(10 minutes, moderate set-up)
Students will discuss the importance of taking part in God’s redemptive plan.
Provide a large sheet of paper, several containers of finger paint of different colors, and several paintbrushes for each container. Lay the paper and the paint on the floor somewhere in the room. (You might want to consider putting down a drop cloth or extra paper to protect the floor from spills.)
Learning Goal: Students will describe the depth of God’s love for us shown in the preparation for the birth of His Son.
Explain that the prophecy studied today is evidence of an amazing truth: God had a plan in place thousands of years ago and saw to it that the plan was carried out. Say: This is amazing in itself. But it is all the more meaningful when you consider that this plan has had a serious impact on the world. Encourage students to think about all that they have gained because God planned on sending His Son as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. Remind them that we are sinful and that when we sin, we sin against God Himself. Say: Scripture tells us that the penalty for all sin is death. Without Jesus’ willing sacrifice on the cross, we would all be dead in our sins. But Jesus provides a way to live in intimate relationship with God forever. This is all because God in His infinite love for us had a plan all along to make it happen.
Explain that there are many ways to respond to God’s plan and that one way is by simply expressing our heartfelt thankfulness. Explain that students will have the opportunity to visibly express thanks to God. Direct their attention to the sheet of paper and paint you’ve placed on the floor. Encourage students to think about how they would like to express their thanks and then to write or draw their expression of thanks on the large sheet of paper. Say: You can write a sentence, a prayer, draw a picture, or write one word. The point is to think about the thankfulness in your heart and then express it to God. (Be prepared to go first to get things started.)
After all students have responded, close in prayer as you read some of the comments written. Consider hanging the banner up in your classroom once it has dried.