Wash and Serve

Scripture: Matthew 26:20-25, Mark 14:17-21, Luke 22:14-38, John 13:1-14:31

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will learn Jesus expects us to serve others with the same attitude he had when washing the feet of the Apostles.
  • Students will learn Jesus set the example for the Lord’s Supper or Communion at the Last Supper.
  • Students will learn even though God/Jesus are outside of time and know what choices we will make, we still have free choice in our thoughts and actions.
  • Students will participate in a service project led by adults to learn how to have a servant’s attitude.

Guiding Question: Why is it important to serve with a godly attitude?

Materials: Large bowls, water, soap, towels

Procedure: Review the story of the Last Supper. Have the students share how they would describe Jesus’ attitude when washing the feet of the apostles. Expand on how Jesus was humble, kind, gentle, and obedient in how God wanted Him to go about serving others. Explain that God wants us to serve others with a godly attitude so that they may see Jesus through our actions and want to know more about Him. The way that we serve others reflects how Jesus is in our lives and gives us an opportunity to share what Jesus has done for us. We have choice in our words and actions and it is important to have our actions reflect the godly attitude that is seen in the Bible.

Introduce service activity. Have parents or other adults close to the students come in and then have students wash their feet. While students are washing their feet, talk about what a godly attitude looks like and what kind of service they can provide to people around them that will help them learn more about God. If students struggle with washing the feet of others, consider having the adult wash the child’s feet first. Afterwards discuss why serving others sometimes makes us uncomfortable. Explain God wants us to serve others, even when it doesn’t seem like “fun”. Have students brainstorm ways they can remember to serve others when they don’t particularly want to serve them.

Additional Questions: How can students serve in their community?
Supplemental Activity: Have students work with a ministry team in your congregation that serves in the community and plan a service project together that will support that ministries efforts.

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