Preparing for the Second Coming of Christ
Hello, wonderful children! Today, we are going to embark on an exciting journey through a Bible story about how to prepare for the second coming of Christ. This story is not only about waiting for Jesus to return but also about how we can live our lives in a way that pleases Him every day. As we go through this tale, imagine yourself on an adventure, preparing for the arrival of the most special guest—Jesus!
See also: The Resurrection Story of Jesus Christ
Introduction: The Promise of His Return
Many, many years ago, after Jesus had taught people about love and kindness, after He had performed miracles, and after He had risen from the dead, He made a promise. Jesus said He would come back one day to bring all the good children and adults who follow His teachings to a wonderful place called Heaven. In the Bible, in the book of John 14:3, Jesus says, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."
Isn't it amazing to think about Jesus preparing a special place just for us? But while we wait for Him to come back, we must prepare our hearts and lives too. So, let's discover how we can do just that!
Chapter 1: Listening to His Words
Long ago, during the time Jesus walked on Earth, people would gather around Him to listen to His teachings. Jesus loved talking to children just like you! He told them stories that made it easier to understand how to live life in the best way possible.
Key Verses:
- Matthew 7:24 - "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock."
- Luke 18:16 - "But Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.'"
Children, to prepare for Jesus' return, one of the most important things we can do is listen to His words in the Bible and do our best to follow them.
A Little Surprise
Let's play a game! Can you act out one of Jesus' teachings? For example, Jesus taught us to be kind to others. Can you act out how you would share your toys with a friend or help your mom and dad at home? Great job! Now, let's continue our story and learn more ways to prepare for Jesus.
Chapter 2: Sharing His Love
Jesus didn't just speak about love; He showed it. He helped people who were sick, He was kind to those who others didn't like, and He taught us to love everyone, even those who are not always kind to us.
Key Verses:
- John 13:34 - "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another."
- Matthew 22:39 - "And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
So, how can we share His love? It can be as simple as a smile, a kind word, or helping someone in need.
A Special Craft
Let's make a 'Love Others' list. Grab a piece of paper and some colors, and write down three ways you can show love to others this week. It could be helping your sibling with a task or giving a compliment to a friend.
Chapter 3: Praying With Heart
Jesus often went to quiet places to talk to God, His Father. He prayed for His friends, for those in need, and for God's guidance. When we pray, we talk to God just like talking to a dear friend.
Key Verses:
- Matthew 6:6 - "But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
- 1 Thessalonians 5:17 - "Pray continually."
You don't need big words to pray. Just speak from your heart, and God will listen. Tell Him about your day, your worries, and don’t forget to thank Him for all the good things too!
A Quiet Moment
Take a minute of silence now. Close your eyes, and think of something you want to say to God. Tell Him in your heart or whisper it out loud. He's listening!
Chapter 4: Doing Good Deeds
In the Bible, Jesus often helped others without expecting anything in return. He showed compassion and kindness by feeding the hungry, healing the sick, and comforting the sad.
Key Verses:
- Matthew 5:16 - "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
- James 2:17 - "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."
Doing good deeds is one way to shine our light and show others what God's love looks like.
A Fun Challenge
Can you think of a good deed to do for someone today? Maybe you can help set the table for dinner or pick up litter in the park. You decide!
Chapter 5: Staying Faithful
Life is full of ups and downs, but Jesus wants us to trust God no matter what. Just like Noah, who built an ark even though there was no rain, or Daniel, who prayed even though it was against the law, staying faithful means trusting God in every situation.
Key Verses:
- Hebrews 11:1 - "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."
- Revelation 2:10 - "Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor's crown."
When things are tough, remember that God is with you and that He is preparing something amazing for when Jesus comes again.
A Creative Idea
Let’s make ‘Faith Bracelets.’ Get some beads and string, and make a bracelet to remind you to stay faithful. Every time you look at it, remember to trust God.
Chapter 6: Spreading the Good News
Jesus tasked His disciples with a special mission—to tell everyone about God's love and the good news that Jesus saves! Today, we can do the same by telling our friends and family about Jesus and how much He loves them.
Key Verses:
- Mark 16:15 - "He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'"
- Acts 1:8 - "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.'"
You can be a little messenger for Jesus by spreading joy and kindness everywhere you go.
A Storytelling Time
Gather your family or friends and take turns telling each other what you love about Jesus. It's a beautiful way to spread the good news!
Key Takeaways
- Listen to Jesus' Teachings: Read the Bible and do your best to follow Jesus' teachings.
- Share His Love: Show kindness to others, even when it's hard.
- Pray With Heart: Talk to God about everything—He's always there to listen.
- Do Good Deeds: Help others to show God's love through your actions.
- Stay Faithful: Trust God in every situation, knowing He has an amazing plan for you.
- Spread the Good News: Tell others about Jesus' love and what He's done for you.
FAQs on Preparing for the Second Coming of Christ
- What exactly is the second coming of Christ?
The second coming of Christ is the time when Jesus will return to Earth, as He promised, to take all who believe in Him to Heaven. - How can kids prepare for Jesus' return?
Kids can prepare by listening to Jesus' words, praying, sharing love, doing good deeds, staying faithful, and spreading the good news about Jesus. - Why should we do good deeds?
Doing good deeds shows God's love to others and is a way to glorify Him and serve our communities. - What if I'm afraid to talk to others about Jesus?
It's okay to be a little nervous. Start by simply being kind and showing God's love with your actions. As you grow more confident, you can share words of encouragement and tell others why Jesus is special to you. - Can I still prepare for Jesus' second coming, even if I make mistakes?
Absolutely! Jesus loves you very much and knows that everyone makes mistakes. What's important is to ask for forgiveness, try to do better, and keep following Him.
Children, as we end our story, remember that preparing for the second coming of Christ is about living each day with love, kindness, and faith in our hearts. It's about shining God's light through our actions and words. So let's get ready for the biggest adventure of our lives—the day Jesus returns to bring us home!
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