Lesson: Luke 18:22 (Ages 3-5)

📖 Luke 18:22 – Ages 3-5

Explanation

Jesus was talking to a man who had a lot of things. He told the man to sell all his things and give the money to the poor. This means that Jesus wanted the man to share his things with people who didn't have as much as he did. Jesus said that if the man did this, he would have treasure in heaven.

Imagine if you had a big bag of toys, and there was a friend who didn't have any toys. Jesus would want you to share some of your toys with your friend so they could have fun too. And when we are kind and share with others, it makes God very happy, and He gives us special treasures in heaven.

So, this verse reminds us to be generous and kind to others, just like Jesus was teaching the man to do. When we share and help those in need, we show love and care, just like Jesus did when He was here on earth.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, there was a little squirrel named Sammy who loved collecting shiny acorns. His treehouse was filled with acorns of all colors and sizes. One day, Sammy met Jesus, who told him, "You still lack one thing: Share your acorns with those who have none, and you will be happy."

At first, Sammy was hesitant to give away his precious acorns. But then he remembered Jesus's words and decided to share them with his squirrel friends who didn't have any.

To Sammy's surprise, when he shared his acorns, his friends were so happy and grateful. Sammy felt a warm feeling in his heart, knowing he had helped others. Jesus smiled at Sammy and said, "Well done, my little friend. By sharing, you have gained treasure in heaven."

And from that day on, Sammy learned that giving to others brings true happiness and joy.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for all the things you give us. Help us remember that following you is the most important treasure we can have. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Jesus told the man to sell all he had and give it to the poor?
2. How do you think the man felt when Jesus asked him to give everything away?
3. What do you think it means to have "treasure in heaven"?
4. How can we follow Jesus like the man was asked to do?
5. How can we help others who are in need, like giving to the poor?

Life Application

Jesus was teaching us about the importance of putting Him first in our lives and being willing to give up anything that gets in the way of following Him. For a young child, this can mean sharing their toys with others, helping those in need, and being kind to everyone they meet. They can apply this message by being generous and loving towards their family, friends, and even strangers. Encourage them to think about how they can show love and kindness to others in their everyday interactions.

Craft or Activity

One fun craft activity to help children understand the message of Luke 18:22 could be a "Treasure in Heaven" jar.

You can provide the children with small jars or containers, colorful stickers, markers, and small pieces of paper. Encourage the children to decorate their jars with stickers and markers to make them look special.

Then, have them write or draw things they can do to help others or be kind on the small pieces of paper. These could be simple acts of kindness like sharing toys, helping a friend, or saying a kind word.

Once they have their acts of kindness written or drawn, they can put them in their "Treasure in Heaven" jars. Explain to the children that just like in the verse, when we do kind things for others, we are storing up treasure in heaven.

This hands-on activity can help children remember the importance of helping others and following Jesus's teachings about kindness and generosity.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

Sell and give, Jesus said,
To help the poor, don't be afraid.
In heaven, treasure you will find,
Follow Jesus, be loving and kind!

Songs or Videos

There is a wonderful Christian song called "Give It All To You" by Aaron Shust that reflects the message of Luke 18:22. Another great song for kids is "Do Everything" by Steven Curtis Chapman, which encourages children to do everything for the glory of God, including giving to those in need. Both of these songs can help kids understand the importance of generosity and following Jesus wholeheartedly.

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