Summary
Kids hear the story of Jesus blessing the children (Mark 10:13–16) and discover that Jesus is not too busy or too important for them.
They learn that they can always come to Jesus in prayer, with questions, sadness, and joy, because He welcomes and values them.
They learn that they can always come to Jesus in prayer, with questions, sadness, and joy, because He welcomes and values them.
Verse
Mark 10:14b: “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me…’”
Motions:
“Let” – sweep your hand toward yourself like inviting.
“Little children” – pat your head and look around at others.
“Come to me” – open arms wide like Jesus welcoming.
Repeat it several times, letting kids walk a few steps toward a cross/Bible/front as they say “come to me.”
Motions:
“Let” – sweep your hand toward yourself like inviting.
“Little children” – pat your head and look around at others.
“Come to me” – open arms wide like Jesus welcoming.
Repeat it several times, letting kids walk a few steps toward a cross/Bible/front as they say “come to me.”
Movement – “Come to Jesus Path”
Create a simple path of floor spots leading to a chair or cross at the front labeled “Jesus.”:
This makes the story physical:
- Start kids at the back.
- As you briefly retell Mark 10:13–16, let small groups walk the path toward “Jesus” when you quote Him saying, “Let the little children come to me; do not hinder them.
- When each group reaches the front, have them pause, cross arms in a self‑hug, and quietly say, “Jesus welcomes me.”
This makes the story physical:
- they feel coming close and being welcomed.
Lesson – “Jesus Blesses the Children” (Large group)
Tell the story (Mark 10:13–16):
Key truths in kid language:
Apply it:
- People bring children to Jesus so He can bless them.
- The disciples try to send them away, maybe thinking Jesus is too busy or kids aren’t important.
- Jesus is indignant (really upset) and says, “Let the children come to me… the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
- He takes them in His arms and blesses them.
Key truths in kid language:
- Jesus wants kids near Him, not far away.
- Jesus is never too busy or too important for children.sermons
- Jesus says grown‑ups must receive God’s kingdom like a child—simple trust.
Apply it:
- “When you feel small or ignored, Jesus notices and welcomes you.”
- “You can always ‘come to Jesus’ by praying, singing to Him, and listening to His Word.”
Small Groups – “Jesus Welcomes Me” Hearts
Give each child a heart-shaped paper (or any shape) with the prompt:
Leaders can quickly reread Mark 10:16 (“He took the children in his arms… and blessed them”) as they work.
Encourage kids to put this where they’ll see it (bedside, mirror, inside Bible) as a reminder that Jesus welcomes them.
- Front: “Jesus welcomes ________.” (they write their name in the blank)
- Inside/back:
- One picture of themselves with Jesus (or under His arms).
- One sentence they dictate or write: “I can come to Jesus when I feel ________ (sad, scared, happy, lonely, etc.).”
Leaders can quickly reread Mark 10:16 (“He took the children in his arms… and blessed them”) as they work.
Encourage kids to put this where they’ll see it (bedside, mirror, inside Bible) as a reminder that Jesus welcomes them.
Game – “Stop or Welcome?”
Help them contrast the disciples’ reaction with Jesus’.
Explain motions:
Read short scenarios:
Each time they choose “Welcome,” have them say:
Explain motions:
- Arms crossed in an “X” = “Stop / Go away.”
- Arms open wide = “Welcome / Come here.”
Read short scenarios:
- “Some people think kids are too noisy at church.” → kids decide: Is that like the disciples (Stop) or Jesus (Welcome)?
- “A teacher makes space for kids to pray and ask questions.” → Welcome.
- “Someone says, ‘You’re too little to understand Jesus.’” → Stop.
- “You talk to Jesus about your day before bed.” → Welcome.
Each time they choose “Welcome,” have them say:
- “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me.’”