Pray Authentically!  Bible Craft Ideas for the Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector Luke 18:9-14

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 God loves our prayers and wants to hear from us, but sometimes it can be challenging to know how to pray. We might worry about the way that we offer our prayers to God, or if we are in group settings, we might be concerned over how others perceive us. These crafts aim to focus on the benefits and blessings of prayer, and remind students to pray for others.  A pop-up poster presents a reminder of the story Jesus told. A prayer necklace (or garland) offers a display-able or wear-able note of potential prayers.

Don’t miss the complete Sunday School lesson and Children’s Sermon from Luke 18:9-14.

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Craft one: “Pop-Up Prayer Poster”

You will need:

  • Crayons or markers
  • Scissors
  • Glue or tape
  • Paper (Construction/cardstock)
  • Popsicle sticks
  • Additional decorations (stickers, glitter, etc.)

Procedure:

  1. Decorate construction paper of cardstock with verses and captions.
  2. Create two puppets of a sort, with at least one of them on a popsicle stick.
  3. Accordion fold one of the papers so that it appears “puffed up” (or push up on a stick). Place the other puppet in a “folding up and down” position, as kneeling.
  4. Place additional decorations as desired.
  5. Use the paper to recall the story of the Pharisee and Tax Collector.  

Craft Two: “Humble Prayer Necklace”  

You will need:

Procedure:
1. Cut out various small shapes from paper or cardstock.       
2. On the shapes, write prayer needs and thanksgiving notes, focusing on God’s grace and helping others.            
3. Hole punch the notes, and string them onto yarn, ribbon, or pipe cleaner.   
4. Use the prayer as a necklace, bracelet, or hanging garland to remember to pray regularly and without ceasing!  

Bible Verses or Craft Captions to Consider… (Luke 18:9-14)

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”   -Luke 18:14

The Pharisee is puffed with pride…

The Tax Collector bows humbly!

Lord have mercy…

When we pray…

Saved by grace!

Faith alone…no need to boast or brag.

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