Prayer (5 Minutes)
- Have each family member complete this sentence in prayer: "Dear Jesus, thank you that you love _______ (name a child you know)." Parents can start by naming their own children, and children can name their friends or siblings.
Song (5 Minutes)
Catechism (5 minutes)
Have everyone read aloud simultaneously or allow everyone to try to answer before revealing the answer.
Q2: What is God?
A: God is the creator of everyone and everything. (Psalm 86:8–10, 15)
A: God is the creator of everyone and everything. (Psalm 86:8–10, 15)
Questions from: https://newcitycatechism.com/. Go there to start from beginning or to read more.
Scripture (5 Minutes)
Mark 10:13–16 (NLT)
One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.
When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.
When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.
Discussion (5-10 Minutes)
You can lead through a teaching or use the following questions to start a discussion:
- What were the parents wanting Jesus to do for their children?
- How do you think the children felt when the disciples tried to send them away?
- Why do you think Jesus became angry with His disciples?
- What does it mean to receive the Kingdom of God like a child?
- How does Jesus show His love for children in this story?
- What can we learn about Jesus's character from this passage?
Closing Prayer (3 Minutes)
"Dear Jesus, thank you for loving children and showing us that you welcome everyone who comes to you with childlike faith. Help us to trust you completely and simply, just as little children trust their parents. Thank you that we can come to you just as we are, knowing that you will always welcome us with open arms. In Jesus's name, Amen."