The Point: To be
compassionate, we must set aside our own concerns.
Best for: Grades 3 and up
Scripture: Luke 10:30-37
Supplies: You'll need Bibles, a plastic container
with one ice cube for each child, and paper towels.
Ask: What is compassion?
Say: When we have compassion, we feel sympathy
for someone and then we get involved. Sometimes we get involved
directly, and other times we might get involved by sending money or
gifts to help people in need. Compassion is more than just feeling
sympathy; it also involves doing something that helps someone
else.
Form pairs. Say: Talk with your partner
about a time someone showed compassion to you.
After five minutes, invite kids to share any stories of compassion
with the entire group.
Read aloud Luke 10:30-37.
Say: The priest and the
Levite may've been very caring guys who just happened to be too
busy or scared to help. They may've felt sympathy--but only the
Samaritan had compassion. He set aside his own concerns and he
acted. He got involved.
Give each child an ice cube and a paper towel. Have kids clench
the ice cube in their hand over the paper towel. As they clench the
ice cube, have partners take turns sharing one big thing they're
worried about at school or at home--while keeping the ice cube
clenched in the same hand for five minutes.
After time is up, ask: What was it like
to listen compassionately when you were distracted by the ice cube
in your hand? How was this experience like or unlike putting aside
your daily concerns and showing compassion to others?
Say: God wants us to
put aside our concerns, even when we're uncomfortable or stressed,
and show compassion to others.
Excerpted from Children's
Ministry Magazine. Don't miss another issue, subscribe today!
