Little things
Children's Activity
Object:
Teachers or Parents: Today's lesson is a most difficult one
for children. The early part of the Gospel Lesson is about
another exorcist. The text suggests jealousy on the part of the
disciples. But Jesus says that anything we do -- even such a
seemingly insignificant thing as offering a glass of water -- is
important.
* Have the children offer water to others in the congregation. This might be at a time of fellowship. Perhaps they can help serve the coffee or other beverages.
* Think of other "little" things the children could do that would promote good will among people: picking up litter on the church grounds, helping elderly up the steps, running errands, and so forth.
* Challenge each child to do a "little" thing yet today for another person. Ask the children to share what they did at next Sunday's church school.
* This might be a good time to learn about other disciples who serve the Lord, just as Jesus' disciples learned about others. Is it possible to visit another denomination or learn more about other churches in the community?
Sunday school assembly opening:
* Tell the story of a servant -- especially that of a Christian who has dedicated his or her life to serving others. A brief biography can be quite powerful. Some possibilities that fit the church year calendar: Jerome, translator of the Vulgate, teacher (September 30); Francis of Assisi, renewer of the church (October 4); Theodor Fliedner, renewer of society (October 4); William Tyndale, translator, martyr (October 6).
* Use one of the members of your church -- someone who has served in extraordinary ways -- as an example of Christian service. Tell the stories or have someone share stories of outstanding Christian service.
* Have the children offer water to others in the congregation. This might be at a time of fellowship. Perhaps they can help serve the coffee or other beverages.
* Think of other "little" things the children could do that would promote good will among people: picking up litter on the church grounds, helping elderly up the steps, running errands, and so forth.
* Challenge each child to do a "little" thing yet today for another person. Ask the children to share what they did at next Sunday's church school.
* This might be a good time to learn about other disciples who serve the Lord, just as Jesus' disciples learned about others. Is it possible to visit another denomination or learn more about other churches in the community?
Sunday school assembly opening:
* Tell the story of a servant -- especially that of a Christian who has dedicated his or her life to serving others. A brief biography can be quite powerful. Some possibilities that fit the church year calendar: Jerome, translator of the Vulgate, teacher (September 30); Francis of Assisi, renewer of the church (October 4); Theodor Fliedner, renewer of society (October 4); William Tyndale, translator, martyr (October 6).
* Use one of the members of your church -- someone who has served in extraordinary ways -- as an example of Christian service. Tell the stories or have someone share stories of outstanding Christian service.
