Lesson: Matthew 27:32 (Ages 6-8)

📖 Matthew 27:32 – Ages 6-8

Explanation

Imagine you are at school, and you see someone struggling to carry a heavy stack of books. In the Bible verse, a man named Simon was walking by when he saw Jesus carrying His heavy cross. The soldiers made Simon help Jesus carry the cross, just like if you saw a friend struggling, you would help them. This shows us that it's important to help others when they need it, even if it's hard.

Jesus was carrying the cross because He loves us so much that He was willing to suffer for us. And Simon helped Him, showing kindness and love. This reminds us that we can also show love and kindness to others, just like Simon did for Jesus. It teaches us to be helpers and friends to those in need, just as Jesus is always there for us.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a bustling town, there was a little boy named Tommy. Tommy loved helping others and spreading kindness wherever he went. One day, Tommy saw a man struggling to carry a heavy load of groceries, so he ran to help him.

As they walked together, the man shared a story with Tommy about a man named Simon from the Bible who helped Jesus carry His cross. Simon didn't know Jesus, but he still chose to help Him when He needed it the most. Tommy listened intently and realized that helping others, even strangers, is a way to show love and kindness, just like Simon did for Jesus.

From that day on, Tommy made it his mission to always lend a helping hand to those in need, just like Simon did for Jesus. And through his actions, Tommy spread love and kindness throughout his town, just like Simon did so long ago.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for sending Simon to help Jesus carry His cross. Help us remember to be kind and help others in need. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think the soldiers made Simon carry Jesus' cross?
2. How do you think Simon felt about helping Jesus carry the cross?
3. What can we learn from Simon about helping others in need?
4. How do you think Jesus felt knowing Simon helped Him?
5. What can we do to show kindness and help others like Simon did for Jesus?

Life Application

In this verse, we see Simon of Cyrene helping Jesus by carrying His cross. Children can apply this message in their lives by being willing to help others when they see someone in need. They can offer their assistance to family members, classmates, or friends who may be struggling or needing help with something. Just like Simon helped Jesus, children can show kindness and compassion by lending a hand to others, even if it may not be easy or convenient for them. By doing so, they can follow Jesus' example of love and selflessness in their everyday interactions with others.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a "Cross Carrier" craft to help children understand and remember the message of Matthew 27:32.

Materials needed:
- Craft sticks
- Yarn or string
- Markers or paints
- Glue

Instructions:
1. Have the child decorate two craft sticks to represent Jesus' cross. They can use markers or paint to add details.
2. Once the craft sticks are decorated, lay them in the shape of a cross.
3. Cut a piece of yarn or string long enough to wrap around the center of the cross.
4. Have the child glue the string in place to secure the two craft sticks together.
5. Encourage the child to reflect on the verse as they create their "Cross Carrier" craft, remembering Simon's act of helping Jesus carry the cross.

This craft will serve as a tangible reminder of Simon's important role in Jesus' journey to the cross and can help children connect with the meaning of the verse.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

When Jesus walked to Calvary hill,
Simon helped Him, carrying the heavy load with skill.
Remember Simon from Cyrene, a man so kind,
Who showed us how to love and serve, with a heart aligned.

Songs or Videos

One great song for kids that relates to this verse is "Carry the Cross" by Hillsong Kids. The lyrics talk about following Jesus and carrying our own cross just like Simon did for Him.

Another wonderful song is "Simon of Cyrene" by Go Fish. This song tells the story of Simon helping Jesus carry the cross and how we can also help others in need.

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