24/6/12  Proper 7

Theme: Anyone can make a difference

Bible Reading

1 Samuel 17:1a 4-11, 19-23,32-49

Preparation

Collect a few newspapers with suitable stories/headlines, local and national. Find a map of the world and, if possible, the solar system.

Introduction

The story of David and Goliath lends itself to a dramatic re-telling with the teacher as narrator. Avoid too much historical detail as this will detract from the message of the worship.

Read out a few newspaper headlines which outline some of people’s/world problems. Show them how small Great Britain/the place where they live is in comparison to the world and how small the earth is in comparison to the solar system.

Explain that sometimes it is easy to feel very small and helpless in the face of the world’s problems. How can we do anything about them? Should we simply not try?

The Message

Tell/act out the story of David and Goliath. This, of course, leads on from last week's story of David's anointing.

Explain that David, even though he was small and young, just like them, made a difference because he used his gifts and talents to help others. Concentrate on the positive message of the story rather than the defeat and death of poor Goliath! David was confident because he believed God was with him.

Explain that even though we may feel very small in the eyes of the world (yes, even the teachers!), we are important in God’s eyes and he cares for all of us and we must care for others.

Prayer

Perhaps begin with some quiet reflection considering how we can , in small ways, every day, help others.

Dear Lord, we know that, with your help, we can make a difference. Help us to share a smile, or give a helping hand today.
Amen

Also this week: use some of the teaching from the Sermon on the Mount to think about how God cares for everyone and how even something "small" can have a great effect e.g: Matthew chp 5 vss 13-16, chp 6 vss 25-34