Lesson: Matthew 10:42 (Ages 3-5)

📖 Matthew 10:42 – Ages 3-5

Explanation

In this Bible verse, Jesus is teaching us about the importance of being kind and helping others, especially those who may seem small or young like you. Imagine if you were really thirsty and someone gave you a cup of cold water to drink on a hot day. How happy and grateful would you feel?

When we are loving and helpful to others, it's like we are doing it for Jesus too. So, when we show kindness to someone in need, we are actually showing kindness to Jesus. And Jesus promises that when we do good things for others, even small things like giving a cup of water, we will be rewarded in a special way. It may not always be with a toy or a treat, but it's a reward that makes our hearts feel warm and happy inside.

So, remember, being kind and helping others, no matter how big or small the act, is like giving a gift to Jesus. And when we do that, we receive a beautiful reward from Him that fills us with joy and love.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, there was a little squirrel named Sammy who loved to play in the forest. One hot day, as Sammy scampered around looking for acorns, he spotted a tired bunny sitting by a tree, panting with thirst.

Feeling sorry for his furry friend, Sammy remembered a verse he heard from his squirrel family about helping others in need. He hurried to a nearby stream, filled a tiny leaf with cold water, and brought it to the bunny. The bunny drank the refreshing water and smiled gratefully.

That evening, as the sun set, a gentle voice whispered through the trees, "Well done, Sammy, for showing kindness to your friend in need. Remember, even a small act of kindness is never forgotten." And Sammy felt warm inside, knowing he had done something good in the name of love.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for loving us and caring for us just like you ask us to care for others. Help us to be kind and helpful, like offering a cup of water to someone in need. Amen.

Discussion Questions

What do you think Jesus means when He says "little ones" in this verse?
Why do you think it is important to help others, even with something small like a cup of water?
How do you think Jesus feels when we show kindness to others, especially to those who are in need?
Do you remember a time when someone was kind to you? How did it make you feel?
How can we show kindness to others in our everyday lives, just like Jesus wants us to do?

Life Application

This Bible verse teaches us that even small acts of kindness are important to God. Children can apply this message by being kind to others in their everyday life. They can share their toys with a friend, help a classmate who is struggling, or simply say "please" and "thank you" to show kindness. By doing these small acts of kindness, children are showing love and care for others, just like Jesus taught us to do.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a "Blessing Jar" craft!

1. Get a clean, empty jar and decorate it with stickers, markers, or paint.

2. Cut out small pieces of paper and encourage the child to write or draw acts of kindness they can do for others, like sharing toys, helping a friend, or giving a hug.

3. Each time the child does a kind act, they can write it down on a paper slip and put it in the jar.

4. As the jar fills up, talk about how each act of kindness is like giving a cup of cold water to someone in need, just like Jesus said in Matthew 10:42.

5. At the end of each week, read the slips together and celebrate the kind deeds done. This can help the child understand and remember the message of the Bible verse.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

In Jesus' name, we show we care,
A cup of water, a gift so rare.
For even the little ones, so small,
Will be blessed by God, who sees it all.

Songs or Videos

One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of Matthew 10:42 is "Jesus Loves Me." This classic song teaches children about the love and care that Jesus has for each of them, reminding them of the importance of showing kindness to others, even through small acts like offering a cup of cold water.

Another wonderful song that ties in with this message is "This Little Light of Mine." This song encourages children to let their light shine and show kindness and love to others, just as Jesus has shown love to them. It reminds kids that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference and bring light into the world. Both of these songs can help reinforce the message of Matthew 10:42 in a fun and engaging way for children.

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