My Special Message to Jesus

Activity Objective

To identify with Jesus' suffering and answer the call to be like Jesus

Lesson Outcome

The children will be able to explain and respond to the call to be like Jesus.

Materials

  • Red, pink, and purple construction paper
  • Markers, crayons, pens, pencils
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Small index cards with typed or printed passage from Luke 9:23--one per child
  • Ribbon or string

Directions

  • Invite the children to share what they know about the Stations of the Cross and the story of Jesus taking up the cross.
  • Say to the children: We can pray the Stations of the Cross to remember all that Jesus did for us.
  • Invite the children to reflect upon Jesus' suffering by writing prayers of gratitude for his great sacrifice.
  • At this time, provide each child with a piece of construction paper and a copy of the passage from Luke 9:23. Also, have coloring utensils, scissors, and glue available for the children.
  • Ask the children to create cut-out paper hearts with their construction paper and to glue the passage from Luke onto one side of the heart.
  • On the other side of the heart, invite the children to write their prayerful messages to Jesus, thanking him for his great sacrifice.
  • Encourage the children to decorate their hearts.
  • Punch a hole at the top of each heart and tie a ribbon through each hole.
  • Invite the children to share their messages with the others. Then encourage them to hang their hearts in a special place for all to see at home.

Learning Styles

Art/Space Smart, People Smart, Self Smart, Word Smart

Approximate Time

30 minutes

Hints

  • In advance, print the passage from Luke on small slips of paper.
  • Provide a heart template to trace.