God's Presence In Good And Bad: Mark 6:14-29 (Ordinary Time, Proper 10).pdf

Context:
During Ordinary Time, we focus on recognizing blessings in everyday life and sharing them. This week's lesson highlights God's presence amidst both positive and negative events, using the story of John the Baptist's death to illustrate this point.

Background:
Herod, celebrating his birthday, is entertained by a dance from Herodias, his brother Philip's wife (now his wife). She asks for John the Baptist's head as a reward, fulfilling her desire for revenge against John for criticizing their marriage. Despite his regret, Herod keeps his promise and has John beheaded.

Lesson Structure:

1. Icebreaker: Engage children with a question about unexpected gifts to introduce the concept of disappointment versus gratitude.

2. Opening Prayer: Thank God for not leaving us alone in difficult situations.

3. Story (Mark 6:14-29):
- Share the story, inviting children to participate by reading or taking turns narrating.
- Focus on key characters, John the Baptist's death cause, Herodias' involvement, and the disciples' reaction.

4. Reflection Questions:
- Who are the main characters?
- How did John die?
- Who requested John's head?
- What led to Herodias' request?
- Discuss Herodias' role and the disciples' response.
- Encourage children to share personal experiences of asking for something and regretting it.

5. Activity: Temptation and Strategies:
- Define "temptation" and brainstorm common temptations with the class.
- Collaboratively develop strategies for resisting temptations, emphasizing the importance of friends and mentors in difficult situations.

6. Optional Mentorship Discussion:
- Introduce the idea of a trusted adult mentor who can provide guidance during challenging times.

7. Conclusion: Personal Strategies:
- Distribute paper, envelopes, and writing utensils.
- Ask children to privately write down their own strategies for avoiding temptation.

8. Closing Prayer: Thank God for always providing someone to turn to in hard decisions.