Children's Liturgy Series: Jesus Christ King of the Universe (C)

In today's Gospel we learn about how the 'good thief' was redeemed by recognizing Jesus as the Messiah.

Father in heaven we praise and glorify you. We thank you for bringing us together for this children's liturgy lesson.  Please send us the Holy Spirit. Fill our hearts with peace, love and wisdom. Help us to understand the lesson you have for us today, and to recognize your voice in our daily lives. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen

The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, "He saved others, let him save himself. If he is the chosen one, the Christ of God." Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine they called out, "If you are King of the Jews, save yourself." Above him there was an inscription that read, "This is the King of the Jews." 

Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us." The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, "Have you no fear of God,for you are subject to the same condemnation?And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."He replied to him, "Amen, I say to you,today you will be with me in Paradise."

OR

Jesus was on the cross. People were watching and some were making fun of Him. Two men were also on crosses near Him. One man said mean things to Jesus, but the other man said, “Stop! Jesus did nothing wrong.” Then he asked Jesus, “Please remember me when You are in Your kingdom.”
Jesus said, “Today you will be with Me in paradise.”

Who was on the cross with Jesus?
Sample Answer: Two thieves (or criminals).

What did the first thief say to Jesus?
Sample Answer: He made fun of Jesus and told Him to save Himself.

What did the second thief say to Jesus?
Sample Answer: He told the other thief to stop and asked Jesus to remember him.

What promise did Jesus give to the second thief?
Sample Answer: Jesus said he would be with Him in paradise that day.

What does this story teach us about Jesus?
Sample Answer: Jesus forgives and loves us, even when we make mistakes.

How can we be like the second thief?
Sample Answer: By saying sorry when we do wrong and trusting Jesus.