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Jesus Calms the Storm

Overview of the Workshops:

Cooking: Children will make and eat Stormy Pudding snacks.
Art:  Children will create Jesus stormy shaker jars - based on an activity described by Neil MacQueen, posted in the art ideas - you'll find it here.
Games: Children will play several review games.
Drama:  Children will act out the story.
Movie: Watch a clip from Matthew (Visual Bible) and then watch "Twister and Shout,” McGee and Me video series.

Scripture References:
NIV Adventure Bible - Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25,
The Picture Bible - “Mad Man by the Sea” page 592-594, “Jesus, A miracle Worker” page 599

Memory Verse:
“When I am afraid, I will trust in you.”  Psalm 56:3

Theme:
We can trust that Jesus is with us always and helps us in times of trouble.

Objectives:

  • Children will find the story in the Bible.
  • Children will be able to retell the story in their own words.
  • Children will locate the Sea of Galilee on the map.
  • Children will define miracle.
  • Children will explore the concept of “storms” in their lives and how God can calm them.
  • Children will explore the idea of trusting God even when times are hard.
  • Children will recognize that Jesus is present with us always, even in difficult times and is able to help us.
  • Children will memorize Psalm 56:3.

Music:
“When I am Afraid,” Verse 2 Verse, Power Disc 6:  Summer Psalm Celebration, Wonder Workshop, 2003.
“Sometimes He Calms the Storm,” Wild Imagination, Scott Krippayne, 1995.
“Don’t Worry, Trust Jesus,” RPM Vol. 3, One Way Street, 1999.
“You, Oh Lord,” Treasure Seekers Island Adventure, Gospel Light, 2003.
“Call Upon Me,” Treasure Seekers Island Adventure, Gospel Light, 2003.
“Do Not Be Afraid,” God Feeds Us, Lost and Found, Firelight, Augsburg Fortress, 2001.
“Hold Me Jesus,” Liturgy, Legacy & Ragamuffin Band, Rich Mullins, 1993.

Extra Resources: Through the eyes of Jesus, by Mack Thomas, (goldNHoney Books, 1995, Questar Publishers, Inc. ISBN 0-88070-803-4 (great pictures of Jesus calming the storm, “Safe in the Storm)

Background Information:

Each of the gospels contains accounts of Jesus’ miracles. The story of Jesus calming the storm takes place in all three synoptic gospels. (Matthew, Mark, Luke – synoptic means “seen alongside.” These gospels tell the stories of Jesus from each writer’s perspective) Mark’s gospel contains more miracle accounts than any of the other synoptic gospels. What exactly is a miracle? A miracle is defined as a supernatural event, superceding the natural processes of the world. God breaks into the natural order of things, disrupts the predictable and draws attention to Himself. Miracles reveal the characteristics of God.

The Bible contains six different types of miracles:

  1. miracles of healing of diseases or physical problems (blindness, lameness, etc.)
  2. miracles over nature (storms, withered fig tree, etc.)
  3. miracles over objects (feeding 5000, water into wine, etc.)
  4. miracles over death (raising Lazarus, Jairus’ daughter, resurrection, etc.)
  5. miracles over evil spirits (healing demoniac, etc.)
  6. forgiving sins (this probably got Jesus into more trouble than any other miracles)

Miracles challenge our rational minds. We think…”This couldn’t really have happened!  t is impossible!”  Or we try to explain away the miracle through scientific and rational thinking. “Surely there must be a scientific explanation for what happened.” The people of Jesus’ day did not doubt the authenticity of the miracles. They saw the results of Jesus’ actions first hand. They saw the lame walking, the blind seeing, the deaf hearing. They did not doubt that the miracle had occurred. The issue for them was to determine the source of the power. This was one of the arguments the Pharisees consistently had with Jesus. What was the source of his power? Was it truly from God? Or from evil spirits and Satan?

At the time of Jesus, so-called miracles were fairly common. Conjurers and magicians traveled about the New Testament world creating a stir with their actions. Jesus always attributed his miraculous powers to the authority of God the Father. Jesus wanted his healings and other miraculous acts to be seen not as magic, but as a call to repentance and faith. He wanted his actions to be differentiated from the flashy forgery that was prevalent in the world. The fact that the New Testament writers included the accounts of Jesus’ miracles is convincing evidence that they did indeed occur. Otherwise the writers would have downplayed or left out these stories in order to avoid the risk of Jesus being seen as just another wandering charlatan magician.

Why does God use miracles? Through miracles, God breaks through human and natural barriers and reaches people, showing his deep concern, love and empathy. Jesus performed miracles because they were part of his calling to do the unexpected and to reveal the nature, power and authority of God. The miraculous events themselves are important. But just as important are the consequences of the miracles and what the miracles taught the people involved and what they continue to teach us today. Perhaps the most important question the miracle stories force us to ask is the question Jesus asked of his followers, “Who do you say I am?”

In the miracle of Jesus calming the storm, we see Jesus’ authority over nature. In Greek, the word for authority is exousia. It is often translated power – meaning freedom of action. One with authority has greater freedom to act than one who is under another’s authority. In the New Testament we see Jesus as the One who has complete authority!

Sea of Galilee

The Sea of Galilee is actually a heart-shaped lake about 14 miles long and six miles across. It is located in the province of Galilee about 60 miles northeast of Jerusalem and 27 miles east of the Mediterranean Sea. The river Jordan enters at its northern end and passes out at its southern end. The water of the lake is quite deep, sweet, cool and transparent and the beach is full of sparkling pebbles. The sea is full of fish, even today, just as it was during Jesus’ lifetime. 

The Sea of Galilee is sometimes called the Sea of Tiberias (named for the city on its shore) or the Lake of Gennesaret (named for the beautiful fertile plain located to the northwest. In the Old Testament it was referred to as the Sea of Chinnereth. Jesus spent most of his public life and ministry near this sea. The surrounding region was then the most densely populated in all Palestine. Nine very populous cities stood on the very shores of the lake. The Sea of Galilee was a very active center of life during this time.

Situated in a basin surrounded by a wall of mountains, the Sea of Galilee is particularly susceptible to frequent, sudden, violent storms. Cool air from the Mediterranean is drawn down through the narrow mountain passes and clashes with the hot, humid air lying over the lake. The Lake was notorious for its storms. They literally came out of the blue with shattering and terrifying suddenness, often when the sky was perfectly clear.

The recounting of the calming of the storm in Mark is the first of Jesus’ “nature” miracles recorded and follows accounts of Jesus healing and driving out demons. Added to Jesus’ authority over disease and death is his control of the physical elements of the universe. “He commands even wind and water and they obey him.”

After spending all day teaching the multitudes, Jesus asks his disciples to take him to the other side of the lake.  But Jesus is tired and quickly falls asleep on the cushion in the stern of the boat . . . obviously worn out from a long day of teaching. Despite the sudden storm, Jesus sleeps undisturbed, indicative of quiet trust even in the midst of terrifying circumstances. But the disciples interpret his sleeping as indifference and wake him, reproaching him with the question, “Do you not care if we perish?”  Their question indicates their own lack of trust and faith. Jesus first acts . . . rebuking the wind, “Peace! Be still!”  then chides the disciples for their lack of faith. Even though the disciples are constantly with Jesus, witnessing his healings and exorcisms, hearing his teachings, they still lack faith and trust in Jesus’ saving powers. The disciples’ question, “Who is this?”  is the question posed by the Gospel as a whole.  The disciples are filled with awe as they begin to understand the divine nature of Jesus. This is no mere human being; Jesus has God’s power to still the storm. Later, when in a similar story, Jesus walks on water, we see the progression of the disciples’ understanding of who Jesus is – the Christ, the Son of God with complete authority!

Other interesting notes:

Given the fact that at least four of Jesus’ disciples were fishermen, and must have experienced similar storms before (the storms were frequent events on the Sea of Galilee), their terror indicates the severity of the storm.

When the disciples realized the presence of Jesus with them, the storm became calm and a fearless peace entered their hearts. To voyage with Jesus is to travel in peace even in the midst of a storm. This is a universal truth – as true today as it was in the first century. “In the presence of Jesus we can have peace even in the wildest storms of life.”


Sources:

  • Jesus Christ – Miracles, John P. Gilbert, Graded Press, 1985; Cokesbury Basic Bible Commentary – Matthrew, Mark and Luke, Norman P. Madsen, Graded Press, 1988; The Bible Teacher’s Commentary, Lawrence O. Richards, Cook Communications Ministries, 2002.



Lesson set created by State Street UMC - G.R.E.A.T. Adventure Dream Team, 2002 (revised 2007)

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability.

Last edited by Luanne Payne
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Jesus Calms the Storm

Cooking Workshop

Summary of Lesson Activities: 
Children will create “Stormy Pudding.”

Scripture References: 
NIV Adventure Bible - Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25,
The Picture Bible - “Mad Man by the Sea” page 592-594, “Jesus, A miracle Worker” page 599

Memory Verse: 
Psalm 56:3

Theme: 
We can trust that Jesus is with us always and helps us in times of trouble.

Objectives:

  • Children will find the story in the Bible.
  • Children will be able to retell the story in their own words.
  • Children will locate the Sea of Galilee on the map.
  • Children will define miracle.
  • Children will explore the concept of “storms” in their lives and how God can calm them.
  • Children will explore the idea of trusting God even when times are hard.
  • Children will recognize that Jesus is present with us always, even in difficult times and is able to help us.
  • Children will memorize Psalm 56:3.

General Tips for Cooking Workshop Facilitators:
Children LOVE to cook and create various concoctions in this workshop. But occasionally the cooking activity does not have as obvious or concrete a connection with the lesson as do some of the other workshops. Help the children make that connection by intentionally discussing the way the activity relates to the lesson of the day. Discuss during preparation, eating and clean-up times. When finished with the activity of the day, please be sure to bag up the trash and replace the trashcan liner (extras are found in the hallway closet if needed) if any food items were used.


Preparation and Room Set Up:

  • Review the Background Information, Teaching Tips and Lesson plan.
  • Gather all necessary supplies and ingredients for activities.
  • Chill the bowl and beaters for the whipped cream recipe!


Presentation

Opening-Welcome and Introduction

Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Please wear a name tag and assist the shepherds in passing out the children’s name tags. Have the children introduce themselves by saying their name and their favorite snack.Tell the children that this month they will be learning about one of Jesus’ greatest miracles – when he made a terrible storm stop. In this workshop they will make a snack that will look a little like the Sea of Galilee during a huge storm.

Opening Prayer:
Mighty, awesome God, thank you for this day and for the miraculous stories in the Bible that teach us about you. AMEN.

Important Teacher Notes:
Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy!If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles. Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the Background Information to help you introduce the story.

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story.  When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week. Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion.  You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well. Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth.

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity.

Dig-Main Content and Reflection:

Introduce the Story:
Jesus traveled around the land of Galilee, healing and talking to the people he met.  It wasn’t long before great crowds followed him everywhere. Jesus took time to sit with the crowds of people and talk to them, teaching them about the kingdom of God. One evening, after spending the entire day teaching the people near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus and his disciples decided to get in a boat and sail to the other side of the lake, to rest and have some quiet time away from the crowds. Now the Sea of Galilee is a VERY large lake, and it is surrounded by tall mountains. Because of this, fierce, violent storms can blow up suddenly on the lake, even when the sky looks clear and blue. Let’s see what happens to Jesus and his friends....    

Bible Study: Grades K-2
The Picture Bible

Where would we find a story about Jesus and his friends in the Bible?  (New Testament) 
Help the children locate page 592 in The Picture Bible.

Begin at the bottom of the page “When evening comes….” Continue to read the story “Mad Man by the Sea” pages 593-594.
Stop after the frame, “Who is he that even the winds and the sea obey him?”

Next turn to page 599, “Jesus, A miracle Worker”. Review the information there, discussing:

  • What is a miracle?
  • What do miracles show us about God?
  • How many miracles are recorded in the gospels?

Note the picture on page 599 that shows our story.

Bible Study:  Grades 3-5
NIV Adventure Bible

Where would we find stories about Jesus in the Bible?  (New Testament, Gospels) The first four books of the New Testament are called the gospels. What does “gospel” mean?  (good news – these books tell us the good news about Jesus).

Today’s story is found in three of the four gospels in the New Testament, Matthew, Mark and Luke. Read from Matthew 8:23-27 for this session. Help children locate the scriptures and take turns reading.

Discussion:

  • What do you think the disciples were feeling?
  • Why were they so afraid?
  • What do you think they were thinking when Jesus made the storm stop?
  • What would you have done?
  • What do you do now when you are facing a tough situation?
  • How can Jesus calm our storms? 

Memory Verse

Help the children locate the memory verse in their Bibles. Children with their own Bibles (3-5 graders) should highlight the verse using the Bible highlighters provided or a colored pencil.

“When I am afraid, I will trust in you.”  Psalm 56:3

What did the disciples learn about Jesus from this story? (that He was truly God made flesh, all-powerful, able to control the wind and the waves)

Imagine you were with the disciples on the boat. What would you have said or done?

Stormy Pudding:

Supplies:

  • Graham crackers (broken into fourths along the dividing lines)
  • Vanilla pudding – prepared ahead of time or do this as the children arrive (pudding can be made by placing ingredients into quart-sized jars and shaken for several minutes until thickened)
  • Blue food coloring
  • 1 cup whipping cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons sugar or sugar substitute
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • Large glass mixing bowl – chilled!
  • Hand mixer – chill the beaters beforehand
  • Spoons
  • Small clear plastic cups

Directions:

  1. Have children put on aprons and wash their hands.
  2. Give each child a plastic cup and a spoon.          . 
  3. Put a few drops of blue food coloring in the pudding and let the children take turns stirring it up till the color is even. 
  4. Place a few spoonfuls of pudding in the children’s cups. Have children smooth the pudding surface with the back of their spoons.
  5. Make the whipped cream by following the directions below.
  6. Place a dollop or two of whipped cream on top of the pudding cups. Have children use their spoons to create waves.
  7. Add a few cereal squares or graham cracker pieces for the boat.
  8. Enjoy the stormy snack!

Whipping Cream
(makes 2 cups)

Ingredients:

  • Whipping cream – 1 cup (keep chilled)
  • Sugar – 2 teaspoons
  • Vanilla 1/2 teaspoon

Directions:
In a chilled bowl combine whipping cream, sugar and vanilla. Beat with chilled beaters of an electric mixer on medium speed till soft peaks form. Talk to the children as you are beating the cream and have them watch and tell you when they see the “waves” (peaks) form. (or give children a turn using the mixer)

Reflection and Journal Time
The last ten minutes should be reserved for journal time. This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what the children have learned.

Remind the children that God has promised to be with us always, even during the “storms” of our lives, but it is important that we take the time to talk to him about them, about how we are feeling, what we are hoping, what we are afraid of. Spending time with God in stormy times helps us to feel calmer, and grow closer to God.

Have the children think about some times when they were going through “storms.” Older children might want to consider praying the memory verse as a prayer when faced with hard times.  Encourage them to recite the memory verse as a prayer to use during scary times.

Journal Questions:
Grades K-2:  Draw a picture of a time you faced a “storm,” a hard time. 
Grades 3-5:  Write a prayer you could pray when you face a difficult time.

Closing:
Encourage the children to come back next week for another workshop, and to invite their friends.   Remind the children of one word or concept from today’s session. Storms, peace, trust, believe, prayer are some possibilities. Ask for prayer requests and pray together, closing with the Lord’s Prayer.

Clean-up
Help Shepherd collect Journals and nametags and put away. Gather all the supplies and put them away. Clean dishes, wipe off counters and table tops. Please bag up trash and place outside the classroom door. Replace trashcan liner. Turn out lights before leaving classroom.


A lesson written by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability.

Last edited by Luanne Payne

Jesus Calms the Storm
Games Workshop

Summary of Lesson Activities:
Children will review the story by playing several games.

Scripture References: 
NIV Adventure Bible - Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25,
The Picture Bible - “Mad Man by the Sea” page 592-594, “Jesus, A miracle Worker” page 599

Memory Verse: 
Psalm 56:3

Theme: 
We can trust that Jesus is with us always and helps us in times of trouble.

Objectives:

  • Children will find the story in the Bible.
  • Children will be able to retell the story in their own words.
  • Children will locate the Sea of Galilee on the map.
  • Children will define miracle.
  • Children will explore the concept of “storms” in their lives and how God can calm them.
  • Children will explore the idea of trusting God even when times are hard.
  • Children will recognize that Jesus is present with us always, even in difficult times and is able to help us.
  • Children will memorize Psalm 56:3.

Important Note for Games Workshop Leaders:
The purpose of the Bible Quest workshop is two-fold:  to develop Bible skills and to reinforce that knowledge by having fun with games. The games are not frills and fluff!  Playing games helps to cement the knowledge and reinforce the skills you introduce during the Bible lesson. Children learn best when actively involve, so please do not skimp on the games portion of the lesson!  Follow the time guidelines to help you stay on track. Remember – in the Rotation model, children study ONE lesson or story for 4 weeks, so it is not necessary to cover every detail in each session.


Preparation and Room Set Up:

  • Review the Background Information, Behavioral Covenant, Teaching Tips and Lesson plan.
  • Preview the Rotation Music CD. Play the music as children arrive and during journaling.
  • Prepare the power point.
  • Prepare the “Worry Cans.”


Presentation

Arrival Activity
As children arrive, give them a piece of paper cut to fit around a Pringles can, or other cans you have collected (with a small overlap). Using markers or colored pencils, have them decorate the paper with a stormy sky, waves and possibly a boat.

Opening - Welcome and Introduction:
Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Please wear a name tag and assist the shepherds in passing out the children’s name tags. Have the children introduce themselves by saying their name and their favorite color, food or animal.Tell the children that this month they will be learning about one of Jesus’ greatest miracles – when he made a terrible storm stop. In this workshop they will play several games to review the story.

Opening Prayer
Awesome and Mighty God, Thank you for this day and for the amazing stories in the Bible that teach us about you. Give us open minds and hearts today as we learn and play together. AMEN.

Important Teacher Notes:
Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy!If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles. Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the Background Information to help you introduce the story.

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story.  When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week. Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion.  You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well. Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth.

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity.



Presentation

Opening - Welcome and Lesson Introduction:
Greet the children and introduce yourself.

Open with a prayer.

Dig-Main Content and Reflection:

Introduce the Story
Jesus traveled around the land of Galilee, healing and talking to the people he met. It wasn’t long before great crowds followed him everywhere. Jesus took time to sit with the crowds of people and talk to them, teaching them about the kingdom of God. One evening, after spending the entire day teaching the people near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus and his disciples decided to get in a boat and sail to the other side of the lake, to rest and have some quiet time away from the crowds. Now the Sea of Galilee is a VERY large lake, and it is surrounded by tall mountains. Because of this, fierce, violent storms can blow up suddenly on the lake, even when the sky looks clear and blue. Let’s see what happens to Jesus and his friends....    

Bible Study: Grades K-2
The Picture Bible

Where would we find a story about Jesus and his friends in the Bible?  (New Testament) 
Help the children locate page 592 in The Picture Bible.
Begin at the bottom of the page “When evening comes….” Continue to read the story “Mad Man by the Sea” pages 593-594.
Stop after the frame, “Who is he that even the winds and the sea obey him?”
Next turn to page 599, “Jesus, A miracle Worker”. Review the information there, discussing:

  • What is a miracle?
  • What do miracles show us about God?
  • How many miracles are recorded in the gospels?

Note the picture on page 599 that shows our story.

Bible Study:  Grades 3-5
NIV Adventure Bible

Where would we find stories about Jesus in the Bible?  (New Testament, Gospels) The first four books of the New Testament are called the gospels. What does “gospel” mean?  (good news – these books tell us the good news about Jesus).

Today’s story is found in three of the four gospels in the New Testament, Matthew, Mark and Luke.  We are going to read from each gospel.
Divide the children into three groups and assign each group a gospel.

  • Matthew 8:23-27
  • Mark 4:35-41
  • Luke 8:22-25

Have each group take turns reading the scriptures.

Discussion:

  • Are the three stories exactly the same?

Explain that the first three gospels: Matthew, Mark and Luke are called synoptic gospels. They were written by different people, but often they tell the same stories about Jesus… just from a slightly different perspective. Imagine that we all do something together at church and then each of us write about it. Would our stories be exactly the same? Why not?

Take the children to the New Testament wall map. Have them find the Sea of Galilee. 

Review some of the facts about this large lake: 

          1.  Sea of Galilee is actually a large lake.
          2.  Other names for it are Lake Gennesaret, Sea of Tiberias and the Sea of Kinnereth.
          3.  Many of the stories of Jesus took place near the shores of the Sea of Galilee.
          4.  Jesus’ first disciples were fishermen there.
          5.  The Jordan River flows into the lake (show on the map).
          6.  The Old Testament prophets said that the Messiah (Jesus) would teach near Galilee.

  • What do you think the disciples were feeling?
  • What were they thinking when Jesus made the storm stop?

This miracle occurred toward the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Did the disciple understand who Jesus really was before this miracle? (no, this is shown by their questions… gradually they are discovering that Jesus is MORE than just a great teacher… Jesus is the Messiah, God come to earth in human form to save people from their sins!)

The disciples faced an actual storm – with wind, huge waves. But there are other kinds of storms… that don’t involve weather… What other kinds of “storms” do we face in our lives? (death, illness, moving away, job loss, friends move)

  • What do you do now when you are facing a tough situation?
  • How can Jesus calm our storms?
  • What can we learn about God when we go through storms? 

Memory Verse
Help the children locate the memory verse in their Bibles. Children with their own Bibles (3-5 graders) should highlight the verse using the Bible highlighters provided or a colored pencil. Please do not mark in the classroom Bibles. Encourage children to take home a verse card (available at the sign in desk and to review the verse often. Also remind them that all of this year's verses are in their Memory Verse booklets.

“When I am afraid, I will trust in you.”  Psalm 56:3

We all have times when we are afraid. What does this verse tell us to do when we are afraid?  (trust in God)  How can trusting in God help us be less afraid?

This verse tells us that God wants to help us during fearful or difficult times. God can calm us down, and make our fears get smaller or go away if we remember that God is with us and loves us. Talking to God through prayer when we are afraid will help us be able to deal with our fears.

Corners Game:
(adapted from a The Voting Game activity described by Neil MacQueen in his Art Workshop: Jesus Calls the Storm here at rotation.org)

Directions:
Call out the following questions (pointing to one side of the room for one answer and the opposite side for another answer). Children will answer by moving to the specified side of the room.

After each statement, go to someone on each side and ask them why they chose this side. Discuss their answers.

1. True or False – the story of Jesus calming the storm an be found in only one gospel? (false – found in three – Matthew, Mark, Luke)

2. True or False -- the body of water where this story took place was the Sea of Capernaum (false:  Galilee)

3. True or False -- Jesus fell asleep because he was tired from a full day of teaching others (true --according to the story)

4. If I had been on that boat with the waves crashing in and with Jesus sleeping, I would probably have:
-        been scared like the disciples
-        not been afraid at all
-        been afraid just a little bit (stay in middle)

5. When I saw Jesus sleeping on the boat, I would have:
-        yelled his name and tried to wake him up
-        not been afraid at all because I knew he was with me
-        other:  (ask them what)

6. When I’m scared or afraid of a storm I:
-        hide under the covers
-        run to a parent
-        nothing - storms don’t scare me

7. Of these three things, what would be the scariest to you?
-        A scary haunted house
-        being lost in a strange place
-        being in a lot of pain (like a broken leg or arm, or falling off your bike)
(Ask the kids what is the scariest thing they’ve ever experienced)

8. When I’m scared, I would be most comforted by:
-        My mom or dad holding me or being close to me
-        An object like a blanket, stuffed animal, or crawling into bed
-        pretending whatever it was that was scaring me wasn’t there!
-        other:  (ask them what)

9. A “storm” in my life right now is:
-        someone who has been making me upset
-        something happening at home that is upsetting me
-        an illness or health problem I’m having or someone I love is having
-        not feeling very happy these days
-        other:  (ask them what)

Worry Cans:

Supplies:

  • Empty small or medium sized “Pringles” cans (or other small container with a removable lid) – 1 per child
  • Colored paper cut to size to fit around the can with a small overlap
  • Glue or tape
  • Plain labels (2X4 inches)
  • Markers, stickers and other embellishments
  • Small slips of paper
  • Pencils or pens

Advanced Preparation:

  1. Cut the paper so that it just fits around the Pringles style can with a slight overlap. Children will decorate the paper as they arrive in class.
  2. Print out the memory verses onto 1X4 or 2X4 inch labels (for younger age group – older kids should write the verse out themselves).

Directions:

  1. Gather the children together at the tables.
  2. Ask for volunteers to describe their “storm.”
  3. Have children write their problems or fears on a slip of paper.
  4. Give each child a Pringles can and their paper from the early arrival activity.  Have them secure the decorated paper to the Pringles can using tape.  Have children write their names on the bottom of the can.

Say:  These are Worry Cans. Sometimes when we are worried or anxious or afraid of something it’s really hard to think of anything else. Before we know it, that’s all we are thinking of. We all have “storms” or bad things or scary things that happen in our lives. Jesus wants to help us with those fears. When we trust Jesus with our worries, fears and sad times, he promises to help us. That’s what our memory verse tells us this month.

Give each child a memory verse label and have them place it on their decorated paper around the can.
When something is bothering us, we can worry and fret and think that Jesus doesn’t really care OR
we can resist fear, and put our trust in God.

Let’s take the worries you wrote on the paper and put them in the Worry Can and put the lid back on.

What does our memory verse say?  (When I am afraid, I will trust in you.)  Let’s give our worries to Jesus now in prayer. Dear Jesus, Thank you for helping us to stay calm when we are afraid or worried. Thank you for loving us no matter what. Help us to trust in you always. Please help us through the tough times we have. AMEN.

Keep this can in your room at home. When you have a worry or fear, write it down and pray about it. The Worry Can will remind you that Jesus cares about what is on your mind and will help you when you are scared or worried or upset.

Sometimes He Calms the Storm Power Point – Grades 3-5

Supplies: 

  • Wild Imagination CD, “Sometimes He Calms the Storm” by Scott Krippayne
  • Computer – power point software
  • Laptop or projector to show power point

Advanced Preparation:

  1. Create a power point with the song, pictures of storms (use personal photos or download images from the internet) and the lyrics displayed.
  2. If power point is not an option, create a transparency with the song lyrics and display as you play the song.

Directions:
Gather the children where they can easily see the screen. Say:  This is a song that talks about storms – both the kinds of physical storms the disciples faced in the boat with Jesus and other, emotional or personal storms. Listen carefully to the words and watch the images.
Show the power point presentation to the children.

Reflection and Journal Time:
The last ten minutes should be reserved for journal time. This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what the children have learned.

Journal Questions:
Grades K-2:  Draw a picture of Jesus holding you close.  How do you feel? 
Grades 3-5:   How can Jesus hold you close when “storms” rage in your life?

Rainstorm:
This is a great cool-down and a powerful way to close your session.

Gather the children together on the rug standing in a circle facing inwards. Leader should be in the center of the circle facing the children. Tell the children that you are going to create a “Rainstorm” just like Jesus and the disciples experienced on the Sea of Galilee. Tell them they are to do what you do when you stand directly in front of them and continue doing that until you come back around the circle to them again, then they should do the new action you show them. Then they will start doing what you are doing at that time, continue until you come back around and so on.  Stand right in front of a child and move quickly and smoothly around the circle. Change actions when you have made a complete circle.  Here are the actions:

Begin by rubbing your hands together (gentle rain)
Snap fingers together (harder rain)
Clap hands on thighs  (even harder rain)
Stomp feet (thunder)
then go in reverse
Clap hands on thighs
Snap fingers together
Rub hands together
End by holding hand silently  at your mouth (in a silent “shush” action)

As you go around the circle the storm will gradually build, peak, then ebb away to calm. Very powerful!

Closing:
Encourage the children to come back next week for another workshop, and to invite their friends.   Remind the children of one word or concept from today’s session. Storms, peace, trust, believe, prayer are some possibilities. Ask for prayer requests and pray together, closing with the Lord’s Prayer.

Clean-up:
Help Shepherd collect Journals and nametags and put away. Gather all the supplies and put them away. 


 

A lesson written by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability.

Last edited by Luanne Payne

Jesus Calms the Storm

Drama Workshop

Summary of Lesson Activities:
Children will create dramatic "stills" of the story, acting out with costumes and props.

Scripture References: 
NIV Adventure Bible - Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25,
The Picture Bible - “Mad Man by the Sea” page 592-594, “Jesus, A miracle Worker” page 599

Memory Verse: 
Psalm 56:3

Theme: 
We can trust that Jesus is with us always and helps us in times of trouble.

Objectives:

  • Children will find the story in the Bible.
  • Children will be able to retell the story in their own words.
  • Children will locate the Sea of Galilee on the map.
  • Children will define miracle.
  • Children will explore the concept of “storms” in their lives and how God can calm them.
  • Children will explore the idea of trusting God even when times are hard.
  • Children will recognize that Jesus is present with us always, even in difficult times and is able to help us.
  • Children will memorize Psalm 56:3.

Advanced Preparations/Room Set Up:   

  • Read the bacground information and lesson materials.
  • Gather necessary props:  cardboard boat*, fans for wind, spray bottles for saltspray, long sheet of blue fabric for waves, rainmaker (bamboo tube with beans) for sound of rain.
  • Set out simple Bible costumes BEFORE class. If you have a large class, you may want to just use head drapes to save time.
  • We created a cardboard boat prop in our art workshop for another Sea of Galilee story. It now resides in our drama workshop. Cut a large "boat-shape" out of cardboard (or even several sections of foam core board that have been taped together). Let children paint the boat with brown and black paint. Optional: Add ropes, fish nets, bobbers.

Important Note for Drama Workshop Leaders:

  • You may wish to organize costumes or puppets ahead of time to cut down on a flurry of activity and possible hurt feelings.  Have props ready ahead of time.  This is especially important for the younger children.  The older children often are very creative with props and costumes.
  • You will want to limit the amount of time the children are allowed to dress-up.  (They can easily spend the entire class time selecting costumes!)
  • Be sure that all children are involved in some way. Some children are intimidated by the prospect of being on a stage.  Offer them alternative roles as well as the children who do not have main parts.  They can always be “sound effects” or “crowds” or stagehands to help change scenery, or video camera operators (for the older children). Remember as well that children can draw the backdrop for the drama on the blackboard or videotape the plays (older children).
  • To eliminate competition, you may wish to place the names of characters in a hat and have children choose their parts. 
  • Be sure to explain the activity to the children and ask for questions.
  • Even though videotaping the activities may seem unnecessary, videotaping seems to encourage better behavior from the children.
  • Have fun and make this fun for the children!
  • The purpose of the drama workshop is not to create a polished performance.  Through the activity, children will explore the story in depth.  Feel free to pause and discuss details as they arise, add more information (using the Background information and resources) and answer questions along the way. 


Presentation

Opening - Welcome and Introduction:

Welcome the children and introduce yourself. Please wear a name tag and assist the shepherds in passing out the children’s name tags. Have the children introduce themselves by saying their name and their favorite color, food or animal.Tell the children that this month they will be learning about one of Jesus’ greatest miracles – when he made a terrible storm stop. In this workshop they will act out the story together.

Opening Prayer:
Please begin each session with prayer.  Powerful and awesome God, thank you for this day and for the amazing stories in the Bible that teach us about you. AMEN.

Important Teacher Notes:
Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy!If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles. Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the Background Information to help you introduce the story.

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story.  When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week. Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion.  You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well. Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth.

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity.

Dig-Main Content and Reflection:

Introduce the Story:
Jesus traveled around the land of Galilee, healing and talking to the people he met. It wasn’t long before great crowds followed him everywhere. Jesus took time to sit with the crowds of people and talk to them, teaching them about the kingdom of God. One evening, after spending the entire day teaching the people near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus and his disciples decided to get in a boat and sail to the other side of the lake, to rest and have some quiet time away from the crowds. Now the Sea of Galilee is a VERY large lake, and it is surrounded by tall mountains. Because of this, fierce, violent storms can blow up suddenly on the lake, even when the sky looks clear and blue.  Let’s see what happens to Jesus and his friends....    

Bible Study: Grades K-2
The Picture Bible

Where would we find a story about Jesus and his friends in the Bible?  (New Testament) 

Help the children locate page 592 in The Picture BibleBegin at the bottom of the page “When evening comes….” Continue to read the story “Mad Man by the Sea” pages 593-594.

Stop after the frame, “Who is he that even the winds and the sea obey him?”

Next turn to page 599, “Jesus, A miracle Worker”. Review the information there, discussing:

  • What is a miracle?
  • What do miracles show us about God?
  • How many miracles are recorded in the gospels?

Note the picture on page 599 that shows our story.

Bible Study:  Grades 3-5
NIV Adventure Bible

Where would we find stories about Jesus in the Bible?  (New Testament, Gospels) The first four books of the New Testament are called the gospels. What does “gospel” mean?  (good news – these books tell us the good news about Jesus).

Today’s story is found in three of the four gospels in the New Testament, Matthew, Mark and Luke.  We are going to read from the gospel of Luke for this session. Help the children locate Luke 8:22-25 and read the verses.

Memory Verse:

Help the children locate the memory verse in their Bibles. Children with their own Bibles (3-5 graders) should highlight the verse using the Bible highlighters provided or a colored pencil. Please do not mark in the classroom Bibles. Encourage children to take home a verse card (available at the sign in desk and to review the verse often. Also remind them that all of this year's verses are in their Memory Verse booklets.

“When I am afraid, I will trust in you.”  Psalm 56:3

Why were the disciple afraid?

What makes you afraid?

This verse helps us see that God wants to help us during scary times. God can calm us down, and make our fears get smaller or go away if we remember that God is with us and loves us. Talking to God through prayer when we are afraid will help us be able to deal with our fears.

Jesus Calms the Storm Drama!  

Directions:

  1. Review the different characters needed for the play.  
  2. Assign parts and include some students to help create the waves and the storm (waving long pieces of blue cloth, blowing with fans, spraying water).
  3. Help children dress in simple Bible costumes.
  4. Consider videotaping the show. 
  5. Walk the children through the basic story outline – allowing them to act out the scenes and then "freeze" to obtain a picture of each scene. Pause to discuss the questions listed after each scene. Include the following:

1. Jesus and the disciples get in a boat to sail to the other side of the lake.

  • Why did Jesus want to go away in a boat? (he was tired, he had been teaching the crowds of people)

2.  Jesus falls asleep in the boat.

  • Why was Jesus so tired? (above)

3. A fierce storm blows up.

  • Was this unusual for the Sea of Galilee? (no, fierce storms were common)

4. The disciples are frightened.

  • Several of Jesus' disciples were fishermen... what can we learn about this storm since they were so frightened? (it must have been very severe)

5. The disciples wake Jesus up.

  • What did the disciples say to Jesus?
  • What did Jesus say to them?
  • What would you have done if you were in that boat?

6. Jesus orders the wind and waves to calm.

  • What does this tell us about Jesus?
  • How did the disciples react?  

Follow-up Discussion:

  • Why do you think the disciples didn’t trust they would be ok?
  • Why don’t others believe in Jesus?
  • When you’re afraid, do you turn to Jesus?
  • How does somebody “turn” to Jesus when they are afraid?
  • What is scary in your life right now?
  • How could Jesus help you?
  • How can we help each other? 

For Older Children: 
If time allows, consider having them modernize the story. Have them describe a “storm” in their lives today and act it out. How can Jesus calm the storms in our lives today?

Reflection and Journal Time:
The last ten minutes should be reserved for journal time. This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what the children have learned.

Journal Questions:
Grades K-2:  Draw a picture showing Jesus making the storm stop.
Grades 3-5:  The disciples were amazed when Jesus calmed the storm. What do you think they were wondering?  What do you wonder about Jesus?

Closing:
Encourage the children to come back next week for another workshop, and to invite their friends. Remind the children of one word or concept from today’s session. Storms, peace, trust, believe, prayer are some possibilities.  Ask for prayer requests and pray together, closing with the Lord’s Prayer.

Clean-up:
Help Shepherd collect Journals and nametags and put away. Put away costumes and props. Turn out light before leaving classroom. 


 

 A lesson written by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC

A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability.

Last edited by Luanne Payne

Jesus Calms the Storm

Video Workshop

Summary of Lesson Activities:
Children will view the following:  Matthew Visual Bible (Jesus Calms the Storm clip), McGee and Me:  Twister and Shout.

Scripture References:
Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25, “Jesus Calms the Storm” page 317 Little Kids’ Adventure Bible.

Memory Verse: 
Psalm 56:3

Theme: 
We can trust that Jesus is with us always and helps us in times of trouble.

Rotation Objectives:

  • Children will find the story in the Bible.
  • Children will be able to retell the story in their own words.
  • Children will locate the Sea of Galilee on the map.
  • Children will define miracle.
  • Children will explore the concept of “storms” in their lives and how God can calm them.
  • Children will recognize that Jesus is present with us always, even in difficult times and is able to help us.
  • Children will memorize Psalm 56:3.

Leader Preparation:

  • Gather the materials.
  • Read the scripture ahead of time.
  • Preview the video.

Supplies List:

  • Matthew Visual Bible DVD (Jesus Calms the Storm clip) and McGee and Me: Twister and Shout (DVD).
  • Popcorn

Important Note for Video Workshop Leaders:
Children love this workshop! Often the video is a direct correlation with the Bible story and creates a concrete, visual image in the children’s minds. They refer to this image over and over throughout the rotation as they visit other workshops. Some videos may take some liberties with the story-you may need to point out these discrepancies. As much as possible sit down with the children and watch the video together. Feel free to pause the video to discuss something that you especially want them to note. Please ensure that the children treat the room with respect-no standing, jumping or otherwise abusing the seats.   



Presentation

Opening- Welcome and Lesson Introduction:

Opening Prayer: Awesome and powerful God, Thank you for this day and for all the people who are here today. Open our hearts and minds so we can learn to trust you and remember how much you love us no matter what is happening in our lives.  AMEN.”

Important Teacher Notes:

Each workshop includes the Bible story. One of our primary goals is to improve the children’s Bible literacy!If children did not bring their Bibles from home, use the classroom Bibles. Shepherds should help the children locate the stories. Use the Background Information to help you introduce the story.

Remember that as the rotation progresses; the children will become more familiar with the story.  When this happens, allow the children to tell you what they know. The children should still locate the story in their Bibles every week. Use the bold headings in their Bibles to guide your discussion.  You may want to review some of the Bible notes as well. Be sure to fill in any missing information and add additional details using the Background Information to help you. One of the greatest advantages of this model is that children who come regularly learn the story in great depth.

Each lesson contains more Background Information and discussion questions than can be used in one session. Remember, children are studying this story for four weeks! Be sure to follow the time guidelines and leave ample time for the activity.

Dig - Main Content and Reflection:

Introduce the Story:
Today we are going to watch two videos – a short one showing Jesus and his disciples and a longer one about a boy and his family who lives today.  Both of these movies will show us something about Jesus, about his power and his love.    

Video:  Matthew Visual Bible

Pass out popcorn and drinks. 
Have children sit in the seats to watch the show.

Begin the Matthew (Visual Bible) clip of Jesus calming the storm.
(Clip is found on 1st DVD - Event #16.)

Video:  McGee & Me:  Twister and Shout

Next show McGee and Me:  Twister and Shout.

Once the movies are done, have the children return to the tables for Bible study and discussion.

Bible Study: Grades K-2

Where would we find a story about Jesus and his friends in the Bible?  (New Testament)  Help the children locate the story “Jesus Calms the Storm” on page 317 in the Little Kids’ Adventure Bible.  Note the red bold heading and the small sub-heading (Mark 4) that tells where in the Bible this story is found.

Read as the children follow along in their Bibles.

Bible Study:  Grades 3-5

Where would we find stories about Jesus in the Bible?  (New Testament, Gospels) The first four books of the New Testament are called the gospels. What does “gospel” mean?  (good news – these books tell us the good news about Jesus). Today’s story is found in three of the four gospels in the New Testament, Matthew, Mark and Luke. Choose one gospel and read the text as the children follow along. If time allows, children may wish to look up all three references and read them.

Discussion:

(adapted from information folder included with the McGee and Me video)

God can help us through "storms" in our lives. Storms can be anything that causes us to worry or be afraid. Use the following comments and questions to lead a discussion with the children:

Comment: Tell the children, “That story reminds me of a time I was really scared!”

(Be open with the children about a time you really needed to trust God.) 

Ask: When was a time you were afraid? Have you ever helped someone else not be so afraid?  How? How does it help to know God is with you when you’re afraid?

Comment:  Sarah and Nick and the other kids had to do quite a few things to make it through that stormy night. Ask: What did you see the kids doing to endure the storm? (They found flashlights, candles, and a lantern; patched a broken window; placed a bucket under a leak; swept up the broken glass; found blankets and sleeping bags; talked to each other about God’s care for them)

Ask:

  • If we had a bad storm, and you were home alone, what would you do?  (Discuss places to go, neighbors to contact, the need to encourage one another and pray in any emergency)  

Comment: When Nick’s parent’s learned they could not drive home or even phone their children, they knew they must trust God for their family’s safety.  As the Children began to realize that their parents would not make it home, they began to think and talk about God’s presence with them.

Ask: 

  • How can you know that God is always with you?  (First, because the Bible says so.  Genesis 28:5 says " I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go."  Second, each time God helps us, we learn to depend on him a little more.

Ask:  

  • If you trust God, will he make nothing bad ever happen to you?  (No, God’s promise is not to stop all trouble from bothering us. In Psalm 46:1, the Bible says "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." God’s plan is to help us grow stronger.   Learning to handle problems is one way we experience growth.   Some things happen that we think God should not allow. Sometimes we do not understand why hurtful things happen. That’s when we really need to believe that God loves us and he will make something good out of even the worst things.)

Comment:  There wasn’t much time with the storm blowing and the lights out for the kids to do all they had to do.  Even so, Nick took a moment in the dark to pray. Sometimes people get so busy trying to solve a problem, they forget the most important thing of all:  to pray for God’s help.

Ask:   

  • Why is it important to pray when trouble comes?  (God already knows about the trouble, but prayer is one of the most important ways we show our trust in him.)

Ask:

  • What can a person do when there isn’t time to stop and pray? (Even though closing your eyes can help you think about God while you’re talking to him, you can pray while you’re working or running, or doing anything else that needs to be done.  God will answer a quick silent prayer just as readily as a long spoken one.)

Ask:

  • Will God always do what you ask? (God will always hear, but his answer may be different than you expect. We usually think we know what God should do, but he’s the one who really knows what is best.  So, sometimes his answer is “no," and sometimes it’s "wait." At other times his answer is totally unlike what we have asked. Trusting God means you believe he will do what you need, not necessarily what you want.)

Reflection/Journal Time:
The last 10 minutes should be reserved for Journal and Reflection time. This is an opportunity for processing and reflection about what the children have learned.  Ask the shepherds to pass out the journals and pencils/pens and the journal sticker for the day. (Note:  Journal questions are color-coded for each age group – purple for K-2 and blue for 3-5.) Workshop leaders and shepherds should sit down with children in small groups to facilitate discussion and writing in Faith Journals.  Memory verse stickers are also included for each lesson. Children may also copy the memory verse and illustrate.

Journal Questions:
Grades K-2:  Draw a picture showing how Nick felt about the storm.
Grades 3-5:  What did Nick learn about God from his experience?

Closing:
Encourage the children to come back next week for another workshop, and to invite their friends. another workshop, and to bring their friends.  Remind the children of one word or concept from today’s session.  Peace, calm, trust, prayer, believe are some possibilties.  Ask for prayer requests and pray together.

Clean-up: Have children throw away their popcorn bags and cups. Clean out popcorn machine and sweep up any stray kernels. Put away Bibles, paper, pencils, videos, etc. Release children only to parents, older siblings, or by prior arrangement with parents.


A lesson written by Jaymie Derden from: State Street UMC
 A representative of Rotation.org reformatted this post to improve readability. 

Last edited by Luanne Payne

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