February 15, 2026 – Listen to Jesus

“This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!.” — Matthew 17:5 (simplified)

SECTION 1 – LEADER PREP

Leader Devotional & Invitation (For Volunteers) In today’s Scripture, Jesus is transfigured on a mountain. His appearance changes, His glory shines, and God’s voice speaks clearly: “This is my Son… Listen to Him.” This moment reminds us that Jesus is not just a good teacher or kind friend — He is God’s beloved Son, full of glory and authority. Children often see Jesus as gentle and loving, which is beautiful and true. This story helps them also see that Jesus is powerful, holy, and worthy of our attention. It teaches them that listening to Jesus matters — not because we’re afraid, but because Jesus loves us and leads us. As you prepare to teach, reflect on how you listen to Jesus in your own life. God’s words to the disciples are also an invitation to us: Listen to Him. You don’t need to have all the answers — just a willing heart.

Reflection Questions for Volunteers

Where do I need to slow down and listen to Jesus more closely? How can I model listening to Jesus with trust and joy? Leader Prayer Jesus, thank You for showing us Your glory and love. Give me clarity as I teach, compassion as I guide children, and faithfulness as I point them to You. Help us listen to Your voice today. Amen.

Bible Background for Leaders

WHO: Jesus; Peter, James, and John WHAT: Jesus is transfigured; God speaks from a cloud WHERE: A high mountain WHEN: During Jesus’ ministry, before His journey to Jerusalem WHY: To show Jesus’ true identity and glory CONNECTION: God reveals Jesus as His beloved Son and invites us to listen to Him as part of God’s big rescue story. Volunteer Connection Tips Emphasize wonder, not fear — this is a holy but loving moment Avoid explaining glory too abstractly; use light imagery Keep focus on Jesus, not Moses or Elijah Model listening by speaking calmly and attentively Reinforce that Jesus stays with us even after the mountain moment

Key Vocabulary

Transfiguration: When Jesus’ appearance changed to show His glory Glory: God’s shining goodness and power Listen: To pay attention and trust what Jesus says Cloud: A sign of God’s presence Beloved: Deeply loved Voice: God speaking with love and authority

Supply Checklist

Lesson Supplies: Bible Battery candle or flashlight Activity/Craft Supplies: White or yellow paper Crayons/markers Prep Time Estimate: 10–15 minutes

Welcome Question (Displayed) “Have you ever seen something so amazing it made you stop and stare?” Leader note: This question invites wonder without pressure. There are no wrong answers. Children can respond with words, gestures, or drawings.

Before Kids Arrive

Write the Welcome Question clearly on a board, poster, or slide so children see it as soon as they enter. Place crayons, markers, and paper on tables or the floor for children who prefer to draw their answers instead of speaking. Make sure the space feels calm and welcoming — chairs in a circle or floor space cleared.

Pray quietly over the room

“Jesus, help these children see Your glory and listen to You today. Help them feel safe, seen, and loved.”

Leader Tip

Younger children (K–2) often respond best by drawing. Older children (3–5) may want to talk right away. Both responses are welcome.

As Kids Arrive (Leader Script)

Greet each child by name with a smile and relaxed posture. “Hi, [child’s name]! I’m really glad you’re here today.” Then gently introduce the question: “Have you ever seen something so amazing it made you stop and look really closely?” If a child hesitates, offer simple prompts without rushing them: “Maybe a rainbow?”

“Fireworks?”

“A big storm?”

“A cool animal?”

“Something really beautiful?”

Affirm their response: “That sounds amazing.” “I can see why you’d stop and stare.” “Thanks for sharing that with me.” Leader reminder: Avoid correcting or redirecting answers. Wonder is the goal. Start Time Gathering (Leader Script) Once most children have arrived, gather them together calmly. “Friends, let’s come sit together.” After everyone settles: “Today, we’re going to hear about a moment when Jesus looked different than ever before. His friends saw something so amazing that they didn’t know what to say.” Pause briefly. “God had something important to show them — and something important for us to hear, too.” Curiosity Activity – Listening Freeze

Purpose

This short movement activity helps kids practice listening and prepares them to hear God’s Word. Instructions (Leader Script) “Let’s play a quick game to help our bodies get ready to listen.” Invite children to stand and move slowly around the space. Say calmly: “When I say LISTEN, freeze your body and cup your ears.” Practice once: “Ready… move… LISTEN!” Repeat one or two more times, keeping the pace gentle.

Leader Tip

This is not a competition. Praise effort, not perfection. Keep it short and calm.

Transition Script

After the final freeze, say softly: “Great listening. Now let’s sit together and listen to what happened when Jesus showed His glory.”

Leader Instruction

This is the heart of the lesson. The goal is not simply to tell the Bible story, but to help children step into the moment — to imagine what the disciples saw, to notice how Jesus responded to them, and to understand what God was showing them about who Jesus truly is. In this story, children learn that Jesus is not only kind and close, but also God’s beloved Son, full of glory. God speaks clearly and lovingly: “Listen to Him.” This is not a command meant to scare us — it is an invitation to trust Jesus because He loves us and leads us. Teaching Goals: Help children understand what happened on the mountain Help children recognize Jesus’ true identity Guide children to discover the Wonder Truth: Jesus shows us who He truly is, and we can listen to Him Tips for Volunteers Invite kids to sit in a close circle on the floor — closeness helps focus and emotional safety. Hold the Bible open the entire time so children see that this story comes from God’s Word. Use expressive storytelling: Calm, steady voice while climbing the mountain Wonder and excitement as Jesus changes Gentle, strong voice when God speaks Soft, reassuring tone when Jesus says, “Do not be afraid” Encourage movement: K–2: simple motions, facial expressions, repeating phrases 3–5: noticing emotions, answering “why” and “what do you notice?” questions Pause often and say: “I wonder how that felt…” “What do you notice?” Repeat key ideas so they sink in: “Jesus looked different.” “God spoke.” “Jesus told them not to be afraid.” “God said, ‘Listen to Him.’” Prayer of Invitation (Leader Script) (Invite kids to sit quietly with hands in laps.) “Jesus, thank You for being with us today. Help us listen carefully to Your story. Show us who You are. Amen.” Bible Time Rhyme (With Motions) Say together with motions: “Open God’s book, let’s take a look! God’s Word is true, for me and you!” Open hands like a big book Point to yourself on “me” Point around the circle on “you” Repeat once more if attention allows. Storytelling (Leader Script) (Have kids sit in a circle. Hold the Bible open the entire time.) Setting the Scene “Jesus took three of His friends — Peter, James, and John — and led them up a high mountain.” (Raise one hand slowly upward to show climbing.) “They were alone with Jesus. It was quiet.” Jesus Is Changed “Suddenly… something amazing happened.” (Pause.) “Jesus’ face began to shine — bright like the sun!” (Invite kids to gently shield their eyes.) “His clothes became dazzling white — brighter than anything they had ever seen.” Special Visitors “And then — Moses and Elijah appeared!” (Open hands wide in surprise.) “These were important people from long ago, and they were talking with Jesus.” God Speaks “Then a bright cloud covered them.” (Lower voice slightly.) “And God spoke from the cloud and said:” ‘This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!’ (Pause and let the words sink in.) The Disciples’ Fear “When the disciples heard God’s voice, they were afraid.” (Invite kids to gently crouch or bow heads.) “They didn’t know what to do.” Jesus Comes Close “But Jesus came close to them.” (Take a small step toward the group.) “He touched them and said:” ‘Do not be afraid.’ “When they looked up… it was just Jesus again. And He was still with them.” (Close the Bible gently.) Engagement Prompts Use 2–4 depending on time and age mix. “How do you think the disciples felt when Jesus started shining?” “What do you think it was like to hear God’s voice?” “Why do you think God said, ‘Listen to Him’?” Act it out: One child as Jesus Three as disciples Jesus shines, God speaks, Jesus comforts For older kids: “Why do you think Jesus told them not to be afraid?” “How can we listen to Jesus today?” Affirm all answers gently: “That’s a thoughtful idea.” “I like how you noticed that.” Connecting the Wonder Truth (Leader Script) “God showed something very important on that mountain.” “Let’s say today’s Wonder Truth together:” Jesus shows us who He truly is, and we can listen to Him. (Have kids repeat 2–3 times.) Each time: Point upward (God) Point to heart (Jesus) Cup ears (listen) Explain simply: “When we listen to Jesus, we are trusting the One God loves and sent to care for us.” Word of Wonder (Memory Verse) Matthew 17:5 “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!” Teach with Motions: Point up — “This is my Son” Hands over heart — “whom I love” Cup ears — “Listen to Him” Practice Methods: Whisper voice Normal speaking voice Strong, joyful voice Optional Game: Toss a soft ball. Each child says one phrase until the verse is complete.

Leader Instruction

This section helps children move from seeing who Jesus is to living like people who listen to Him. The goal is not just to remember what happened on the mountain, but to help kids understand that listening to Jesus matters in their everyday lives. Children often think listening means simply being quiet or obeying rules. This time helps them see that listening to Jesus is an act of trust and relationship — paying attention to His words because He loves us and knows what is best. God’s message in the story is simple and powerful: “This is my Son… listen to Him.” Tips for Volunteers Encourage participation from everyone: Gently invite quiet kids: “Would you like to share, or would you like me to help you?” Manage dominant voices kindly: “Let’s hear from someone who hasn’t shared yet.” Keep examples concrete and familiar: Home, school, church, friends, parents, teachers Affirm every response: “That’s a great example.” “That shows you’re really thinking about Jesus.” Avoid correcting answers unless necessary — focus on willingness to listen. Adjust depth by age: K–2: short questions, concrete answers 3–5: “why,” “how,” and “what does that change?”

Discussion (Leader Script)

(Have kids remain seated in a close circle.) Younger Kids (K–2)

Ask slowly and clearly, giving time to answer.

“Who went up the mountain with Jesus?” (Guide gently if needed: Peter, James, and John.) “What happened to Jesus on the mountain?” (Guide: He shined; He looked different.) “Did God speak from the cloud?” (Guide: Yes!) “What did God say?” (Guide: ‘This is my Son… listen to Him.’) “Do you think Jesus noticed when His friends were scared?” (Guide: Yes — He came close and said, ‘Do not be afraid.’) “Who helps you listen to Jesus?” (Possible answers: parents, teachers, church, Bible.) After a few responses, say: “Jesus wants us to listen to Him because He loves us and stays close to us.” Older Kids (3–5) Invite deeper reflection and discussion. “Why do you think Jesus showed His glory to His friends?” (Possible answers: to help them believe, to show who He really is.) “Why do you think God said, ‘Listen to Him’?” (Guide: because Jesus speaks God’s truth and love.) “Do you think listening to Jesus is always easy?” (Affirm honest answers.) “What does listening to Jesus look like at school or at home?” (Possible answers: kindness, forgiveness, patience, honesty.) “How is listening to Jesus different from just following rules?” (Guide: it’s about trust and relationship, not fear.) Affirm thoughtfully: “That shows you’re thinking deeply.” “That’s noticing how Jesus guides us.” Faith-in-Action Practice (Leader Script) (Invite kids to place one hand over their heart and one hand near their ear.) “Let’s practice listening to Jesus.” “Think quietly for a moment about one thing Jesus teaches us to do.” (Pause 5–10 seconds.) Now say together: “Jesus, I want to listen to You.” Repeat once more. Explain gently: “When we choose to listen to Jesus, we are trusting the One God loves and sent to care for us — just like the disciples learned on the mountain.” Optional Movement Response (If Time Allows) Say: “When I say something Jesus teaches us, show me a thumbs-up if you want to listen to Him.” Love others Forgive Tell the truth Help people Trust God Close by saying: “Jesus speaks to us with love. Listening helps us follow Him every day.”

Transition (Leader Script)

“Just like the disciples learned on the mountain, we can choose to listen to Jesus in our everyday lives. When we pay attention to His words and trust Him, we are living as people who belong to God. Let’s remember that as we get ready to close today.”

Craft Activity – Gratitude Hearts Supplies: Construction Paper (pre-cut hearts if possible), Crayons/Markers/Colored Pencils, String or Tape for display.

Leader Instruction

This activity helps kids put gratitude into action and visually remember the lesson. The heart shape reminds them that thankfulness comes from within — a joyful response to God’s love and blessings. Connect this activity to today’s story by reminding children that God showed the disciples who Jesus truly is and spoke words of love over Him. When we notice who Jesus is and listen to Him, one natural response is gratitude. These hearts help children pause and recognize God’s goodness in their own lives. As kids work, reinforce that gratitude is not about being perfect or doing the “right thing.” It is about noticing God’s love and responding with thankful hearts. Younger kids (K–2) May need help writing words. Encourage them to draw something they are thankful for (family, friends, Jesus, food, pets). Offer simple prompts as needed: “Can you draw something God gave you?” “Can you draw someone who loves you?” “Can you draw something that makes you feel safe or happy?” Affirm their drawings warmly: “That’s a wonderful thing to thank God for.” Older kids (3–5) Challenge them to write three things they are thankful for — one about God, one about others, and one about their life. Encourage short phrases or words rather than full sentences. If time allows, ask gentle follow-up questions: “Why are you thankful for that?” “How does that remind you that God loves you?” Classroom Management Tips Set a clear time limit: “We have 5 minutes to finish our hearts!” Move around the room asking gentle questions: “Who are you thankful for today?” “How can you show thanks to them?” Encourage creativity — let them decorate with colors or stickers. Use calm reminders like: “Quiet voices help everyone think.” Instructions Give each child a paper heart and crayons/markers. Say: “In our Bible story today, the disciples saw how special Jesus really is. When we remember who Jesus is and how much God loves us, we can say thank you. Let’s write or draw some things we’re thankful for.” Allow time for children to work. When done, invite 1–2 children to share what they wrote or drew. Sharing should always be optional. Tape all the hearts together on a poster or wall titled ‘Thankful Hearts for Jesus’. Say: “These hearts remind us that being thankful makes God happy. When we remember to say thank you, we are showing love to Him.” Leader Script “Look at all these beautiful hearts! Each one shows something you’re thankful for. The disciples learned who Jesus truly is on the mountain, and we can respond with thankful hearts too. Gratitude pleases God, and it helps our hearts shine with His joy.”

Leader Instruction

Bring everyone back together in a circle to close. This physical movement signals a transition from activity back to calm focus and helps children prepare to listen and pray together. Choose a calm signal to gather attention: Clap a simple rhythm and have the kids echo it back. Say: “Hands on your knees, eyes on me.” If possible, slightly dim the lights or lower your voice to create a peaceful atmosphere. Remind children: “This is our quiet moment to remember what God taught us today and to talk to Him together.” Encourage stillness without pressure. Gentle reminders like “Let’s settle our bodies” help younger kids refocus. Review Wonder Truth (Leader Script) “Before we go, let’s remember today’s Wonder Truth. Say it with me: Gratitude pleases God.” Say it together three times using different voices: Whisper voice: say it softly. Normal voice: say it together clearly. Celebration voice: say it joyfully and loud! Add motion: Place both hands over the heart. Smile as you say the truth to reinforce joy and gratitude. Brief reinforcement: “When we say thank you to God, it shows we notice His love.” Memory Verse Review (with motions) Hold up your verse card for Luke 17:17. Say: “Let’s do our verse one more time. This time, let’s see if we can say it together without me leading.” Invite a confident child (or the whole group together) to say: “Where are the other nine?” Use motions: Hold up ten fingers. Look around the room. Hold up one finger and place a hand over the heart. Encourage effort, not perfection: “Great job remembering!” Blessing (Leader Script) (Look slowly around the circle, making eye contact with each child.) “May you have a thankful heart. May you notice God’s blessings every day. And may your words and actions show your love for God and for others.” Pause briefly to let the words settle.

Closing Prayer (repeat-after-me)

Say: “Let’s close in prayer. I’ll say a line, and you repeat it back to me.” “Dear God,” (pause) “Thank You for loving us,” (pause) “Thank You for all Your blessings,” (pause) “Help us remember to say thank You,” (pause) “Amen.” (pause)

Leader Tip

If the group is chatty: Invite them to fold hands or bow heads. Lower your voice instead of raising it — kids often follow the calm tone. End on a warm, affirming note: “I’m thankful for each of you today. I’m so glad you were here.”