Fix a rope, either horizontally or vertically, so that the children can reach up and hold it (e.g. stretched between two windows, or the back of two chairs). Encourage them to keep hanging on while you talk.
You may know the phrase, ‘Keep calm, and carry on’. Today we are going to ‘Keep calm, and hang on!’
We can keep hanging on, knowing that God will rescue us. Every time you hear the words ‘hanging on’ or ‘hang on’, please remind us of God’s promise by shouting out, ‘Keep calm, and know that I am God.’
Show some images, or ask for suggestions, of animals that hang on (e.g. cat, sloth, monkey) – did they remember to shout out? Ask if they can think of any times when people hang on (e.g. from a burning building, or a cliff edge)? Why is it important to hang on – even when your arm is really hurting? Just when you think you have no more strength, can you still make that last effort to pull yourself back up?
Or maybe someone else will help you. Use images of ‘cat rescued by fireman’ and ‘climber rescued by helicopter’ (an internet image search will offer several options) or ask how a rescue might take place.
We can rely on God’s promise that he is utterly trustworthy, for those who endure, who hang on. We also need to know that, sometimes, God calls us to go to the rescue of someone else who is hanging on! – are they still shouting?
Active worship
You could use A simple worship activity for all ages (also in print on p.13 of ROOTS Adult & All Age magazine).
A prayer of approach, a prayer of praise and thanksgiving and a prayer for all ages together could be used; also see Live in faith.
Bible notes
Notes on Psalm 98 and ideas for using it together.