Newsletter 50 - A Christmas special.
Newsletter 50 from Maurice Sweetsur
(A Christmas special). xxxxxx
Dear Friend in Christ,
As my 50th. Newsletter coincides with the advent of Christmas, I thought that I would reproduce some of my teaching aids that are appropriate for this time of the year. I hope that you will find something here that you are able to use in your ministry to children.
When I started writing these Newsletters in early 2002, I never envisaged that I would still be sending them out almost five years later. If you were to ask me how much material I had left that I wanted to share, I would probably reply "About enough for two more Newsletters." But, remarkably, that would have been my reply at any time during the last five years! It seems that the more I give out, the more ideas I get on things I still want to share. Therefore my intention is that I will keep sending out these Newsletters as long as I have material that I consider worthwhile sharing.
Thank you to all those of you who have sent me an email of thanks or encouragement over the years. It is good to know that my material is appreciated and being used to minister to children in many different countries.
Have a Blessed Christmas,
Maurice Sweetsur
All Newsletters - http://mauricesweetsur.blogspot.com/
Object lessons / Illusions only - http://objectlessons.blogspot.com/
Teaching tips only - http://teachinglessons.blogspot.com/
Stories, skits and puppet plays - http://christianstoriesandplays.blogspot.com
Contents.
Puppet play - What is Christmas all about?
O.L. 8 - Receiving Jesus
T.T. 15 - Telling the C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S. story.
O.L. 54 - The Christmas tree.
Craft - Making a 'fun' Christmas card.
Elimination quiz - Christmas.
O.L. 25 - Jesus is the light of the world.
A Birthday Celebration.
Puppet play for Christmas.
When I do puppet plays, I usually record the script beforehand - using different 'character' voices, and then play it back while children operate the (glove) puppets. This way I am able to 'watch' the entire group, and also have a puppet/human dialogue if required. For this play, you will need one animal (I use a sheep) and four 'human' puppets. Write the word "Christmas" on a large piece of paper, and display it in a prominent position.
Script.
Host. Today we are going to ask the very important question "What is Christmas all about?" But firstly, let me introduce you to my panel of guests. Let's give a big welcome for my first guest - Miss know it all.
Miss Know it all. Thank you for inviting me onto your show. I am Miss know it all, so you only have to ask me the question, because I know everything.
Host. Well, we will see about that a little later. But secondly, let me introduce Mr. Don't know a lot.
Mr. Don't know a lot. Don't be fooled by my name, because actually I know heaps and heaps of things. So ask me the question, and I will give you the right answer.
Host. Thank you Mr. Don't Know a lot. Our next guest is Mr. Remember well.
Mr. Remember well. As you can tell by my name, I remember everything. So ask me the question, and I will give you the answer.
Host. Thank you Mr. Remember well. Our final guest is Mr. Shaun the sheep. Say "hello" Shaun.
Shaun. Baa Baa.
Host. Thank you Shaun, If we have time, I will ask Shaun his opinion, but really I don't think he will be much help at all. The question then is "What is Christmas all about?" I am going to save us all some time because I know the answer myself. Christmas is all about money. Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but only because Mary and Joseph had to go there to register to pay their taxes to Caesar. So that's the answer - Money. That's why my mum and dad are always complaining what an expensive time of the year Christmas is with so many presents to buy. But, to be fair, I will ask my guests if they have any other opinions. Miss Know it all. Do you know what Christmas is all about?
Miss Know it all. I certainly do. It's not about money you silly old fool. Christmas is all about Food. When Jesus was born, he was placed in a Manger - which is a cattle's eating trough. So that is why people eat so much at Christmas, like Turkey, Christmas pudding and lots of chocolate. So that's the answer to your question - Food.
Host. Thank you Miss Know it all. Remind me not to invite you back on my show. Now, Mr. Don't know a lot, do you know what Christmas is all about?
Mr. Don't know a lot. Well, it's not about money or food. No, Christmas is all about Singing. After Jesus was born, Angels appeared to some Shepherds and they began to sing "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men." So that is the answer - Singing. That is why groups go out carol singing today.
Host. Thank you Mr. Don't know a lot. That was certainly a very "interesting" answer. Mr. Remember well. Do you remember what Christmas is all about?
Mr. Remember well. I certainly do. You should have asked me first, because I remember the answer to the question. Christmas is all about Presents. After Jesus was born, some wise men brought gifts of gold, incense and myrrh to Him. That is why people exchange gifts at Christmas today. So the answer is Presents.
Host. Thank you Mr. Remember well. Finally, I suppose we should ask our last guest Shaun the sheep if he has any opinion. Shaun. Do you know what Christmas is all about?
Shaun. Baa. Baa.
Host. Come along Shaun, give us your answer.
Shaun. Baa. Baa. I need a volunteer to help me.
Self. (Holding up your hand). I will be your volunteer Shaun. My hand was the first to be raised. What would you like me to do?
Shaun. Do you see that paper with "Christmas" written on it?
Self. Yes, I see it.
Shaun. Write out the fifth and sixth letters.
Self. ok.(Counting and writing). I have done that Shaun. What next?
Shaun. Now write out the first six letters.
Self. (Counting and writing) I have done that as well Shaun.
Shaun. That is the answer to our question - "Christmas is Christ."
You may then wish to conclude by recapping on what Christmas is and what Christmas is not all about.
O.L. 8. Receiving Jesus.
This is an illustration that I use following teaching on John 3.16. All you need is a small gift. I usually make a balloon animal (as the gift) while I am talking about it.
State that John 3.16 talks about a giver (God), a gift (Jesus) and a receiver (Us). No matter how wonderful any gift is, it will not do you any good unless you receive it. I have a gift here (produce or begin to make your gift), but unless you receive it, it is no good to you at all.
Some of you may say "I don't want your gift" Well, if you don't want it, you won't get it, because I will not force you to take it.
Some of you may say "I don't believe it. It's too good to be true. Teacher must be tricking us." Well, if you don't believe it, you can't receive it.
Some of you may say " I will think about it" There is nothing wrong in thinking about the gift, but all the time you are thinking about it, it is not yours and it is not doing you any good.
Some of you may say. " I will have to earn the gift. I will have to sit up straight, be really quiet and still, and then perhaps "teacher" will notice me and give me the gift because I deserve it." Well, I like you behaving that way, but that's not the way to get the gift because it can never be earned.
But one of you may simply say to himself / herself " Yes, I want that gift," and get up, walk out to the front, take hold of the gift, and it will be theirs.
It is exactly the same with God's gift of Jesus Christ to the world - and the Eternal Life He brings with him.
Some people say to God "I don't want your gift of Jesus. I want to live my own life, go my own way, do my own thing." Much as God still loves them (they are still part of the world) He won't force His gift of Jesus on anyone. We must choose to receive Him.
Some people say. "I don't believe in the gift. I don't believe in Jesus. I don't even believe in God." Well, if you don't believe, you can't receive.
Some people say. "I will think about the gift. Perhaps when I am older I might receive God's gift." There is nothing wrong with thinking about the gift, but the problem is many people never make up their minds, and so always miss out on what God wants to give them.
Some people ( in fact most people ) think they have to earn God's gift. They say. " I will have to be very good. I will not have to do anything bad. I will have to go to Church or Sunday school every week. I will have to say my prayers and read my Bible every day. Then, perhaps, God will be really pleased with me and give me His gift of Jesus." These are good things to do, but you can never earn God's gift.
But some people say "Yes, I want to receive Jesus into my life," and do so by faith - by simply asking God for His gift of Jesus, and believing that they receive Him.
At this point, you will probably still be holding your gift - unless there is someone very smart in your group who has taken you at your word and received it already! You will probably have to keep prompting until someone comes out and receives it. You could say:-
"Well, it is still here."
"I wonder who will be first to believe me. All you have to do is take it."
"You won't get it by thinking about it, or by sitting up straight, but someone could come out and receive it."
When someone receives your gift, state that they didn't deserve it or earn it, but they got it because they were the first to believe that all they had to do was take it.
Conclude by stating that unfortunately you only had one gift, but the good news is that there is enough of God's gift of Jesus for everyone. There is no need for anyone to miss out.
If appropriate, you could then lead your group in a prayer to receive Jesus.
Teaching tip 15. Telling the C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S. story.
Write out on separate pieces of cardboard the nine letters that make up the word 'CHRISTMAS'. Take each letter in turn to illustrate the Christmas story. As you talk about each letter, get a volunteer to come and hold it up before the class - at the conclusion the complete word will thus be shown.
There are a number of variations that could be used, but here are some ideas.
C = Christ. God's gift to us.
H = Heaven. Jesus came down from Heaven to be born at Bethlehem.
R = Redeemer. You will probably have to explain this. To redeem something means to buy it back. God
created us, but then he had to buy us back with the blood of Jesus. The famous story about the boy who
made, lost and then had to buy back a toy boat is helpful in explaining this.*
I = Israel. Jesus was born in Israel. (An alternative could be Isaiah, who foretold of His coming).
S = Star. God sent a bright star to guide the wise men. (An alternative could be Stable).
T = The wise men. The Bible doesn't say how many there were, but they brought Three gifts.
M = Manger, in which Jesus was placed. (An alternative could be Mary).
A = Angels, who announced Jesus' birth.
S = Shepherds, the first to hear the 'Good News. (An alternative could be Saviour).
* A boy once made a toy boat. He was very proud of his boat because he hadn't bought it, he had made it himself. One day whilst sailing his boat on the lake, the wind suddenly strengthened and blew the toy boat out of sight towards the other side of the lake. The boy immediately ran around to the far side of the lake to look for his boat. He searched and searched, but couldn't find it anywhere, the boat was lost. The boy was bitterly disappointed because this wasn't any ordinary boat, this was his special boat that he had made with his own hands.
Sometime later the boy was walking past a shop. He happened to look in the window, and there up for sale was his boat. He knew it was his because he had made it himself and knew exactly what it looked like. Immediately the boy rushed into the shop and paid the asking price for his boat. On leaving the shop, the boy looked admiringly at his boat and said "Now you are mine twice over. I made you, and now I have bought you back again. I have redeemed you."
That is a picture of what God has done for us. He made us and therefore owns us, but because of our sin we became lost and separated from Him. But in His love, God sent Jesus to buy us back, to redeem us. And the price Jesus paid? - His own blood that He shed on the cross. So although at Christmas we remember the coming of Jesus to earth, we must also think of Easter and remember the purpose of His coming, to redeem us to God.
O.L. 54. - The Christmas tree.
If you have a decorated Christmas tree in your classroom, you can use it as an object lesson to teach some important Christian truths. If not, a picture of a Christmas tree would suffice.
The tree. This reminds us of our sin. Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden, and Jesus died on a tree to take away our sins.
The point. This points heavenwards, reminding us that Jesus came from heaven to be our Saviour.
The Angel. Reminds us that it was an Angel that brought the first Christmas message to some Shepherds, "Fear not, for I bring good tidings of great joy, for unto you is born a Saviour, Christ the Lord." (Luke 2.10,11).
The star. Reminds us that God sent a special star to guide the wise men to the baby Jesus.
The lights. Jesus came to give light to those in darkness, and guide us on our way to heaven.
The decorations. Remind us of the beauty of everlasting life obtained through faith in Jesus.
Depository for gifts. (Usually underneath the tree). Reminds us of the first and best Christmas gift - Jesus Christ, God's gift to the world. We are also reminded that for any gift to benefit us, we need to receive it. If we don't personally receive Jesus into our lives then, as far as we are concerned, He might as well never have come to earth.
Craft - Making a 'fun' Christmas card.
Get your children to make 'fun' Christmas (or Easter) cards. These are quite easy to make, and all they will need is a sheet of A4 paper, a pair of scissors and some crayons.
I will first describe the finished card, and then tell you how to lead your children in making them. Written on the front are the words "Guess What?" in large coloured letters. On the back are the words "To _______ " and "From ________" , again in large coloured letters, but leaving enough space for the children to write a personal message if they wish to do so. When the card is opened, it shows the face of an animal or bird with a large mouth or beak at the centre. As you partially open and close the card, the mouth or beak will close and open in three dimensions, displaying your Christmas message in the centre of the mouth, e.g. "Christmas is Christ" or "Happy Christmas"
Note. When the card is fully closed, the mouth will be fully open. When the card is fully open, the mouth will be fully closed.
Instructions. I get my children to follow me step by step as I make a sample card. Most of the older ones manage this fairly well, though some younger children may need personal help.
Take your blank paper and fold it lengthwise. About 3 ins. from the top of the folded paper make a single straight cut about 2 ins. long (cutting from the folded edge). This will be the basis for the animal's mouth. From this cut, fold the paper upwards, making a good crease as you do so. In a similar way, fold the paper downwards from the cut. Experience will show you how far up and down to fold the paper, as this will determine the size of the animal's mouth. You should now have a 'V' shape.
Next, unfold the mouth and open up the paper back to it's original A4 size. Fold the paper down from top to bottom and then from side to side. You will now have your basic card shape. Write "Guess What" on the front, and "To ______" and "From ______" on the back. These will eventually be coloured in, but I usually leave this part until the end when I am also colouring in the animal's face.
Next, the 'tricky' part. This sounds a little complicated, but it is really quite easy to do with a little practice. Open up the card to display the animal's mouth. Place your middle finger inside the upper mouth and hold it there. Place your thumb and first finger on each side of the upper mouth and squeeze the card, which will obviously begin to close. Just before the card is completely closed, remove your thumb and fingers and complete the closing by pressing firmly on both the front and back of the card. When you now open and close the card, the upper mouth should automatically close and open. Repeat the whole procedure for the lower mouth.
Next, partially open the mouth and mark the centre with a pencil dot. This will enable you to centre the Christmas message, which is only revealed as the mouth is opening. Fully open up your card back to the A4 size and write your message, centred around the pencil dot.
Finally complete the drawing and colouring of the animal's or bird's face, centred around the mouth. This is where the children can use their own imagination. I was once given a beautiful card made like this, but showing an Angel (complete with wings and halo!) instead of an animal or bird.
Elimination quiz - Christmas.
Here is my second Elimination quiz. Remember, ask for the 'best' or 'most correct' answers.
1. In what town was Jesus born? A. Bethlehem. B. Nazareth.
2. What country is Bethlehem in? A. Egypt. B. Israel.
3. What was the name of Jesus' mother? A. Elizabeth. B. Mary.
4. Who was the father of Jesus? A. Joseph. B. God.
5. What was the name of Mary's husband? A. John. B. Joseph.
6. In what type of building was Jesus born? A. An inn. B. A stable.
7. What was Jesus placed in after he was born? A. A bed. B. A manger.
8. What is a Manger? A. A cattle's eating or drinking trough. B. A place for storing straw.
9. Who first announced the birth of Jesus? A. Angels. B. The King.
10. To whom did the Angels announce the birth of Jesus to? A. The wise men. B. Some shepherds.
11. How many wise men were there? A. Three. B. We don't know.
12. How did the wise men find out where Jesus was? A. They followed a star. B. The shepherds told them.
13. How many gifts did the wise men bring? A. Three. B. Five.
14. About how long ago was Jesus born? A. 2,000 years. B. 10,000 years.
15. Why was Jesus born? A. To teach us about God. B. To die for our sins.
16. Is Jesus alive today? A. Yes. B. No.
25. Jesus is the light of the world.
You should be able to obtain some "trick" birthday cake candles - i.e. the ones that appear to be extinguished when they are blown, but after a few seconds flame up again.
With one of these candles you can summarise the history of the church. For example :-
Jesus came as the light of the world (lite candle), but Satan used wicked men to try and put out this light by crucifying Him (blow out). However on the third day He came alive again (flame rekindled). Jesus has now passed this light on to the church. Over the centuries Satan has continued trying to put out this light by persecuting the church. At times he seemed to have succeeded (blow out), but each time this light returned brighter than ever (rekindle).
You are cordially invited to
A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!
Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ
Date: Traditionally, December 25, but He's always around, so the date is flexible...
Time: Whenever you're ready.
Place: In your heart...He'll meet you there. (You'll hear Him knock.)
Attire: Come as you are...grubbies are just fine. [We all came that way!] He'll be washing our clothes anyway. He said something about new, white robes and crowns...
Tickets: Admission is free. He's already paid for everyone. He says you wouldn't be able to afford it anyway. It cost Him everything He had.
Refreshments: New wine, bread, and a cool drink He calls "Living Water," followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world!
Gift Suggestions: Your life. He's one of those people who already has everything. (He's very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you!)
Entertainment: Unconditional Love, Priceless Grace, Wild Abandon, Real Life, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Healing, Fascinating Mystery, Childlike Joy, Uncommon Passion, and much more! (All "G" rated, so bring your family and friends.)
R.S.V.P.--He needs to know ahead of time so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. He'll enter your name in the "Lamb's Book of Life."
(A Christmas special). xxxxxx
Dear Friend in Christ,
As my 50th. Newsletter coincides with the advent of Christmas, I thought that I would reproduce some of my teaching aids that are appropriate for this time of the year. I hope that you will find something here that you are able to use in your ministry to children.
When I started writing these Newsletters in early 2002, I never envisaged that I would still be sending them out almost five years later. If you were to ask me how much material I had left that I wanted to share, I would probably reply "About enough for two more Newsletters." But, remarkably, that would have been my reply at any time during the last five years! It seems that the more I give out, the more ideas I get on things I still want to share. Therefore my intention is that I will keep sending out these Newsletters as long as I have material that I consider worthwhile sharing.
Thank you to all those of you who have sent me an email of thanks or encouragement over the years. It is good to know that my material is appreciated and being used to minister to children in many different countries.
Have a Blessed Christmas,
Maurice Sweetsur
All Newsletters - http://mauricesweetsur.blogspot.com/
Object lessons / Illusions only - http://objectlessons.blogspot.com/
Teaching tips only - http://teachinglessons.blogspot.com/
Stories, skits and puppet plays - http://christianstoriesandplays.blogspot.com
Contents.
Puppet play - What is Christmas all about?
O.L. 8 - Receiving Jesus
T.T. 15 - Telling the C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S. story.
O.L. 54 - The Christmas tree.
Craft - Making a 'fun' Christmas card.
Elimination quiz - Christmas.
O.L. 25 - Jesus is the light of the world.
A Birthday Celebration.
Puppet play for Christmas.
When I do puppet plays, I usually record the script beforehand - using different 'character' voices, and then play it back while children operate the (glove) puppets. This way I am able to 'watch' the entire group, and also have a puppet/human dialogue if required. For this play, you will need one animal (I use a sheep) and four 'human' puppets. Write the word "Christmas" on a large piece of paper, and display it in a prominent position.
Script.
Host. Today we are going to ask the very important question "What is Christmas all about?" But firstly, let me introduce you to my panel of guests. Let's give a big welcome for my first guest - Miss know it all.
Miss Know it all. Thank you for inviting me onto your show. I am Miss know it all, so you only have to ask me the question, because I know everything.
Host. Well, we will see about that a little later. But secondly, let me introduce Mr. Don't know a lot.
Mr. Don't know a lot. Don't be fooled by my name, because actually I know heaps and heaps of things. So ask me the question, and I will give you the right answer.
Host. Thank you Mr. Don't Know a lot. Our next guest is Mr. Remember well.
Mr. Remember well. As you can tell by my name, I remember everything. So ask me the question, and I will give you the answer.
Host. Thank you Mr. Remember well. Our final guest is Mr. Shaun the sheep. Say "hello" Shaun.
Shaun. Baa Baa.
Host. Thank you Shaun, If we have time, I will ask Shaun his opinion, but really I don't think he will be much help at all. The question then is "What is Christmas all about?" I am going to save us all some time because I know the answer myself. Christmas is all about money. Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but only because Mary and Joseph had to go there to register to pay their taxes to Caesar. So that's the answer - Money. That's why my mum and dad are always complaining what an expensive time of the year Christmas is with so many presents to buy. But, to be fair, I will ask my guests if they have any other opinions. Miss Know it all. Do you know what Christmas is all about?
Miss Know it all. I certainly do. It's not about money you silly old fool. Christmas is all about Food. When Jesus was born, he was placed in a Manger - which is a cattle's eating trough. So that is why people eat so much at Christmas, like Turkey, Christmas pudding and lots of chocolate. So that's the answer to your question - Food.
Host. Thank you Miss Know it all. Remind me not to invite you back on my show. Now, Mr. Don't know a lot, do you know what Christmas is all about?
Mr. Don't know a lot. Well, it's not about money or food. No, Christmas is all about Singing. After Jesus was born, Angels appeared to some Shepherds and they began to sing "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men." So that is the answer - Singing. That is why groups go out carol singing today.
Host. Thank you Mr. Don't know a lot. That was certainly a very "interesting" answer. Mr. Remember well. Do you remember what Christmas is all about?
Mr. Remember well. I certainly do. You should have asked me first, because I remember the answer to the question. Christmas is all about Presents. After Jesus was born, some wise men brought gifts of gold, incense and myrrh to Him. That is why people exchange gifts at Christmas today. So the answer is Presents.
Host. Thank you Mr. Remember well. Finally, I suppose we should ask our last guest Shaun the sheep if he has any opinion. Shaun. Do you know what Christmas is all about?
Shaun. Baa. Baa.
Host. Come along Shaun, give us your answer.
Shaun. Baa. Baa. I need a volunteer to help me.
Self. (Holding up your hand). I will be your volunteer Shaun. My hand was the first to be raised. What would you like me to do?
Shaun. Do you see that paper with "Christmas" written on it?
Self. Yes, I see it.
Shaun. Write out the fifth and sixth letters.
Self. ok.(Counting and writing). I have done that Shaun. What next?
Shaun. Now write out the first six letters.
Self. (Counting and writing) I have done that as well Shaun.
Shaun. That is the answer to our question - "Christmas is Christ."
You may then wish to conclude by recapping on what Christmas is and what Christmas is not all about.
O.L. 8. Receiving Jesus.
This is an illustration that I use following teaching on John 3.16. All you need is a small gift. I usually make a balloon animal (as the gift) while I am talking about it.
State that John 3.16 talks about a giver (God), a gift (Jesus) and a receiver (Us). No matter how wonderful any gift is, it will not do you any good unless you receive it. I have a gift here (produce or begin to make your gift), but unless you receive it, it is no good to you at all.
Some of you may say "I don't want your gift" Well, if you don't want it, you won't get it, because I will not force you to take it.
Some of you may say "I don't believe it. It's too good to be true. Teacher must be tricking us." Well, if you don't believe it, you can't receive it.
Some of you may say " I will think about it" There is nothing wrong in thinking about the gift, but all the time you are thinking about it, it is not yours and it is not doing you any good.
Some of you may say. " I will have to earn the gift. I will have to sit up straight, be really quiet and still, and then perhaps "teacher" will notice me and give me the gift because I deserve it." Well, I like you behaving that way, but that's not the way to get the gift because it can never be earned.
But one of you may simply say to himself / herself " Yes, I want that gift," and get up, walk out to the front, take hold of the gift, and it will be theirs.
It is exactly the same with God's gift of Jesus Christ to the world - and the Eternal Life He brings with him.
Some people say to God "I don't want your gift of Jesus. I want to live my own life, go my own way, do my own thing." Much as God still loves them (they are still part of the world) He won't force His gift of Jesus on anyone. We must choose to receive Him.
Some people say. "I don't believe in the gift. I don't believe in Jesus. I don't even believe in God." Well, if you don't believe, you can't receive.
Some people say. "I will think about the gift. Perhaps when I am older I might receive God's gift." There is nothing wrong with thinking about the gift, but the problem is many people never make up their minds, and so always miss out on what God wants to give them.
Some people ( in fact most people ) think they have to earn God's gift. They say. " I will have to be very good. I will not have to do anything bad. I will have to go to Church or Sunday school every week. I will have to say my prayers and read my Bible every day. Then, perhaps, God will be really pleased with me and give me His gift of Jesus." These are good things to do, but you can never earn God's gift.
But some people say "Yes, I want to receive Jesus into my life," and do so by faith - by simply asking God for His gift of Jesus, and believing that they receive Him.
At this point, you will probably still be holding your gift - unless there is someone very smart in your group who has taken you at your word and received it already! You will probably have to keep prompting until someone comes out and receives it. You could say:-
"Well, it is still here."
"I wonder who will be first to believe me. All you have to do is take it."
"You won't get it by thinking about it, or by sitting up straight, but someone could come out and receive it."
When someone receives your gift, state that they didn't deserve it or earn it, but they got it because they were the first to believe that all they had to do was take it.
Conclude by stating that unfortunately you only had one gift, but the good news is that there is enough of God's gift of Jesus for everyone. There is no need for anyone to miss out.
If appropriate, you could then lead your group in a prayer to receive Jesus.
Teaching tip 15. Telling the C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S. story.
Write out on separate pieces of cardboard the nine letters that make up the word 'CHRISTMAS'. Take each letter in turn to illustrate the Christmas story. As you talk about each letter, get a volunteer to come and hold it up before the class - at the conclusion the complete word will thus be shown.
There are a number of variations that could be used, but here are some ideas.
C = Christ. God's gift to us.
H = Heaven. Jesus came down from Heaven to be born at Bethlehem.
R = Redeemer. You will probably have to explain this. To redeem something means to buy it back. God
created us, but then he had to buy us back with the blood of Jesus. The famous story about the boy who
made, lost and then had to buy back a toy boat is helpful in explaining this.*
I = Israel. Jesus was born in Israel. (An alternative could be Isaiah, who foretold of His coming).
S = Star. God sent a bright star to guide the wise men. (An alternative could be Stable).
T = The wise men. The Bible doesn't say how many there were, but they brought Three gifts.
M = Manger, in which Jesus was placed. (An alternative could be Mary).
A = Angels, who announced Jesus' birth.
S = Shepherds, the first to hear the 'Good News. (An alternative could be Saviour).
* A boy once made a toy boat. He was very proud of his boat because he hadn't bought it, he had made it himself. One day whilst sailing his boat on the lake, the wind suddenly strengthened and blew the toy boat out of sight towards the other side of the lake. The boy immediately ran around to the far side of the lake to look for his boat. He searched and searched, but couldn't find it anywhere, the boat was lost. The boy was bitterly disappointed because this wasn't any ordinary boat, this was his special boat that he had made with his own hands.
Sometime later the boy was walking past a shop. He happened to look in the window, and there up for sale was his boat. He knew it was his because he had made it himself and knew exactly what it looked like. Immediately the boy rushed into the shop and paid the asking price for his boat. On leaving the shop, the boy looked admiringly at his boat and said "Now you are mine twice over. I made you, and now I have bought you back again. I have redeemed you."
That is a picture of what God has done for us. He made us and therefore owns us, but because of our sin we became lost and separated from Him. But in His love, God sent Jesus to buy us back, to redeem us. And the price Jesus paid? - His own blood that He shed on the cross. So although at Christmas we remember the coming of Jesus to earth, we must also think of Easter and remember the purpose of His coming, to redeem us to God.
O.L. 54. - The Christmas tree.
If you have a decorated Christmas tree in your classroom, you can use it as an object lesson to teach some important Christian truths. If not, a picture of a Christmas tree would suffice.
The tree. This reminds us of our sin. Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden, and Jesus died on a tree to take away our sins.
The point. This points heavenwards, reminding us that Jesus came from heaven to be our Saviour.
The Angel. Reminds us that it was an Angel that brought the first Christmas message to some Shepherds, "Fear not, for I bring good tidings of great joy, for unto you is born a Saviour, Christ the Lord." (Luke 2.10,11).
The star. Reminds us that God sent a special star to guide the wise men to the baby Jesus.
The lights. Jesus came to give light to those in darkness, and guide us on our way to heaven.
The decorations. Remind us of the beauty of everlasting life obtained through faith in Jesus.
Depository for gifts. (Usually underneath the tree). Reminds us of the first and best Christmas gift - Jesus Christ, God's gift to the world. We are also reminded that for any gift to benefit us, we need to receive it. If we don't personally receive Jesus into our lives then, as far as we are concerned, He might as well never have come to earth.
Craft - Making a 'fun' Christmas card.
Get your children to make 'fun' Christmas (or Easter) cards. These are quite easy to make, and all they will need is a sheet of A4 paper, a pair of scissors and some crayons.
I will first describe the finished card, and then tell you how to lead your children in making them. Written on the front are the words "Guess What?" in large coloured letters. On the back are the words "To _______ " and "From ________" , again in large coloured letters, but leaving enough space for the children to write a personal message if they wish to do so. When the card is opened, it shows the face of an animal or bird with a large mouth or beak at the centre. As you partially open and close the card, the mouth or beak will close and open in three dimensions, displaying your Christmas message in the centre of the mouth, e.g. "Christmas is Christ" or "Happy Christmas"
Note. When the card is fully closed, the mouth will be fully open. When the card is fully open, the mouth will be fully closed.
Instructions. I get my children to follow me step by step as I make a sample card. Most of the older ones manage this fairly well, though some younger children may need personal help.
Take your blank paper and fold it lengthwise. About 3 ins. from the top of the folded paper make a single straight cut about 2 ins. long (cutting from the folded edge). This will be the basis for the animal's mouth. From this cut, fold the paper upwards, making a good crease as you do so. In a similar way, fold the paper downwards from the cut. Experience will show you how far up and down to fold the paper, as this will determine the size of the animal's mouth. You should now have a 'V' shape.
Next, unfold the mouth and open up the paper back to it's original A4 size. Fold the paper down from top to bottom and then from side to side. You will now have your basic card shape. Write "Guess What" on the front, and "To ______" and "From ______" on the back. These will eventually be coloured in, but I usually leave this part until the end when I am also colouring in the animal's face.
Next, the 'tricky' part. This sounds a little complicated, but it is really quite easy to do with a little practice. Open up the card to display the animal's mouth. Place your middle finger inside the upper mouth and hold it there. Place your thumb and first finger on each side of the upper mouth and squeeze the card, which will obviously begin to close. Just before the card is completely closed, remove your thumb and fingers and complete the closing by pressing firmly on both the front and back of the card. When you now open and close the card, the upper mouth should automatically close and open. Repeat the whole procedure for the lower mouth.
Next, partially open the mouth and mark the centre with a pencil dot. This will enable you to centre the Christmas message, which is only revealed as the mouth is opening. Fully open up your card back to the A4 size and write your message, centred around the pencil dot.
Finally complete the drawing and colouring of the animal's or bird's face, centred around the mouth. This is where the children can use their own imagination. I was once given a beautiful card made like this, but showing an Angel (complete with wings and halo!) instead of an animal or bird.
Elimination quiz - Christmas.
Here is my second Elimination quiz. Remember, ask for the 'best' or 'most correct' answers.
1. In what town was Jesus born? A. Bethlehem. B. Nazareth.
2. What country is Bethlehem in? A. Egypt. B. Israel.
3. What was the name of Jesus' mother? A. Elizabeth. B. Mary.
4. Who was the father of Jesus? A. Joseph. B. God.
5. What was the name of Mary's husband? A. John. B. Joseph.
6. In what type of building was Jesus born? A. An inn. B. A stable.
7. What was Jesus placed in after he was born? A. A bed. B. A manger.
8. What is a Manger? A. A cattle's eating or drinking trough. B. A place for storing straw.
9. Who first announced the birth of Jesus? A. Angels. B. The King.
10. To whom did the Angels announce the birth of Jesus to? A. The wise men. B. Some shepherds.
11. How many wise men were there? A. Three. B. We don't know.
12. How did the wise men find out where Jesus was? A. They followed a star. B. The shepherds told them.
13. How many gifts did the wise men bring? A. Three. B. Five.
14. About how long ago was Jesus born? A. 2,000 years. B. 10,000 years.
15. Why was Jesus born? A. To teach us about God. B. To die for our sins.
16. Is Jesus alive today? A. Yes. B. No.
25. Jesus is the light of the world.
You should be able to obtain some "trick" birthday cake candles - i.e. the ones that appear to be extinguished when they are blown, but after a few seconds flame up again.
With one of these candles you can summarise the history of the church. For example :-
Jesus came as the light of the world (lite candle), but Satan used wicked men to try and put out this light by crucifying Him (blow out). However on the third day He came alive again (flame rekindled). Jesus has now passed this light on to the church. Over the centuries Satan has continued trying to put out this light by persecuting the church. At times he seemed to have succeeded (blow out), but each time this light returned brighter than ever (rekindle).
You are cordially invited to
A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!
Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ
Date: Traditionally, December 25, but He's always around, so the date is flexible...
Time: Whenever you're ready.
Place: In your heart...He'll meet you there. (You'll hear Him knock.)
Attire: Come as you are...grubbies are just fine. [We all came that way!] He'll be washing our clothes anyway. He said something about new, white robes and crowns...
Tickets: Admission is free. He's already paid for everyone. He says you wouldn't be able to afford it anyway. It cost Him everything He had.
Refreshments: New wine, bread, and a cool drink He calls "Living Water," followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world!
Gift Suggestions: Your life. He's one of those people who already has everything. (He's very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you!)
Entertainment: Unconditional Love, Priceless Grace, Wild Abandon, Real Life, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Healing, Fascinating Mystery, Childlike Joy, Uncommon Passion, and much more! (All "G" rated, so bring your family and friends.)
R.S.V.P.--He needs to know ahead of time so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. He'll enter your name in the "Lamb's Book of Life."
posted by Maurice Sweetsur @ 5:13 PM
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