Children’s object lesson idea: Show the children two flashlights. Have one flashlight covered over with masking tape so it’s obvious that no light can get out. Have a fun discussion with the children about which flashlight would be best to use if guiding a group of people in the dark. Discuss how God wants us to let the light of Jesus shine out for others to see.

 

Object lesson items: Two flashlights. One of the flashlights should be covered over so that the light is hidden.

 

Children’s Sermon: Good Morning Children! How many of you have a flashlight at home? Great. This morning I brought in two flashlights. Have a look at them. Imagine if I had to find some people who were lost out in the dark of night. Which of these flashlights would you rather have? Why? I agree. This flashlight wouldn’t be much use at all. In fact, it’s covered over with so much tape you can’t even see any light. But look at this other light. (Turn it on.) Wow! That’s pretty bright. This would be the best flashlight to use to help people find their way in the dark.

 

These flashlights remind me about something Jesus said. In the gospel of Matthew (Chapter 5) we read that Jesus told his disciples to “Let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” When we live in the light and love of Jesus our lives are like a light that shines out for all to see. That reminds me of this flashlight here. On the other hand, if we don’t shine the light and love of Jesus to others and just think about ourselves then we are like this flashlight that’s covered with tape. Children, since we want to be like this flashlight lets ask God to help us live the way he wants us to live; then the love of Jesus will shine through us light a bright light!

 

Children’s Prayer: Dear God, by the power of your Holy Spirit help us to be like bright lights shining the love of Jesus for all to see. In Jesus’ name – Amen!

 

Copyright 2011 Sundaychildrensfocus.com Andrew Hewlett    Feel free to use this on Sunday morning but please give credit to Sundaychildrensfocus and consider linking to this page. Thank you. A.H.