The Wise Men Follow the Star
Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12
Theme: Jesus is the King worth seeking and worshiping
Age Group: Nursery (Ages 0-2)
Overview
“God’s Love Shines Bright” “God loves you so much!” The wise men followed the shining star because they knew Jesus was their special King. When they found Him, they bowed down and said, “God bless you!”, just like we can too! (Simple repetition of “God loves you” and “Jesus is King” helps little ones remember.) Optional reflection: children can draw a picture of Jesus helping their friends, then share one way they can help someone else this week. This extra activity supports the lesson’s theme and gives teachers a simple, lowprep option for extending the discussion.
Bible Story
The Wise Men Follow the Star
A long, long time ago, in a very far place, a baby was born. His name was Jesus, and he was special. Some wise men saw a bright, shining star in the sky. They knew God had sent it to tell them where to find the baby.
They traveled far and traveled far on a donkey, following the star until it stopped right above the baby. The wise men knelt down and said, “We give you gifts to honor you.” They brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The baby smiled because God loved him so much!
God loves you too, just like He loved Jesus. That’s why He made the stars shine and sent His love to us. No matter where you are or how far you have to go, God is always with you.
Why This Story Matters God’s love is like the star, it guides us home. When we follow God’s love, we know He’s always watching over us, just like He did for Jesus.
Activities
Supplies: **
- Show the star: Hold up a Bible verse: “God sent a bright star to guide them. ‘Shine for us!’” (Matthew 2:2).
- Trace and color: Give each child a star template. Let them color it bright yellow or red with crayons.
- Decorate: Glue small star stickers on their drawings (if using) or let them add glitter glue for extra sparkle.
- Sing together: “God’s love is like a star so bright, shining for me tonight!” (repeat gently).
Supplies: **
- Read the verse: “They gave baby Jesus gold, frankincense, and myrrh, just like God loves us!” (Matthew 2:11).
- Make gifts: Cut open baskets and place cotton balls inside (label as “gold”). Add 1, 2 small toys (e.g., a toy animal).
- Give gifts: Have each child pick a basket and “share their gift” to their friend.
- Pray together: “Thank you, God, for loving us so much!” (repeat softly).
- Tip:** Keep the focus on God’s love in both activities, simple actions + repetition make it easy for little ones!
Discussion Questions
- Here are four simple, open-ended questions for babies and toddlers about The Wise Men Follow the Star, focusing on God’s love:
- “When the star shined bright, what did the Wise Men do? What makes you think God is always shining a light for us?”
- (Encourage them to share what they imagine.)*
- “The Wise Men brought gifts to baby Jesus. What gifts do you think God gives you? How do you feel when God loves you?”
- (Use hands to show “love” or “gifts.”)*
- “When the star led them, did the Wise Men turn back? Why do you think they kept going? How can you trust God like they did?”
- (Ask: “Who helps you find the way?”)*
- “When they saw Jesus, what did the Wise Men do? How can you tell God you’re glad He loves you?”
- (Use a smile or wave to act it out!)*
Prayer Focus
“Dear God, we love You so much! Shine Your bright light on our little ones. Help them see You in every star and joy. Thank You for loving them with a big hug!”**
Missions Spotlight
The Magi (wise men) likely came from Persia (modern-day Iran). Today, Iran has one of the fastest-growing church movements in the world. Many Iranians are discovering that the ‘star’ their ancestors may have followed leads to Jesus.
To the Cross
The wise men traveled a long, hard way to find Jesus. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Myrrh was used for burial , a sign that even at His birth, Jesus’ death was part of the plan. He came to be King AND Savior.
Teaching Tips
- Analyze the Request:
- Evaluate Constraints & Potential Contradictions:
Family Take-Home
Here’s a simple summary for families: “The story of The Wise Men Follow the Star (Matthew 2:1-12) teaches us that when we seek God with faith and wonder, like the magi did, we can find Him, even through unexpected signs! Their journey shows us how to trust God’s guidance, even when the path isn’t always clear.” (Perfect for a quick family discussion or reading aloud!)