Sermon Title: "New Beginnings"

Scripture Reading:  Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

CALENDAR BEGINNINGS: Have a calendar available for each children or a print out from the computer for kids to decorate and draw little pictures or to have stickers to place on their calendars of new beginnings that THEY would like to start.... prayer, Bible reading, more faithful in church, sharing with others, smile stickers, etc.

"RESOLUTIONS" or "NEW BEGINNINGS" ACROSTIC: This could be used as a POSTER of new beginnings for the month of January and discussed throughout the month.

"LOOK FORWARD" GAME: Have the children line up against the wall and facing the wall. The teacher will say something which represents a MISTAKE that children might make in their lives.  After the teacher says each thing, one child will turn around and say, "JESUS SAID TO FORGET THE MISTAKES AND LOOK FORWARD TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES."  The teacher will continue until all of the children are facing the front.

HEAVEN AND DOVE ART: Have the children draw a cloud formation and glue on a little bit of cotton for effect. They will then draw a dove coming down to earth and write the words (coming from the clouds), "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased. Luke 3:21-22.  If the teacher could find little feathers (craft store), that could be used in place of the dove.

Song:  "To Be Like Jesus"
Music: Words and music in PDF format. 
MP3: Piano - 2 measures introduction, 2xs through (right click on link and save to your computer)