(10 minutes)
Supplies Needed: Camping items, blue construction paper, tape
Teacher Note: Additional activities can be found in the Bible Study Manager by clicking the Extra Resources tab.
Teacher Note: Prior to class, gather supplies that would be used when going on a camping trip, such as blankets, baskets, artificial fruit, or a tent. Disperse the items throughout the room. The students will pretend to use these items when crossing the Jordan. Also piece together pieces of blue construction paper by using tape to construct the Jordan River. Place the river on the floor in the classroom.
Remind the children that in today’s Treasure Story the Israelites were going to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Before they could cross, they needed to pack up their belongings. Encourage the students to pretend that they are the Israelites. Point out that travel items have been placed throughout the room and ask them to pack up their belongings so that they can cross the Jordan. One at a time, ask the students to choose an item to carry with them across the river.
When all the items have been gathered, ask the students to form a line. Remind the children that when the Israelites were ready to cross, Joshua asked the priests to cross first. When the priests entered the water, the river stopped flowing, and the Israelites were able to cross on dry ground. Tear the river in half to represent crossing on dry ground. Instruct the students to cross the river. Remind the children of the power of God and that He was the one who made it possible for the Israelites to enter the Promised Land.