Opening Song: The Apostles' Creed
Big Idea: Sometimes, we need to wait for good things!
Story: "Zechariah" - Spark Story Bible, pg. 208
Say: John the Baptist's parents didn't think they could have children because they were so old. They had to be patient. When John was born, his dad, Zechariah, praised and thanked God because their wait for a child was over. And John was a special child who would tell all the people waiting for Jesus that he was about to arrive! Let's watch a video about waiting and being patient.
Lesson — Patience
Ask: Are you good at being patient? ... What is something you've had to wait for that you really wanted?
Is it hard to wait for Christmas? ... What is the thing about Christmas that is hardest to wait for?
When you have to wait for something and be patient, is there anything you do that helps make the time go by quicker? (Example: doing something fun can help)
Say: When Jesus came long ago as a baby, people were waiting for Him and His Kingdom. I bet it was hard for them to be patient.
Now, it can be hard to wait for Jesus to come back and get rid of all the bad stuff in the world and make it perfect. Doesn't that sound nice?
We can be patient and trust that Jesus will keep His promise to come back. While we wait, we can make the waiting easier by being like John the Baptist and his parents: telling people about Jesus, helping others, and praising and thanking God for all the good things he does for us! Let's sing a song that reminds us to do this:
Song: "Go Tell It on the Mountains" (with hand motions)
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.