Adult & All Age
Ideas for a focal point with adults and all ages
Display or project an image of Jesus’ baptism. Provide a large jug of water and a bowl. If using the alternative way of presenting the word, you will need two glasses, a small pot plant, and a hand towel on a tray covered with a cloth.
Today we are exploring the meaning of Jesus’ baptism by John in the Jordan River. When Jesus comes to be baptised, John is reluctant. However, Jesus insists this is part of God’s plan. Immediately God’s voice is heard acclaiming Jesus as ‘My Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased’. Why it was necessary for Jesus to be baptised, and how important it is to be affirmed, are questions we will think about today.
Lord, you call us to follow you
Lord, you call us to follow you.
In your Son Jesus,
we see a life lived out in love and humble service for us
in joyful obedience to you.
Enable us to live out your call with that same servant spirit,
confident of your love.
Amen.
Children & Young People
Ideas for a focal point with children
Prepare the space
Spread out a large blue cloth for the River Jordan. On this add a bowl of water, a picture of a dove or a white feather, a symbol of love, e.g. a red heart.
Gathering activity
Ask the children to remember a time when they have been really thirsty, then give them each a cup of cold water to drink. Talk about the importance of keeping clean and teach them the sixstep handwashing technique (see Further resources), using a bowl of warm water, anti-bacterial handwash and a towel.
As Jesus came in obedience...
As Jesus came in obedience to be baptised and begin his ministry, so we now come, ready to learn how to serve you better. As Jesus heard your voice of affirmation, so we now come, ready to hear of your love for us. Amen.