(10–15 minutes, moderate set-up)
Students will use taste as a metaphor to understand the Beatitudes.
(10–15 minutes, moderate set-up)
Provide a bowl of sliced lemons, a plate of brownies, a bowl of popped popcorn, a pitcher of water, and enough cups for each of your students to have one.
Pass around the bowl of sliced lemons, and instruct students to put some in their mouths, holding the lemon in their mouths for a moment. Share that admitting our spiritual poverty can be an unpleasant experience. Ask: How can a bitter or painful experience cause us to rely on God?
Pass around the brownies for each student to try. Say: In a world of conflict and war, peace is a sweet blessing. Ask: How can being a peacemaker change the world?
Pass around the popcorn. Ask: Why might popcorn remind us of our hunger for righteousness? Say: Popcorn is one of those foods that make you want to eat more. In the same way, as we taste righteousness, we will want more.
Pass around the cups and water. Ask: What are the benefits of choosing to stay pure in our heart, body, and mind? Say: Of all the benefits, seeing God is the best.