Dear FPC Families,
Happy May! I hope that you are all doing well. I know we all continue to find ourselves in the midst of uncertainty. One day the news about Covid-19 seems to be all negative, but another day the outlook seems more hopeful. It’s hard to know whom to believe and whom to trust. But, of course, we know the One we can always trust with any problems we face. This week our story is about doubting Thomas, and I hope you will use this an opportunity to talk to your children about your faith, and what it means to truly believe, even if we can’t see.
Step 1: Read the Scripture
Please read this scripture passage aloud with your family.
John 20:24-31 (NRSV)
Jesus and Thomas
But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.”
A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”
Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.
Step 2: Watch the Video
Watch this video together.
Step 3: Discussion
- What did Thomas say when the other disciples said they had seen Jesus?
- How did Thomas respond later when Jesus stood before him?
- What did Jesus mean when He said: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”
- Do you need to see something to believe it?
Step 4: Pray Together
Dear God: Thank you for showing us that you are with us.
Thank you for being with us even when we can’t see you.
Amen.
Step 5: Craft Time
This week’s craft reminds us to trust and believe – even when we can’t see. For a printable craft sheet with directions, please click here
Enjoy your week! I miss you all!
Miss Karen