Scripture: Matthew 8:1-4 and 9:1-2, Mark 1:40-45 and 2:1-5 and Luke 5:12-20
Learning Objectives:
- Students will learn Jesus thought it was important to take regular breaks in his ministry to be alone and pray.
- Students will learn Jesus respected the faith of the men who loved their friend enough to do anything to get him to Jesus.
- Students will learn Jesus thinks having our sins forgiven is more important than healing someone of an illness.
- Students will learn about exercises that keep our body healthy.
Guiding Question: How does caring for others serve God?
Materials: Resources from Procedure section, pictures of the nervous system
Procedure: Review the story of the Leper and the Paralytic from the scripture above. Explain to the students that Jesus found it important to help heal people but most importantly to forgive our sins. Ask the students how Jesus healing people would have helped them want to know and follow Jesus. Explain that even though God wants us to take care of others who are ill, He also wants us to keep our bodies healthy and strong. When we are in good health, we are able to better support God and the work He calls us to.
Introduce the activity. Explain what the nervous system is and how it affects our body. Use child appropriate pictures to show students different parts of the nervous system. Talk to students about exercising. What is exercise? Why is it important? Have the students share. Explain that just like there are exercises for our physical body, there are brain exercises that we can do as well. These keep our nervous system strong and healthy. The exercises do not seem like typical exercises. Activities such as memory games, puzzles, I Spy, and body movements will support our brain’s development. Engage in one or more of these activities with the students and explain how it supports their brain and nervous system.
Other Resources: https://www.momjunction.com/articles/brain-games-for-kids_00459826/
Additional Questions: How does regular exercise affect brain health?
Supplemental Activity: Have students research and participate in physical exercises that support brain health. Students must be able to explain to you how the exercises they choose support brain function.