Sunday 28 March
The Story
Bible Story
Palm Sunday
Matthew 21:1-11
Use this guide to help your family learn how
God can help us to be patient.
First, watch this video
Then, follow up with the fun activities below!
ACTIVITY: Celeb-Waiting
WHAT YOU NEED:
Two sheets of paper, green crayon or marker, writing utensil, scissors
What You Do
Draw a palm branch on each sheet of paper—but don’t color them in yet. (If you need to, search online for an image of a palm branch.)
Tell your child, “These are palm branches. On each leaf, let’s write down different things we can celebrate every day.” Fill in one branch yourself, and let your child fill in the other one. Provide some ideas if your child needs help (for example: health, family, friends, food, shelter, clean water, Jesus, etc.).
Say, “Let’s color our palm branches and then cut them out.” (If your child isn’t proficient with scissors yet, you may have to help them with the cutting.)
Once you both have your palm branches cut out, spend a few minutes using them to make up a family dance. Play your favorite worship song or other fun, upbeat music.
Say, “Just like the people in our story, we always have something to celebrate—even when we’re waiting. The next time we have to wait, let’s remember our family celebration dance!”
Talk about the Bible Story
What were the people waiting for in the story? (for God to send them a Savior)
Were the people in the story able to celebrate even though they were still waiting? (Yes!)
What are you waiting for right now?
What can you celebrate today, even as you wait?
Parent: Talk about a time when you were able to celebrate while waiting. Talk about how much better the result was, because you were able to celebrate and be thankful for something while you had to wait.
Prayer
Use this prayer as a guide, either after your discussion or right before bed tonight:
“Dear God, waiting is not always fun. While we’re waiting, being thankful is often the LAST thing on our minds. Help us to remember that there are always reasons to celebrate—even if we don’t have what we want right now. Thank You for being patient with us. We love You. In Jesus’ name, amen.”