Opening Song: The Apostles' Creed
Big Idea: Jesus loves people, no matter what their bodies can or can't do.
Story: "Lazarus" | Spark Story Bible, pg. 440
Action (from the story): Close your eyes. Think of your favorite things to see. Open your eyes, thanking God for all you see.
Let's watch a video to learn more about this story...
Lesson Video | Jesus Raises Lazarus from the Dead
Ask: Do you have a best friend? ... How would you feel if your best friend got sick? ... What could you do for them? ... How would you feel if your best friend died? ... What did Jesus feel when His friend Lazarus died?
Say: Did you know that Jesus gets sad too? When we are sad about someone being sick or dying, Jesus is sad too. He doesn't like death or sickness. So, He promises to heal us one day. Because Jesus rose from the dead and is now alive, He will raise us from the dead - like we say in the Apostles' Creed.
Action for the Kids - Say: Tell a friend how much you care about them this week. And remember that Jesus feels the feelings that we feel.
Song for Kids:
Think of Jesus healing Lazarus and healing us from death
Activity Sheets or Play
After the song, hand out the activity sheets. Younger children are welcome to play with the Duplos (encourage them to play out a story that fits with the lesson).
End with the Lord's Prayer when the Usher comes to let you know the prayers have started.
(If you need more time)
Go around the room and ask the children to share something they are thankful for this week.
Ask them if there is anything or anyone they would like to pray for this week.