each child • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Job 1:1; 2:1–10 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 111–112, available through Herald House.

Give each child a paper plate and markers. On one side of the paper plate, they will draw a smiley face. On the other side of the plate, they will draw a frown face. Explain that we have many experiences in life that make us happy and others that make us upset. Make each of the following statements. If a statement makes the children happy, have them face the smiley face out. If the statement makes them upset, have them face the frown side out. • You get a new toy • Your team won the championship game • You fall and get hurt

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 185 Children Community of Christ Lesson • Your parent gives you a hug • You must clean up your toys • Someone steals your favorite toy • You get to eat at your favorite restaurant • You feel sick to your stomach • You had to sit alone at the lunch table • You got in trouble for not listening to your parents • You played outside all night with your friends —Idea from Cheri Gamble, https://cherigamble.com/2018/05/12/a-lesson-for-preschoolers-over-job/ Used with permission

Some things make us happy and some things make us upset, but no matter how we are feeling, we should always praise God. It’s easy to praise God when we are happy, and when things are going well. But we also need to remember to continue praising God when we are upset and when things aren’t going so well.

Ask if anyone has heard of or read the Dr. Seuss story Horton Hatches the Egg. Explain that we will be reading parts of this story each week. Begin reading the story and stop after winter comes and Horton says with a sneeze, “I’ll stay on this egg and I won’t let it freeze. I meant what I said and I said what I meant…and elephant’s faithful one hundred percent!” After completing this first part of the story, discuss the following questions: • Why was Horton the elephant sitting on an egg in the tree? • Did Horton do anything wrong? Did he “deserve” to be stuck in a tree through thunderstorms, ice, and snow? • Did Horton ever get mad at Mayzie for leaving him sitting on her egg in the tree? How was Horton feeling? • Did Horton ever stop sitting on the egg—even when things got uncomfortable?

We tell folktales and other stories to explain difficult concepts or teach lessons. The Bible is filled with stories, called parables, which teach us lessons on how God wants us to live. One of these parables is about a man named Job. Like Horton, a lot of bad things happened to Job even though he always tried to live like God wanted. We will be studying Job’s story for the next few Sundays as well.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 186 Children Community of Christ Lesson Read the following excerpt from “The Story of Job” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 205. There once was a man named Job, who always tried very hard to live in God’s way. Job wanted to do all the right things. Job was very rich. He had a nice family, lots of servants, and plenty of money. Every day, Job would say prayers to God, and would try to do everything just the way God wanted. One day, up in heaven, God and Satan were talking to each other. God said to Satan, “Have you noticed Job? Have you noticed how he does everything just the way I want him to do it?” “He only does all those good things because he’s rich,” said Satan. “Take away all his money and his servants. Then Job won’t be such a good person anymore. Job will be very angry at you.” “That’s not true,” said God. “Take away everything he owns. See what happens.” So Satan took away everything that Job had. Satan took away all his money, all his children, all his sheep—everything. But Job kept praying to God and trying to live in God’s way. “See,” said God to Satan. “Job is still a good person.” Discuss the following to deepen the understanding of scripture: • Did Job do anything “wrong”? Did he do anything to “deserve” having all his money and children and land taken away? • Have you or someone you know ever been punished or suffered through something even though you didn’t do anything wrong? • Have you or someone you know ever been lucky and didn’t suffer or get punished for something you did and should have been punished for? • What would the world be like if you were always rewarded for making good choices and always punished for making bad choices? What words would you use to describe a world like that? (fair, just, equitable, civil) Compare Horton Hatches the Egg with the story of Job. Refer to the Venn diagram poster. This poster will be used for four lessons, so keep it displayed in the learning space. Have the children sort the Venn diagram cards (at the end of the lesson) into the appropriate categories.

Jesus came to Earth to live among people. Then Jesus was arrested, and he died on the cross as punishment for our sins. Jesus was innocent, yet he sacrificed his life so that we wouldn’t have to suffer for our sins. That wasn’t very just or fair to Jesus; we deserved to be punished—not Jesus. But God loves us too much to punish us. God's great love is called “grace.” It means that even though our bad choices deserve punishment, God will forgive us. • What would the world be like if—instead of punishments and rewards—we all practiced showing grace to others? One of our nine Enduring Principles is Grace and Generosity. God continuously loves us—whether we deserve it or not. That is grace. Because we receive God’s unending grace, we must respond by sharing our time, talent, treasures, and testimonies with others. That is generosity. Pass out a GRACE hand to each child. (You could also have the children trace their own hand, if desired). Have them write the following words for each of the 5 letters down each of the five fingers. G – Generously R – Receiving A – And C – Caring for E – Everyone In the palm of the hand, ask children to write the name of someone who would benefit from receiving their grace (examples: sibling, parent, classmate, teacher). If time allows, children can also color the hand.

Job was a faithful man; he always tried to live his life like God wanted. Even still, Satan took away everything he owned. If Job had been following God simply to receive blessings and rewards, he would have stopped as soon as Satan took away all his money. But instead, Job continued to follow God. In other words, he didn't follow God only for the blessings. Job praised God, not only when he was happy, but also when he was experiencing bad things. Let’s sing “Make Me a Servant” CCS 597 as our prayer to become more faithful disciples like Job.

Didn’t do anything to Argument between God “deserve” the terrible Continued to trust God and Satan treatment

Lost everything – money, Argument between an Stuck alone in a tree land, possessions elephant and a bird

Remained faithful to his

word

A C R

E G

Focus Scripture Passage: Job 23:1–9, 16–17 Lesson Focus: Suffering is not punishment from God. Objectives The learners will… • recognize that suffering is not punishment from God. • compare the story of Horton Hatches the Egg with the story of Job. • identify and understand the Mission Initiative Abolish Poverty, End Suffering. • identify ways they can help eliminate suffering in their own community. Supplies • Timer • Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss, Random House, 1940 • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Venn diagram poster and cards (end of lesson) • End Suffering Foot (template provided) for each child • Pencils • Optional: markers, crayons, or colored pencils • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Job 23:1–9, 16–17 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 112–113, available through Herald House.

Choose one child to sit in the middle of the learning space. Tell the other children to stand an arm’s length away. The object of the game is for the seated child to stand up without using their hands or being touched by one of the standing children. Begin the timer the first time you say “go.” The child will most likely not succeed. Allow the seated child to try as many times as they want. Do not stop the timer until they give up. If time allows, give another child a chance to try. Again, use the timer to determine the length of time it took for the child to give up. The intent is to observe their response to seemingly impossible tasks.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 192 Children Community of Christ Lesson Explain that the child trying to get up without help is kind of like Job. The task was really challenging; everything they tried, failed. It was so difficult that they gave up after only a few minutes. Job experiences a lot of hardship. Satan takes away everything he owns: land, money, possessions. You will learn about more suffering today. But even after days and days of losing everything, Job never gave up.

Before you begin the next part of Horton Hatches the Egg, review with the class what happened previously. Continue the story from last Sunday and stop at the part where the hunters come and Horton says, “Shoot if you must but I won’t run away! I meant what I said and I said what I meant…an elephant’s faithful one hundred percent!” After completing this second part of the story, discuss the following questions: • Did Horton do anything wrong this time? Did he “deserve” to be laughed at or hunted? • Did Horton ever get mad at Mayzie for making him stay on the egg? How was he feeling? • Despite all the challenges, did Horton ever stop sitting on the egg? • What does it mean to be faithful one hundred percent?

Horton Hatches the Egg is a story; similarly, the Bible is full of parables that help us learn to live as disciples of Jesus. Review the first part of Job’s story with the class. Allow children the opportunity to share the parts they remembered. Explain that in the Job story, God and Satan are having an argument over Job. Satan wants to prove to God that Job only worships and follows God because of the blessings he receives. On the other hand, God believes Job is a faithful servant no matter what. Explain that today’s excerpt begins with that argument. Read the following excerpt from “The Story of Job” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 206. “But if you take away his health,” said Satan, “he won’t worship you anymore. He won’t be a good person if you make him sick.” “That’s not true,” said God. “Go ahead. Make him sick and see what happens. But don’t let him die.” So Satan made Job very sick. Satan gave Job sores all over his body. Job felt awful. Then three of Job’s friends came to him. They felt bad because Job was having such trouble. “If we visit him,” they thought, “maybe he’ll feel better.” At first, Job’s friends just sat around. They didn’t know what to say. After a while, they began to talk to Job.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 193 Children Community of Christ Lesson “All these bad things have happened to you because you have done bad things,” said Job’s friends. “You have not lived God’s way. That’s why God is hurting you.” “No,” yelled Job. “That’s not true. I have tried hard to live God’s way. That’s not the reason these things are happening to me.” “It is so,” said Job’s friends.” “It is not,” Job said. Discuss the following questions to deepen the understanding of scripture: • Did Job do anything “wrong” this time? Did he do anything to “deserve” getting sick? • Have you ever felt like God treated you unfairly? How do you respond to God when bad things seem to happen to you for no reason? • Job’s friends believed that if sins are punished, then Job must have sinned greatly to deserve all these bad things happening to him. Have you ever judged someone? Have you ever felt that someone “deserved” the bad things happening to him or her? Refer to the Venn diagram poster. Compare Horton Hatches the Egg with the story of Job. Ask the children to sort the new Venn diagram cards into the appropriate categories and add them to the poster.

The characters of our two stories—Horton and Job—never give up despite all their suffering. They continue to believe even when things seemed like nothing could get any worse. • When have you experienced suffering? • What are sources of suffering in the world? Community of Christ has five Mission Initiatives. One of those Mission Initiatives is Abolish Poverty, End Suffering. As a worldwide church, we are committing ourselves to act as Christ’s hands and feet to serve the poor and hungry and stop needless suffering. It is not enough to simply stay faithful despite our own suffering. We must actively work to help end suffering for others. Pass out an “End Suffering Foot Template” to each child. (As an alternative, children can trace their own foot, if desired.) Have them write five ways they can work to end suffering in their community; name one for each toe. Examples include offering to sit next to someone who is sitting alone at school, sharing your school supplies, bringing water to a someone who is thirsty, etc. If time allows, children can also draw a picture on the sole on the foot.

Job was a faithful man; he always tried to live his life like God wanted, even when Satan took away his money, his property, and even his health. Job’s friends even turned against him, believing Job must have

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 194 Children Community of Christ Lesson done something wrong to deserve such terrible things. Job suffered greatly, yet he remained faithful. There are many people in this world who are suffering like Job. Let’s sing “Make Me a Servant” CCS 597 as our prayer to help end suffering and to become more faithful servants.

Friends began judging Remained faithful despite Felt alone and despair him all the bad

Refused to leave the egg Got really sick and was in – even when hunters pain from sores all over Suffered for days were aiming at him his body

End Suffering Foot Template

End

Suffering

Focus Scripture Passage: Job 38:1–7, 34–41 Lesson Focus: Only God has all the answers; because God continues to speak to us today, we should continue to seek understanding through discernment. Objectives The learners will… • understand that part of being a disciple means admitting we will never have all the answers. • compare the story of Horton Hatches the Egg with the story of Job. • identify and understand the Enduring Principle Continuing Revelation. • identify ways they can seek to understand God. Supplies • Paper and pencils • Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss, Random House, 1940 • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Venn diagram poster and cards (end of lesson) • Discernment Brain (template provided) for each child • Optional: markers, crayons, or colored pencils • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Job 38:1–7, 34–41 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 114–115, available through Herald House.

Pass out a piece of paper and pencil to each child. Tell them you are going to give them a 10-question “quiz.” Treat the class as if it’s a testing environment (write your name at the top of the paper, no looking at anyone else's paper, etc.). This should make them feel a little uncomfortable. Be mindful that children don’t get too anxious because this is just a simulation. Ask the questions below; children should write their answers on their own piece of paper. When children complain that don’t know the answer, just tell them to either leave it blank or make their best guess. 1. How many stars are there in space?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 198 Children Community of Christ Lesson 2. What is your last name? 3. In what year did Neil Armstrong walk on the moon? 4. In what year will you graduate high school? 5. How deep is the deepest part of the ocean? 6. What day of the week is today? 7. How many pebbles of sand are on a beach? 8. Will you get married? 9. What is your mother’s favorite color? 10. How many McDonald’s restaurants are in the world? Afterward, begin reviewing their answers. The questions themselves should initiate discussion. Be sure to talk about the different types of questions. Explain that there are some questions like numbers 1 and 7 that will never be answered. Other questions like number 2 and 6 are easy for you, but maybe not for a baby or younger child. Still other questions like numbers 3, 5, and 10 can be learned by researching. Question 4 can be figured out with a bit of background knowledge and some calculations while question number 9 can only be determined by asking someone. Finally question number 8 will only be answered over time. Explain that today the main characters of our two stories—Horton and Job—are seeking answers to their many questions.

Before you begin the third part of Horton Hatches the Egg, review with the class what happened previously, pointing out that we left off just as Horton discovered hunters pointing guns straight at his heart. Continue the story and stop after Horton is sold to the circus and he said as he sat in the hot noisy tent, “I meant what I said, and I said what I meant…and elephant’s faithful—one hundred percent!” After completing the third part of the story, discuss the following questions: • Did Horton do anything to “deserve” this treatment? • When he first saw the hunters, Horton thought they would kill him. Was he right? What did they do instead? • Did Horton ever stop sitting on the egg? • What are all the bad things Horton has experienced? Would you be able to keep sitting on the egg through all of that? • Horton is being dragged all over the United States in a circus. He is feeling sadder and sadder. We haven’t read the end of the story to know if Horton will ever be free again. What do you think? Explain that this part of the story leaves a lot of questions unanswered. Why does Horton remain faithful to the egg? How long will it take for the egg to hatch? Will Horton ever be free? Similarly, in our Bible story, Job is also trying to understand God.

Just like the story Horton Hatches the Egg, the Bible uses parables like Job's story to help us learn to live as humble servants of God. Review the first two parts of Job’s story with the class. Allow children the opportunity to share the parts they remembered. Explain that in the Job story, God and Satan are having an argument over Job. Satan wants to prove to God that Job only worships and follows God because of the blessings he receives. On the other hand, God believes Job is a faithful servant no matter what. Job and his friends also begin arguing. His friends believe God is punishing Job for some unknown sin. Job disagrees, believing instead that God rewards good behavior. Job argues that he just needs to prove to God that he is deserving. They continue arguing. Read the following excerpt from “The Story of Job” in Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 206. That’s when God decided it was time to say something. “Listen, Job,” said God. “You and your friends don’t know what you are talking about. Why are you trying to understand this? Where were you when I created the world? Where were you when I made the oceans and the forests and the birds and the sky? What makes you think you can understand these things?” Then Job knew that he was trying to understand things that were too hard for him. Job said to God, “I know you are very strong. You can do anything you want to do. I’m sorry I was talking about things I couldn’t understand. I won’t do that anymore.” Discuss the following questions to deepen the understanding of scripture: • God pointed out that Job will never fully understand God because Job is human. How does it make you feel to know that you will never truly know everything about God? • Has this parable explained why good people suffer? (no) How do you feel about not getting the answer? • When have you asked, “Why God?” Have you received an answer? Have you asked God other questions? What answers have you received? Refer to the Venn diagram poster. Compare the Horton Hatches the Egg story with the story of Job. Ask the children to sort the new Venn diagram cards into the appropriate categories and add them to the poster.

The characters of our two stories—Horton and Job—struggle to understand why all these bad things are happening to them. The Job parable teaches us that there are times when we will never completely understand, but that we should continue faithfully following Jesus, asking for guidance and strength along the way. “Discernment is a way we seek to understand God. Discernment helps us understand God’s will by praying, listening, discussing with others, learning what we need to, and being thoughtful” (Of Water and Spirit, 71). Ask: If God were to speak to you today, what would God say?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 200 Children Community of Christ Lesson Community of Christ has nine Enduring Principles. One of those Enduring Principles is Continuing Revelation. We believe that “God speaks to us through scripture, through our experiences, the experiences of others, and through our prayers. Continuing Revelation means that we believe God guides us through the Holy Spirit and will always guide if we ask” (Of Water and Spirit, 71). Pass out a Discerning Brain template to each child. Have them write three ways we can seek to understand God a little more (answers could include prayer, reading scriptures, teaching others, etc.).

The characters of our two stories had a lot of questions and a lot of thoughts. Unfortunately, not all their questions got answered, and many of their thoughts were proven wrong. Horton thought the hunters would shoot him, but instead they took him overseas and sold him to a circus. Job thought he needed to prove his worthiness to God to make the bad things stop. Sometimes there are things in life we just won’t understand because we are human. Even though they did not understand, the characters in both stories remained faithful. Let’s sing “Make Me a Servant” CCS 597, knowing that despite all our questions and misunderstandings we still desire to follow Jesus.

Questions why God Got seasick traveling in a Story leaves a lot of allowed so many bad boat over seas questions unanswered things to happen to him

Realized there are things Main characters are sad Sold to a circus about God he will never but remain faithful understand

Discerning Brain Template

Focus Scripture Passage: Job 42:1–6, 10–17 Lesson Focus: God remains steadfast—even in our trials—and continues to bless us. Objectives The learners will… • understand that God remains steadfast—even in our trials—and continues to bless us. • compare the story Horton Hatches the Egg with the story of Job. • identify the many blessings in their lives. • commit to sharing God’s blessings with others. Supplies • Enough ingredients for a s’more for each child (marshmallows, chocolate bars, and graham crackers)—be sensitive to allergy needs • Microwave or oven to heat the marshmallows for s’mores • Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss • Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Venn diagram poster and cards (end of lesson) • Discernment Brain (template provided) for each child • Optional: markers, crayons, or colored pencils • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Job 42:1–6, 10–17 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 115–116, available through Herald House.

Ensure the chocolate and graham crackers are well hidden from view. Place one marshmallow in front of each child. Instruct the kids not to touch or eat the marshmallow. Make them sit, facing their marshmallow, while they help you retell the story of Job. Explain that characters in the Bible like Job can teach us many things. Even though this story is from thousands of years ago, we still experience similar situations today. For example, Job lost everything. He lost (take the first child’s marshmallow back) his money, (take the next child’s marshmallow back) his family, (take the next child’s marshmallow back) his

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 204 Children Community of Christ Lesson possessions, (take the next child’s marshmallow back) and even his health. And then his friends started accusing him of being a sinner (take the rest of the marshmallows back). Put all the marshmallows back in the bag and put it away. Job thought his faithfulness to God would reward him a life a comfort and peace, but that isn’t what happened. Job ended up with nothing (point to the empty places in front of the children where their snack had been). Do you think he was disappointed? Are you disappointed, too? Did you think we were going to have a snack together? Explain that sometimes we don’t get what we want. Sometimes we are surprised when a bad thing happens; we start believing that because we are “good Christians” we deserve to have good things happen to us. Does that mean that God doesn’t love us? Does that mean that God caused the bad things to happen? God knows about our hard times and cares very much for us. Even despite bad times, God can bring us into happiness again and again. When Job experienced all those bad things, he wasn’t very happy, but he also stayed faithful to God. Job never stopped believing in God or complained that God was being unfair. We must learn from Job. —Idea from "The Trials of Job" https://teachsundayschool.com/jobsermon.html Used with permission

Before you begin the last part of Horton Hatches the Egg, review with the class what happened previously, pointing out that we left off just as Horton was being paraded in a circus and becoming sadder and sadder. Complete the story. After completing the last part of the story, discuss the following questions: • Did this story end well for Horton? • Did Horton ever determine why Mayzie left him alone to watch over her egg for an entire year? • Do you believe the ending was worth all the terrible things Horton endured?

Since we have finished Horton Hatches the Egg, let’s also finish our Bible parable about Job. Remind the children that this story left off with Job apologizing to God for asking questions and trying to understand things he’ll never understand. Read the final excerpt from “The Story of Job” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 206. “Up until now, I had only heard people talk about you. Now I have met you and heard you speak to me. I’m sorry for the wrong things I said.” Then God gave back to Job all the things that had been taken from him. Job was healthy again. He even had more children—seven sons and three daughters.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 205 Children Community of Christ Lesson When Job was ready to die, he did something different. In Bible times, most fathers gave their home and farm and all their money to their sons. The daughters didn’t get anything. But Job gave things to both his daughters and his sons. Discuss the following questions to deepen the understanding of scripture story: • Did the story end well for Job? • Did Job ever get all his answers? • God restored all of Job’s wealth, his possessions, his family, and his health. Does this mean that good things eventually always come to good people? • Did Job keep all his blessings to himself? How did Job demonstrate God’s love to others? Refer to the Venn diagram poster. Compare Horton Hatches the Egg with the story of Job. Ask the children to sort the new Venn diagram cards into the appropriate categories and add them to the poster.

Both stories teach us that we must remain faithful to God. We learned that bad things will probably happen, but God is still with us no matter what. God still very much loves us despite the bad things we endure. Ask: Have you ever had something bad happen to you? Does that mean God doesn’t love you? At the end of both stories, the main characters were truly blessed. The egg hatched into a flying elephant and Horton was released back to the jungle. God blessed Job with his possessions, money, family, and health. Pass out a “Body of Blessings Template” to each child. Have them write down all their blessings on the body; fill the body up! Although they couldn’t explain why they endured such terrible things, Horton and Job were both restored to happiness even better than before! Place a fresh marshmallow in front of each child. Explain that they didn’t just end up with what they had before, they ended up with so much more. Then pass out the chocolate and graham crackers. Take the class to the microwave or oven to heat up the marshmallows and enjoy their snack —Idea from "The Trials of Job" https://teachsundayschool.com/jobsermon.html,Used with permission

Despite all their trials, Horton and Job always remained faithful to God. Eventually, God blessed them with even greater happiness than before. They both unselfishly shared their blessings with others. Let’s sing “Make Me a Servant” CCS 597 in hopes that we, too, can remain faithful and remember to selflessly share our many blessings with others.

Venn Diagram Cards Day 4

Shared his blessings from God with his sons Sat on an egg for 51 AND daughters, leaving The story ended well; all weeks until it finally his wealth to ALL his their suffering ended hatched children, not just his sons

Teaches us that we will not always understand Was released back to God returned his wealth, why bad things happen, the jungle with a flying possessions, family, and but we should always elephant health remain faithful to God

In the end, were far more blessed than what they started with

Focus Scripture Passage: Ruth 1:1–18 Lesson Focus: Ruth and Naomi felt love and compassion for each other, and we can feel the same for those in our community. Objectives The learners will… • experience discrimination in some form. • apply the love and compassion in the Bible story to their own relationship(s). • learn about the Enduring Principle Blessings of Community. • discuss empathy and practice recognizing emotions. • identify people in their community who are marginalized and need to feel welcomed. Supplies • Coloring page (end of lesson) • Crayons or markers, including some that are broken or dry • Old Testament map (end of lesson) • Bible (NRSV recommended) or Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9781551455648) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Construction paper and markers or crayons • A pair of very large adult shoes • Emotion Charades (end of lesson), cup or hat • Whiteboard or chart paper Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Ruth 1:1–18 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 117–118, available through Herald House.

Before class arrange a few coloring pages and working crayons or markers on a table. Crumple or rip a few other copies of the coloring page and throw them in a pile on the floor with some broken crayons or dry markers. Assess your class makeup and choose a quantifiable characteristic that is not personal,

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 209 Children Community of Christ Lesson immediately changeable, or offensive. Examples might include distance traveled to church, height, or eye color. As students arrive, sort them by that characteristic, allowing some to sit at the table to color, but instructing others to find a place on the floor and make do with the lesser supplies. Do not tell the children how you decided who sat where. Allow them to sit for a short while in their designated places coloring or wondering about the situation. Say: Was everyone able to color their picture? May I please see your papers? (If there are obvious differences between the quality of work based on materials, such as missing pieces of paper or poor color lines due to dry markers, point them out. DO NOT point out differences due to students’ ability.) Did everyone enjoy this activity? Do you think your classmates enjoyed this activity? (Allow the students to discuss what happened and what they felt. When they have fully grasped the idea that the groups were treated differently, which is unfair, explain how you divided the class.) Was it right for me to split you into groups like that? (Invite all children to join you at the table and provide everyone with a fresh coloring page and crayons or markers.) Throughout history there have been leaders or groups of people who segregate, or separate, themselves from others who are different from themselves. Hitler set out to exterminate, or get rid of, Jews in Germany in the early 20th century. Slave traders captured people on the continent of Africa and brought them to the United States and sold them as slaves. During apartheid from 1948 until the early 1990s people in the country of South Africa were segregated, or divided, into four racial groups and the minority white group had all the power. Can you think of any other examples? (Listen to responses.)

Say: Discrimination like this also happened in stories in the Bible. Display the map included with this lesson. Point out Moab and Israel. Say: The people who lived in these two territories did not get along. Today’s story is about people from both territories. Read Ruth 1:1–18 or read “Two Brave Women” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 220–221, stopping after Ruth says, “Then let’s go to Bethlehem together.” Say: These three women were in a difficult situation because at that time women had no rights and could not work to support themselves. Naomi, the older woman, planned to return home to Israel to be with family, but she knew her daughters-in-law would not be accepted because they were Moabites. Orpah made a healthy, culturally normal decision to stay in Moab with her family and hopefully remarry. Ruth decided to travel to Israel with her mother-in-law. These women didn’t choose each other; rather Ruth chose to marry Naomi’s son. But they were family, and they decided to love the people God placed in their lives. Say: Ancient Greeks had eight words for different types of love. For example, agape is unconditional love, something we usually associate for how God loves us. Storge describes the type of love between family members, such as parents and children. Ruth and Naomi most certainly felt this strong connection with each other, especially if Ruth was willing to move to another country to support and be with Naomi. Think about someone in your life for whom you feel storge. It could be a family member, a friend, or someone else. It should be someone you respect and for whom you care deeply. You can think of more than one person.

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 210 Children Community of Christ Lesson Invite each child to cut a heart out of construction paper for each person they are thinking about. Inside the heart they should write a prayer for that person. For example, “Help me be quiet when my baby sister is sleeping” or “Help me and my brother get along” or “I pray for good weather for my friend’s track meet next week.” Place their hearts together on the table. —http://worshipingwithchildren.blogspot.com/2015/10/year-b-proper-26-31st-sunday-in.html Used with permission

Say: Our class is a community, and our congregation is a community. If you look at these hearts you created, they represent a larger community. Community is very important to our faith movement and is even in our name, Community of Christ. Our nine Enduring Principles tell who we are as a church and one of them is Blessings of Community. We believe we all are better disciples if we share in community. “We value our connections and share a strong sense of trust in and belonging with one another. Community provides nurture and growth opportunities for all people” (www.CofChrist.org/enduring-principles). Say: To live in sacred community we must honor and care for others. This requires us to know and understand the needs of others. Have you heard the phrase “Walk a mile in another person’s shoes”? Let’s try it! Provide a pair of very large adult shoes. Let the children take turns wearing the shoes and attempting to walk in them. Say: Is this what the saying means? What does it mean to walk in another person’s shoes? (Listen to responses.) It’s hard to know why someone acts the way they do unless you truly understand their situation and where they come from. Your friend may say something really mean on the playground, but it might be because they are upset their pet is very sick. Your neighbor may yell at you to get off the grass, but they may be stressed because they just lost their job. Say: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of someone else. In order to support other people in our community we must try to learn about their needs and understand how they feel. Play Emotion Charades. Cut into strips the emotions listed at the end of this lesson. Fold each of them and place them in a cup or hat. One at a time, have a student draw a piece of paper out of the hat and then silently act out that emotion for others to guess. Take turns acting until all emotions are used. Say: Sometimes it is difficult to know how another person feels. You can watch them or you can even ask them. The important thing is you are thinking about how other people feel and that helps everyone feel welcome and noticed.

Say: Earlier we mentioned historical examples of discrimination. In our Bible story we learned that the Israelites and the Moabites did not like each other. Who are some people or groups who are treated

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 211 Children Community of Christ Lesson poorly today? (List responses on a white board or chart paper.) True community includes compassion for and solidarity with the poor, marginalized, and oppressed. We believe in the worth of all persons. God calls us to create communities of Christ’s peace in our families, homes, countries, and all over the world (adapted from www.CofChrist.org/enduring-principles). We can bring the light of God’s love to those who are treated poorly. Sing together “Come and Bring Light” CCS 287. Substitute names from your list in the stanzas. For example, instead of “to the ones brokenhearted” you could sing “to ______(someone on your list).”

Invite someone to offer a prayer for your community, including those on your paper hearts and those on your compassion list. Say: God’s love is for everyone and we should welcome everyone into our community. There is a popular children’s song that tells us that Jesus loves all children. Jesus loves the little children, All the children of the world. Brothers, sisters of each land Let’s reach out and take a hand. Jesus loves the little children of the world! —www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-resources/jesus-loves-the-little-children

Used with permission

Happy

Confused

Sad

Scared

Angry

Disappointed

Surprised

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 12:38–44 Lesson Focus: We receive many gifts from God and should strive to give graciously from our hearts and to our true capacity. Objectives The learners will… • name gifts they've received from God. • list examples of giving time, talent, treasure, and testimony. • determine what it means to give to your true capacity. Supplies • God's Gifts to Us cards, cut out prior to class (end of lesson) • Large heart cut out of red construction paper • Glue sticks • One sheet of white printer paper • Pen • Two apples (or other fruit); they should both look the same on the outside, but one of them should be bad on the inside • Three packages wrapped in beautiful wrapping paper, filled with fake dollar bills and two fake coins • One paper bag with only two fake coins • Offering plate • Smaller hearts cut out of purple, pink, white, and yellow construction paper (enough for each child to have one of each color) • Twine or yarn • Scissors • Hole punch • Giving to God handout for each child (end of lesson) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 12:38–44 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 124–125, available through Herald House.

Before class, cut out a large heart of red construction paper and the God’s Gifts to Us cards. Hide the cards around the classroom. As children arrive, prompt them to begin hunting for the cards. Explain that these cards list many different gifts God has given us. When a child finds a card, it should be placed on the table with the large red construction paper heart. Once all 24 cards have been found, prompt the children to take a seat at the table. Marvel over how many gifts God has given us. If children have other gifts to add to the list, write them on the white printer paper and cut them out. Use the glue sticks to attach the cards to the front and back of the large heart. Punch a hole at the top and tie a long piece of twine or yarn to the heart. Explain that God blesses us with so many gifts. “God gives generously and with great love” (Of Water and Spirit, p. 103). Sometimes we have difficulty recognizing them all, but the gifts are always there when we really look. “For every gift we’ve been given, we can make choices about how we can generously respond to God and others to share and develop that gift” (Of Water and Spirit, p. 101).

Hold up two pieces of fruit. Ask if anyone can figure out, judging by the way they look, which fruit is bad. Explain that sometimes when you’re eating fruit, you cannot tell it’s bad until you take the first bite. Has anyone ever taken a bite of fruit expecting a delicious snack, but was disappointed to discover the fruit was rotten on the inside? Peel or cut the fruit so children can see inside both. Sometimes you cannot tell. Read the beginning portion of the focus scripture passage: Mark 12:38–40 NLT. Jesus also taught: “Beware of these teachers of religious law! For they like to parade around in flowing robes and receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces. And how they love the seats of honor in the synagogues and the head table at banquets. Yet they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property and then pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public. Because of this, they will be more severely punished.” Explain that a hypocrite is like the rotten fruit—someone who acts good on the outside by showing off and publicly doing good deeds, but on the inside they are filled with greed and arrogance. Their good deeds are done only for attention and selfishness. Hypocrites may cheat and lie but cover it up by boasting of their religious knowledge and honor. But Jesus warned his followers that God sees their inner core. God knows our hearts. God knows who gives to make themselves look good and who gives from a pure heart. —http://missionarlington.org/wp-content/uploads/curriculums/LOC_MATT_2007-L08-EN.PDF, adapted Pass out the four packages to four different children. Allow them to marvel over the beautifully wrapped presents. Ask who got the better present. Prompt the children to open their packages and count their money. Then continue reading from the focus scripture passage Mark 12:41–42 NLT:

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 217 Children Community of Christ Lesson Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Ask the four children to donate two coins from their packages to the offering plate. Then ask the following question (do not correct their answers; you will be going over these questions again after finishing the last part of the scripture): Who gave the most? Let the children explain their answers. Finally finish reading from the focus scripture passage Mark 12:43–44 NLT: Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.” Prompt a discussion by asking the following questions: • Who did Jesus say gave the most? Why? • Was your answer the same or different from Jesus’ answer? • Who selfishly gave in order to receive attention and pride? Who gave from a pure heart?

Like we discussed at the beginning of class, God blesses us with lots of gifts, and therefore we have many gifts to offer. There are four main types of gifts we can give: time, talent, treasure, and testimony. “God gives us the ability to make choices. With all the types of gifts we have—time, talent, treasure, and testimony—we can be better stewards over our gifts from God” (Of Water and Spirit, p. 101, adapted). The first gift we can give is time. Although people are constantly saying, “I don’t have time,” we are all given the same numbers of hours in a day. What do you do with your time? How do you spend your time? How can you spend your time serving God? Pass out the pink hearts. Ask children to write how they can give the gift of time to God. You may need to give some examples to get them thinking, such as volunteering at the humane shelter, helping the elderly in your congregation, picking weeds from the church flower bed, praying before bedtime, and attending church camps. The second gift we can give is talent. God has blessed everyone with a talent—good listening skills, musical ability, artistic skills, intelligence, generosity, and kindness. What are some other talents you have seen? Pass out the purple hearts. Ask children to write how they can give the gift of talent to God, for example playing an instrument for a church service, writing a prayer for peace to submit to World Church, or helping a friend with their homework. The third gift we can give is treasure. Although treasure is only part of the gifts we can give, money is important. Money helps pay the expenses for the congregation such as the lessons you are learning. It helps provide food and shelter for those less fortunate and ministry to persons around the world. Pass out the white hearts. Ask children to write on that heart how they can give the gift of treasure to God. You may need to give some examples to get them thinking such as donating part of their allowance or birthday money to the church or organizing and participating in church fundraisers. The fourth gift we can give is our testimony. Part of our calling as disciples is to share about Jesus and his teachings and to share stories of our experiences as we receive blessings and grow in our understanding

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 218 Children Community of Christ Lesson of God’s Spirit. Pass out the yellow hearts. Ask children to write on that heart ways they can give the gift of testimony to God, such as taking part in a testimony service at church, sharing a story about their experience at a youth camp or family camp, talking to a friend about what they know about Jesus or how they have been blessed by God. Punch a hole and tie a piece of twine or yarn in the top of each small heart. Punch holes along the bottom edge of the large red heart and attach the smaller hearts. This should make a mobile that can be hung somewhere in your classroom. Explain that we give our time, talents, treasures, and testimonies because God has blessed us.

True Capacity In the scripture story, the poor widow gave everything she had to the church. However, Community of Christ is not asking us to literally give all our money to the church, leaving ourselves completely broke. Instead, we are called to give to our true capacity. True capacity means to generously give to help God, others, and ourselves. That is different for each person. Pass out the Giving to God handouts. Explain to children this is a reminder for them to keep. They can color and draw something in the offering plate that represents giving to their true capacity. They could also use it to ask their parents or guardians what giving to their true capacity means to them. We will share the ideas and pictures next week.

Gather in a circle and hold hands. Sing “Make Me a Servant” CCS 579 twice. Then read the Mission Prayer in unison. God, where will your Spirit lead today? Help us be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant us courage to risk something new and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen.

Time? Talent? Treasure? Testimony?

What am I giving to God today?

Time? Talent? Treasure? Testimony?

Focus Scripture Passage: Mark 13:1–8 Lesson Focus: Disciples must stay faithful to God by sharing Christ's message—even when it's hard. Objectives The learners will… • explain that disciples remain faithful to God's mission—even through life's struggles. • reflect on ways they can share Christ's message with others. Supplies • Wooden building blocks or JengaTM blocks • Large sheet or blanket • Stopwatch or timer • Hershey's Hugs Notes (enough for each child to have five, end of lesson) • Hershey's Hugs candies (enough for each child to have five and one extra for the game) • Tape • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) • Optional: theme song from the movie Mission Impossible Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Mark 13:1–8 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 126–127, available through Herald House.

Allow time for children to share the pictures and ideas drawn on their “What am I giving to God today?” paper from last week. If children did not bring their papers back, ask if anyone took the time to draw or color or have a conversation with a parent or guardian about what “giving to your true capacity” looks like. Once children have shared, segue into this week’s lesson by stating, “Last week Jesus was sitting in a temple with his disciples, explaining the importance of giving with a pure heart. This week the story continues as Jesus and his disciples are leaving the temple. Do you think you can create a temple with these blocks like the one Jesus and his disciples visited?” Give children approximately five minutes to build their “temple” out of blocks—the bigger and more grandiose, the better. Encourage excitement and pride over their creation. Compliment their great work. At the end of the allotted time, ask the following questions:

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 223 Children Community of Christ Lesson • Are you proud of what you made from these blocks? • If you had more time and more blocks would you have created something even better? • If you spent more time and more money, would you be even prouder of your creation?

Shift the focus to the Bible story by reading Mark 13:1–2 GNT. When you read the last two words “thrown down” from v. 2, dramatically hit the structure your class just built so it all comes tumbling down. Hopefully this will startle a few kids. As Jesus was leaving the Temple, one of his disciples said, “Look, Teacher! What wonderful stones and buildings!” Jesus answered, “You see these great buildings? Not a single stone here will be left in its place; every one of them will be thrown down.” Ask: Were you surprised when I knocked your structure down? Why? Explain that the disciples walked through the streets of Jerusalem in awe; the city had the tallest and biggest buildings of that time. But when they commented on the glorious stones that made the temple, Jesus shocked them by stating it would one day be destroyed. The students’ temple only took five minutes to build; those buildings took years—even decades—to create. So, of course, the disciples were confused and wanted to know when and how these buildings would be destroyed. Continue reading Mark 13:3–6 GNT. Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, across from the Temple, when Peter, James, John, and Andrew came to him in private. “Tell us when this will be,” they said, “and tell us what will happen to show that the time has come for all these things to take place.” Jesus said to them, “Watch out, and don’t let anyone fool you. Many men, claiming to speak for me, will come and say, ‘I am he!’ and they will fool many people. Jesus answered with another prediction! Not only did he say the buildings would be destroyed, but he also said many people will forget his teachings and begin following or believing others. Ask: Have you ever followed someone that you shouldn’t have? Ask the children to stand facing you. Explain that you will touch your nose three times while you say “nose, nose, nose.” After saying “nose” three times, you will state the name of a different body part. All the children have to do is point to the body part you name last. Confirm directions with them before beginning the game. The first time say, “nose, nose, nose, mouth,” but when you say “mouth,” point to your ear. Most of the children will touch their ear because they’re following your actions and not your voice. Give them a second try. Say “nose, nose, nose, elbow,” but when you say “elbow,” point to your eye. If they follow your actions, point out that once again, the children weren’t following your words. Play a third time. Say “nose, nose, nose, ear,” but when you say “ear,” point to your bellybutton. —www.sermons4kids.com/be_careful.htm Ask the following questions: • Were you tricked into pointing to the wrong body part? Why? • Is it always easy to do what you are told?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 224 Children Community of Christ Lesson • What distracts you from following Jesus’ teachings? Say, “Jesus knew that after he left Earth, there would be many people who would forget his teachings or get tricked into following others. He also knew that over the years people would face terrible problems; there would be a lot of suffering and destruction. But he didn’t want his disciples to begin fearing the end of the world. Jesus instructed them to ignore any false reports or fake news about doomsday. Instead, he urged the disciples to do something important. Listen carefully to this last part of the scripture passage to hear what Jesus wanted his disciples to do.” Finish reading the focus scripture passage paraphrased from Mark 13:7–10 GNT. Don’t be troubled when you hear about wars in your own community or wars in other countries. War must happen, but that does not mean that the end of the world has come. Countries will fight each other. There will be earthquakes and there will be famines. Even some of you must watch out. Some will be arrested and taken to court, and others will be beaten in synagogues. But you should stand up in front of everyone and share the Good News I have brought. Before the end comes, everyone must learn about God’s love and peace. Ask: • What did Jesus want his disciples to do? • Is it always easy to focus on the love of God when bad things are happening? • Have there been times when you’ve been distracted by so many bad things that you forget your blessings?

Gather the children in a seated circle. Spread out the sheet so everyone is holding an edge. Pick one child to crawl under the sheet to the center of the circle. Explain that his or her mission is to find the child seated somewhere around the circle who has something for them as quickly as possible. Pick another child to hold a Hershey’s Hug candy, but make sure the child under the sheet doesn’t know which child has the candy. When you shout “go,” everyone on the outside begins shaking the sheet up and down. To guess who might have the item, the crawling child must tap the shoes of someone seated around the circle. If a child’s shoes are tapped, they should answer, “Not here,” if they aren’t holding the candy, or say, “Mission complete,” if they do have the candy. Play until the child discovers who has the candy. Use a timer to keep track of how long it takes. When the child completes his or her “mission,” choose another child to try to beat that time. Play as long as time allows. —http://catholicmom.com/2013/06/03/settling-the-storm-bible-game/ (Optional) Play the theme song from the movie Mission Impossible as a way to make the activity more challenging and suspenseful. Ask the children to reflect on this game to answer the following questions: • Was this game difficult? Why? • What was the most challenging part? • How motivated were you to keep looking when you didn’t know what you were going to get?

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 225 Children Community of Christ Lesson • For those who were shaking the sheet, were you ever frustrated? Why? • For those who thought this game was easy or had the fastest time, what was your strategy? Explain that Jesus knew his disciples would be faced with many challenges. Without his physical presence, Jesus was worried that they might get distracted or give up—especially because they still had so many unanswered questions. They didn’t know what was waiting for them in the future. Jesus took this opportunity to remind his disciples to stick to their mission—even when things got tough. What was their mission? What mission are we—as disciples of Jesus—supposed to be doing? (If children can’t remember, read the last two sentences of the paraphrased scripture again.) But you should stand up in front of everyone and share the Good News I have brought. Before the end comes, everyone must learn about God’s love and peace.

Sing “Make Me a Servant” CCS 579 twice. Pass out five Hershey’s Hugs to each child. Have the children cut out the Hershey’s Hug notes, making sure each child has five. Help the children tape the Hershey’s Hugs to the notes. Explain that the children are challenged to practice spreading the good news by giving these to five different people. They can do it at church, at home with family, at school with friends, or anywhere else they go in the next week. The children should read the note aloud while handing it to someone, and then, if they feel comfortable, they can give the person an actual hug.

Have each child find a comfortable place in the room to sit, lie, or stand where they will not be able to touch another. Explain that they will be spending a few moments thinking about how to accomplish God’s mission. Wait at least 30 seconds before continuing. Then explain that carrying out Christ’s mission sometimes takes a lot of courage. Today we will say the Mission Prayer aloud to ourselves. Reassure them that they don’t have to talk very loudly, but it’s important to hear themselves say the words. God, where will your Spirit lead today? Help me be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant me courage to risk something new and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen.

Focus Scripture Passage: John 18:33–37 Lesson Focus: Jesus invited his disciples to follow him into and upside-down community where the love of God reigns. Objectives The learners will… • recall and list multiple stories of the Bible when Jesus surprises his followers by providing unexpected answers to questions they ask. • differentiate between earthly kingdoms and the kingdom in which God reigns. • brainstorm ways they can spread Christ's truth in their community. Supplies • Copies of script for each child (end of lesson) • Optional: box of costumes, sheets, blankets • One coin • Newspaper • Large piece of white construction paper • Glue stick • Scissors • Large black marker • Colored markers • Mission Prayer cards (end of lesson) • Community of Christ Sings (CCS) Note to teacher: In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 18:33–37 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament, pp. 128–129, available through Herald House.

Prior to students’ arrival, rearrange and redecorate the classroom so that furniture, wall hangings, and other items are upside-down. When the children walk into the classroom, it should be obvious that their classroom has been completely changed. Make a big deal about how inconvenient it is to teach in a classroom so different from the norm. Initiate some whining and complaining from the children as well. Explain that this is the last Sunday before the Advent season begins. Over the past year—even in the last few weeks—we have learned that people asked Jesus a lot of questions. But Jesus never responded in a way they expected. Ask the children to give some examples of times when Jesus’ answers were different from the norm (widow’s mite, the greatest commandment, predicting the destruction of the temple). Jesus taught that the kingdom of God has different rules and expectations from the communities of this world. In God’s kingdom, servants rule, children are teachers, and death is the way to new life. In God’s kingdom, everything is upside-down. But like we complained about the inconvenience of our upside- down classroom, many people complained about the message Jesus brought. They want the government to get rid of Jesus and his teachings because they made them uncomfortable and worried.

Encourage the kids to participate in a play using a script adapted from John 18:33–37. First, read the script aloud so the children have a chance to get familiar with the story. Answer any questions the children might have. Second, assign parts, and allow time for the children to practice their lines. You may have to help with word pronunciations. There are only three cast members listed; if more children want a part, split the narrator lines so more children can participate. Children not wanting a speaking part may participate as audience members who clap at the end of the performance. (Optional) Allow children to rummage through a box of costumes, blankets, and sheets to dress for their parts. Some congregations have costumes from Christmas or Easter pageants that can be used. After the children have performed their play, lead a discussion with the following questions: • Pilate calls Jesus a king. Jesus doesn’t deny that, but knows he is a different type of king from what Pilate is referencing. What type of king is Jesus? • Why does Jesus answer Pilate’s question with another question? • Jesus said he came to testify to the truth. To what truth is he referring? • As disciples, we should follow Jesus’ example by testifying to the truth. How do you testify to that truth in your community? What can you do?

Direct the children to stand in a circle. You will be playing a game like follow the leader, but in this game, the leader is always the child standing to your left. You will do whatever she or he does and says. Begin the game by turning to the child on your left, saying, “Jesus was friendly,” and shaking the child’s hand. That child will do the same thing to the person on his or her left until it goes all the way around the circle and back to you. Start another round by saying to the child on your left, “Jesus was kind,” and bend over to tie his or her shoe. Continue the game with the following statements and actions: • “Jesus was giving.” Pull the coin out of your pocket and give it to the child on your left. • “Jesus was happy.” Smile at the child on your left. • “Jesus prayed.” Grab the hands of the child on your left and hold them together, forming praying hands. • “Jesus cared about others.” Pat the shoulders of the child on your left. • “Jesus was encouraging.” Give the child on your left a high five. • “Jesus loved everyone.” Hug the child on your left. —www.daniellesplace.com/html/following-in-his-footsteps-bible-lesson.html If children are getting bored or can handle a challenge, you can begin another round while those in the circle are still working on the previous one. For the last round, state, “Jesus spread the truth,” and with both open hands on your mouth, motion out and toward the child on your left. Explain that Jesus led by example; he was friendly, kind, caring, and loved everyone. Jesus demonstrated to his disciples how to live as part of God’s kingdom. Jesus lived over 2,000 years ago. After his death, Jesus’ disciples began spreading his truth by word of mouth and writing their stories. Today we have many methods of spreading news. Set a newspaper out for everyone to see. Explain that newspapers have been around a long time. They used to be the only way for people to find out what was happening around the world. Today we have other ways of spreading news. Can you think of some? (Google, Twitter, TV, radio, Facebook) As disciples, we have some important news to share. Even though we may not be on TV or have social media accounts, we can still spread the news that Jesus Christ shared with us so many years ago.

Unfold the newspaper. Glue a piece of large white construction paper to the center of newspaper so that you can see newspaper sticking out on all sides of the construction paper. Trim the newspaper edges so there is an equally sized border on each edge. In the center of the white construction paper, print the following words using the large black marker: SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS OF CHRIST’S TRUTH. Then allow children to write and share ideas how they can share the message today. You may need to provide some examples to get them started, such as invite a friend to church or youth camp, share your testimony with someone at school, allow God to spread love through you by treating people the way Christ treated them,

© 2020 Community of Christ • www.CofChrist.org 230 Children Community of Christ Lesson learn more about Community of Christ so that you can teach others, donate your allowance to Worldwide Mission Tithes to support missionaries and spread the good news about Jesus across the world. Once completed, hang this poster on the wall as a reminder that we are challenged to spread the news of the past using the methods of today. —adapted from www.childrens-ministry-deals.com/pages/object-lesson-on-sharing-the- gospel Sing “Make Me a Servant” CCS 579 twice.

Explain that we have been singing the same song and ending each class with the same prayer on purpose. In Community of Christ, we believe that Christ’s mission is OUR mission. We believe that is so important, we even have a mission statement: “We proclaim Jesus Christ and promote communities of joy, hope, love, and peace.” The song “Make Me a Servant” and the Mission Prayer help us ask for God’s guidance in carrying out Christ’s mission. Hopefully you’ve been able to memorize both the prayer and song so you can always carry them with you. Being a disciple of Jesus Christ can be difficult at times, so it is important to have these reminders for every step of the way. Hand a Mission Prayer card to each child. Explain that these cards are not for them to keep. Part of carrying out Christ’s mission is to help all ages deepen their discipleship and invite people to Christ. Tell the children that their mission is to find someone within their community who might need this little reminder that our focus should remain on Christ’s mission and God’s kingdom. Gather the children in a circle holding hands to say the Mission Prayer together. God, where will your Spirit lead today? Help me be fully awake and ready to respond. Grant me courage to risk something new and become a blessing of your love and peace. Amen.

Cast • Narrator (The narrator has four lines, so if you have more than three children who want a part, you can assign different children to each of the narrator lines.) • Pilate • Jesus

Script

Narrator: Pilate then went back inside the palace and summoned Jesus. He asked,

Pilate: Are you the king of the Jews?

Jesus: Is that your own idea or did others talk to you about me?

Narrator: Again, Jesus answered Pilate with a question. Both men were leaders and aware of the power they each had. So, Pilate answered very carefully,

Pilate: Your own people and church leaders handed you over to me. What is it you have done?

Jesus: My kingdom is not of this world; otherwise, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest. My kingdom is from another place.

Pilate: You are a king, then!

Narrator: Jesus knew he was a king, but not the type of king everyone imagined. Jesus was a king like no other, reigning over a kingdom nobody understood.

Jesus: You are the one saying I am a king, in fact, the reason I was born into this world is to testify to the truth. Everyone who seeks the truth listens to my voice.

Narrator: God sent Jesus to live in our world as a leader, not as a king but as the Messiah. Through his daily actions and teachings, Jesus led by example. He taught that God will always s reign over all creation. The different countries and rulers of our world are far less important than God's upside-down kingdom in which servants are powerful and children are teacher.