A Sweet Thank You

Scripture: Genesis 37

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will review the first part of Joseph’s story to the point that he was sold to Potiphar.
  • Students will bake goodies for authority figures and people who protect them in their community.

Guiding Question: How can we show appreciation for leaders who protect our community such as police and firefighters?

Materials: mixing bowls, spoons, muffin mix or recipe, pans, kitchen facility, construction paper, markers

Procedure: Review how the Midianites sold Joseph to Potiphar, Pharaoh’s captain of the guard. Potiphar held an important position in Egypt and may have been in charge of the region’s safety. Review authority figures in your community who help promote safety. Discuss the roles of policemen and firefighters. Explain that they work very hard and often have to cook their own meals even after a long day at work. Many times they spend the night at their station so that they are ready to help citizens in need if they get an emergency call. Baking muffins for them to have on hand as a snack or with breakfast is a helpful treat.

Prep your baking space before students arrive and have all materials accessible. Give each student a special assignment such as stirring (they can take turns with this), pouring, cracking an egg, setting the timer, placing cupcake liners in tins, etc. As you work, discuss the many specific services that our community helpers are responsible for. This helps keep students engaged while they wait for their turn. You also want to emphasize cooking safety as you work and keep a safe distance between the oven and students. While the muffins are baking and cooling, students can create handmade thank-you cards.

If possible, set up transportation so that students can deliver the muffins themselves. Often firehouses are eager to meet the kids and may even let students take pictures and see the firetruck.

Additional Questions:

  • What are some other community helpers and how do they serve us?
  • What are some other ways that we show appreciation to authority figures who keep us safe?
  • If you are ever addressed by a police officer or firefighter, what are some proper ways to respond? (Use sir/ma’am. If you are pulled over in a car, don’t get out unless told to do so. Even when you disagree with a policeman, it is important to speak respectfully and act tactfully.)
  • How do you think Joseph treated Potiphar?

Supplemental Activities:

  • Schedule a full tour of your local firehouse and plan a group visit.
  • Have students research the many roles of firefighters to gain a greater appreciation. They may be surprised that they do much more than just put out house fires. Also have students research the roles of firefighters in other countries. Some countries use voluntary fire fighters.

Written by: Savannah Negas

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