Worship Tools

Worship Outline

Communion included 

Additional Scriptures 

Psalm 17:1-7, 15; Matthew 14:13–21; Romans 9:1–5 

Preparation 

Display a variety of puzzles, such as a 5,000+ piece traditional puzzle, brain teasers, optical illusions, combination puzzles, Rubik’s cube, metal puzzles, Sudoku, etc. 

Prelude 

Welcome 

Call to Worship 

Scripture Reading: Psalm 17:1–6 suggest a modern English version of the Bible 

Hymn of Welcome 

“Gather Us In” CCS 72 

OR “As We Gather” sing twice CCS 73 

Invocation 

Response 

Time of Sharing 

Ask a few people to be prepared to share a testimony or plan to open this time for sharing from all participants: When in your life did you face adversity, but knew God was present and found blessing because of it? 

Scripture Reading: Genesis 32:22–31 

Focus Moment 

Hand out a few of the more difficult puzzles to anyone interested. After letting them try the puzzles for a minute, ask: 

How long do you think you could work on this? Could you do it for an hour? How about until dinnertime? What if I told you that you had to work on it nonstop until tomorrow morning? Do you think you could do that? 

Allow time for responses. 

In our story today Jacob not only persevered wrestling the man all night long, but he embraced the struggle. He refused to let the man go, although he had struck Jacob in the hip. Jacob knew that through the struggle, he could find blessing.  

Bad things can happen in our lives. God has never promised that we would have an easy path. However, God has promised to always be with us. Even through the most difficult times in life, we can find blessings—in the things that we learn about ourselves, in the loving support shown to us by another, in the experience itself and our ability to use that to help another. 

Prayer for Peace 

Light the peace candle 

Prayer 

God of Grace and Compassion, 

As we come to you, we ask to be comforted. We pray that the time is at hand, or not far distant, when we will no longer be influenced by the things of this world that oppress or divide. Our struggles to this end have not been as effective as we would hope, yet we trust there remains a worthwhile struggle to be made—one that by your grace, by your guiding wisdom, will bring about the peace for which we long. 

Therefore, we lift our heads, and rejoice, and put our trust in you, God—the God of Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob; the God of peace. Amen. 

—Based on Mosiah 5:27–28 

Hymn of Lament 

“When Senseless Violence” CCS 205 

OR “What Comfort Can Our Worship Bring” CCS 199 

Sacrament of Lord’s Supper 

Communion Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 

Communion Message 

Hymn of Preparation 

“Lord, Have Mercy”  sing at least three times CCS 197 

OR “Let Us Break Bread Together” CCS 521 

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. 

Invitation to Communion 

See the Invitation to Communion script.

Approaching the Table 

We are invited to embrace the struggles of life, knowing that we do not face them alone. We come to this table together, acknowledging that we each have unique experiences that shape our lives. Yet we are connected through the Living Christ at whose table we gather as community of Christ. 

Blessing and Serving of the Bread and Wine 

Pastoral Prayer 

Disciples’ Generous Response 

Statement 

Read the words of “As Saints of Old,” CCS 620.  

OR invite participants to read this text aloud, dividing the stanzas among those in  

attendance. Be sure to include online participants. 

Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes 

Hymn of Sending Forth 

“Called by Christ to Love Each Other” CCS 577 

OR “If by Your Grace I Choose to Be” CCS 587 

Sending Forth: Doctrine and Covenants 163:2a 

Postlude 

Sacred Space: Small-Group Worship Outline

Gathering

Welcome

Ordinary Time runs from Pentecost to Advent. This part of the Christian calendar is without major festivals or holy days. During Ordinary Time we focus on our discipleship as individuals and as a faith community.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.
Light the peace candle.

O God of love, grant us your peace. We struggle with insecurities and fears, weighed down with issues that affect our sense of worth and wholeness. Grant us peace that calms the inner turmoil of our souls and affirms that we are beloved.

Pause.

O God of life, grant us your peace. We strive for relationships that are fair, equitable, and filled with compassion, yet we often find ourselves enslaved in conflicts with others, even those we love. Grant us the strength to listen with our hearts first so we may grow in deeper connection with those whom we call friends, coworkers, neighbors, and family.

Pause.

O God of hope, grant us your peace. We have grown weary of the sounds of war, violence, oppression, and the diminishment of men, women, and children. Yet we fail to heed your urgent invitation to act for justice. Grant us the courage to extend our hands in acts of mercy, service, and peacemaking. We remember all nations.

Pause.

O God of all creation, grant us your peace. We understand that we are made of the same substance as all living things, yet we fail to grasp your vision of the sacredness of creation. Make us more aware and weave us into onenessue. Grant us a glimpse of your love for creation in all its forms and the compassion to act in ways that respect and honor the genius of your universe.

Pause.

O God of peace, we offer ourselves as vessels of your grace and peace, so that from where we stand waves of your loving presence will emanate to bless your world. In and through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Spiritual Practice

Unity

Read the following to the group:

Our Enduring Principle focus this week is Unity in Diversity. Not one person on Earth is exactly like another. We all are shaped by culture, genetics, upbringing, families, experiences, beliefs, and more. One thing we have in common is that we all are divinely made. Unity in Diversity respects the differences while honoring the Divine in all voices.

But God has so arranged the body… that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it.

—1 Corinthians 12:24–26 NRSV

Think over the past week. Who showed compassion when you felt sad or were suffering? Who rejoiced with you in good things that happened for you this week? Invite people to share.

• Whom do you know who endured suffering this week?
• How were you able to share this burden with that person?
• Who had cause to rejoice this week? How did you celebrate with that person?

Invite people to share. Offer a short blessing of unity and close with “Amen.”

Sharing Around the Table

Genesis 32:22–31 NRSVue

²² The same night he got up and took his two wives, his two maids, and his eleven children and crossed the ford of the Jabbok. ²³ He took them and sent them across the stream, and likewise everything that he had. ²⁴ Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak. ²⁵ When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he struck him on the hip socket, and Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. ²⁶ Then he said, “Let me go, for the day is breaking.” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go, unless you bless me.” ²⁷ So he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.” ²⁸ Then the man said, “You shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with humans and have prevailed.” ²⁹ Then Jacob asked him, “Please tell me your name.” But he said, “Why is it that you ask my name?” And there he blessed him. ³⁰ So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, “For I have seen God face to face, yet my life is preserved.” ³¹ The sun rose upon him as he passed Penuel, limping because of his hip.

—Genesis 32:22–31 NRSVue

Jacob is not a typical biblical hero. Many would consider him dishonest. On the surface, Jacob’s stories are about trying to obtain privileges that rightfully belong to others. For example, we know from the larger story that he stole his older brother Esau’s blessing and inheritance. Jacob is the younger brother. According to societal rules of his time, the older son would have certain advantages. But the story of Jacob shows us that God’s realm works with different rules than those that govern human societies.

God took an interest in the well-being of the younger brother. God keeps showing up and engaging in a relationship with this person, whom people would have seen as being of lesser importance.

Jacob is given the name Israel and becomes the ancestor of the people of Israel—a group that would be characterized by story after story of the younger, the smaller, or the weaker finding favor with God. Israel’s prophets defend the poor and speak for immigrants, foreigners, and women. Israel begins with the story of Jacob, who didn’t follow human rules about who should have privilege.

In this part of the story, Jacob has an encounter with God. As he prevails in this struggle with the Divine, Jacob demands a blessing. God does, indeed, bless him, giving him a new name and a fresh start. This story is about more than a transaction or an exchange of “stuff.” It is about the relationship that forms between Israel (Jacob) and God. Israel walks away with a limp that will remind him, with every step, of his ongoing relationship with God.

This intimate, divine encounter sets Jacob on a new path. It is a story that begins with God’s initiative, not Jacob’s. If God hadn’t shown up, there wouldn’t be a story. One is left to wonder if it’s really Jacob who wouldn’t let go. Perhaps it was God holding onto Jacob until dawn (a time between night and day that is perfect for signaling a transforming event and a new beginning).

Questions

1. How have you struggled with God?
2. How have you been wounded in your relationship with God?
3. How have your encounters with God shaped your character?

Sending

Generosity Statement

Faithful disciples respond to an increasing awareness of the abundant generosity of God by sharing according to the desires of their hearts; not by commandment or constraint.

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:9

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

God of our discipleship, As we navigate our world of debt and consumerism, help us to save wisely, spend responsibly, and give generously. In this way may we prepare for the future and create a better tomorrow for our families, friends, the mission of Christ, and the world. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

CCS 171, “Open My Heart”

Closing Prayer

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Optional Additions Depending on Group

• Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper
• Thoughts for Children

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Communion Scripture

Choose one scripture to read from this selection: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26; Matthew 26:17–30; Mark 14:12–26; Luke 22:7–39.

Invitation to Communion

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

We share in Communion as an expression of blessing, healing, peace, and community. In preparation let’s sing from Community of Christ Sings (select one):

• 515, “In These Moments We Remember”
• 516, “Coming Together for Wine and for Bread”
• 521, “Let Us Break Bread Together”
• 525, “Small Is the Table”
• 528, “Eat This Bread”

Bless and serve bread and wine.

Thoughts for Children

Materials: bag of candy or other treats

Pull out a bag of candy or some other container of treats.

Say: How would it feel if I kept all the candy for myself. Affirm all answers.

Say: When we don’t share, it hurts others, and they miss out on what we have. We miss out, too, because we don’t get to experience the joy of sharing.

In our scripture story today, a man named Jacob is blessed by God. We, too, are blessed by God. Because we are blessed, it is important that we try to bless others. How can you bless people in your life? Affirm all answers.

Pass out candy to each child who offers a response. Even if not all children share an answer, make sure everyone gets some candy. Give them enough so they can share with their family members. Encourage them to do so.

Sermon Helps

Exploring the Scripture

Jacob is a complicated hero. Many would consider him to be dishonest. People familiar with Jacob’s story know that he stole his older brother Esau’s blessing and inheritance. The reader may be familiar with dishonest people, even heroes, who keep winning. But Jacob’s victories are always a bit complicated. His victory over Esau caused him to run away to live as a servant to his mother’s brother for 20 years. Jacob also found himself in nearly lifelong conflict with his brother Esau.

The story of Jacob shows us that God’s realm works with different rules than those that govern human societies. Jacob is the younger brother. According to human rules of his time, the older son would have certain advantages. But God took an interest in the well-being of the younger brother. God keeps showing up and engaging in a relationship with this person whom people would have seen as being of lesser importance. Jacob is given the name Israel and becomes the ancestor of the people of Israel. This group of people would be characterized by story after story of the younger, the smaller, or the weaker finding favor with God. Israel’s prophets would defend the poor and speak out for immigrants, foreigners, and women. Israel begins with this Jacob who didn’t follow human rules about who should have privilege.

On the surface, Jacob’s stories are all about trying to get another’s privileges. He started out trying to be born first. He grabbed his brother’s heel, trying to pull him back into the womb so he might be born first instead. Jacob tries to make the encounter with God about getting a blessing. Supposedly he gets it. The blessing is a new
name and maybe a fresh start. But this story is more about the relationship than an exchange of “stuff.” He walks away with a limp that will remind him, with every step, of his relationship with God. But a limp might not be the blessing he had in mind.

The speaker should be careful not to reduce this story to a lesson on how to extract blessings from God. Some modern preachers have used this story to teach people how to get what they want out of God. They tell people to hang on tight and to demand God’s blessing as if this demanding will force God to give us things. But if we read carefully, we see that this is not what happens in the story

First, the story is not about human initiative and demand. The story begins with God’s initiative, not Jacob’s. God showed up. If God hadn’t shown up, there wouldn’t be a story. During the struggle Jacob might have felt like he was in control, and that he had won. But what he got was a limp and to give his new name to a nation where those born without privilege would have a special relationship with God.

The story ends with details that clarify that Jacob had indeed been wrestling with God and not just some mysterious person. The story reminds us of Moses’ conversation at the burning bush where he asks for God’s name and finds the answer elusive. Jacob limps on with a God whose name he doesn’t know, blessed with their complicated relationship, and as the father of an unusual people where the normal rules of privilege don’t apply.

Central Ideas

1. In our relationship with God, we often focus
   on asking for blessings.
2. God wants to bless us with a sincere and complex relationship with the divine mystery.
3. One of God’s best blessings for us might be an awareness of our weakness and inability to fight as we had planned—a limp that reminds us of our relationship with God.
4. God welcomes genuine struggle with the Divine.
5. True encounters with God leave us changed. Rather than appearing blessed, those in close relationship with God may be wounded.
6. God may bless us by blessing others through us

Questions for the Speaker

1. When have you struggled with God?
2. How have encounters with God shaped your character?
3. In what ways have you been wounded in your relationship with God?
4. When were you seeking a blessing for yourself but instead found a blessing in becoming a blessing for someone else?
5. Where have you seen God choosing a relationship with those viewed as lesser by society? When have you seen God blessing those born without privilege?

Lessons

Adult Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Genesis 32:22–31

Lesson Focus

Following where God leads can be a blessing and a challenge.

Objectives

The learners will…

• identify feelings of hurt and betrayal in the scripture narrative.
• describe how God can lead us despite our weaknesses.
• discuss how Spirit-led experiences can change us.

Suggested Resources

For background into Old Testament scripture the following resources may be helpful.

• Von Rad, Gerhard, Genesis, Louisville, KY; John Knox Westminster Press, 1973
• International Bible Commentary, Collegeville, MN: The Liturgical Press, 1998
• Any lectionary commentary series for Year A, 2019–2020

Supplies

• Bibles or handouts of the scripture passage: Genesis 32:22–31
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)

Notes to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Genesis 32:22–31 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year A: Old Testament, pp. 99–100, available through Herald House.

Gather

Picture a time when someone you know and love did or said something to hurt you. What were your feelings? What action might have seemed reasonable and justified?

Now picture yourself in the mind of the one who hurt you. What might they have been feeling at the time? What might they be feeling now, after the fact?

In today’s lectionary scripture we enter the story of Jacob and Esau, twin sons of Isaac. When Esau, the older, returned from hunting for the family and was near starvation from his time spent in the wild, he asked Jacob for food. Jacob only agreed if Esau gave him his birthright as the eldest son. That meant that Jacob would become heir to their father’s herds and wealth. To add insult to injury, their mother Rebekah favored Jacob and later conspired with him to trick Isaac into giving him a fatherly blessing, which should have been Esau’s. This double betrayal would have severely damaged the relationship of the twin brothers.

Put yourself in Esau’s place. Think about what he might have felt regarding what Jacob had done. Picture Jacob’s feelings many years later when he was on a journey to meet with his brother. What might each have done when meeting face to face after being separated from each other by distance and time?

Engage

The theory that Moses was the sole author of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible (Torah or Pentateuch) has largely been questioned due to what appears to be a merging of diverse strands of similar stories: some feature genealogical family trees attributed to a Priestly source (P); and some feature a mixture of what have been labeled J (Yahwist) and E (Elohist) sources based on their reference to God (Yahweh—the Y in German is a J) and Elohim. Whatever the source, the stories of ancient ancestors recorded in Genesis are a composite of legends, myths, and remembered traditions to help the Hebrews better understand God’s invisible, guiding hand throughout their history. In the story of Jacob preparing to meet with Esau after many years apart, we see how the blessing Jacob stole became legitimate as he tried to follow divine directive to return to the land of his ancestors.

Ask for three volunteers to read Genesis 32:22–31: one as the narrator, one to read Jacob’s words, and one to read the part of the being with whom Jacob wrestled.

• In ancient times it was believed your name revealed who you were. What does that tell us about Jacob’s new name and why it was changed? What does it reveal about the divine being refusing to be named?
• How might the wrestling incident have been a type of purification of Jacob for what was to come?
• What do you think was the effect of Jacob receiving a new name?
• What did his new name, Israel, mean throughout Hebrew history?

To learn the rest of the story, invite the class to skim through chapter 33:1–11. After two or three minutes ask for a volunteer to summarize what happened when the brothers met.

Esau was not a killer. He did not seek revenge. According to biblical scholar Walter Brueggemann, Esau broke the cycle of vengeance and offered his brother, Jacob, a covenant of peace. God was at work in both their lives (Gift and Task, [Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2017], p. 74).

Respond

Sometimes we sense God leading us to uncomfortable situations as we try to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Jacob was led to return to the land of his ancestors even though it meant he would encounter his estranged brother, Esau. In doing so he had to wrestle with an experience that helped him deepen his relationship with God. In our time, we might call it being developed as disciples to serve, one of Community of Christ’s Enduring Principles.

In groups of three or four, or as a class discuss…

• a time when you felt led by the Holy Spirit in a direction that would not have been your first choice or which made you uncomfortable. What was the outcome?
• an experience you have had when you felt you were given a fresh start, much as Jacob’s new name did for him.
• a time when you struggled with what seemed to be obstacles to following where you sensed the Holy Spirit calling you.
• a time when you were on the receiving end of reconciliation.

Send

In this scripture passage where we have encountered Jacob’s challenges in following where God led him, we have been reminded of our own times of struggle on our discipleship journeys. This week, open yourself to trying to see the broader picture of God’s work in your life and where it might lead you in the days ahead. During the week, write down your insights as a benchmark on which to reflect in the weeks ahead.

Bless

Read or sing together “Standing on the Promises” CCS 257.

Youth Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Genesis 32:22–31

Lesson Focus

Encounters with God change us.

Objectives

The learners will…

• identify the learner’s place in the Sacred Story.
• explore what a relationship with God is.
• discuss what it means to be a disciple.

Supplies

• Bible
• Doctrine and Covenants 165
• Sources for the meaning of names (books for naming babies, Internet, community members)
• Markers
• Three large sheets of paper
• Paper and pens or pencils
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)

Note to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Genesis 32:22–31 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 99–100, available through Herald House.

Gather

(Before class find the meaning of names of the learners in your class. Bring a source to look up the meaning of other names.)

Ask learners if they know the meaning of their name. Look up and discuss the meaning. Ask if the meaning says who they are or does the name have any impact. For example, a person who has the same name as their father or mother may feel like they must exhibit similar characteristics. It may be too difficult to uphold the standard set by the parent, or for some reason they would be embarrassed to share the same name. Naming in many cultures is important because of the meaning the name holds.

Today’s scripture passage is about Jacob whose name means “cheater” or “one who undermines.” By the end of the passage his name is changed to Israel, which means “may God prevail.” If you could, would you change your name?

Engage

Jacob was an interesting person. He already had a reputation for being a tricky, maybe dishonest, character. He stole his twin brother’s birthright and blessing. (A birthright is a particular right of possession or privilege one has from birth, especially an eldest child. Jacob was the second born. Tradition said the birthright and blessing went to the first born.) Jacob caused enough trouble that he fled his country to live with his mother’s brother. His deceiving ways got him into trouble with his uncle, too. He kept the best for himself and gave his uncle the weaker animals. After a time, Jacob had to flee back to his homeland with family and flocks. The fear of revenge from his brother whom he had cheated was great. Sending his family and flocks across the stream was a defensive move to save part of his wealth. He sent out scouts earlier who returned saying his brother was coming with 400 men. Jacob had to prepare for attack.

Read the scripture passage to see what happened next. Then discuss the following questions.

²² The same night he got up and took his two wives, his two maids, and his eleven children, and crossed the ford of the Jabbok. ²³ He took them and sent them across the stream, and likewise everything that he had. ²⁴ Jacob was left alone; and a man wrestled with him until daybreak. ²⁵When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he struck him on the hip socket; and Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. ²⁶ Then he said, “Let me go, for the day is breaking.” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go, unless you bless me.” ²⁷ So he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.” ²⁸ Then the man said, “You shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with humans, and have prevailed.” ²⁹ Then Jacob asked him, “Please tell me your name.” But he said, “Why is it that you ask my name?” And there he blessed him. ³⁰ So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, “For I have seen God face to face, and yet my life is preserved.” ³¹ The sun rose upon him as he passed Penuel, limping because of his hip.

 —Genesis 32:22–31

• What happened to Jacob? What changed?
• Do you have a scar from a cut or wound? When you look at it, do you think about how you got it?
• What does it mean to “not prevail” against someone?
• What did Jacob learn from his experience?
• Who was Jacob’s opponent?
• How and when have you struggled with God?
• How did this experience shape your life?

Respond

Ready, Action!

Make an action movie or skit of this scripture passage. Begin at the point in the story where Jacob sends his family and flocks across the Jabbok and he remains alone. Discuss the role of Jacob. How did he feel? Who initiated the struggle? How long did the struggle last? Who won? What happened to Jacob after he encountered God? How did Jacob respond to God? Decide how to act out these answers in the skit. Perform the skit. (For a sequel, read more from Genesis 32.)

Going Deeper: Time Alone with God

Jacob spent some time alone with God. Ask learners to think about their relationship with God. Do they find time to fit God into their daily schedules? In what ways could they adjust their time to include God more? Could they read a scripture passage, schedule a regular time to pray, visit with a friend about spiritual topics, learn a spiritual practice, or attend a worship service? Give out paper and pens. Ask learners to make a sample daily schedule and follow it for the week.

Send

The Sacred Story

Jacob, now named Israel, was the father of a great nation. God blessed him with a new name, many descendants, and a promised land. As Israel, he continued the relationship with God that began with grandfather Abraham and his father Isaac. Later, his son Joseph would continue this covenant relationship with God. A covenant is a promise, an agreement between two parties to continue in relationship keeping promises and bringing blessings to each other. All these ancients became a blessing to their people as they followed one God. Doctrine and Covenants 161:5 tells us: “Do not fail to listen attentively to the telling of the sacred story for the story of scripture and faith empowers and illuminates.”

Think about a covenant made at baptism, a promise to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and living in relationship with God who blesses us. When we talk with God we often ask for blessings. When we are blessed, how can our discipleship share that blessing with others? On a large sheet of paper make a list of blessings the class thinks they have. On a second sheet, write ideas on how their blessings can be used to bless others. Select one or two ideas to do in the future. On a third sheet, list ways we become part of the sacred story.

Bless

Sing “Blest Be the Tie That Binds” CCS 325. Offer a pray of blessing on the class that they may develop their own relationship with God and become disciples.

Children’s Lesson

Focus Scripture Passage

Genesis 32:22–31

Lesson Focus

Struggling with God is part of discipleship and can bring blessing in the end.

Objectives

The learners will…

• hear the story of Jacob wrestling with God.
• describe how Jacob’s struggle with God transforms him.
• explore the meaning of discipleship.

Supplies

• Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year A, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2007, ISBN 9781551455471)
• Paper and scissors for each child
• “Jacob Wrestles with God” worksheet (end of lesson)
• Chalk, string, or tape to divide the room down the middle. Signs that say “TRUE” and “FALSE” for Respond section.
• Small bowl
• Strips of paper with the words “honesty,” “courage,” and “forgiveness” written on them (enough for each child to have one)

Notes to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Genesis 32:22–31 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year A: Old Testament, pp. 99–100, available through Herald House.

Gather

Give each child a piece of plain paper and a pair of scissors. Challenge them to cut a hole in the paper that they can stand in or step through. Give them some time to struggle with this challenge, which might seem impossible. You can give them a second piece of paper if they need to start again after a failed attempt.

After children have struggled with the challenge for a while, show them the solution. See “Climb through a Hole in a Sheet of Paper” at blog.doublehelix.csiro.au

1. Fold the paper in half like a book.
2. Start cutting on the folded side, about 1 cm from the edge of the paper. Cut a straight line towards the opposite side and stop cutting about 1 cm before you reach the edge of the paper.
3. Turn the paper around and make a cut from the non-folded edge toward the folded edge, stopping 1 cm before you reach the folded edge.
4. Continue cutting, alternating directions, until you have filled the paper with cuts.
5. Along the folded side of the paper, cut each of the loops except the first and last ones.
6. Open the paper and step through the loop you have created.

Talk to the children about how it felt to struggle with this challenge. Sometimes we struggle with challenges in our lives, and we feel frustrated or alone. Our scripture story today is about a man named Jacob, who was struggling so much that he actually wrestled with God.

Engage

Read Genesis 32:22–31 or read “Jacob Fights with God” from Lectionary Story Bible, Year A, on pages 168–169. Talk about how Jacob changed during the story. In the beginning, Jacob was fearful. He was running from his own brother. He didn’t fully trust God to protect him and lead him in the right way. Jacob’s name meant “deceiver,” and he told many lies and cheated many people. After he wrestled with God, Jacob was a changed man. He had a new name, Israel, which means “wrestled with God.” He went to his brother and was forgiven. He knew God had forgiven him just as Esau had forgiven him. He learned that God is with him always, no matter what. He knew God was leading him in the right way.

Invite children to complete the “Jacob Wrestles with God” worksheet (below). Or, have children fold a piece of paper in half and draw or write about Jacob before he wrestled with God on one side of the paper and Jacob after he wrestled with God on the other side of the paper.

Respond

Mark a line down the middle of the room with chalk, tape, or a string. Label one side of the room “TRUE” and one side “FALSE.”

One of Community of Christ’s Mission Initiatives is called Develop Disciples to Serve. This Mission Initiative focuses on helping people of all ages become better disciples of Jesus.

• How does the story of Jacob wrestling with God help us understand more about being a disciple?
• What can it teach us about being in relationship with God?

Play a Discipleship Game. In this game, the children will line up on the line in the middle of the room. The teacher will say a statement about discipleship, and children will move to one side of the room or the other, depending on their answer to the question. The statements are:

• God wants us to be in relationship with God. (True)
• Jacob was struggling with some of the bad choices he had made. (True)
• If you make a mistake, God is done with you. (False)
• God forgives people. (True)
• Jacob was a perfect disciple. (False—there are no perfect disciples; that’s why we need God’s love!)
• Like Jacob, everyone has times of doubt and fear. (True)
• Discipleship is always easy. (False)
• Jacob always wanted to do what God told him to do. (False—Jacob was struggling to follow God’s will.)
• God can transform people and change lives. (True)
• God blessed Jacob. (True)

Send

Jacob learned a lot about honesty, forgiveness, and courage. What are some ways we can show honesty, forgiveness, and courage in our lives?

Write the words “honesty,” “forgiveness,” and “courage” on slips of paper. Repeat the words as needed so you have enough slips of paper for each child. Put the slips of paper in a small bowl. Have children stand in a line at the other end of the room. Have children take turns running to the bowl, grabbing a slip of paper, and running back to the group. Then the child must read the character trait and tell a way they can show that character trait in their life. For example,

• “I can show honesty by telling the truth when I make a mess.”
• “I can show forgiveness by forgiving my brother when he borrows my toy without asking.”
• “I can show courage by praying to God when I feel scared.”

Bless

After Jacob wrestled with God, God blessed Jacob (Genesis 32:29). Let’s think about ways God has blessed us.

Invite each child to say a short prayer using this sentence: “God, thank you for blessing me with _____.”

If children need help, you might suggest they say “my family,” “friends,” “food,” “church,” or something else.