Jesus Calms a Storm

Bible Point: We should turn to Jesus when we're afraid.

Bible Exploration: Mark 4:35-41

For this "I’m Not So Afraid" activity, you’ll need to bring a stuffed animal to class. You may determine the stuffed animal’s name beforehand or you may decide to let the children name it. Hold the stuffed animal as if he is sitting in your lap, facing the children.

SAY [Animal’s name] is my special little friend. He is very shy about new places. Move the animal as if he is hiding his face from the children. Look at the stuffed animal. It’s OK, little buddy. There’s no reason to be afraid. Turn the stuffed animal back around to face the children again.

Can you think of ways we can make [animal’s name] feel better? Can we pat him on the back? Let children pat the stuffed animal. Guide them in making other suggestions such as singing to the stuffed animal, praying for him, shaking his hand, or hugging him. Let the children act these out.

I think [animal’s name] is feeling better now. You helped him to not be so afraid. Jesus helps us when we’re afraid, too.