January 2014 Sharing Time: Following the Good Shepherd

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Preparation: Locate or print out the following pictures: Christ and the Lamb (#64 in the Gospel Art Book) and Shepherds (#31 in the Gospel Art Book or #202 in the Gospel Art Kit). Gather a simple shepherd costume (such as a robe and/or headdress) for a child to wear. 

Presentation: Show the picture of the shepherds to the children. Explain that a shepherd’s job is to take care of the sheep. They help the sheep find food and water as well as keep them safe from danger. Tell the children that sheep learn to trust the shepherd. They will follow him wherever he goes. 

Ask the children to pretend that you are the shepherd. Have them follow you as you march around the room. Ask a child to come to the front of the room. Put the shepherd costume on them and have them do a simple action (such as clap hands, roll arms, sway hands above head, etc.). Have the other children follow the shepherd’s action. Repeat with a few more children and actions. 

Show the children the picture of Christ and the Lamb. Explain that Jesus Christ is sometimes called the Good Shepherd. He always wants what is best for us. He will take care of us and keep us safe from danger. Tell the children that as we follow the example of Jesus Christ, we will be able to return and live with Heavenly Father. 

Ask the children to think of some things that Jesus did while he lived on earth. Call on children to share some of their ideas. As they do so, help them understand how they can follow his example. 

Have the song leader sing songs to help reinforce the ideas taught such as, “He Sent His Son” (Children’s Songbook, 34), “I Will Follow God’s Plan” (CS, 164), “I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus” (CS, 78), or “Love One Another” (CS, 136). 

Express your testimony that through our Savior Jesus Christ we can return to live with Heavenly Father. Encourage the children to follow His example in the coming week and to share what they learned with their families.

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