May 24, 2026 – Jesus Gives Us Peace

After Jesus came back to life, He appeared to His friends while they were hiding and afraid. Instead of being angry, He gave them peace and comfort. Then, He gave them a special job—to go and share His love and forgiveness with others.

Core Teaching Theme: This lesson focuses on how Jesus meets us in our fear and replaces it with His peace. The disciples were scared and hiding behind locked doors, but Jesus came to them anyway and brought calm instead of fear. He didn’t scold them—He encouraged them and gave them a mission. Children will learn that Jesus is always with them, especially when they feel afraid, and that they are part of His plan to show love, kindness, and forgiveness to others.

Key Vocabulary

Peace – A calm and safe feeling inside, even when things are scary Disciple – A follower of Jesus who learns from Him Forgiveness – Choosing to let go of wrongs and not stay angry Fear – A feeling of being scared or worried Send – To give someone a job or mission to go and do something

Lesson Length: 25–30 minutes total Introduction & Curiosity: 5 minutes Bible Story & Teaching: 10 minutes Activity & Discussion: 8–10 minutes

LEADER PREP

Leader Devotional & Invitation (for you, before teaching) In this passage, we meet the disciples in a very human moment—afraid, uncertain, and hiding behind locked doors. Everything they thought they knew had been shaken. Then, in the middle of their fear, Jesus appears. His first words are not correction or disappointment, but peace: “Peace be with you.” This reminds us that Jesus meets us exactly where we are, especially in our fear, and brings calm to our anxious hearts.

As you prepare to teach this lesson, take a moment to reflect on where you may be feeling fear or uncertainty in your own life. Just like the disciples, we often try to “lock the doors” of our hearts to protect ourselves. But Jesus doesn’t stay outside—He comes in anyway. He brings peace that isn’t based on our circumstances but on His presence.

Notice also that Jesus doesn’t stop with giving peace—He gives purpose. He sends the disciples out to share His love and forgiveness. This is a powerful reminder that God’s peace is not just for us to keep; it’s something we are meant to share. As leaders, we are part of that mission, helping children understand who Jesus is and how much He loves them.

Teaching children is more than delivering a lesson—it’s planting seeds of faith that can grow for a lifetime. You may not always see the results right away, but your role matters deeply. Through your words, your presence, and your care, children can experience the peace of Jesus in a real and meaningful way.

Today, step into this lesson not just as a teacher, but as someone who has received that same peace. Let it shape your tone, your patience, and your interactions. You are not teaching alone—Jesus is with you, just as He was with His disciples. Leader Prayer Jesus, thank You for meeting us in our fear and bringing us peace. Help me to feel Your calm presence as I prepare to teach today. Give me the words to speak and the patience to guide each child with love and kindness. Let Your peace shine through me so the children can see and feel Your love. Use this time to help them understand that You are always with them. Amen.

Bible Background (Understanding the Story)

This story takes place shortly after Jesus has risen from the dead. The disciples are gathered together in a room with the doors locked because they are afraid. They are worried that the same people who hurt Jesus might come after them. While they are hiding, Jesus suddenly appears in the room with them.

Jesus speaks words of peace to calm their fear and shows them His hands and side to prove that it is really Him. Instead of being upset that they were afraid or hiding, He reassures them. Then, He gives them a mission—just as God sent Him, He is now sending them to share His message with others. He also talks about forgiveness, reminding them of the importance of sharing God’s grace.

This moment is important because it shows that Jesus understands our fear and responds with love and peace. It also reminds us that we all have a role in sharing His love with others. The key message for children is that Jesus is always with us, especially when we are afraid, and He invites us to share His love with the world.

Key Vocabulary

Peace – A calm and safe feeling inside, even when things are scary

Disciple – A follower of Jesus who learns from Him Forgiveness – Choosing to let go of wrongs and not stay angry Fear – A feeling of being scared or worried Send – To give someone a job or mission to go and do something

Supply Checklist

Bible (or printed scripture passage)

Paper and crayons/markers Construction paper (optional for activity) Scissors and glue “Peace be with you” memory verse cards (printed or handwritten) Small objects for object lesson (e.g., lock or picture of a door) Whiteboard or poster board for key points Prep Time Review the scripture and lesson flow Estimated Prep Time: 15–20 minutes Gather and organize supplies Read through the devotional and key teaching points Prepare any printed materials or activity examples

Welcome Question (displayed): When have you felt scared, and what helped you feel better?

Write the welcome question on a whiteboard or display it on a screen.

Before Kids Arrive

Place chairs or floor spots in a loose circle to encourage conversation. Have a small, simple object ready for the activity (example: a flashlight or a soft blanket). Make sure the space feels calm and inviting (soft music optional). Prayer Over the Space (Pray quietly before kids arrive): Jesus, thank You for being with us always. Please fill this room with Your peace. Help each child feel safe, loved, and ready to learn about You today. Amen.

Leader Tip

Younger children (K–2) may share simple fears like the dark or loud noises. Older children (3–5) may share deeper feelings like being alone or worried. Affirm all answers and keep responses positive and encouraging.

As Kids Arrive (Leader Script)

“Hey everyone! I’m so glad you’re here today! Come on in and find a seat. We have a question to think about.”

(Point to the question) “Our question is: When have you felt scared, and what helped you feel better?”

(Allow responses)

“Have you ever been scared of the dark?” If kids need help: “What about during a storm or a loud noise?” “Who helps you feel safe when you’re scared?”

“Those are great answers. It’s okay to feel scared sometimes—and it’s really special to have something or someone that helps us feel better.”

At Start Time (Leader Script)

“Alright everyone, let’s come together!”

“Today we’re going to hear a story about Jesus’ friends. They were feeling really scared—so scared that they were hiding behind locked doors.”

(Pause)

“But something amazing happened. Jesus came to them—not to make them feel worse—but to bring them peace and help them feel safe again.”

“Have you ever felt scared and just wanted someone to be with you? That’s exactly what Jesus did for His friends… and He does that for us too.” Curiosity Activity – Game or Object Lesson: “Light in the Darkness”

Leader Instruction

This activity helps children understand how fear can feel like darkness, and how Jesus brings peace like light.

Step-by-Step:

1. Hold up a flashlight (or pretend if none is available).
2. Say: “Sometimes fear can feel like being in the dark—like you don’t know what’s around you.”
3. Turn off the lights briefly (if appropriate and safe), or ask kids to close their eyes for a moment.
4. Ask: “How does it feel when it’s dark?”
5. Turn on the flashlight (or have kids open their eyes).
6. Say: “Light helps us see and feel safe again. Jesus is like that—He brings peace when we feel afraid.”
7. Invite kids to pretend they are holding a “light” and pass it around by pointing to each other, saying: “Jesus brings peace to you!”

Keep the “dark” moment very brief to avoid making any child uncomfortable. Leader Tips for Management: Watch for children who may be sensitive to darkness and reassure them quickly. Keep energy calm and focused—this is meant to feel safe, not silly or chaotic.

Transition (Leader Script)

“That light reminds us of something really important—Jesus brings peace when we feel afraid.”

“Let’s listen to our Bible story and see how Jesus showed His friends that they didn’t have to be scared anymore.”

Leader Instruction

This is the time to help children step into the Bible story and experience what the disciples felt—fear, surprise, and then peace. Focus on telling the story slowly and clearly, allowing space for children to imagine the scene. Encourage participation through simple movements and questions.

Use your voice—whisper during “fear” moments and speak calmly during “peace” moments Teaching Tips for Volunteers: Pause often to let the story sink in Encourage kids to act out small parts (like hiding or unlocking a door) Keep eye contact and invite responses, but don’t rush Let the mood shift from fear → peace be felt by the children Prayer of Invitation (Leader Script): “Dear God, thank You for Your Word. Help us to listen, learn, and understand how much You love us. Open our hearts to Your peace today. Amen.” Bible Time Rhyme (say with motions): “Open up the Bible wide (open hands like a book) God’s Word is our guide inside (point to heart) Listen close, let truth abide (cup hands around ears)” Storytelling (Leader Script): “Let’s imagine this together…

Jesus’ friends—the disciples—were all in a room. (Everyone, huddle close together like you’re hiding.)

The doors were locked. (Stretch your arms out like you’re locking a door.)

They were afraid. (Whisper) They didn’t know what might happen next…

Suddenly… (pause)

Jesus was there. (Stand tall and look surprised.)

He didn’t knock. He didn’t open the door. He just… appeared.

And do you know what He said?

‘Peace be with you.’ (Say this slowly and calmly.)

Let’s all say that together… ‘Peace be with you.’

The disciples were surprised—maybe even a little scared at first. But then… they saw Jesus. And they were filled with joy.

(Place hands on heart and smile.)

Jesus showed them His hands and His side, so they would know it was really Him.

Then He said again, ‘Peace be with you.’

(pause)

And then Jesus gave them a job. He said, ‘As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.’

(Stretch arms outward like sending someone.)

That means they had a mission—to go and share His love with others. Reflection Question: How do you think the disciples felt when Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you’?

(Allow a few responses) Reflection Question: When have you felt afraid, and needed peace?

(pause and affirm responses)

Jesus didn’t leave them afraid. He gave them peace… and a purpose.”

Have children whisper “Peace be with you” together, then say it loudly Engagement Tips:

Ask kids to act out being afraid vs. feeling peaceful

Let children “lock” and “unlock” imaginary doors Repeat the phrase: “Jesus brings peace!” Connecting the Wonder Truth (Leader Script): “Just like the disciples, we all feel afraid sometimes. But Jesus comes to us and brings peace to our hearts. And just like them, He gives us a job—to share His love with others.

Let’s say this together: ‘Jesus brings me peace, and I can share His love!’” Word of Wonder (Memory Verse): “Peace be with you.” — John 20:21 “Peace” → hands open and calm in front Motions: “be with you” → point to others around you

Whisper the verse together Practice: Say it in a normal voice Say it loudly with motions and confidence Optional Engagement Game: “Peace Pass” Game Have children sit in a circle. One child starts by saying, “Peace be with you,” and gently passes an imaginary “peace ball” to another child. That child repeats the phrase and passes it on.

Add a challenge: Have them say it in different ways (whisper, happy voice, calm voice) to reinforce that Jesus’ peace can be shared with everyone.

Leader Instruction

This section helps children connect the Bible story to their own lives. Remind them that just like the disciples felt afraid, we all have moments when we feel scared or unsure—and Jesus meets us in those moments too. The goal is to help children recognize that they can trust Jesus and experience His peace every day.

Encourage every child to share, but never force participation. Some children may need more time to open up. Affirm every response with kindness and curiosity.

Keep responses positive and encouraging (“That’s a great thought!” or “Thank you for sharing!”) Tips for Volunteers: Allow quiet moments—kids may need time to think Avoid correcting—guide gently instead Share a simple example from your own life if needed

Discussion (Leader Script)

Younger (K–2):

1. What were the disciples feeling when Jesus came to them?

(Guide: They were scared or afraid.)

1. What did Jesus say to them?

(Guide: “Peace be with you.”)

1. How did Jesus help them feel better?

(Guide: He gave them peace and showed He was with them.)

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

(Guide: Jesus, parents, family, teachers.)

1. What is something you might need Jesus’ help with this week?

(Guide: Being brave, being kind, trying something new.)

Older (3–5):

1. Why do you think Jesus chose to bring peace instead of correcting the disciples for being afraid?

1. How can fear or worry affect the choices we make?

1. What does this story show us about how Jesus understands our feelings?

1. What is one real-life situation this week where you might need to trust Jesus and choose peace?

Remind students there are no wrong answers—this is a space to think, share, and grow. Faith Practice Moment (Optional but Encouraged) Leader Script: “Let’s take a quiet moment to practice trusting Jesus together. Everyone, place your hands over your heart.”

(Pause briefly)

“Take a deep breath in… and out.”

“Now repeat after me:” “Jesus, You are with me.”

“You give me peace.” “I can trust You.”

“Now open your hands in front of you like you’re giving something to Jesus.” “I give You my worries.”

“Fill me with Your peace.”

(Pause quietly for a moment)

Transition (Leader Script)

“Today we learned that Jesus brings peace when we feel afraid—and that trusting Him is something we practice every day. Now let’s think about what that means for who we are and how we live as people who follow Jesus.”

Craft Activity – Peace to Share Hands Paper (any color or white) Supplies: Crayons or markers Pencils Scissors (optional, depending on age)

Leader Instruction

This activity helps children understand that their identity is not just about who they are, but about what Jesus has given them and what He calls them to do. In today’s story, Jesus gave His disciples peace and then sent them out with a purpose. In the same way, children will learn that they are people who receive Jesus’ peace and are sent to share His love with others.

By tracing their hands, children will create a visual reminder that their hands can be used to bring peace, kindness, and forgiveness into the world. This reinforces that their identity in Christ is active—they are not just loved, they are sent. This simple, hands-on activity connects the idea of “being sent” with something they use every day—their hands.

Younger Kids (K–2): Have children trace one of their hands on paper. Inside the hand, help them write or copy the words: “Jesus gives me peace.” Then, they can draw small pictures (hearts, smiles, friends) to show ways they can share peace with others.

Older Kids (3–5): Have children trace their hand and write: “I am sent by Jesus to share His peace.” Around the fingers, ask them to write or draw 3–5 specific ways they can show peace this week (help a friend, forgive someone, be kind, include others, pray for someone).

Pre-draw a sample to show kids what the final product looks like Classroom Management Tips: Help younger children with tracing or writing as needed Keep the pace moving by giving a 1-minute warning before cleanup Instructions:

1. Give each child a piece of paper and something to draw with.
2. Ask them to place their hand on the paper and trace around it.
3. Instruct them to write the phrase inside their hand (adjust for age level).
4. Have them decorate their hand with drawings or words that show how they can share peace.
5. Allow a minute for children to share one idea with the group if time permits.

Leader Script (Identity Connection): “Today we learned that Jesus came to His friends when they were afraid and gave them peace. But He didn’t stop there—He also sent them out to share that peace with others.

That means something really important for us: You are someone Jesus loves, someone He gives peace to, and someone He sends. Your hands can help, your words can be kind, and your choices can show His love.

So when you look at your hand, remember—Jesus gives you peace, and YOU are sent to share it.”

Review the Wonder Truth Jesus brings peace to us when we are afraid and sends us to share His love with others.

Simple Restatement: Jesus helps us feel calm when we are scared, and He gives us a job—to share His love with everyone.

When the disciples were afraid, what did Jesus say to them? Closing Questions How can Jesus help you when you feel scared this week? Who is one person you can show Jesus’ love to?

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus, Thank You for loving us and being with us when we feel afraid. Thank You for giving us peace in our hearts. Help us to be brave and to share Your love and kindness with others this week. Amen. Optional Sending Activity “Peace to Share” Challenge: This week, when you feel afraid or worried, take a deep breath and say, “Jesus gives me peace.” Then, choose one person each day to show kindness to—through a kind word, a helping hand, or a smile—to share Jesus’ love.