March 22, 2026 – Jesus Brings Life and Hope

When Lazarus died, everyone felt sad and confused. But Jesus showed that God’s power is greater than death. Jesus cares about our sadness, and He brings life and hope when things seem hopeless. Core Teaching Theme: This lesson helps children understand that Jesus is powerful and compassionate. In the story of Lazarus, Jesus shows both deep love for His friends and the power of God to bring life. Even when situations seem final or impossible, Jesus is still at work. Children will learn that they can trust Jesus with their fears and sadness because He brings hope and new life. Lesson Length: Total Time: 25–30 minutes

This structure keeps children engaged while allowing time for discussion, reflection, and prayer without exceeding 30 minutes.

LEADER PREP

Leader Devotional & Invitation (for you, before teaching) The story of Lazarus is one of the most powerful moments in Jesus’ ministry. It shows both His deep compassion and His incredible power. When Jesus arrives in Bethany, He does not rush past the grief of Mary and Martha. Instead, He enters into their sorrow. The shortest verse in the Bible tells us something profound: “Jesus wept.” Before the miracle happens, Jesus stands with His friends in their sadness. This reminds us that God does not ignore our pain—He cares deeply about what we feel. At the same time, Jesus reveals something even greater. When He calls Lazarus out of the tomb, He demonstrates that death does not have the final word. Jesus tells Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life.” This statement isn’t just about Lazarus—it is about who Jesus truly is. He is the source of life, hope, and restoration. What seemed final and impossible becomes a moment where God’s power is clearly seen. As you prepare to teach this story, consider the moments in your own life when things felt hopeless or uncertain. Perhaps there were situations where you could not see how things would work out. The story of Lazarus reminds us that Jesus is still present in those moments. Even when we cannot yet see the outcome, Jesus is at work in ways we may not fully understand. Children may not yet grasp the full depth of this miracle, but they can understand something very important: Jesus cares when we are sad, and Jesus brings hope. Your role as a leader is to help them see both of these truths. Through your words, questions, and encouragement, you help them discover that Jesus is powerful, loving, and trustworthy. As you lead today, remember that you are not just teaching information—you are helping children begin to understand who Jesus is. Your patience, kindness, and faith can help create a space where children feel safe to ask questions and wonder about God’s love. Trust that God will work through you as you share this story. Leader Prayer Lord Jesus, Thank You for showing us both Your compassion and Your power in the story of Lazarus. Help me teach this lesson with clarity, patience, and joy. Guide my words so the children can understand that You care about them and bring hope even in hard moments. Open their hearts to trust You more. Amen.

Bible Background (Understanding the Story)

This story takes place in the village of Bethany, where three siblings—Mary, Martha, and Lazarus—lived. They were close friends of Jesus. When Lazarus became very sick, his sisters sent word asking Jesus to come help him. But by the time Jesus arrived, Lazarus had already died and had been placed in a tomb for four days. Mary and Martha were grieving and confused about why Jesus had not come sooner. Jesus comforted them and reminded Martha that God’s power brings life. Then Jesus went to the tomb where Lazarus was buried and called him to come out. Lazarus walked out alive, showing everyone that God’s power is greater than death. This miracle revealed something very important about Jesus: He is the resurrection and the life. The key message children should understand is that Jesus cares deeply about people and has the power to bring hope even when situations seem impossible.

Key Vocabulary

Resurrection – Being brought back to life after dying. Tomb – A place where a person’s body is placed after death. Believe – To trust that something is true and put your faith in it. Miracle – An amazing act done by God that only God can do. Compassion – Caring deeply about someone who is hurting.

Supply Checklist

Bible Printed memory verse or poster board with verse Simple object or prop to represent a tomb (box, cloth, or container) Paper and crayons/markers for reflection activity Optional: small stones or paper “tomb stones” for activity illustration Leader lesson guide or printed lesson plan Prep Time Estimated preparation time: 10–15 minutes This includes reviewing the scripture passage, reading the leader devotional, preparing the supplies, and familiarizing yourself with the discussion questions and activities.

Welcome Question (displayed): Have you ever had a moment when something felt really sad or impossible, but then something good happened that gave you hope? Write the Welcome Question on a whiteboard, poster board, or display screen.

Before Kids Arrive

Set up a small space where children can sit in a circle or semi-circle. Place a simple object in the center of the space (a small rock or a box works well). This will be used during the curiosity activity to represent something that seems “closed” or final. Make sure the room feels calm and welcoming as children enter. Prayer Over the Space (Pray quietly before kids arrive): Jesus, thank You for bringing hope even when things feel sad or impossible. Help this room be a place where children feel safe, loved, and curious about Your story. Prepare our hearts to learn how powerful and caring You are. Amen.

Leader Tip

Younger children (K–2) may respond with simple examples like losing a toy or feeling sad about something small. Older children (3–5) may share deeper experiences like disappointment, fear, or sadness. Both responses are important—affirm each child’s contribution.

As Kids Arrive (Leader Script)

“Hi everyone! I’m so glad you’re here today. Before we get started, I have a question for you to think about.” (Point to the question.) “Have you ever had a moment when something felt really sad or impossible, but then something good happened that gave you hope?” Allow kids to respond casually as they settle in. If children need help answering, gently prompt them: “Maybe something like when you thought you lost something important and then you found it.” “Or when you were really worried about something, but it turned out okay.” “Has anything like that ever happened to you?”

Respond warmly to each answer: “Thanks for sharing that.” “That sounds like a big moment!” “I’m glad something good happened.”

At Start Time (Leader Script)

“Alright friends, let’s gather together.” “Sometimes things happen in life that feel really sad, confusing, or even impossible. Maybe something breaks, someone gets sick, or something we hoped for doesn’t happen.” Pause briefly. “Today’s story in the Bible is about a time when Jesus’ friends were very sad. Someone they loved had died, and everyone thought the story was over.” “But Jesus was about to show them something amazing about who He is—and that even when things feel impossible, Jesus can bring hope.” Curiosity Activity – Game or Object Lesson: “What’s Inside the Impossible Box?”

Leader Instruction

This activity introduces the idea that things are not always what they seem. Children will see something that appears closed or final, helping them begin to think about how Jesus can bring hope when situations look impossible. Step-by-Step:

1. Hold up the small box (or place the rock in the center of the circle).
2. Ask the children: “What do you think is inside this box?”
3. Let a few children guess.
4. Ask: “If this box stayed closed forever, would we ever know what’s inside?”
5. Open the box and reveal a small positive item inside (such as a sticker, small cross, or heart).
6. Say: “Sometimes things look closed or finished, but something surprising can still happen.”
7. Connect the idea: “In today’s story, everyone thought something was finished forever—but Jesus showed them something amazing.”

Let several children guess, but keep guesses quick to stay within time. Leader Tips for Management: Keep the tone playful and curious rather than competitive. If children become excited, gently bring focus back by saying, “Let’s all listen for the next part.”

Transition (Leader Script)

“That little surprise reminds us of something important—sometimes when people think a story is over, God is still working.” “In our Bible story today, Jesus’ friends thought everything was finished and hopeless.” “But Jesus had something incredible planned.” “Let’s open our Bibles and discover what happened.”

Leader Instruction

This is the moment when children hear and experience the Bible story. The goal is not to lecture or rush through the passage, but to help children imagine what happened and feel the emotions of the story. As you tell the story, invite children to participate through simple motions, pauses, and reflection questions. Help them see that Jesus cared deeply for His friends and showed God’s power in an amazing way. Tell the story slowly and clearly so children can picture what is happening. Teaching Tips for Volunteers: Use facial expressions and tone of voice to show sadness, hope, and surprise. Pause occasionally to let children respond to questions. Encourage participation, but keep movement simple so everyone can follow along. Remind children that this is a real story from the Bible. Prayer of Invitation (Leader Script): “Dear God, thank You for giving us Your Word. Help us listen carefully to this story and understand what You want to teach us today. Help our hearts be open to Your truth. Amen.” Bible Time Rhyme (say with motions): Open up the Bible wide (open hands like a book) God’s great story lives inside (point upward, then to heart) Listen close and you will see (cup hand around ear) God’s Word speaks to you and me! (point to others) Storytelling (Leader Script): Today we are going to hear a story about Jesus and His friends. Jesus had a friend named Lazarus. Lazarus had two sisters named Mary and Martha. They loved Jesus very much. One day, Lazarus became very sick. Mary and Martha were worried. They sent a message to Jesus that said, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” (Pause) But when Jesus heard the message, He did not go right away. Instead, He waited two more days. Later, Jesus told His disciples, “Our friend Lazarus has died. But we are going to see him.” When Jesus arrived at the town of Bethany, Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. A tomb was a place where people were laid after they died. Martha went to meet Jesus and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” Jesus looked at Martha and said something very important. He said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me will live.” (Pause) Then Mary came to Jesus. She was crying. Many people around them were crying too. The Bible tells us something very special. Jesus saw everyone crying… …and Jesus began to cry too. (Leader pause and gently say:) Jesus cared deeply about His friends. Reflection Question: Have you ever felt sad when someone else was hurting? (Pause for responses) Then Jesus walked to the tomb where Lazarus was laid. There was a large stone covering the entrance. Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” (Invite children to pretend to push a big stone) Everyone move your arms like you’re pushing a heavy rock. Push… push… push… The stone was rolled away. Then Jesus looked up and prayed to God. After praying, Jesus called out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” (Pause) And something amazing happened. Lazarus came out of the tomb! He was alive again. Jesus had done a miracle. He showed everyone that God’s power is greater than death. And many people believed in Jesus that day.

Ask children to pretend to push the stone away from the tomb.

Engagement Tips: Invite children to whisper “Jesus cares” when Jesus cries.

Ask: “What do you think people felt when Lazarus walked out?”

Have children place a hand on their heart when hearing the words “Jesus loves.” Connecting the Wonder Truth (Leader Script): In this story, we saw something amazing. Jesus cared about His friends when they were sad, and He showed God’s power by bringing Lazarus back to life. Even when things feel impossible, Jesus is still powerful and full of love. Our Wonder Truth today is: Jesus has power over death and brings hope even when things feel impossible. Let’s say this together: “Jesus brings hope!” (Have children repeat: “Jesus brings hope!”) Word of Wonder (Memory Verse): “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live.’” — John 11:25 Memory Motions: “I am the resurrection” — raise arms upward “and the life” — place hands over heart “Those who believe in me” — point upward “will live” — lift arms outward joyfully Practice Instructions:

1. Whisper the verse together.
2. Say the verse normally.
3. Say it with confidence using the motions.

Optional Engagement Game: “Come Out, Lazarus!” Choose one child to pretend to be Lazarus and stand on one side of the room. The leader calls out, “Lazarus, come out!” The child walks toward the group while everyone repeats together: “Jesus brings hope!”

Repeat with a few different children if time allows.

Leader Instruction

This section helps children take what they learned from the story of Lazarus and apply it to their own lives. The goal is to help children understand that Jesus cares about our feelings and that we can trust Him when life feels sad, confusing, or difficult. Remind children that just like Mary and Martha trusted Jesus when Lazarus died, we can trust Jesus when we face hard moments too. Faith grows as we talk to God, share our worries, and remember that Jesus brings hope. Encourage everyone to participate. Some children may want to talk a lot while others may be quieter, so gently invite different voices into the conversation. Every response is valuable. Encourage participation by saying things like, “That’s a thoughtful answer,” or “I’m glad you shared that.” Tips for Volunteers: If one child talks a lot, kindly invite others by saying, “Let’s hear from someone who hasn’t shared yet.” Keep examples simple and connected to everyday life (school, family, friendships). Remind children there are no wrong answers when sharing feelings or ideas.

Discussion (Leader Script)

Younger (K–2):

1. What amazing thing did Jesus do for Lazarus?

(Guide: Jesus brought Lazarus back to life.)

1. How were Mary and Martha feeling before Jesus helped them?

(Guide: They were sad because Lazarus had died.)

1. Did Jesus care that His friends were sad?

(Guide: Yes. Jesus loved them and even cried.)

1. Who helps you when you feel sad or worried?

(Guide: God, parents, teachers, friends.)

1. What is something you might ask Jesus to help you with this week?

(Guide: School, being kind, feeling brave, helping a friend.) Older (3–5):

1. Why do you think it was hard for Mary and Martha to wait for Jesus to come help them?
2. How do our feelings—like sadness, fear, or confusion—sometimes affect how we trust God?
3. What does this story teach us about how Jesus understands our pain and cares about our struggles?
4. What is one situation in your life this week where you might need to trust Jesus and remember that He brings hope?

Encourage honest reflection and remind students that there are no wrong answers as they think about these questions. Faith Practice Moment (Optional but Encouraged) Leader Script: Let’s take a quiet moment together to remember that Jesus is always with us. Have children place one hand over their heart and the other hand open in front of them. Repeat after me: Leader: “Jesus, You care about me.” Children repeat. Leader: “You are with me when I feel sad.” Children repeat. Leader: “I trust You to bring hope.” Children repeat. Close with a short prayer: “Jesus, thank You for loving us and caring about our feelings. Help us trust You when life feels hard and remember that You bring hope. Amen.”

Transition (Leader Script)

Today we learned that Jesus brings hope even when things seem impossible. Trusting Him is something we practice every day as we remember His love and power. Now let’s think about what this story tells us about who Jesus is and who we are because of Him.

Craft Activity – “Jesus Brings Life” Hope Stone Small smooth stones (or paper circles if stones are not available) Supplies: Markers or crayons Stickers (optional) Small cups or baskets to hold stones

Leader Instruction

This activity helps children remember that Jesus brings hope and life, even when situations seem sad or impossible. In the story of Lazarus, the tomb was closed with a large stone. When Jesus arrived, the stone was moved away, and new life came from what seemed like the end of the story. The stone that once represented sadness and loss became part of a miracle. In this activity, each child will decorate a small “hope stone” to remind them that Jesus is powerful and loving. Just like the stone was rolled away from Lazarus’ tomb, Jesus can bring hope into our lives when we feel afraid, sad, or unsure. The stone becomes a simple reminder that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Encourage children to keep their stone somewhere they will see it during the week. When they see it, they can remember that Jesus cares about them and that His power brings hope even when things feel difficult. Younger Kids (K–2): Children draw a heart, cross, or smiley face on their stone (or paper circle). Encourage them to decorate it with bright colors to remind them that Jesus brings life and love. Older Kids (3–5): Children write one word on their stone such as Hope, Life, Jesus, or Believe. They may also draw a small cross or heart to symbolize Jesus’ love and power. Give each child their supplies before explaining the activity to reduce distraction. Classroom Management Tips: Encourage creativity but keep the activity simple so it stays within the time limit. Walk around the room and affirm children’s designs to keep them engaged. Instructions:

1. Give each child one stone (or paper circle) and a marker or crayon.
2. Explain that this will be their “hope stone” to remind them of Jesus’ power and love.
3. Invite children to decorate their stone with symbols, colors, or words.
4. Allow about 3–4 minutes for decorating.
5. When finished, invite children to hold their stone in their hands as you connect it back to the lesson.

Leader Script (Identity Connection): “Today we heard how Jesus raised Lazarus from the tomb. Everyone thought the story was over, but Jesus showed that God’s power is greater than death. Jesus said, ‘I am the resurrection and the life.’ This little stone reminds us of the stone that covered Lazarus’ tomb. When Jesus moved that stone, something amazing happened—life came where people thought there was only sadness. When you see your stone this week, remember this: Jesus loves you, Jesus cares about you, and Jesus brings hope and life into our world. Because of Jesus, we never have to face hard things alone.”

Review the Wonder Truth Today we learned that Jesus has power over death and brings hope even when things feel impossible. When Lazarus died, his friends were very sad. Jesus loved Lazarus and his family, and He even cried with them. But then Jesus showed everyone something amazing—God’s power is stronger than death. Jesus called Lazarus out of the tomb, and Lazarus came back to life! This reminds us that when we feel sad, scared, or like things are hopeless, Jesus is still with us. He cares about how we feel, and we can always trust Him. Closing Questions

Ask a few final questions to help children remember the lesson

1. Who did Jesus bring back to life in today’s story?
2. How did Jesus show compassion for His friends before the miracle happened?
3. What should we remember when things in our lives feel scary or impossible?

Encourage children to answer in their own words and affirm their responses.

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus, Thank You for loving us and caring about how we feel. Thank You for showing us that You are powerful and that nothing is impossible for You. Help us remember that we can trust You when we feel scared, sad, or unsure. Fill our hearts with hope and help us share Your love with others. Amen. Optional Sending Activity Hope Reminder Invite children to think of one person who might be sad or going through a hard time this week. Challenge them to do one small act of kindness for that person—such as saying something encouraging, helping them with something, or praying for them. Remind the children: Just like Jesus brought hope to Lazarus’s family, we can bring hope to others through kindness and love.