5th Week of Lent, Friday

"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

"I love you, Lord, my strength,

my rock, my fortress, my saviour."

(From the Psalm)

(Read the quote, then each line/question slowly, with pauses to allow the children (and us!) to reflect on the questions.)

There's an interesting word in this quote from the Psalm of the day. (Remember that a psalm is a special kind of song to God.) 

"fortress" - do you know what a fortress is?

Maybe you know what a castle is?

A fortress or castle is a very strong building that is very difficult to get into. It's made of strong stone, with a moat all around. (A moat is sort of like a small river that goes in a circle around the castle, right up against the walls.) There's a special bridge called a drawbridge, that is pulled up so no one can get across the moat. There are high walls all around. The windows are narrow and difficult to get into. A castle or fortress is a wonderful place to be safe in.

The psalmist calls the Lord, God, "my fortress". What do you think he is saying about God? A fortress is a very safe place. (Talk/think about this for a moment.)

Thank you, Jesus, for being such a place of safety. Thank you for always protecting us.

(Allow any spontaneous prayers, perhaps leading by example. 3-6 year olds relate most naturally to God through prayers of praise and thanksgiving; 6+ will have started thinking about their needs and the needs of those around them in prayers of intercession. Some children may also just want quiet time to speak with God in their hearts.)

(Sing a simple hymn or chant if your children like singing. Or even if they don't ;) This can also be done at the beginning. )

"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."