June 7, 2026 – Jesus Welcomes Everyone

Jesus showed love to people others ignored, like Matthew the tax collector, and He helped those who were hurting and sick. He wants us to show kindness and love to everyone too. Core Teaching Theme: This lesson teaches children that Jesus sees and loves people that others may overlook or think are unimportant. Through calling Matthew and helping those in need, Jesus shows that His love is for everyone—no matter their past, their mistakes, or their situation. Children will learn that they can follow Jesus by showing kindness, compassion, and care to others, just like He did. Lesson Length: Approximately 25–30 minutes total Leader Prep: 5 minutes (before class) Curiosity: 5 minutes Belief: 10 minutes Faith: 5–8 minutes Identity: 3–5 minutes Closing: 2 minutes

LEADER PREP

Leader Devotional & Invitation (for you, before teaching) In this passage, we see Jesus doing something unexpected—He calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him. Tax collectors were often disliked and avoided because they were seen as dishonest and greedy. Yet Jesus looks at Matthew and sees something more. He doesn’t focus on Matthew’s past or how others view him. Instead, He offers him a new beginning. This reminds us that Jesus doesn’t measure people the way the world does—He sees hearts, not reputations.

As the story continues, Jesus shares a meal with people others would avoid, and He responds to criticism by saying, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” Jesus is showing that love, compassion, and kindness matter more than outward appearances or religious rules. He also heals a sick woman and raises a young girl back to life, demonstrating His deep care for those who are hurting. In every moment, Jesus notices people others overlook and responds with compassion.

Take a moment to reflect: Are there people in your life you find easy to overlook or avoid? Are there moments when you focus more on rules, expectations, or appearances than on showing mercy? Jesus invites us to see others the way He does—with grace, compassion, and love. His example challenges us to step outside of comfort and extend kindness to everyone, not just those who are easy to love.

As you prepare to teach, remember that your role is not just to share a story, but to model the love of Jesus. The children watching you are learning what it means to follow Him—not just through your words, but through your actions. Your kindness, patience, and encouragement may be the very way they experience Jesus’ love today.

Be encouraged: you don’t have to be perfect to lead well. Jesus uses willing hearts. As you step into this lesson, trust that God will work through you to plant seeds of compassion and faith in these children’s lives. Leader Prayer Lord, thank You for showing us what true love and mercy look like through Jesus. Help me to see others the way You see them—with compassion and kindness. As I teach today, guide my words and actions so that these children can understand Your love. Give me patience, joy, and a heart that reflects You. Amen.

Bible Background (Understanding the Story)

This passage takes place during Jesus’ ministry as He travels from town to town teaching, healing, and calling people to follow Him. In one part of the story, Jesus meets Matthew, a tax collector, and invites him to become one of His disciples. This was surprising because tax collectors were often disliked and considered untrustworthy. Yet Jesus chose Matthew anyway, showing that His love is for everyone.

Later, Jesus is questioned by religious leaders for spending time with people they thought were sinners. Jesus explains that He came to help those who need Him, not just those who appear “good.” The story also includes two powerful moments of healing—a woman who had been sick for many years and a young girl who had died. In both cases, Jesus responds to faith with compassion and power.

The key message for children is that Jesus loves and cares for everyone. No one is too unimportant, too broken, or too different for His love. Just as Jesus showed kindness and mercy to others, He invites us to do the same.

Key Vocabulary

Disciple – Someone who follows Jesus and learns from Him Tax Collector – A person who collected money for the government, often disliked by others Mercy – Showing kindness and forgiveness to someone, even when they don’t deserve it

Healing – Making someone better when they are sick or hurt

Supply Checklist

Bible Printed memory verse (optional) Name tags or paper for writing names Markers or crayons Simple props for storytelling (optional, such as coins for Matthew or cloth for healing story) Activity sheets or craft materials (paper, glue, scissors) Small prizes or stickers (optional) Prep Time Approximately 5–10 minutes to review the lesson, gather supplies, and prepare materials.

Welcome Question (displayed): Have you ever seen someone left out or treated differently—what did it feel like, and what could you do?

Before Kids Arrive

Write the welcome question on a whiteboard or display it on a screen. Arrange chairs in a circle or semi-circle to encourage conversation. No supplies are needed for the activity, but make sure there’s space for kids to move slightly if needed. Prayer Over the Space (Pray quietly before kids arrive): Jesus, thank You for loving each of us just as we are. Help this room be a place where every child feels seen, safe, and cared for. Prepare our hearts to learn how to love others the way You do. Amen.

Leader Tip

Younger children (K–2) may share simple or personal examples like playground moments, while older kids (3–5) may recognize deeper social situations. Affirm all responses and gently guide them toward empathy and kindness.

As Kids Arrive (Leader Script)

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

(Point to the question)

“Have you ever seen someone left out or treated differently? What happened?”

(Allow responses)

“Maybe at school or on the playground?” If kids struggle: “Have you ever seen someone sitting alone?” “How do you think they felt?”

“Those are really thoughtful answers. Today we’re going to talk about how Jesus treated people—especially people others didn’t always like or include.”

At Start Time (Leader Script)

“Alright friends, let’s all come together and get ready!”

(Pause and gather attention)

“Have you ever felt left out before? Maybe no one picked you for a game, or you felt like you didn’t belong?”

(Pause briefly)

“That can feel pretty sad or lonely, right? But guess what—Jesus notices people who feel that way. He cares about them, and He shows them love. Today, we’re going to hear some amazing stories about how Jesus cared for people that others ignored or overlooked.” Curiosity Activity – Game or Object Lesson: “Step In If…” Game

Leader Instruction

This activity helps children recognize shared experiences and understand that everyone belongs. It connects to the lesson by showing that no one is left out in Jesus’ love.

Step-by-Step:

1. Have all children stand in a line or spread out in a small area.
2. Explain: “I’m going to say some statements. If it applies to you, take one step forward.”

“Step in if you’ve ever felt left out.”

1. Use simple prompts like:

“Step in if you’ve ever helped someone who was sad.” “Step in if you’ve ever been new somewhere.” “Step in if someone has ever been kind to you when you needed it.”

1. After a few rounds, have everyone step back to their original spots.

Keep the tone positive—remind kids there are no wrong answers. Leader Tips for Management: Encourage participation but don’t force anyone to step forward. Be mindful of sensitive moments and affirm kids with encouragement like, “You’re not alone.”

Transition (Leader Script)

“Wow, look at that—we all had moments where we needed kindness or saw someone who needed it. The good news is, Jesus always sees those moments too. Let’s open our Bibles and discover how Jesus showed love to people that others overlooked.”

Leader Instruction

This is the moment where children hear and experience God’s Word. Focus on telling the story slowly and clearly, allowing space for children to imagine, respond, and feel what is happening. Keep your tone calm and inviting, and encourage participation through simple actions and questions. Teaching Tips for Leaders: Use pauses to let important moments sink in Make eye contact and speak with expression Encourage kids to act out simple parts of the story

Ask questions, but don’t rush the answers

Keep the focus on what Jesus is doing and who He loves Prayer of Invitation (Leader Script): “Dear God, thank You for Your Word. Help us to listen, understand, and learn more about Your love today. Open our hearts to hear from You. 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 come in (cup hands to ears)” Storytelling (Leader Script): “Today, we’re going to hear about Jesus and how He loves people that others sometimes ignore.

One day, Jesus was walking along… (pause, walk in place together)

He saw a man named Matthew sitting at a tax booth. Matthew was a tax collector. Many people did not like tax collectors.

Jesus looked at Matthew… (pause) And said, ‘Follow Me.’

Let’s all pretend to stand up and follow Jesus! (motion for kids to stand or take a step)

And do you know what Matthew did? He got up… and followed Him!

Later, Jesus was sitting at a table in Matthew’s house. There were many people there—some that others didn’t think were important.

Some religious leaders saw this and asked, ‘Why does Jesus spend time with people like this?’

Jesus heard them and said, ‘People who are sick need a doctor, not people who are well.’

(pause)

Then Jesus said something very important: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’

That means Jesus wants kindness and love—not just rules.

(pause)

Later, a leader came to Jesus and said, ‘My daughter has died… but come and help her.’

So Jesus went with him. (gesture walking together)

On the way, a woman who had been sick for a long time came up behind Jesus. She thought, ‘If I just touch His cloak, I will be healed.’

Let’s reach out our hands like we’re gently touching Jesus’ robe. (motion)

She touched His cloak… (pause) And she was healed!

Jesus turned and said, ‘Take heart, daughter—your faith has healed you.’

(pause)

Then Jesus went to the girl’s house. He took her by the hand… (gently hold your own hand)

And she got up—alive again!

(pause)

Jesus showed love and care to everyone—Matthew, the woman, and the girl. Reflection Question: Who did Jesus show love to in this story? (pause) Reflection Question: How do you think those people felt when Jesus helped them? (pause)” Have kids say: “Follow Me!” whenever Jesus speaks Engagement Tips: Let children act out walking with Jesus

Ask kids to show “kindness faces” vs. “mean faces”

Whisper together: “Jesus loves everyone” Connecting the Wonder Truth (Leader Script): “In our story today, Jesus didn’t ignore people—He saw them, loved them, and helped them. He chose Matthew, even when others didn’t like him. He healed the woman who was hurting. He cared for the little girl and her family.

Jesus loves and cares for everyone—and that includes YOU.

Let’s say this together: ‘Jesus loves everyone!’” Word of Wonder (Memory Verse): “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” — Matthew 9:13 Motions: “I desire” → point upward “mercy” → place hands over heart “not sacrifice” → gently shake head “no” Practice: Whisper the verse together Say it in a normal voice Say it loud and confident with motions Optional Engagement Game: “Mercy or Not?” Call out simple scenarios (e.g., “Someone drops their books,” “Someone says something mean”). Kids respond by showing “mercy” (hands on heart) or “not mercy” (shake head).

End by reminding them: Jesus wants us to choose mercy!

Leader Instruction

This time helps children connect the Bible story to their own everyday lives. Remind them that just like Jesus showed love and care to others, we can practice doing the same. Encourage children to share openly, and create a safe space where every answer is welcomed and valued.

Let children know there are no wrong answers—this is about learning to trust Jesus and grow in kindness. Affirm each response with warmth and encouragement. Tips for Volunteers: Use simple follow-up questions like “Can you tell me more?” Affirm every answer: “That’s a great thought!” or “I love how you said that.” Give quieter children time to think and gently invite them to share Keep the tone positive and focused on growth, not correction

Discussion (Leader Script)

Younger (K–2): What did Jesus do for Matthew? (Guide: He chose him to follow Him / He loved him even when others didn’t) How did Jesus help the people who were sick or hurting? (Guide: He healed them / He cared for them) Who can you go to when you need help? (Guide: Jesus / God / parents / teachers) When is it hard to be kind to someone? (Guide: When someone is mean / when we don’t like them) What is one thing you can ask Jesus to help you with this week? (Guide: Being kind / helping a friend / listening better) Older (3–5): Why do you think Jesus chose someone like Matthew, even though others didn’t like him? How can our feelings sometimes make it hard to show kindness or mercy to others? What does this story teach us about how Jesus understands people who are struggling or hurting? What is one real situation this week where you can choose to trust Jesus and show kindness to someone? (Remind leaders: Encourage honest reflection—there are no wrong answers.) Faith Practice Moment (Optional but Encouraged) Leader Script: “Let’s take a quiet moment to talk to Jesus together. Place your hands over your heart or hold them open in front of you.”

Leader says → children repeat

“Jesus, you love everyone.” “Help me show kindness.” “Teach me to trust you.” “Jesus, help me care for others this week. Amen.”

Transition (Leader Script)

“Today we learned that trusting Jesus means choosing kindness and love, just like He did. The more we practice trusting Him, the more we grow to be like Him. Let’s think about who God says we are as we move into our next activity.”

Craft Activity – “Jesus Knows My Name” Small pieces of paper or index cards Supplies: Crayons or markers Stickers (optional)

Leader Instruction

This activity helps children understand that Jesus sees, knows, and loves each of them personally—just like He called Matthew and cared for those who were hurting. In today’s story, Jesus chose someone others didn’t like and showed kindness to people others ignored. This reminds us that no one is invisible to Jesus.

As children create their cards, emphasize that their name matters to Jesus. He knows who they are, loves them deeply, and invites them to follow Him. This activity reinforces their identity as someone who is seen, loved, and valued by God—no matter what.

Younger Kids (K–2): Have children write their name (or help them write it) in large letters on their card. Encourage them to decorate it with drawings or stickers that show things they like or that make them special.

Older Kids (3–5): Have children write their name on the card and complete the sentence: “Jesus loves me because…” or “I can show Jesus’ love by…” Encourage them to decorate their card in a way that reflects who they are. Classroom Management Tips: Pre-write names for younger children if needed to save time Keep supplies simple and within reach to avoid distractions Encourage sharing, but keep it brief to stay within time Instructions:

1. Give each child a piece of paper or index card.
2. Ask them to write their name in large letters.
3. Let them decorate their card with drawings, colors, or stickers.
4. For older children, have them add their sentence.
5. Invite a few volunteers to share what they wrote or drew.

Leader Script (Identity Connection): “Today we learned that Jesus loved people others ignored—like Matthew—and He helped people who were hurting. That means Jesus sees YOU too! He knows your name, He loves you, and you are important to Him. No matter who you are or what others think, you belong to Jesus. And just like Jesus showed love to others, we can do the same. You are someone who is seen, loved, and chosen by Him.”

Review the Wonder Truth Jesus loves and cares for everyone—no matter who they are. That means He loves you, your friends, and even people others might forget or ignore.

Who did Jesus show love to in our story today? Closing Questions How can you show kindness to someone this week? Why is it important to show mercy to others?

Closing Prayer

Dear Jesus, Thank You for loving us no matter what. Help us to be kind and show mercy to everyone, just like You do. Teach us to care for people who feel left out or hurting. We love You! Amen. Optional Sending Activity “Kindness Mission”: This week, choose one person who might feel left out or needs encouragement. Do one kind thing for them—like saying hello, helping them, or giving a compliment—and remember that you are showing Jesus’ love!