Lesson: Mark 2:9 (Ages 3-5)

📖 Mark 2:9 – Ages 3-5

Explanation

In this verse, Jesus is asking a question to show how powerful He is. He wanted people to see that forgiving sins and healing the sick are both things only God can do.

Imagine if your friend accidentally broke your favorite toy. You could say, "It's okay, I forgive you," and it would make your friend feel better. When Jesus forgave the paralyzed man's sins, it was like saying, "I forgive you" to the man's heart, making him feel better inside.

Then, Jesus told the paralyzed man to get up and walk. It's like if you fell down and hurt your knee, and Jesus said, "Get up, you can walk!" and suddenly you could run and play again.

Jesus wanted people to know that He has power to heal our hearts and our bodies. He can make us feel better inside and outside because He loves us so much.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, there was a little bunny named Benny who loved hopping around in the forest. One day, Benny met a sad squirrel named Sammy who couldn't walk because his legs were hurt. Benny felt sorry for Sammy and wanted to help him.

Benny remembered a story he heard at bunny school about a man who could heal others. So, Benny hopped over to Sammy and said, "I believe you can walk again, Sammy! Just like the man in the story." Sammy looked surprised but smiled.

Benny whispered, "Just like in the story, it's easier to say kind words and forgive someone than to do a big miracle. Let's believe in miracles together!" With that, Sammy tried to stand up, and to everyone's amazement, he took a few steps!

Benny and Sammy learned that kind words and faith can make wonderful things happen, just like in the story.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for loving us and for showing us that you have the power to heal and forgive. Help us to remember that you can do amazing things beyond what we can imagine. Amen.

Discussion Questions

What do you think Jesus did for the paralyzed man in this story?
Why do you think the people were surprised by what Jesus said?
How do you think the paralyzed man felt when Jesus healed him?
What do you think Jesus wants us to learn from this story?
Can you think of a time when Jesus helped you or someone you know?

Life Application

Jesus was teaching that forgiving sins and healing are both amazing things that only God can do. For children, this verse can remind them that God has the power to do anything, even things that seem impossible to us. So, children can trust God to help them with things that are hard for them, like forgiving someone who hurt their feelings or helping a friend who is feeling sad. They can also learn to pray to God for help and trust that He can do great things in their lives.

Craft or Activity

One fun activity to help children understand Mark 2:9 is to create a simple obstacle course representing the paralyzed man's journey. Set up pillows or cushions on the floor to represent the man's mat, and have the child walk around them pretending to be the paralyzed man. Talk about how Jesus forgave the man's sins and healed him, making it possible for him to get up and walk. This hands-on activity can help children visualize the story and remember the message that Jesus has the power to forgive sins and perform miracles.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

Sure! Here is a fun rhyme for your little one:

"When Jesus healed a man one day,
He asked a question in a playful way.
'Which is easier, do you see?
To say 'Your sins are forgiven' or 'Get up and walk' with glee?
Jesus has power, this verse is clear,
To forgive sins and heal with cheer!"

Songs or Videos

One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of Mark 2:9 is "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands." This song reminds us of God's power and ability to forgive sins and perform miracles. Another wonderful song is "Jesus Loves Me," which teaches children about the love and care Jesus has for each of us, including the forgiveness of our sins and the ability to heal us.

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