Scripture: Ezekiel
Learning Objectives:
- Students will learn living in a fallen world sometimes means bad times can go on for a very long time.
- Students will learn God is with us even in the bad times.
- Students will learn in bad times our hope is found in God.
- Students will learn how to keep bones healthy?
Guided Question: What ways can we keep our bones staying healthy as we get older?
Materials: Access to interents, pencils, paper, poster boards, drawing utensils
Procedure: Review with students about the prophet Ezekiel. Remind students Ezekiel was taken into captivity in Babylon like Daniel and his friends. His book was to remind the Jews that even though they would be in captivity for 70 years, God had not forgotten them. Ezekiel reminded them God was still in charge and they could worship Him even if they now lived in Babylon. Encourage students that even during difficult times, God is with us and working in the situation. We may not always understand it, but we can put our hope and trust in God that we will provide for us and bring good for us. Review chapter 37 about the valley of dry bones. The Israelites in both parts – Israel and Judah had forgotten to stay close to God. They disobeyed Him. Many probably stopped studying God’s Words and praying to him. Some had even started worshipping idols. The dry bones were God’s way of explaining to the people that abandoning God and their faith had caused their faith to dry up like old bones.
Introduce the activity. Have the students research what their bodies need for their bones to be healthy, including foods and exercises. Divide them into small groups and have them write and give a presentation for younger children on bone health. (They may want to write skits or puppet shows to hold the interest of younger children.)
Additional Questions: How can students plan to keep their bones healthy?
Supplemental Activity: Have the students create a 14 day challenge for keeping their bones healthy. This can be an outline of foods to eat and exercises to engage in each day to promote bone health.