Kirsty has prepared some resources themed around the Bible Readings for the 26th February 2023, a printer friendly version is available at http://www.stranorlar.raphoe.anglican.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Bible_children_resource_26thFeb.pdf
Read: Matthew 4:1-11
Today is the first Sunday in Lent. Lent is a special time of preparation for Easter, and has 6 Sundays. During Lent we think about the temptations that Jesus faced, and how he was able to resist that temptation.
After Jesus had been baptised, he was led into the wilderness for 40 days and 40 nights. He didn’t have anything to eat, and spent the time praying to God.
The devil appeared to him, and told him to turn stones into bread, but Jesus said no! ‘It is written that man shall not live by bread alone, but on every word that comes from God’.
The devil tried again and took Jesus to Jerusalem, where he told him to throw himself off the top of the temple because the angels will come and rescue him. The devil even quoted scripture! But again Jesus said no and said ‘It is also written Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’
Finally the devil took Jesus to a high mountain and showed him all the Kingdoms of the World. The devil told him all this could be his, if he would only bow down and worship him. For the third time Jesus said no – this time saying ‘Worship the Lord your God, and only serve him.’ The devil disappeared and angels came to help Jesus.
Jesus knew what the devil was trying to do, but he also knew that he had to resist the temptation and follow God’s plan – the end of the rescue plan was getting closer and closer!
Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mc-x4qKY6Wc
Who tried to tempt Jesus? Why did he want to do that? What was the first temptation? What did Jesus reply? What was the second temptation? What did Jesus reply? What was the third temptation? What did Jesus reply? Who came to look after Jesus? I wonder did Jesus find it easy to resist temptation?
Do:
Hidden Pictures – https://sundayschoolzone.com/activity/jesus-temptation-hidden-pictures/
Word Search – https://sundayschoolzone.com/activity/jesus-temptation-word-search/
Craft – https://sundayschoolpages.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Jesus-Desert-Tempted-ssp.pdf
Pray: Dear God, help us to use Lent as a time of preparation for Easter. Amen
Father in heaven watch over our loved ones.
Keep them by your side.
May they be safe and peaceful, in you may they abide.
Give wisdom to the doctors and nurses too we pray,
renew their strength and bless them for the work they do each day. Send healing and restoration and let them feel your love.
May your Holy Spirit give them rest as gentle as a dove. Amen (Taken from Praying Together)
Share: Jesus used the word of God to help him resist temptation – if you haven’t already sign up to adopt a Bible Buddy. This will help you explore more of God’s word.