For Kids: The Woman's Great Faith | Lectionary 20 (Pentecost 12) | Year A
Opening Song: The Apostles' Creed
Note: Today's lesson is based on Matthew 15:21-28 in the Lectionary readings.
Big Idea: Have great faith.
Story: "The Greatest Commandment" | 365 Bible Stories and Prayers, pg. 269
Ask: Jesus told us that the most important things we can do are to love God and love others. How do you show your love for God and for others?
Let's watch a video and see if we can tell when people are loving God and loving others and when they are not...
Lesson Video | The Faith of a Canaanite Woman
Ask: In this story, a woman is asking Jesus for help - at first it doesn't seem like He's going to help her. But He does!
Who in this story was showing love for others? (Jesus and the woman)
Were the Disciples showing love for others? (No) How did they treat the woman?
Who did the woman show love for? (Jesus - God)
The woman didn't only show love for God - she showed faith. That means she trusted that Jesus would help her, even when He didn't say anything at first. The woman showed the disciples what real trust in God looks like. She also shows us what trusting in God looks like. Her daughter was not well, so she kept on asking God to help. She wasn't being selfish, she was loving her daughter and loving God. She was following the way of Jesus.
Let's sing about following Jesus' way.
Song for Kids: Every Move I Make
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.