This lesson teaches children that Jesus welcomes every child and loves them very much. It works well for kids ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
Jesus loves children, and he wants them close to him. Anyone can come to Jesus with a simple and trusting heart, just like a little child.
Memory Verse
Mark 10:14
But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation, and said to them, “Allow the little children to come to me! Don’t forbid them, for God’s Kingdom belongs to such as these.
(WEB)
Cup your hands together in front of your chest, then open them wide like you are welcoming someone in. Say the words slowly as you open your arms, so children feel the welcome in the motion.
The Story: Mark 10 for Kids
One day Jesus was teaching a big crowd near the Jordan River. Some parents brought their little children to Jesus so he could touch them and bless them. The disciples thought Jesus was too busy, so they told the parents to stop.
When Jesus saw what was happening, he was upset with the disciples. He said, “Let the little children come to me!” Jesus wanted the children there, and he did not want anyone to keep them away.
Jesus picked up the children in his arms. He placed his hands on them and blessed them one by one. Each child felt loved and cared for by Jesus.
Later, a rich young man ran up to Jesus and asked how he could have eternal life. Jesus looked at him with love and told him to give away what he owned and follow him. The man felt sad, because he had many things he did not want to give up, so he walked away.
Jesus then taught his followers that it is hard for people who trust in money to enter God’s Kingdom. The disciples were amazed and asked who could be saved. Jesus told them that people cannot save themselves, but nothing is impossible for God.
Near the end of the chapter, Jesus met a blind man named Bartimaeus sitting beside the road. Bartimaeus shouted for Jesus to help him. Jesus called for him, and Bartimaeus ran to Jesus, who asked what he wanted. Bartimaeus asked to see again, and Jesus told him that his faith had made him well.
Read It Together
Mark 10:15
Most certainly I tell you, whoever will not receive God’s Kingdom like a little child, he will in no way enter into it.”
(WEB)
Point out that Jesus says we must receive God’s Kingdom like a little child. Ask the children what they think it means to trust like a child who knows a loving parent is near.
Mark 10:16
He took them in his arms, and blessed them, laying his hands on them.
(WEB)
Show how Jesus took the children in his arms and blessed them. Explain that this picture shows how gentle and kind Jesus is with the people he loves.
Mark 10:52
Jesus said to him, “Go your way. Your faith has made you well.” Immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus on the way.
(WEB)
Point out that Bartimaeus kept calling out to Jesus even when others told him to be quiet. Explain that Jesus heard him and healed him because he trusted Jesus to help.
Talk About It
- How do you think the children felt when Jesus picked them up and blessed them?
- Why do you think the disciples wanted to send the children away, and how did Jesus feel about that?
- What is one way you can show Jesus that you want to be close to him?
- What did Bartimaeus do when people told him to be quiet, and what can we learn from him?
- What is something that feels hard to give up, and how can we trust Jesus with it?
Activity Ideas
Handprint Welcome Art
You will need construction paper, crayons, scissors, and glue. Have each child trace one of their hands on paper and cut it out. Then they can decorate their handprint and write “Jesus loves me” in the middle, showing that Jesus welcomes everyone with open arms.
Follow the Leader Blessing Game
Gather the children in a circle and choose one child to be Jesus. The leader walks around the circle and gently places a hand on each child’s shoulder while saying, “Jesus loves you.” Let each child take a turn being Jesus so everyone gets to practice showing kindness and love.
Take-Home Hand Prayer Card
You will need an index card, a pencil, and a marker. Write Mark 10:14 on the card and draw a simple hand outline on the back. Encourage children to trace their own hand each night and say a short prayer thanking Jesus for loving them, so they remember that Jesus welcomes them every day.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this passage shows that Jesus values people whom others often overlook, including children. It also reveals that entering God’s Kingdom comes through humble trust rather than status, achievement, or possessions. The story of the rich man and Bartimaeus both show that faith and surrender matter more than what a person has.
Avoid overstating to children that a good attitude or faith will always lead to getting everything they ask for. Focus instead on the truth that Jesus loves them and hears them when they call out to him.
A Prayer to Close
Jesus, thank you for loving us and welcoming us just like you welcomed the children long ago. Help us trust you the way a little child trusts a loving parent. When we feel afraid or unsure, help us to call out to you, knowing you always hear us. Amen.
