"The disciples told their story of what had happened on the road and how they had recognised Jesus in the breaking of the bread. They were still talking about this when Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, 'Peace be with you!' In a state of alarm and fright they thought they were seeing a ghost."
(From the Gospel)
(Read the quote, then each line slowly, with pauses to allow the children (and us!) to reflect on the questions.)
(Read the quote, then each line slowly, with pauses to allow the children (and us!) to reflect on the questions.)
I wonder why the disciples were so afraid to start with, though? Especially the ones who had already seen Him! I wonder how they felt before He appeared among them? Happy? Confused? Unsure? Hopeful? And then He was suddenly there, and they got quite a fright!
He said, 'Peace be with you!' Normally these words would be calming. Jesus must have said them so many times to His disciples. But it seems they still did not quite understand what had happened, and so they were scared rather than calm. Then Jesus comforted them and they understood and believed.
Jesus knows us so well. He knows when we are confused, scared, unsure. And He is always ready to comfort us and reassure us that He is with us, and we do not need to be afraid. He is always looking after us, as a shepherd looks after His sheep!
Thank you, Jesus for caring for us and comforting us. It is so wonderful to be loved by You with a love that knows no end!
(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. )
No comments:
Post a Comment