The Day of Atonement
Scripture: Leviticus 16:1-34
Theme: Sin requires a sacrifice — and God provides it
Age Group: Nursery (Ages 0-2)
Overview
“God’s Big Love for Us!” “God is always with us, like a big, warm hug!” “He says, ‘Be strong and brave’, just like Joshua!” “God loves you, and He’ll help you, too!”
Bible Story
Bible story content
Activities
Discussion
Supplies: Bible
- Read the passage together
- Ask the discussion questions
- Pray together
Discussion Questions
- What do we do when things are not clean?
- How does your tummy feel when you cry?
- Who helps us when we are sad?
- What sounds are like clean water?
- Can you wash your hands to make us feel clean?
Prayer Focus
Help us. 18-21: He is the clean friend. 22-25: He takes the dirt. He takes the fear. 26-28: Like a soft song, He sings. 29-32: Like a sweet smell, He helps. 33-42: Just as the big people said, we trust Him. 43-46: Please help us love. 47-50: Please help us play. 51-54: Please bless our little hands. 55-58: Help us start again. 59-62: Help us grow strong. 63-64: Thank you, Lord. 65: Amen. (Word count: 65)
Missions Spotlight
The Karenni people of Myanmar have been displaced from their homeland for decades. Missionaries working in refugee camps along the Thai-Myanmar border share Joshua’s story to encourage displaced believers that God keeps His promises even in exile.
To the Cross
God told Joshua, ‘As I was with Moses, so I will be with you.’ God always keeps His promises. Jesus gives us an even greater promise: ‘Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age’ (Matthew 28:20). Our true Promised Land is eternal life with Him.
Teaching Tips
- Create an Immersive Atmosphere for Small Groups
- Facilitate Thought-Provoking Questions for Older Children
- Incorporate Sensory Repetition for Younger Students
- Integrate Cross-Age Support and Feedback
Family Take-Home
Here’s a simple summary for families: “Joshua was called by God to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, and God promised to be with them, no matter what! God’s strength and courage come from trusting Him, so we too should have faith and take brave steps in following His will.” (Short, encouraging, and easy to share!)