Jesus Prays for Us

For many of us, a lot of things are changing right now. The school year is ending. Summer vacation is starting. Maybe you’re thinking about next year in a new grade or new school. And all of us are learning new rules for safely going places and seeing people.

The truth is, our lives are changing all the time—but some changes are bigger than others. These extra-big changes are sometimes exciting, sometimes scary, and sometimes exciting and scary at the same time!
In today’s Bible story, Jesus is getting his disciples ready for some extra-big changes. Jesus knew he was going to heaven soon, and he didn’t want the disciples to feel lost and alone after he left. That’s why he promised to send the Holy Spirit—like we talked about in last week’s lesson.
 
But that’s not all Jesus did. He also said a special prayer for his disciples, to help them get ready for the changes that were coming. But what did Jesus say? And why is this prayer important to us? Let’s find out.

Hear
The story of Jesus’ prayer comes from John 17:1–11. Find the story in the family Bible or a children’s storybook Bible and read it together.

You can also click here to read the story using an online Bible, or you can watch the video retelling below.

Think
When you’ve finished reading the story, talk about these questions with your family:
  • In his prayer, Jesus asked God to do several things for the disciples. What were they?
  • How do you think the disciples felt when they heard Jesus’ prayer? Why?
  • What changes are happening in your life right now? How do you feel about these changes?
  • Do you think Jesus is praying for you? Why or why not?
Then, watch the following short video:

Do
Connect more deeply with today's story by trying one or more of these activities:
Picture
Create a worry stone.
Sometimes, when we're worried about big changes (or even small ones), it helps to have something we can touch to remind us that Jesus is with us. Find a small, smooth stone that fits easily in your pocket. Use paint or markers to decorate the stone with words and pictures that make you think of Jesus. Whenever you feel upset about something, hold the stone in your hand. Squeeze or rub it to remind yourself that Jesus is always praying for you.
Picture
Send someone a card.
During this time of social distancing, it can be hard for some people to remember that others are thinking of and praying for them. Remind someone you know that they are in your prayers--and in Jesus' prayers too--by sending them a special card. Use a pre-made card or make your own one-of-a-kind creation from scratch. One fun option is to make a card that looks like a pair of praying hands.
Picture
Make a "phone" and call someone.
In today's story, Jesus used his voice to ask God to care for us. Like Jesus, we use our voices to connect with God every time we pray. But we can use our voices to connect in silly ways, too--such as by talking into a homemade "telephone."

Find two large paper or plastic cups and a piece of string. Use these materials to make a simple "phone," as described here. Test your new phone with another member of your family--and have fun!
Share what you've made! Take a picture of your project and send it to sfelde@ctkluth.com so we can include it in our online gallery!

Pray
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for praying for us, just like you prayed for the disciples.
Help us remember you are still praying for us today, especially during times of change.
Amen.
CHRIST THE KING LUTHERAN CHURCH
17195 CLEVELAND ROAD  +  SOUTH BEND, IN 46635  +  (574) 272-4306