Spring Leader s Guide _CVR_lgMAMCover.indd 4-1

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1 Spring 2017 Leader s Guide _CVR_lgMAMCover.indd 4-1 9/27/16 1:56 PM

2 Scope and Sequence Fall 2016 Winter UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into Genesis Session 1: Made in God s Image (Creation) Session 2: Trusting God (Noah and the Flood) Session 3: Keeping Promises (Abraham and Sarah) Session 4: Meeting Challenges (Jacob Wrestles With God) UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into Exodus and the Judges Session 5: Serving Others (Joseph s Rise to Power) Session 6: Leading (Moses Leads the People) Session 7: Remembering (The Israelites Cross the Jordan) Session 8: Having Faith (Gideon Is Commissioned) Session 9: Serving God (Samuel Leads) UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into the Kings and Prophets Session 10: Being Anointed by God (Samuel Anoints David) Session 11: Praising God (Solomon Builds the Temple) Session 12: Living Faithfully (Hezekiah Rules Judah) Session 13: God s Vision (Micah s Prophecy) UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into Advent and Christmas Session 1: Peace (Isaiah s Prophecy) Session 2: Anticipation (Elizabeth and Zechariah) Session 3: Trust (Mary and Joseph) Session 4: Incarnation (Jesus Is Born) UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into Christmas and Epiphany Session 5: Worshipping (The Magi) Session 6: God s Grace (The Baptism of Jesus) Session 7: Being Called (Jesus Calls the Twelve) Session 8: Forgiveness (The Healing of the Paralyzed Man) Session 9: How to Treat Others (Jesus Shows Us How to Treat Others) UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into the Life of Jesus Session 10: Sharing (Jesus Feeds 4,000 People) Session 11: Knowing Jesus (The Transfiguration) Session 12: Discipleship (A Rich Man s Question) Session 13: Faith (The Healing of Bartimaeus) Spring 2017 Summer 2017 UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into the Season of Lent Session 1: Praising Jesus (The Entry Into Jerusalem) Session 2: The Power of Faith and Prayer (Jesus Teaches on Faith and Prayer) Session 3: Sharing Communion (The Last Supper) Session 4: Prayer (Jesus in Prayer) UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into Lent and Easter Session 5: Suffering (Jesus Betrayal, Arrest, and Trial) Session 6: Death (Jesus Death) Session 7: Resurrection (Jesus Resurrection) Session 8: Trust (The Ascension) Session 9: The Holy Spirit (Pentecost) UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into the Book of Acts Session 10: Healing Others (Peter and John Heal) Session 11: Welcoming All (Philip and the Ethiopian Man) Session 12: Giving (The Offering for Jerusalem) Session 13: Resolving Conflicts (Paul and Barnabas Separate) UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into Jesus Before His Ministry Session 1: Praising (The Presentation in the Temple) Session 2: Facing Persecution (The Escape to Egypt) Session 3: Teaching (Teaching in the Temple) Session 4: Overcoming Temptation (The Temptation of Jesus) UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into Stories in John s Gospel Session 5: Welcoming All (The Woman at the Well) Session 6: Serving Others (Washing the Disciples Feet) Session 7: God s Presence (The Promise of the Spirit) Session 8: Faithful Discipleship (The Parable of the Vine) Session 9: Praying for Others (The Farewell Prayer) UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into the Healings in Luke Session 10: God s Help (Two Healing Stories) Session 11: Having Faith (Healing the Two Women) Session 12: Being Thankful (Healing the Ten With Skin Disease) Session 13: Praising God (Healing a Blind Man)

3 Contents Written by Nathan Tenney ii Submerge Components iii Before You Begin iv Faith Development for Students vi viii Student Worship Helps Spring 2017 UNIT 1: Dive Deeper Into the Season of Lent 1 March 5 Session 1: Praising Jesus 7 March 12 Session 2: The Power of Faith and Prayer 13 March 19 Session 3: Sharing Communion 19 March 26 Session 4: Prayer UNIT 2: Dive Deeper Into Lent and Easter 25 April 2 Session 5: Suffering 31 April 9 Session 6: Death 37 April 16 Session 7: Resurrection 43 April 23 Session 8: Trust 49 April 30 Session 9: The Holy Spirit UNIT 3: Dive Deeper Into the Book of Acts 55 May 7 Session 10: Healing Others 61 May 14 Session 11: Welcoming All 67 May 21 Session 12: Giving 73 May 28 Session 13: Resolving Conflicts Cover Credits: Cover design by Kellie Green; logo design by Keitha Vincent; background by Shutterstock Spring 2017 deepbluekids.com/submerge i

4 Submerge Components Leader s Guide A quarterly resource that contains instructions for each session. Leaders are encouraged to choose activities that best suit the needs of their students. Submerge DVD A quarterly resource that features brief and lively life-application discussion from youth pastor Blake Bergstrom. Diver s Log An annual resource that encourages students to engage in creative thought and to write, doodle, or draw prayer concerns. Each student is encouraged to have his or her own copy. Submerge Magazine A quarterly resource that contains articles that connect to the lives of students. Many articles include individual reflection prompts, so each student is encouraged to have her or his own copy. ii submerge Leader s Guide

5 Before You Begin Each session is organized according to the following rhythm: Jump In These are activities that help move your students into your space and introduce the session theme. It is recommended that the Diver s Log be made available to students as they arrive, allowing them to work independently at their own pace. The game is intended to facilitate participation in a fun and active manner. Dive Deeper These are activities centered around the Bible story. Each session includes a short reproducible reading based on the scripture that is intended to reinforce the Bible story. Where appropriate, humor and pop culture references are used. The discussion questions use the Bible story as a jumping-off point to help students think about ways to connect scripture to their everyday lives. Grow Stronger These are activities that further encourage students to make the connection between what they are discussing and their everyday lives. The articles in the Submerge magazine focus on practical faith application, as do the segments on the Submerge DVD. Whenever possible, service opportunities are written into the session. The Creative Expression activity invites students to reflect on the session theme through art and discovery. Worship Each session closes with a short devotion. Students are encouraged to be active in leading worship. Reproducible Student Worship Helps are provided on pages viii-x so that students are adequately equipped to lead the devotion. What You Should Know About Games Core supplies are used repeatedly throughout the curriculum year. A fully stocked game closet should include the following: bandannas, beach balls, bins, blindfolds, cones, dry-erase board set, flying discs, foam pool noodles (full and cut in half), Hula Hoops, kitchen brooms, masking tape, plastic cups, plastic pitchers, safety goggles, soccer balls, table tennis balls, tennis balls, yardstick Discussion Questions You may have concerns about your students ability and willingness to reflect on their faith with their peers. The more they practice this spiritual discipline, and the stronger their relationships with one another become throughout your time together, the greater their participation will become. Consider arranging permanent small groups and assigning an adult leader to lead each one so that your students get to know better those with whom they are sharing. Or arrange your time together so that students are having these conversations while engaged in another activity, such as the session s Creative Expression project. Creative Expression All attempts have been made to keep supply costs to a minimum; however, some projects and activities may require the purchase of unique supplies. Spring 2017 deepbluekids.com/submerge iii

6 Faith Development for Students Your students are constantly connecting with others. Between school, family, friends, sports, and other extracurricular activities, they interact with a number of people in their everyday lives. Even during down time, they remain connected through texting, social and gaming networks, and the use of digital devices. The greatest gift you can give your students is the opportunity to grow in their understanding of scripture and their relationship with God. Being familiar with the people and events of the Bible, and connecting these stories to their experiences, can help your students better integrate their faith into their everyday lives. In spite of all these opportunities for social connection and interaction, maintaining and nurturing friendships in adolescence can be challenging. Feeling connected to their peers is a priority for students, especially as they establish their own identities and develop their own interests, independent from their families. Keep this in mind as you journey together with your students. Programs for your students should be as relational as possible. Develop and coordinate opportunities for your students to interact with one another. This will help them develop faithful and faithfilled friendships as they transition into teenagers. This focus on relationships extends beyond your students friendships with one another. While they desire independence, students also seek out attention from others. Most enjoy connecting with adults who can listen, mentor, and guide them as they mature. Get to know your students as you help them get to know one another. Most of all, invite your students to find unique, fun, and new ways to grow in their relationship with God. Introduce your students to various prayer and worship practices, and allow them to discover and nurture their gifts and talents in service to God and the community. This will help strengthen their faith as they enter their teenage years. The chart on the following page shows the central learning concepts that undergird the Submerge program. Each session emphasizes one or more of the objectives presented in each of the four categories. It is our hope that you will find in Submerge a program that allows your students to explore together as they deepen in biblical understanding and faith commitment. iv submerge Leader s Guide

7 Developing Faith Foundations Engaging Faith Traditions To be guided in developing and practicing critical thinking skills To develop a sense of belonging to the faith community To meaningfully participate in the worship, mission, and life of the congregation To develop faithful friendships with church members of various age levels To be able to affirm one s self as belonging to God To identify gifts, talents, and passions that can be used in service to the faith community To learn the organization and structure of the Bible To know the various types of writings in the Bible To explore the Bible stories in historical context To learn how to use study tools such as a concordance, atlas, and so forth To increase and use vocabulary related to the Christian faith To learn about the history and teaching of the church Relating to God and the Church Relating Faith to Life To be guided in understanding the meaning of church membership To have a sense of belonging to both the local church and the larger faith community To verbalize experiences and questions about God and faith, including doubts To find guidance for disciplines of prayer and Bible reading To see Christian growth as a lifelong process To learn the importance of responsibility in the covenant relationship with God To discover ways that others have lived out their faith in various circumstances To identify and discuss the ways that they can live out their faith in their everyday lives To be guided and assisted in practicing spiritual disciplines To clarify their sense of right and wrong in light of Christian faith To identify and respond to issues of fairness and justice To serve with others in the community and world Spring 2017 deepbluekids.com/submerge v

8 Session 1 Session 2 On these two pages are checklists of all of the supplies you will need for each session. Some supplies, such as pens, pencils, and colored pencils, are used each session. Many of the game supplies, such as bins, cones, and tennis balls, are used most sessions. Some of the art supplies are used only once or twice a quarter. q pens q pencils q colored pencils q masking tape q beach ball q dry-erase board set q adhesive q posterboards q permanent markers q pens q pencils q colored pencils q Hula Hoops q cones q foam pool noodles q Whiffle balls q dry-erase board set q large index cards q permanent markers q modeling clay q paper towels Session 3 Session 4 Session 5 Session 6 q pens q pens q pens q pens q pencils q pencils q pencils q pencils q colored pencils q colored pencils q colored pencils q colored pencils q index cards q cones q cones q tables q markers (2 colors) q masking tape q kitchen brooms q table tennis balls q tape q tennis balls q soccer ball q dry-erase board set q individually-wrapped snack items q Communion supplies q cardstock q permanent markers q dry-erase board set q table tennis balls q posterboards q permanent markers q dry-erase board set q paper q permanent markers q paper shredder q recycling bin q 2 pieces of plywood q safety goggles q hammers q small finishing nails vi submerge Leader s Guide

9 Session 7 Session 8 Session 9 Session 10 q pens q pens q pens q pens q pencils q pencils q pencils q pencils q colored pencils q colored pencils q colored pencils q colored pencils q cones q bins q cones q cones q masking tape q cones q masking tape q masking tape q soccer balls q dry-erase board set q paper q beach balls q dry-erase board set q painter s tape (various colors) q foam pool noodles q dry-erase board set q large index cards q red permanent markers q break-and-bake cookie dough q oven, cookie sheets q oven mitts q spatula q adhesive q cellophane wrap q ribbon, gift tags q scissors q permanent markers Session 11 Session 12 Session 13 q pens q pencils q colored pencils q masking tape q safety goggles q plastic cups q table tennis balls q paper q large piece of nylon fabric q fabric glue q fabric paint q paintbrushes q pens q pencils q colored pencils q masking tape q cones q 2 beach balls q dry-erase board set q canned cinnamon rolls q oven q baking sheets q oven mitts q napkins q sidewalk chalk q pens q pencils q colored pencils q bins q cones q index cards q permanent markers q foam pool noodles q Whiffle balls q dry-erase board set q cardstock q duct tape (various colors) q tape, scissors Spring 2017 deepbluekids.com/submerge vii

10 Student Worship Helps Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 SAY: Hosanna! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! (Mark 11:9) PRAY: Praiseworthy God, thank you for sending Jesus to show us how to live faithfully. Help us offer praise and thanksgiving in all that we do. Amen. SAY: Therefore I say to you, whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you will receive it, and it will be so for you. (Mark 11:24) PRAY: Caring God, thank you for showing us how to act in faith with prayer. May we remember that your presence is at work in and through us. Amen. SAY: While they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, Take; this is my body. (Mark 14:22) PRAY: Gracious God, thank you for being present with us through the sharing of the bread and cup. Help us live as the body of Christ each day. Amen. Session 4 SAY: Stay alert and pray so that you won t give in to temptation. The spirit is eager, but the flesh is weak. (Mark 14:38) PRAY: Faithful God, thank you for guiding us through the ups and downs of life. May we remember your loving relationship with us in our daily lives. Amen. viii submerge Leader s Guide

11 Student Worship Helps Session 5 Session 6 Session 7 SAY: Pilate said to them, Why? What wrong has he done? They shouted even louder, Crucify him! (Mark 15:14) PRAY: Amazing God, thank you for sending Jesus to be with us during times of need. Help us be present for others during times of need. Amen. SAY: At three, Jesus cried out with a loud shout, Eloi, eloi, lama sabachthani, which means, My God, my God, why have you left me? (Mark 15:34) PRAY: Loving God, thank you for showing us the way to eternal life through your Son. Grant that we may never forget the sacrifice made by Jesus for us. Amen. SAY: Don t be alarmed! You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised. He isn t here. Look, here s the place where they laid him. (Mark 16:6) PRAY: Magnificent God, thank you for resurrecting Jesus from the dead. May we celebrate this day with great joy and thanksgiving. Amen. Session 8 Session 9 SAY: Galileans, why are you standing here, looking toward heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way that you saw him go into heaven. (Acts 1:11) PRAY: Compassionate God, thank you for guiding us through new and unknown situations. Help us always to place our trust in you. Amen. SAY: They saw what seemed to be individual flames of fire alighting on each one of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:3-4) PRAY: Wonderful God, thank you for sending your Holy Spirit onto us. Grant that we may use the gifts we have received to proclaim your love. Amen. Spring 2017 deepbluekids.com/submerge ix

12 Student Worship Helps Session 10 Session 11 Session 12 SAY: The signs of an apostle were performed among you with continuous endurance through signs, wonders, and miracles. (2 Corinthians 12:12) PRAY: Awesome God, thank you for working in and through us to bring healing to the world. May we do all we can to make the world whole. Amen. SAY: There is neither Jew nor Greek; there is neither slave nor free; nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:28) PRAY: Welcoming God, thank you for claiming each one of us as your own. Help us welcome others into a life of discipleship and faith. Amen. SAY: Therefore, imitate God like dearly loved children. Live your life with love, following the example of Christ, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Ephesians 5:1-2a) PRAY: Generous God, thank you for sharing the gift of your Son, Jesus. Grant that we may share our time, talents, gifts, and treasures with the church. Amen. Session 13 SAY: Over all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. (Colossians 3:14) PRAY: Peaceful God, thank you for sending Jesus to show us the way of love. Help us resolve our conflicts with grace and gentleness. Amen. x submerge Leader s Guide

13 Praising Jesus Bible Verse Hosanna! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! (Mark 11:9) Did You Know? For many centuries, followers of Jesus have observed a forty-day period before Easter as a way to reflect on the events of Holy Week. Christians around the world use different names for Lent and various means to calculate its length. Many set aside a special time to prepare for Easter by focusing on various practices that help them grow in faith: praising and worshipping, sharing Communion, praying, serving those in need, and so forth. Session 1 March 5 Bible Story Mark 11:1-11 Anchor Point We praise Jesus and welcome him into our lives. In Western Christian tradition, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and concludes just before Easter. The forty days exclude Sundays. This time period points to many biblical events: the number of days it rained during the Flood, the time Moses spent on Mount Sinai, the number of years the Israelites wandered during the Exodus, the length of time it took Elijah to travel to Mount Horeb, the number of days Jonah gave the Ninevites to repent, and the number of days Jesus fasted in the wilderness. Throughout the next six weeks, your students will explore the biblical events of Holy Week in chronological order. This will allow your students to examine these stories in-depth and help prepare them to participate fully in the worship life of your church during Lent, Holy Week, and Easter. Invite your students to think about the ways they can offer praise in their everyday lives. Encourage them to find new and creative ways to celebrate their faith. Requires preparation. Spring 2017 Session 1 deepbluekids.com/submerge 1

14 Jump In Choose from the following activities those that best suit your group. Diver s Log, pens, pencils, colored pencils DIVER S LOG Make pens, pencils, and colored pencils available. Give each student their copy of the Diver s Log. If you have new students this quarter, give each one a Diver s Log and ask them to write their name on the back. Encourage the students to respond to the prompt on page 54 and to write, doodle, or draw their thoughts (joys and concerns, prayers, and so forth) on page 55. After some amount of time, invite your students to share their responses to the prompt as they are comfortable. SAY: Our Bible reading is about Jesus entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The people in the crowd are so excited to see Jesus that they start singing. ASK: Have you ever been part of a large crowd at a special event where people were chanting or singing? What was the event? Why was the crowd so excited? masking tape, beach ball, dry-erase board set GAME - PASS OVER Use masking tape to create throwing lines on opposite sides of your space. Divide your students into two teams. Invite one team to play defense by standing in the playing area between the throwing lines. Divide the other team (offense) in half, and ask them to stand behind the throwing lines on opposite sides of the court. Give this team the beach ball. Inform your students that the game is like a basketball passing drill. The object is for the team on offense to pass the ball back and forth to each other. The offensive team scores a point for successfully throwing and catching the ball on the fly over the defensive team without stepping over the line. The offensive team remains on offense as long as they are scoring. The defensive team scores a point and switches to offense when the offensive team steps over the line or when a throw is blocked, intercepted, or dropped. Use a dry-erase board to keep score. Play until one team scores a determined number of points. SAY: Our game involved passing a ball over the other team. In our Bible reading, Jesus enters Jerusalem to a cheering crowd during the Jewish Passover festival. ASK: What are the special seasons and holidays we celebrate as followers of Jesus? Do you know where these seasons and days fall on the calendar? 2 March 5 submerge Leader s Guide

15 Dive Deeper READ THE BIBLE Invite your students to look up Mark 11:1-11 and to take turns reading. Bibles (CEB) READING - THE BIG ENTRANCE Photocopy page 5, one for each student. Assign each of the roles. Invite your students to do the reading together. Leader s Guide ASK: How do you think the people who welcomed Jesus heard of him? DISCUSS IT - PRAISING JESUS Photocopy page 6, one for each adult discussion leader. Divide your students into groups of four to six. Assign each group an adult discussion leader. Invite your leaders and students to spend time discussing the questions. Leader s Guide TIP: If your group is small, consider discussing the questions as one group. Grow Stronger BATTER UP: SPRING TRAINING HAS ARRIVED Give each student a copy of the Submerge magazine. Invite them to write their name on the back. This will be their magazine to use each week throughout the quarter. Encourage them to read the article on page 3. Submerge magazine, pens ASK: What are some practices you can do over the next forty days during Lent to help you grow closer to God? BAND TOGETHER: PRAISING THROUGH MUSIC Invite your students to read the article on pages 4-5. Submerge magazine ASK: What are some ways you connect with God through music? What are some songs that express how you understand your faith? Spring 2017 Session 1 deepbluekids.com/submerge 3

16 adhesive, posterboards, permanent markers CREATIVE EXPRESSION - PRAISE POSTERS Gather the necessary supplies. Use adhesive to hang posterboards on the wall, one for each student. Provide permanent markers. Invite your students to write or draw images, symbols, lyrics, or words that praise God and Jesus. Encourage your students to be creative. After some amount of time, invite your students to share their creations as they are comfortable. Submerge DVD SUBMERGE DVD Invite your students to watch today s DVD segment together and to reflect on it as a group. Leader s Guide Worship Photocopy page viii, one for each worship volunteer. Invite your students to share any joys, concerns, or news they want their peers to know about. Invite one student to read today s Bible verse. Invite a second student to read the prayer. 4 March 5 submerge Leader s Guide

17 Reading - The Big Entrance EYEWITNESS 1: I remember it like it was yesterday. It was five days before the Passover celebration. People were streaming through the city gates into Jerusalem from all over Judea, Samaria, and even as far away as Galilee. Everyone was coming to Jerusalem to take part in the celebrations at the temple. EYEWITNESS 2: We had heard that Jesus from Nazareth would be arriving. People were excited. Word had traveled throughout the area about his teachings, healings, and miracles. Some of us had met him; but most of us hadn t, since he preached and taught mostly around Galilee. EYEWITNESS 3: But many of us knew someone who had met Jesus and had heard him teach. The Jewish community in Judea, Samaria, and Galilee is fairly close-knit. Everybody knows someone who knows someone. You know, the friend-of-a-friend thing. We had all heard about Jesus feeding the crowd of four thousand. EYEWITNESS 1: Anyway, like we said, people kept streaming into the city for the Passover celebration. It was crazy. Suddenly, we heard people shouting: Jesus is coming! Jesus is coming! Everyone rushed to the city gates and lined up along both sides of the road. We all wanted to see Jesus. EYEWITNESS 2: Jesus was riding on a colt, and his group of followers were all around him. They were kind of like Jesus security guards and crowd control. Their eyes got really big when they saw all of us. I don t think they expected such a large crowd to be there to greet Jesus. EYEWITNESS 3: Everyone was so excited to meet Jesus. Some people had said that he was the Messiah written about by the prophets. As Jesus rode along on the colt, people threw palm branches on the road to welcome him. Others waved the branches as a sign of respect. EYEWITNESS 1: Someone started shouting the words to Psalm 118:26, and soon the entire crowd began chanting it all together: Hosanna! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessings on the coming kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest! EYEWITNESS 2: We followed behind Jesus and formed a big parade as we marched through the city. When people asked us what was going on, someone would say, It s Jesus of Nazareth, the one who has performed so many miracles in Galilee. He s here! Our group kept growing and growing. EYEWITNESS 3: Jesus didn t say anything as all of this was happening. He just took it all in and looked around at everyone as we shouted praises. Our parade ended when we reached the temple. Jesus and his disciples entered the courtyard, and things eventually settled down. It was a day I ll never forget! Spring 2017 Session 1 deepbluekids.com/submerge 5

18 Discuss It - Praising Jesus SAY: Jesus instructed two of his disciples to go into a village near Jerusalem, find a colt that was tied up, untie the colt, and bring the colt to him. Jesus said that if anyone asked why they were taking the colt, the disciples should respond, Its master needs it, and he will send it back right away. ASK: How do you think the disciples reacted when Jesus told them to do this? How would you have reacted if you were one of the disciples asked to do this? What do you think Jesus meant by the words Its master needs it? Have you ever borrowed something without asking the person to whom the item belonged? What happened? SAY: The disciples created a saddle out of cloaks for Jesus to use as he rode the colt into Jerusalem. A group of followers spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut palm branches off the trees and placed them on the ground. All of this served as a way to honor Jesus like a king arriving home. ASK: Why do you think the people in the crowd were so willing to honor Jesus as he entered the city of Jerusalem? What do you think they knew about Jesus or had heard about him teaching, preaching, and healing? What do you think the people expected Jesus to do after he entered the city? SAY: The crowd shouted praises to Jesus that were based on Bible passages. They quoted lines from Psalm 118:26 and made reference to Jesus being a king from the lineage of David. The word Hosanna means Save now! and indicated that the people thought Jesus was going to be a king who would save them from the Roman rulers. ASK: How would you have praised Jesus if you were in the crowd? Are there any songs or Bible verses you would have shouted or sung? How does our understanding of the way Jesus saves us differ from the understanding of the people in the crowd who welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem? SAY: The crowd s response to Jesus was spontaneous. The people were moved enough by what they had heard about Jesus teachings, healings, and miracles to offer Jesus praise and to tell others about him. Their songs of praise were similar to how we might burst into song when we re excited or overjoyed. ASK: What do you do when you re overcome with joy? Have you ever broken into a spontaneous song or chant when you were excited? What did you sing? Do you ever offer spontaneous praise or worship to God? What are some ways you can offer praise, thanks, and worship in your everyday life? 6 March 5 submerge Leader s Guide

19 The Power of Faith and Prayer Bible Verse Therefore I say to you, whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you will receive it, and it will be so for you. (Mark 11:24) Did You Know? The events in today s story took place in the days leading up to Jesus crucifixion. The Gospel of Mark recounts the story of Jesus clearing out the traders and sellers in the courtyard of the temple on the day after his arrival in Jerusalem. This is also the time when Jesus curses a fig tree for not providing any food, proclaiming that the tree never again would grow fruit for people to eat. When Jesus and the disciples later walk past the withered tree, the disciples comment on how the tree has dried up. Session 2 March 12 Bible Story Mark 11:20-25 Anchor Point We can accomplish anything with faith and through prayer. This leads to a discussion with Jesus about the power of faith that is at work in the lives of his followers. Jesus makes a connection between faith and God s ability to work in and through the disciples. According to Jesus, the same power that allowed him to make the fig tree wither is accessible to anyone who believes in him. This power is made available through prayer, especially when one seeks forgiveness in order to be in right relationships with other people. Jesus teaching on the power of faith and prayer has three components: 1. God s power is at work in us. 2. We can ask God through prayer to give us this power. 3. This power is especially available when we focus on our relationships with other people. Invite your students to consider what Jesus teachings about the power of faith and prayer mean for their everyday lives. Encourage them to think about the ways they can work on their relationships with others. Requires preparation. Spring 2017 Session 2 deepbluekids.com/submerge 7

20 Jump In Choose from the following activities those that best suit your group. Diver s Log, pens, pencils, colored pencils DIVER S LOG Make pens, pencils, and colored pencils available. Give each student their copy of the Diver s Log. Encourage them to respond to the prompt on page 56 and to write, doodle, or draw their thoughts (joys and concerns, prayers, and so forth) on page 57. After some amount of time, invite your students to share their responses to the prompt as they are comfortable. SAY: In our Bible reading, Jesus tells the disciples that they can receive anything they ask for in prayer. ASK: What does prayer look like to you? When are you most likely to pray? Where are the places you find talking with God the easiest? Hula Hoops, cones, foam pool noodles, Whiffle balls, dry-erase board set GAME - POWER LAUNCH Place Hula Hoops on one side of your space, one for every group of four to six students. Place a cone a few feet away from each Hula Hoop. Divide your students into teams of four to six. Assign each team to a cone. Give each player a foam pool noodle and a Whiffle ball. Inform your students that the game is similar to golf. The object is to hit the ball off the cone tee and have it land in or touch their Hula Hoop. Players in each group will take turns teeing off. A hit that lands in the Hula Hoop and stays inside is worth three points for the team. One that lands outside but is touching the Hula Hoop when it stops is worth one point. Use a dry-erase board to keep score. Play for a determined number of rounds or until one team scores a determined number of points. SAY: Our game required you to hit the ball accurately and to measure how far it would travel. This might be easy for some to accomplish, but not so for others of us. ASK: What are the things in your life that come naturally? What are the things that are more difficult to accomplish? Have you ever asked for God s help with the things that are more difficult? 8 March 12 submerge Leader s Guide

21 Dive Deeper READ THE BIBLE Invite your students to look up Mark 11:20-25 and to take turns reading. Bibles (CEB) READING - WE VE GOT THE POWER Photocopy page 11, one for each student. Assign each of the roles. Invite your students to do the reading together. Leader s Guide ASK: When are you most likely to turn to God in prayer? DISCUSS IT - THE POWER OF FAITH AND PRAYER Photocopy page 12, one for each adult discussion leader. Divide your students into groups of four to six. Assign each group an adult discussion leader. Invite your leaders and students to spend time discussing the questions. Leader s Guide TIP: If your group is small, consider discussing the questions as one group. Grow Stronger FEATS OF STRENGTH Give each student their copy of the Submerge magazine. Encourage them to read the article on pages 6-7. Submerge magazine ASK: What are the ways you re strengthened by prayer? How does talking with God help you in your everyday life of discipleship? EXPERIENCE IT: MEDITATIVE PRAYER Take your students to a prayerful location on your church campus, such as a garden, chapel, the sanctuary, and so forth. Make large index cards and permanent markers available. Read Mark 11:24-25 slowly and deliberately. Invite your students to write, doodle, or draw their reflections as they pray silently. Bible (CEB), large index cards, permanent markers Spring 2017 Session 2 deepbluekids.com/submerge 9

22 modeling clay, paper towels CREATIVE EXPRESSION - SHAPED BY OTHERS Gather the necessary supplies. SAY: Jesus says the power of faith and prayer is especially important as it relates to forgiveness and being in a good place in our relationships with others. Our friendship with Jesus is shaped by how we interact with people. Let s spend some time working with clay as we think about this. Make modeling clay and paper towels available. Invite your students to create symbols that reflect forgiveness and being in right relationships with other people. Encourage your students to be creative. After some amount of time, invite your students to share their creations as they are comfortable. Submerge DVD SUBMERGE DVD Invite your students to watch today s DVD segment together and to reflect on it as a group. Leader s Guide Worship Photocopy page viii, one for each worship volunteer. Invite your students to share any joys, concerns, or news they want their peers to know about. Invite one student to read today s Bible verse. Invite a second student to read the prayer. 10 March 12 submerge Leader s Guide

23 Reading - We ve Got the Power VOICE 1: Jesus was hungry and saw a fig tree. There was no fruit on the branches, just leaves. VOICE 2: Jesus punished the tree, saying that it would never again grow fruit for people to eat. VOICE 3: The next day, the disciples walked past the tree and saw that it had withered up and died. VOICE 4: Peter said to Jesus, Rabbi, look how the fig tree you cursed has dried up. ALL: Whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you will receive it, and it will be so for you. VOICE 1: Jesus told the disciples to have faith in God, faith that is strong enough to move mountains. VOICE 2: Then Jesus said the disciples must trust that they will receive whatever they ask for in prayer. VOICE 3: After this, Jesus instructed the disciples to ask for and seek forgiveness whenever they pray. VOICE 4: God s power works in us. We receive this power by prayer. This power helps our relationships. ALL: Whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you will receive it, and it will be so for you. VOICE 1: God s power works in us when we trust that God is with us and is guiding our actions. VOICE 2: This means than our faith is active and alive, and we must use it to transform the world. VOICE 3: Faith is more than believing certain things about who Jesus was and what Jesus did. VOICE 4: Faith means trusting that God s power is available to work in and through each of us. ALL: Whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you will receive it, and it will be so for you. VOICE 1: We receive the power of the Holy Spirit when we ask God to be present with us. VOICE 2: This means that our faith is a dialogue with God that requires our participation. VOICE 3: We can better understand how to serve in the world when we communicate with God. VOICE 4: Faith is a holy conversation that takes place between each of us and God. ALL: Whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you will receive it, and it will be so for you. VOICE 1: Faith requires us to be in community with God and with other followers of Jesus. VOICE 2: This means being in a good place in our relationships with the people in our lives. VOICE 3: Jesus asks us to forgive each other, just like God has forgiven each of us. VOICE 4: God s power works in us. We receive this power by prayer. This power helps our relationships. ALL: Whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you will receive it, and it will be so for you. Spring 2017 Session 2 deepbluekids.com/submerge 11

24 Discuss It - The Power of Faith and Prayer SAY: Jesus and the disciples were walking from Bethany to the temple in Jerusalem. Jesus saw a fig tree and looked for fruit, even though it wasn t the season for figs. Seeing none, Jesus cursed the tree, saying that it would never again grow fruit. ASK: Why do you think Jesus punished the fig tree even though it wasn t the right season for fruit to grow? Have you ever been upset about something and taken it out on someone or something else? What do you do when you re trying to get over feeling upset or frustrated? SAY: The next day, the disciples noticed that the fig tree had withered up and died. Peter commented on it, saying to Jesus, Rabbi, look how the fig tree you cursed has dried up. We aren t told why Peter pointed this out, but he might have been surprised to see that Jesus had power over the natural world. ASK: Why do you think Peter commented on the fig tree shriveling up and dying? Since the disciples had witnessed Jesus stopping a storm (Mark 4:35-41) and walking on water (Mark 6:45-52), do you think they were surprised at Jesus power over nature? How would you have reacted if you had been there with the disciples? SAY: Jesus used this as an opportunity to talk about the power of faith and prayer. Jesus explained that the same power that had allowed him to make the fig tree shrivel up was available to the disciples. Jesus said the disciples could have the power to move mountains if they asked God for it and trusted that it was possible. ASK: How do you think the disciples reacted when Jesus said they could have anything they asked for if they believed it was possible? How would you have reacted? Do you think there are limits to what we can ask for in prayer? How does praying show trust in God? SAY: Jesus teaching on the power of faith and prayer has three components: 1. God s power is at work in us. 2. We can ask God through prayer to give us this power. 3. This power is especially available when we focus on our relationships with other people. This last one is why Jesus talks about asking for forgiveness when we pray. ASK: What are the ways you experience a relationship with God through your relationships with other people? When is it easy to ask God or another person for forgiveness? When is it difficult? What are some ways to incorporate prayer, especially prayer for forgiveness, in your everyday life? 12 March 12 submerge Leader s Guide

25 Sharing Communion Bible Verse While they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, Take; this is my body. (Mark 14:22) Did You Know? Jesus entry into Jerusalem took place in the days leading up to the celebration of Passover. The Passover meal served as the context in which Jesus instituted the Lord s Supper, or Holy Communion. The accounts of this meal in the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) align well, though Mark provides the briefest narrative. Jesus offered instructions about preparing for the Passover commemoration, and Jesus disciples, friends, and followers gathered in the evening to share the meal together. Session 3 March 19 Bible Story Mark 14:10-31 Anchor Point We share Communion together as the body of Christ. During the meal, Jesus predicted that one of the Twelve would betray him. While they were eating, Jesus blessed, broke, and shared the bread while saying, Take; this is my body. Then Jesus shared the cup, saying This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Afterward, Jesus and his friends sang hymns. This meal with Jesus instructions to share in remembrance of him is the reason Christians around the world celebrate Communion. Spend time with your students discussing what it means to share Communion. Be open to each student s understanding of the significance of this meal. Remind your students that, while interpretations of what happens at Communion may vary, we can all agree that Communion is a means of grace that symbolizes God s love for us. Consider inviting a pastor or authorized church leader to speak about Communion and to lead a Communion celebration. Requires preparation. Spring 2017 Session 3 deepbluekids.com/submerge 13

26 Jump In Choose from the following activities those that best suit your group. Diver s Log, pens, pencils, colored pencils DIVER S LOG Make pens, pencils, and colored pencils available. Give each student their copy of the Diver s Log. Encourage them to respond to the prompt on page 58 and to write, doodle, or draw their thoughts (joys and concerns, prayers, and so forth) on page 59. After some amount of time, invite your students to share their responses to the prompt as they are comfortable. SAY: Our Bible reading is about Jesus celebrating a Passover meal with his friends. This is when Jesus celebrated Communion with the disciples. ASK: How is food involved in your celebrations with family and friends? Bibles (CEB), index cards, markers (2 colors), tape, individually-wrapped snack items GAME - FAST FEAST Write the words of Mark 14:22 on two sets of index cards, one word per card, using a different color marker for each set. Tape an individually-wrapped snack item to each card, and hide the cards around your space. Divide your students into two equal-size teams. Give each team a Bible, and assign them a color that corresponds to one of the markers used to write the Bible verse on index cards. Inform your students that the game is a Bible verse scavenger hunt scramble. The goal is to find and retrieve the 23 cards containing the words of Mark 14:22 that are written with the marker of their assigned color. Instruct the participants to pick up only the cards with their team s assigned color. Once the cards are found, each team must use a Bible to help them put the verse in order. The first team to collect all the cards and put the scripture together wins. Invite your students to share their individually-wrapped snack items after both teams have finished. SAY: Our game required you to work together. Afterward, we all gathered together and shared a little feast. ASK: What are the ways our church gathers together around food and sharing? TIP: Be aware of any food allergies the students have, and consider providing a gluten-free snack option. 14 March 19 submerge Leader s Guide

27 Dive Deeper READ THE BIBLE Invite your students to look up Mark 14:10-31 and to take turns reading. Bibles (CEB) READING - COMMUNION COMPARISON Photocopy page 17, one for each student. Assign each of the roles. Invite your students to do the reading together. Leader s Guide ASK: How are the accounts of the institution of Communion alike? How are they different? Which of these words do you hear when we celebrate Communion? DISCUSS IT - SHARING COMMUNION Photocopy page 18, one for each adult discussion leader. Divide your students into groups of four to six. Assign each group an adult discussion leader. Invite your leaders and students to spend time discussing the questions. Leader s Guide TIP: If your group is small, consider discussing the questions as one group. Grow Stronger CAFÉ CHURCH: COFFEE WITH A PURPOSE Give each student their copy of the Submerge magazine. Encourage them to read the article on pages 8-9 and respond to the prompt. Submerge magazine, pens ASK: How do church cafés use food and beverages to extend hospitality and welcome to others? EXPERIENCE IT - COMMUNION Invite a pastor or church leader to be present. Gather Communion supplies. Invite the pastor or church leader to talk about the meaning of Communion within your church tradition and to lead a short Communion service. Communion supplies Spring 2017 Session 3 deepbluekids.com/submerge 15

28 cardstock, pencils, permanent markers CREATIVE EXPRESSION - FEASTING TOGETHER Gather the necessary supplies. Make cardstock, pencils, and permanent markers available. Invite your students to create their interpretation of the best feast ever, including the setting and all the guests. Encourage your students to be creative. After some amount of time, invite your students to share their creations as they are comfortable. Submerge DVD SUBMERGE DVD Invite your students to watch today s DVD segment together and to reflect on it as a group. Leader s Guide Worship Photocopy page viii, one for each worship volunteer. Invite your students to share any joys, concerns, or news they want their peers to know about. Invite one student to read today s Bible verse. Invite a second student to read the prayer. 16 March 19 submerge Leader s Guide

29 Reading - Communion Comparison VOICE 1: While they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, Take and eat. This is my body. (Matthew 26:26) VOICE 2: While they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, Take; this is my body. (Mark 14:22) VOICE 3: After taking the bread and giving thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. (Luke 22:19) VOICE 4: On the night on which he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took bread. After giving thanks, he broke it and said, This is my body, which is for you; do this to remember me. (1 Corinthians 11:23b-24) VOICE 1: He took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink from this, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many so that their sins may be forgiven. (Matthew 26:27-28) VOICE 2: He took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. He said to them, This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. (Mark 14:23-24) VOICE 3: In the same way, he took the cup after the meal and said, This cup is the new covenant by my blood, which is poured out for you. (Luke 22:20) VOICE 4: He did the same thing with the cup, after they had eaten, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Every time you drink it, do this to remember me. (1 Corinthians 11:25) VOICE 1: I tell you, I won t drink wine again until that day when I drink it in a new way with you in my Father s kingdom. (Matthew 26:29) VOICE 2: I assure you that I won t drink wine again until that day when I drink it in a new way in God s kingdom. (Mark 14:25) VOICE 3: I tell you that from now on I won t drink from the fruit of the vine until God s kingdom has come. (Luke 22:18) VOICE 4: Every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you broadcast the death of the Lord until he comes. (1 Corinthians 11:26) Spring 2017 Session 3 deepbluekids.com/submerge 17

30 Discuss It - Sharing Communion SAY: Jesus shared a special Passover meal with his followers. None of the Gospels tells us the names of everyone who was there. Many Bible experts believe that, in addition to the twelve disciples, Jesus other friends took part in the meal. This would have included Mary Magdalene and Mary, Martha, and Lazarus of Bethany. ASK: What do you think it would have been like to share in the Passover meal with Jesus? How many people do you think were present? Who do you imagine was there? When have you celebrated special meals with your friends and family? What are some memorable meals you ve shared recently with other people? SAY: As part of the special meal, Jesus broke and blessed the bread before giving it to his friends. Jesus said that the bread represented his body. Then Jesus gave thanks and shared the cup with his friends. Jesus said that it represented the blood of a new promise. ASK: Thinking about the times you have shared in Communion, how do we remember Jesus in the words that are spoken? How do we remember Jesus in the actions of giving thanks, breaking the bread, blessing, and sharing the bread and cup? Do you think the Communion meal is important? Why or why not? SAY: Different groups of Christians and different churches within the same tradition celebrate Communion differently. Some churches celebrate Communion every Sunday, while others share Communion once a month or even less often. Bible experts and historians agree that the early followers of Jesus shared Communion every week. ASK: How often does our church celebrate Communion? Have you ever wondered why Communion is celebrated when it is? How often do you participate in the Communion celebration at our church? Does it make you feel closer to God in any way? Do you feel changed or different when you receive Communion? If so, how? SAY: Along with baptism, Communion is one of the two sacraments established by Jesus and practiced by nearly all Christians. Sacrament is a fancy word that means a visible sign of God s grace and love. Another word for sacrament is ordinance. ASK: How is Communion a sign of God s love for us? How does it help us remember Jesus sharing and sacrifice? What other signs of God s grace and love do you experience in your everyday life? How do you experience these signs of God s grace and love in your relationships with other people? 18 March 19 submerge Leader s Guide