Thursday, October 06, 2005
Plays and skits.
Plays and Skits.
Skit - David and Goliath.
I perform this fun skit, playing both parts myself by running from left to right as the two combatants confront each other. When I am the giant, I put on a crown hat marked "Champion", pick up a cardboard sword, and use a deep booming voice. For the boy, I put on a cap, and use a little squeaky voice. Here is some suggested dialogue, but the important thing is to really "throw" yourself into the two characters. Children love it when you overact.
Giant. "Am I a dog that you come against me with sticks. Are you going to beat me with your sticks? Why, I am going to chop your head off, and feed your body to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field."
Boy. "You come against me with a sword and a spear, but I come against you in the name of the Lord God of Israel, and - - - and - - - and - - - and I'm going to chop your head off, and feed your body to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field - so there!"
Giant. " Why you cheeky young rascal, I'm going to whip you.
Boy. "No you're not. I'm going to whip you."
Giant. "I'm going to thrash you."
Boy. "No. I'm going to thrash you."
Giant. "Oh yes. You and whose army?"
Boy. "Just me and the Lord God of Israel. We are going to thrash you together."
Giant. "Your God won't be able to help you against me. Don't you realise who I am? I am the biggest. I am the greatest. I am the strongest. No one can beat me."
Boy. " Well, me and my God are going to beat you."
Giant. "That's enough of your cheek (lifting up his sword), prepare to die right now."
Narrator. The giant took a stride forwards, but the boy reached down, picked up a stone, put it in his sling. The sling went round and round, the stone flew out and hit Goliath (because that was the Giant's name of course) on the forehead. Goliath crashed to the ground, David (the boy's name of course) picked up Goliath's sword and slew him.
And that day, David and the Israelites won a great victory over Goliath and the Philistines.
The lost son.
Here is a play based on Jesus' famous parable of the lost son (sometimes called the prodigal or the wasteful son). I use it with my classes, having first retold the parable itself. The play is set in the present time and has four scenes, involving four actors - the father, the younger son, the older son and a home help. There is a narrative to introduce each scene. I select a good reader to do this, or sometimes do it myself with a slightly younger class.
This play is more suitable for 9 year olds and upwards. I usually do it as a radio play by recording the children as they read their parts, and conclude by playing it back to the whole class. Prior selection of the younger son and the home help will enable you to personalise the play by inserting their names into the script.
Note. For younger children this could be used as a puppet play.
Scene 1.
Narrator. This is a play about a patient father and his wasteful son. The first scene takes place in a house somewhere near ____________ (name of local street) in ___________ (name of local town or city).
(Younger) son. Hi Dad.
Father. Yes son.
Son. Is it true that when you die, I will get half your money?
Father. Yes son. Your brother and you will share my savings in the __________ bank.
Son. Well I can't wait until you die. I want my share now.
Father. Why is that son?
Son. I am tired of school and living around here. I want to go to downtown _____________ (name of nearest large city) and really party - in the Night clubs, casino and all-night bars.
Father. If that is what you really want, here is your share of the money.
Son. Gee. Thanks Dad. You are really quite a cool dude after all.
Scene 2.
Narrator. True to his word, the wasteful son went to the bright lights of downtown ____________ and really partied - drinking, gambling and party-going. He made many friends who helped him spend his money. However, after a few months, all his money had gone - and now his so-called friends didn't want to know him.
Unemployment was high in ____________, and the wasteful son had no money, no job, nowhere to live and very little food to eat. Eventually, he managed to gat a job selling hot dogs from a wheelbarrow.
Son. Hot dogs. Hot dogs. Get your hot dogs here.
Woe is me. Business is bad. Woe is me. Woe is me. WOE IS ME.
I am a fool. I have nowhere to live, no money, no friends, my clothes are dirty and torn, and I only have hot dogs to eat. Even my father's home help is better off than I am. I should never have left home. I know! I will return to my father. I am no longer worthy to be called his son, but perhaps he will give me a job in his lolly shop.
Scene 3.
Narrator. So the wasteful son returned home, wondering what type of reception he would get from his father. He thought that his father would probably be very angry and tell him to clear off. But as he neared home, he saw his father running towards him.
Footsteps.
Son. Father, I have sinned against you and against God. I am not worthy to be called your son.
Father. My son. My son. You have come home. Oh what joy you have given me. You were dead to me and now you are alive. You were lost and now you are found.
Son. But father, I am not worthy to be called your son.
Father. The only thing that matters is that you have come home. We must have a celebration party to welcome you home. Miss _______. Miss _______ .
Home help. Yes sir.
Father. My beloved son has returned home. Make sure he has everything he needs. Give him the best coat, put a ring on his finger, shoes on his feet, and invite all my friends round for a celebration homecoming party.
Home help. Whatever you say sir. Come with me Master _______ . I will get your old room ready for you.
Scene 4.
Narrator. The older son, however, was not as forgiving as his father. As he returned home from working in his father's lolly shop, he heard the sound of joyful music.
Older son. Miss _________ . What on earth is going on?
Home help. Your brother has returned home and your father is jumping for joy. He has given him a bicycle, a computer, a play station, and a big bag of his favourite lollies. He is now having a big celebration party, and he wants you to join them.
Older son. No way! It sounds as though Dad has really gone crazy. Send him out to me please.
Home help. Whatever you say.
Footsteps.
Father. Yes son. What do you want?
Older son. Dad, have you gone completely crazy? That rotten brother of mine has dared to come home, and instead of sending him away, you have welcomed him back as though he had never done any wrong, It is just not fair.
Father. Son, you are with me always, and whatever is mine is yours also. But your brother was dead to me and now he is alive again, he was lost and now he is found. It is only right that we should celebrate his return.
Conclusion.
Narrator. Just like the forgiving father in this play, our heavenly Father waits patiently for his lost children to return home. And when we do, he welcomes us gladly. All our sins are forgiven and forgotten and there is much rejoicing in heaven.
The Good Samaritan.
After telling the parable of the Good Samaritan, I get some of the children to act out the following play, which I have set in the present day.
Characters.
A schoolboy.
Three or four robbers (I use girls, as boys sometimes get too rough!).
A Sunday school teacher.
A Politician.
A gang member (from a well known gang).
The gang member's motorbike (Boy walking on hands and feet).
A hospital receptionist.
Narrator (I usually do this myself as I prompt the children to act out the story).
Narrator. One day a boy was walking down _________ (name of local street). He was returning to school to do some extra work in the library. Suddenly three or four really tough, mean looking robbers jumped out from behind a bus shelter and attacked him. They beat him up, stole all his pocket money and ran off leaving him lying injured on the road.
Shortly afterwards a Sunday school teacher came walking down the road. Surely she will stop to help the injured boy. She came right up to him, looked at him for sometime and then said - - -
Sunday school teacher. "Poor little chap. I would really like to help him, but if I do I will be late for my Sunday school class, and I am teaching them about loving each other - and that is so important!"
Narrator. So the Sunday school teacher crossed over to the other side of the road and carried on her way to her class, leaving the injured boy still lying on the road. Shortly afterwards a Politician (Member of Parliament / Senator) came down the road. Surely he would do the right thing and help the injured boy. He also came up to the boy, looked at him, but then said - - -
Politician. "This boy is badly injured. Someone will have to take him to a hospital, but I have an important meeting with the Prime Minister (or President). We are to discuss better care for hospital patients. I just can't spare any time for this boy."
Narrator. So the Politician crossed over to the other side of the road and continued his journey. Shortly afterwards a member of the __________ gang came riding down the road on his motorbike. This man would certainly not help the injured boy. If he stopped at all it would be to see if the boy had anything left worth stealing. The injured boy watched in horror as the gang member stopped his motorbike and came over to have a look at him. Then, to the boy's amazement, the gang member lifted him up, produced a bandage and bound up his wounds. He then lifted the boy onto his motorbike, placed his crash helmet on him, and drove him off to ____________ (nearest) hospital. The gang member said to the hospital receptionist - - -
Gang member. "Look after this injured boy. Give him the very best medical care. Here are a thousand dollars to pay for his treatment. If you spend any more than that, just send me the bill.
Narrator. And so the gang member went on his way, leaving the injured boy to be cared for in the hospital.
CONCLUSION.
"Which of those three travellers really 'loved his neighbour as himself'? That's right - the one you would least expect, the gang member. Everybody loves themselves. Do you hit yourself? Do you lie to yourself? Do you steal from yourself? No, of course not. If you are thirsty, do you say "Oh I can't be bothered to get you a drink right now. You will have to wait"? No, you just go and get a drink. In the same way that you are good to yourselves, Jesus wants you to be just as good to others.
Play - Zacchaeus.
In Newsletter 29 I shared a few ideas for teaching on the story of Zacchaeus (Teaching tip 17). Here is a fun play to complement your teaching.
Characters. Zaccheus, Jesus, Crowd (of about three), Tree (child standing on chair holding a branch).
Narrator. Jesus had come to town and Zacchaeus wanted to see him.
Zacchaeus. "Let me see Jesus."
Crowd. "Go away you nasty little man." (pushing Zacchaeus away).
Narrator. Zacchaeus was determined to see Jesus, so he ran ahead and climbed up a sychamore tree to get a good view. But when Jesus reached the tree, Zacchaeus got a shock.
Jesus. "Zacchaeus, come down from that tree"
Zaccheus. (Climbing down). "Yes Master, what do you want?".
Jesus. "I want to come to your house for tea."
Narrator. The crowd could hardly believe this.
Crowd. "Doesn't Jesus know that Zacchaeus is a tax collector and a cheat?"
Narrator. But Jesus doesn't make mistakes. Zacchaeus was the man he had chosen. Jesus probably knew all about him, but he also knew what he could become if he allowed God to changed him. And after they came back from their meal Zacchaeus showed he had changed by saying - - - -
Zacchaeus. "I will give half my money to the poor, and everyone I have cheated, I will pay them back four times as much."
Play - Bartimaeus.
In Newsletter 16, I shared on how to use the story of Bartimaeus to teach on prayer. Here are two plays to re-enforce the Bartimaeus story. As they are both short, and are quite different from each other, I usually use them both.
Play 1
Characters. Bartimaeus (Bart), Jesus, Crowd (of about three, following Jesus), Crowd (of about three, standing behind Bart).
Narrator. Bart was sitting outside the gates of Jericho, begging as usual. He heard the noise of a large crowd coming his way. He was told that they were all following Jesus, so he called out - - -
Bart. Jesus, have mercy on me.
Narrator. But the crowd said - - -
Crowd (Standing behind Bart). Be quiet. Don't bother the Master.
Narrator. But Bart cried out even louder - - -
Bart. Jesus, have mercy on me.
Narrator. The crowd responded - - -
Crowd. Be quiet. Jesus is too busy to be bothered by blind beggars like you.
Narrator. Now Jesus had passed by. He was leaving the city, but Bart called out at the top of his voice - - -
Bart. Jesus, have mercy on me.
Narrator. Suddenly Jesus stopped, and said - - -
Jesus. Bring that man to me.
Narrator. Now the crowd changed their attitude, and said - - -
Crowd. Cheer up. Jesus is calling for you.
Narrator. Bart stood up, threw off his Beggar's coat, and was led to Jesus. Jesus asked - - -
Jesus. What do you want me to do for you?
Narrator. Bart knew exactly what he wanted, and said - - -
Bart. I want to see.
Narrator. Jesus replied - - -
Jesus. Then see. Your faith has made you well.
Narrator. Immediately Bart's eyes were opened, and he followed Jesus down the road, praising God.
Play 2
This time all the children can participate by calling out the words you show them. Write the words spoken by Bartimaeus, Jesus and the crowd on large pieces of cardboard - three different colours, e.g. Bart on yellow, Jesus on red, crowd on green. Arrange the cards in the right order.
Divide your class into three groups, then explain that Group 1 plays the part of Bart - by calling out the words on the yellow cards as they are shown, Group 2 plays the part of Jesus (Red cards), and Group 3 plays the part of the crowd (Green cards).
You act as the narrator, by linking the words that are to be called out by the groups.
Example.
(Bart was sitting begging. He heard a noise and asked)
Bart. What is this?
(The crowd replied)
Crowd. Jesus is passing by.
(So Bart called out).
Bart. Jesus, take pity on me.
(But the crowd said)
Crowd. Be quiet, no fuss.
(Bart wouldn't be quiet, and called out even louder)
Bart. Jesus, take pity on me.
(Suddenly, Jesus stopped, called Bart to him, and asked)
Jesus. What do you want?
(Bart replied)
Bart. I want to see.
(Then Jesus said)
Jesus. Then see, your faith has healed you.
(Bart's eyes were opened, and he called out)
Bart. I can see! I can see! I can see!
(And all the crowd said)
Crowd. Praise the Lord!
You may then wish to repeat the play twice, and so give each group the chance to play all three parts.
Play. Tenants on the Farm.
n.b. This play is based on the parable of the tenants in the vineyard (Matthew 21. 33-46 ), and can be used to complement your teaching on peer pressure.
Characters. Rich farmer, Son, two servants, four tenants, bank manager.
Narrator. A rich farmer, his son, and two servants had been working really hard on the farm (Actors pretend to be working on the farm e.g. milking cow, digging, sowing seed, picking fruit etc.) One day the farmer said to his son.
Farmer. We have been working really hard. We deserve a holiday. Where should we go? Disneyland? the Gold coast? Hawaii?
Son. Let's go to Disneyland. But what about our servants. They have been working hard as well. Let's take them with us.
Farmer. Good idea. We will ask them. Do you servants want to come to Disneyland with us, or carry on working on this farm?
Servants. We'll come to Disneyland.
Farmer. Good. But who will look after the farm while we are away? I know. We will go to the local labour exchange and choose some tenants to work the farm. - - - - - - - How about these four (pointing to four children - girls are best for this)? You can be tenants on my farm while we are away on holiday. But we will have to come to some financial agreement. What percentage of the farm profits should the tenants keep for themselves? - - - - I'm feeling really generous. You can keep 90% of the profits for yourselves and just put 10% into my Bank account. (Agreement concluded with hand shakes).
Narrator. So the Farmer, son and servants go off to their holiday in Disneyland, leaving the tenants to work the farm (act out). After the first year, the tenants sell their farm produce and tenant 1 begins to share out the profits (act out).
Tenant 4. What about the farmer's 10%?
Tenant 1. But we need to buy a new tractor.
Tenant 2. Yes, and we need to buy in some more calves.
Tenant 3. Yes, and I need a new dress.
Tenant 4. But that is wrong . We need to put 10% in the farmer's bank account.
Tenant 1. I know what we'll do. We will pay the farmer double next year.
Narrator. And so it was agreed. The tenants worked the farm for the second year (act out). After selling their produce, Tenant 1 begins to share out the profits again.
Tenant 4. But what about the farmer's 10%?
Tenant 1. But we need a new engine for that tractor.
Tenant 2. And we need to buy in some seed.
Tenant 3. And I need another new dress.
Tenant 4. But that is wrong. We are robbing the farmer.
Tenant 1. You took his money last year. I know what we'll do. We will pay the farmer double next year.
Narrator. And so it was agreed. Meantime the farmer in Disneyland had run out of money, so he sent his first servant to his bank back home.
Servant 1. How much money have those tenants put in the farmer's bank account?
Bank Manager. They haven't put any money in.
Servant 1. ring - - - ring, ring - - - ring - - - Hello. This is the farmer's servant. You haven't put any money in his account. I am coming over to deal with you right now.
Narrator. The tenants have been found out. What will they do?
Tenant 1. We have been found out. The farmer's servant is coming over to see us. What shall we do?
Tenant 2. Let's beat him up.
Tenant 3. Yes, let's beat him up.
Tenant 4. But that is wrong.
Tenant 1. We are all in this together. You were happy enough to take the farmer's money. We will have to beat the servant up.
Narrator. And so the servant was beaten up by the tenants (act out). The servant "limped" back to Disneyland to tell what had happened. The farmer was angry and said.
Farmer. I will send my second servant. He is an expert in karate. The tenants are certain to listen to him.
Narrator. And so the second servant went to the farmer's bank.
Servant 2. Have those tenants put any money in the farmer's account yet?
Bank Manager. None at all.
Servant 2. ring - - - ring - - - . This is the farmer's servant. He is really angry with you. I am coming over right now to deal with you.
Tenant 1. The second servant is coming over. We will have to beat him uo as well.
Tenant 2. Yes, let's beat him up.
Tenant 3. Yes, we'll beat him up.
Tenant 4. No. That would be wrong.
Tenant 1. We have to stick together in this. We'll beat him up.
Narrator. And so the second servant was beaten up (act out). The servant 'crawled' back to Disneyland. Now the farmer was really angry. He said.
Farmer. I know. I will send my son. The tenants are certain to listen to him, because he is my son.
Son. (on arriving at the bank). Any money in the farmer's account yet?
Bank Manager. Nothing at all.
Son. ring - - - ring - - - This is the farmer's son. Dad's really angry with you. You have stolen his money and beaten up his servants. I am coming over to deal with you right now.
Tenant 1. The farmer's son is coming over. What shall we do?
Tenant 2. Let's beat him up as well.
Tenant 3. No. This is the son. Let's kill him. If we kill the son, the farmer will have nobody to leave the farm to, and we will get it.
Tenant 1. Right, we will kill the son.
Tenant 2. Yes, we will kill the son.
Tenant 4. No. That would be wrong.
Tenant 1. We will have to stick together. You have helped steal the farmer's money and beat up his servants. You will have to help us kill the son as well.
Narrator. And so the son was killed by the tenants (act out e.g. shot). It is now time to bring back the farmer (Addressing the class). What do you think the farmer will do to those wicked tenants? Remember, they have stolen his money, beaten up his servants and killed his son. That's right, he will probably either kill them or, at the very least, have them put in jail. But what about this fourth tenant? She didn't really want to join in with what the other three were doing. So is she as guilty as the others? Yes she is. Even though she was reluctant to join in, in the end, she went along with what was happening and is therefore just as guilty as the others.
What could this fourth servant have done once she realised the other three were doing wrong? Three things. a. She could have told someone what was happening e.g. the farmer, or the police. b. She could have said "no" and refused to have anything to do with the wrongdoing. c. If the others still insisted on doing wrong, she could simply have left. Some of you may find yourselves in a group that is doing wrong. In that case, you may have to tell, say 'no' or walk away. This is never easy, so the best time to do it is right at the start, the moment you realise what is happening, before you become like that fourth tenant and get too involved.
A lot of young people get in trouble today because they get in with 'the wrong crowd'. Although they don't want to do wrong themselves, peer pressure from their "friends" makes it hard for them to say 'no'. What are some of the bad things that groups of young people may do today? - e.g. Bullying, vandalism, graffiti, disobeying parents, drinking, smoking, drugs, sex - - - . Some of you may be thinking "Get real teacher. Everyone is 'doing it' these days." Firstly, everyone is not 'doing it'. There are still those who do what is right and follow God's ways. Secondly, even if everyone were 'doing it' that still wouldn't make it right. God has given us rules to live by, and these will never change. Just because many people happen to break one of God's laws, that does not make it right. Some things will always be right, and some things will always be wrong.
So be very careful in your choice of friends. And if your friends are doing wrong and won't listen to your warning, then you will have to be strong and end the friendship, otherwise you are likely to end up in trouble as well.
The Unmerciful Servant.
Note. This play is based on the parable of the Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18. 21-35).
Characters, King, King's Secretary, Two Guards, Three Servants, Jailor.
Narrator. One day the King decided that it was time for his servants to pay back the money they owed him.
King. Guards! Bring in the first servant (Guards march the first servant to the King). Secretary! How much does this servant owe me?
Secretary. (Consulting her 'Record Book') This servant owes you $100.
King. Pay me back my $100. (The servant pays the King the money he/she owes). You are free to go. Guards! Bring in the second servant. (The second servant is brought before the King). Secretary! How much does this servant owe?
Secretary. This servant owes you 1 million dollars!
King. You owe me a million dollars. Pay me back.
Second Servant. (Falling to his knees and pleading). Oh please, I will pay you back every cent, I just need a little more time to get the money.
King. I am going to be really generous to you. I am cancelling your debt. You are free to go.
Narrator. So the second servant left the King's presence, having been forgiven a debt of 1 million dollars. As he went, he meets the third servant.
Second Servant. You owe me $2. Pay me back my $2.
Third Servant. (Falling to his knees and pleading). Please, I will pay you back your $2. I just need a little more time.
Second Servant. (Grabbing the third servant by the throat and beginning to choke him). That's not good enough. I want my $2 back now.
Third Servant. Please, Just give me a little more time to pay you back.
Second Servant. No. I want my $2 back now. Guards! This servant owes me $2. Throw him into jail until he pays his debt.(The third servant is thrown into jail).
Narrator. (Turning to the audience). Who saw what happened? (A number of hands should go up). Do you think it fair that the second servant was forgiven a debt of 1 million dollars, but he wouldn't forgive the third servant $2? No! Neither do I. Well, go and tell the King what you saw (Choose someone to do this).
King. Guards! Bring back that wicked servant. (Second servant is brought back before the King). Is this true what I hear. I forgave you 1 million dollars, but you wouldn't forgive your fellow servant $2? (The second servant has nothing to say). Guards! Throw this servant in jail. And release the other servant.
Conclusion. Jesus died on the cross so that each one of us could be forgiven all the wrong things we have ever done. In comparison to all the wrongs we have done, any wrongs that have been done against us are probably rather like comparing $2 with a million dollars. If we want Jesus to forgive us when we do wrong, we must forgive others that wrong us.
Note. See Teaching tip 36 (Newsletter 49) for steps to forgiving others.
The water pump.
This is a good play for to demonstrate to children how we can be "cleaned up" on the inside by Jesus. As leader, I do the narrating myself, and get the actors to act out their parts by following the narration. The actors either read their lines, or repeat their lines, after I speak them out. Alternatively for very young children, there is no need for your actors to say any lines - just follow your narration.
Actors. Water pump. (One arm is used as the lever, and the other as the spout). Mrs (Smith). Mr (Brown).
Note. You can use any names you wish - perhaps the surnames of your two actors.
Props. Bucket, duster, sponge, spray can (labelled "Water pump polish"), coat (large enough to put over the 'water pump') and a spanner (I use a large cut out cardboard one with the words "water pump spanner" written on it).
Narrator. In villages in some countries, if people need water, they have to go to a water pump to obtain it. This is a play about one such water pump (Choose your first actor, and demonstrate how the pump works). One day Mrs Smith came along with her empty bucket to get some water, because she needed to bath her ten children. She put her bucket under the spout of the water pump, and began to move the lever up and down. Out came the water. She was about to take her bucket of water home when she looked at it and said:-
Mrs. Smith. "Oh no. This water is dirty."
Narrator. Mrs Smith threw the water away (pretend to throw it over the other children) and had a good look at the water pump.
Mrs. Smith. "This water pump is rather dirty. I need to give it a good dusting."
Narrator. So she got out her duster, and gave the water pump a good dusting. She thought "It looks a lot cleaner now, I will get clean water this time." She put her bucket in place, and began to pump out the water. But when she looked at the water she said:-
Mrs, Smith. "This water is still dirty (throw it away). Dusting obviously wasn't good enough. I will have to give the pump a good wash."
Narrator. So she got out her soap and sponge, and gave the water pump a good wash. "It is bound to give clean water now " she thought. But when she pumped out more water, it was still dirty (throw it away).
Mrs. Smith. "I know. I will have to give the pump a good polish." (Get out the spray can and duster and polish the pump).
Narrator. "It looks just like new " thought Mrs Smith, "It is certain to give clean water this time." But when she pumped out more water, it was still dirty (throw it away).
Mrs. Smith. "There is only one last thing to do, I will have to paint the water pump."
Narrator. So she painted it all over (Put the coat on the water pump to represent the new paint). "It must give clean water this time" thought Mrs. Smith. But when she pumped out the water, it was still dirty. Mrs Smith didn't know what else she could do, but just then, along came her friend - Mr Brown.
Mr. Brown. "What is wrong with you?"
Mrs. Smith. "This water pump is what is wrong. I have dusted it, washed it, polished it, even painted it, but it still gives dirty water!"
Mr. Brown. "I know what the problem is. This water pump gives dirty water, not because it is dirty on the outside, but because it is dirty on the inside! Let me have a look."
Narrator. So Mr. Brown opened up the water pump (undo the coat), got out his special water pump spanner, made a few adjustments, closed up the pump and said "Now give it a try." This time, out came clean water. So Mrs. Smith was able to go home, and bath all her children.
Application. The Bible tells us that "Man looks on the outside, but God looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16.7). In other words, when I see all of you, I might say to myself "What a good looking, well dressed group of children these are." I just see your outsides. But God sees your hearts - he sees what you are like on your insides, whether you are clean or dirty. That is what really matters to God.
Many people are like that water pump. Dirty things - such as lies, swearing, hatred, envy, jealousy, greed and selfishness - come out of them because they are dirty on the inside. And there is nothing they can do to clean themselves on the inside. Even if they have ten baths every day, they will still be dirty on the inside. The good news is that there is Someone who can clean us up on the inside. His name is Jesus. So the next time you have a bath or shower and clean yourself on the outside, ask yourself "Am I also clean on the inside?" If the answer is "No", then ask Jesus to come and clean you up on the inside. If you do that, then gradually bad things will stop coming out from you, and good things - such as kindness, generosity, honesty and love - will start coming from you instead.
Skit - David and Goliath.
I perform this fun skit, playing both parts myself by running from left to right as the two combatants confront each other. When I am the giant, I put on a crown hat marked "Champion", pick up a cardboard sword, and use a deep booming voice. For the boy, I put on a cap, and use a little squeaky voice. Here is some suggested dialogue, but the important thing is to really "throw" yourself into the two characters. Children love it when you overact.
Giant. "Am I a dog that you come against me with sticks. Are you going to beat me with your sticks? Why, I am going to chop your head off, and feed your body to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field."
Boy. "You come against me with a sword and a spear, but I come against you in the name of the Lord God of Israel, and - - - and - - - and - - - and I'm going to chop your head off, and feed your body to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field - so there!"
Giant. " Why you cheeky young rascal, I'm going to whip you.
Boy. "No you're not. I'm going to whip you."
Giant. "I'm going to thrash you."
Boy. "No. I'm going to thrash you."
Giant. "Oh yes. You and whose army?"
Boy. "Just me and the Lord God of Israel. We are going to thrash you together."
Giant. "Your God won't be able to help you against me. Don't you realise who I am? I am the biggest. I am the greatest. I am the strongest. No one can beat me."
Boy. " Well, me and my God are going to beat you."
Giant. "That's enough of your cheek (lifting up his sword), prepare to die right now."
Narrator. The giant took a stride forwards, but the boy reached down, picked up a stone, put it in his sling. The sling went round and round, the stone flew out and hit Goliath (because that was the Giant's name of course) on the forehead. Goliath crashed to the ground, David (the boy's name of course) picked up Goliath's sword and slew him.
And that day, David and the Israelites won a great victory over Goliath and the Philistines.
The lost son.
Here is a play based on Jesus' famous parable of the lost son (sometimes called the prodigal or the wasteful son). I use it with my classes, having first retold the parable itself. The play is set in the present time and has four scenes, involving four actors - the father, the younger son, the older son and a home help. There is a narrative to introduce each scene. I select a good reader to do this, or sometimes do it myself with a slightly younger class.
This play is more suitable for 9 year olds and upwards. I usually do it as a radio play by recording the children as they read their parts, and conclude by playing it back to the whole class. Prior selection of the younger son and the home help will enable you to personalise the play by inserting their names into the script.
Note. For younger children this could be used as a puppet play.
Scene 1.
Narrator. This is a play about a patient father and his wasteful son. The first scene takes place in a house somewhere near ____________ (name of local street) in ___________ (name of local town or city).
(Younger) son. Hi Dad.
Father. Yes son.
Son. Is it true that when you die, I will get half your money?
Father. Yes son. Your brother and you will share my savings in the __________ bank.
Son. Well I can't wait until you die. I want my share now.
Father. Why is that son?
Son. I am tired of school and living around here. I want to go to downtown _____________ (name of nearest large city) and really party - in the Night clubs, casino and all-night bars.
Father. If that is what you really want, here is your share of the money.
Son. Gee. Thanks Dad. You are really quite a cool dude after all.
Scene 2.
Narrator. True to his word, the wasteful son went to the bright lights of downtown ____________ and really partied - drinking, gambling and party-going. He made many friends who helped him spend his money. However, after a few months, all his money had gone - and now his so-called friends didn't want to know him.
Unemployment was high in ____________, and the wasteful son had no money, no job, nowhere to live and very little food to eat. Eventually, he managed to gat a job selling hot dogs from a wheelbarrow.
Son. Hot dogs. Hot dogs. Get your hot dogs here.
Woe is me. Business is bad. Woe is me. Woe is me. WOE IS ME.
I am a fool. I have nowhere to live, no money, no friends, my clothes are dirty and torn, and I only have hot dogs to eat. Even my father's home help is better off than I am. I should never have left home. I know! I will return to my father. I am no longer worthy to be called his son, but perhaps he will give me a job in his lolly shop.
Scene 3.
Narrator. So the wasteful son returned home, wondering what type of reception he would get from his father. He thought that his father would probably be very angry and tell him to clear off. But as he neared home, he saw his father running towards him.
Footsteps.
Son. Father, I have sinned against you and against God. I am not worthy to be called your son.
Father. My son. My son. You have come home. Oh what joy you have given me. You were dead to me and now you are alive. You were lost and now you are found.
Son. But father, I am not worthy to be called your son.
Father. The only thing that matters is that you have come home. We must have a celebration party to welcome you home. Miss _______. Miss _______ .
Home help. Yes sir.
Father. My beloved son has returned home. Make sure he has everything he needs. Give him the best coat, put a ring on his finger, shoes on his feet, and invite all my friends round for a celebration homecoming party.
Home help. Whatever you say sir. Come with me Master _______ . I will get your old room ready for you.
Scene 4.
Narrator. The older son, however, was not as forgiving as his father. As he returned home from working in his father's lolly shop, he heard the sound of joyful music.
Older son. Miss _________ . What on earth is going on?
Home help. Your brother has returned home and your father is jumping for joy. He has given him a bicycle, a computer, a play station, and a big bag of his favourite lollies. He is now having a big celebration party, and he wants you to join them.
Older son. No way! It sounds as though Dad has really gone crazy. Send him out to me please.
Home help. Whatever you say.
Footsteps.
Father. Yes son. What do you want?
Older son. Dad, have you gone completely crazy? That rotten brother of mine has dared to come home, and instead of sending him away, you have welcomed him back as though he had never done any wrong, It is just not fair.
Father. Son, you are with me always, and whatever is mine is yours also. But your brother was dead to me and now he is alive again, he was lost and now he is found. It is only right that we should celebrate his return.
Conclusion.
Narrator. Just like the forgiving father in this play, our heavenly Father waits patiently for his lost children to return home. And when we do, he welcomes us gladly. All our sins are forgiven and forgotten and there is much rejoicing in heaven.
The Good Samaritan.
After telling the parable of the Good Samaritan, I get some of the children to act out the following play, which I have set in the present day.
Characters.
A schoolboy.
Three or four robbers (I use girls, as boys sometimes get too rough!).
A Sunday school teacher.
A Politician.
A gang member (from a well known gang).
The gang member's motorbike (Boy walking on hands and feet).
A hospital receptionist.
Narrator (I usually do this myself as I prompt the children to act out the story).
Narrator. One day a boy was walking down _________ (name of local street). He was returning to school to do some extra work in the library. Suddenly three or four really tough, mean looking robbers jumped out from behind a bus shelter and attacked him. They beat him up, stole all his pocket money and ran off leaving him lying injured on the road.
Shortly afterwards a Sunday school teacher came walking down the road. Surely she will stop to help the injured boy. She came right up to him, looked at him for sometime and then said - - -
Sunday school teacher. "Poor little chap. I would really like to help him, but if I do I will be late for my Sunday school class, and I am teaching them about loving each other - and that is so important!"
Narrator. So the Sunday school teacher crossed over to the other side of the road and carried on her way to her class, leaving the injured boy still lying on the road. Shortly afterwards a Politician (Member of Parliament / Senator) came down the road. Surely he would do the right thing and help the injured boy. He also came up to the boy, looked at him, but then said - - -
Politician. "This boy is badly injured. Someone will have to take him to a hospital, but I have an important meeting with the Prime Minister (or President). We are to discuss better care for hospital patients. I just can't spare any time for this boy."
Narrator. So the Politician crossed over to the other side of the road and continued his journey. Shortly afterwards a member of the __________ gang came riding down the road on his motorbike. This man would certainly not help the injured boy. If he stopped at all it would be to see if the boy had anything left worth stealing. The injured boy watched in horror as the gang member stopped his motorbike and came over to have a look at him. Then, to the boy's amazement, the gang member lifted him up, produced a bandage and bound up his wounds. He then lifted the boy onto his motorbike, placed his crash helmet on him, and drove him off to ____________ (nearest) hospital. The gang member said to the hospital receptionist - - -
Gang member. "Look after this injured boy. Give him the very best medical care. Here are a thousand dollars to pay for his treatment. If you spend any more than that, just send me the bill.
Narrator. And so the gang member went on his way, leaving the injured boy to be cared for in the hospital.
CONCLUSION.
"Which of those three travellers really 'loved his neighbour as himself'? That's right - the one you would least expect, the gang member. Everybody loves themselves. Do you hit yourself? Do you lie to yourself? Do you steal from yourself? No, of course not. If you are thirsty, do you say "Oh I can't be bothered to get you a drink right now. You will have to wait"? No, you just go and get a drink. In the same way that you are good to yourselves, Jesus wants you to be just as good to others.
Play - Zacchaeus.
In Newsletter 29 I shared a few ideas for teaching on the story of Zacchaeus (Teaching tip 17). Here is a fun play to complement your teaching.
Characters. Zaccheus, Jesus, Crowd (of about three), Tree (child standing on chair holding a branch).
Narrator. Jesus had come to town and Zacchaeus wanted to see him.
Zacchaeus. "Let me see Jesus."
Crowd. "Go away you nasty little man." (pushing Zacchaeus away).
Narrator. Zacchaeus was determined to see Jesus, so he ran ahead and climbed up a sychamore tree to get a good view. But when Jesus reached the tree, Zacchaeus got a shock.
Jesus. "Zacchaeus, come down from that tree"
Zaccheus. (Climbing down). "Yes Master, what do you want?".
Jesus. "I want to come to your house for tea."
Narrator. The crowd could hardly believe this.
Crowd. "Doesn't Jesus know that Zacchaeus is a tax collector and a cheat?"
Narrator. But Jesus doesn't make mistakes. Zacchaeus was the man he had chosen. Jesus probably knew all about him, but he also knew what he could become if he allowed God to changed him. And after they came back from their meal Zacchaeus showed he had changed by saying - - - -
Zacchaeus. "I will give half my money to the poor, and everyone I have cheated, I will pay them back four times as much."
Play - Bartimaeus.
In Newsletter 16, I shared on how to use the story of Bartimaeus to teach on prayer. Here are two plays to re-enforce the Bartimaeus story. As they are both short, and are quite different from each other, I usually use them both.
Play 1
Characters. Bartimaeus (Bart), Jesus, Crowd (of about three, following Jesus), Crowd (of about three, standing behind Bart).
Narrator. Bart was sitting outside the gates of Jericho, begging as usual. He heard the noise of a large crowd coming his way. He was told that they were all following Jesus, so he called out - - -
Bart. Jesus, have mercy on me.
Narrator. But the crowd said - - -
Crowd (Standing behind Bart). Be quiet. Don't bother the Master.
Narrator. But Bart cried out even louder - - -
Bart. Jesus, have mercy on me.
Narrator. The crowd responded - - -
Crowd. Be quiet. Jesus is too busy to be bothered by blind beggars like you.
Narrator. Now Jesus had passed by. He was leaving the city, but Bart called out at the top of his voice - - -
Bart. Jesus, have mercy on me.
Narrator. Suddenly Jesus stopped, and said - - -
Jesus. Bring that man to me.
Narrator. Now the crowd changed their attitude, and said - - -
Crowd. Cheer up. Jesus is calling for you.
Narrator. Bart stood up, threw off his Beggar's coat, and was led to Jesus. Jesus asked - - -
Jesus. What do you want me to do for you?
Narrator. Bart knew exactly what he wanted, and said - - -
Bart. I want to see.
Narrator. Jesus replied - - -
Jesus. Then see. Your faith has made you well.
Narrator. Immediately Bart's eyes were opened, and he followed Jesus down the road, praising God.
Play 2
This time all the children can participate by calling out the words you show them. Write the words spoken by Bartimaeus, Jesus and the crowd on large pieces of cardboard - three different colours, e.g. Bart on yellow, Jesus on red, crowd on green. Arrange the cards in the right order.
Divide your class into three groups, then explain that Group 1 plays the part of Bart - by calling out the words on the yellow cards as they are shown, Group 2 plays the part of Jesus (Red cards), and Group 3 plays the part of the crowd (Green cards).
You act as the narrator, by linking the words that are to be called out by the groups.
Example.
(Bart was sitting begging. He heard a noise and asked)
Bart. What is this?
(The crowd replied)
Crowd. Jesus is passing by.
(So Bart called out).
Bart. Jesus, take pity on me.
(But the crowd said)
Crowd. Be quiet, no fuss.
(Bart wouldn't be quiet, and called out even louder)
Bart. Jesus, take pity on me.
(Suddenly, Jesus stopped, called Bart to him, and asked)
Jesus. What do you want?
(Bart replied)
Bart. I want to see.
(Then Jesus said)
Jesus. Then see, your faith has healed you.
(Bart's eyes were opened, and he called out)
Bart. I can see! I can see! I can see!
(And all the crowd said)
Crowd. Praise the Lord!
You may then wish to repeat the play twice, and so give each group the chance to play all three parts.
Play. Tenants on the Farm.
n.b. This play is based on the parable of the tenants in the vineyard (Matthew 21. 33-46 ), and can be used to complement your teaching on peer pressure.
Characters. Rich farmer, Son, two servants, four tenants, bank manager.
Narrator. A rich farmer, his son, and two servants had been working really hard on the farm (Actors pretend to be working on the farm e.g. milking cow, digging, sowing seed, picking fruit etc.) One day the farmer said to his son.
Farmer. We have been working really hard. We deserve a holiday. Where should we go? Disneyland? the Gold coast? Hawaii?
Son. Let's go to Disneyland. But what about our servants. They have been working hard as well. Let's take them with us.
Farmer. Good idea. We will ask them. Do you servants want to come to Disneyland with us, or carry on working on this farm?
Servants. We'll come to Disneyland.
Farmer. Good. But who will look after the farm while we are away? I know. We will go to the local labour exchange and choose some tenants to work the farm. - - - - - - - How about these four (pointing to four children - girls are best for this)? You can be tenants on my farm while we are away on holiday. But we will have to come to some financial agreement. What percentage of the farm profits should the tenants keep for themselves? - - - - I'm feeling really generous. You can keep 90% of the profits for yourselves and just put 10% into my Bank account. (Agreement concluded with hand shakes).
Narrator. So the Farmer, son and servants go off to their holiday in Disneyland, leaving the tenants to work the farm (act out). After the first year, the tenants sell their farm produce and tenant 1 begins to share out the profits (act out).
Tenant 4. What about the farmer's 10%?
Tenant 1. But we need to buy a new tractor.
Tenant 2. Yes, and we need to buy in some more calves.
Tenant 3. Yes, and I need a new dress.
Tenant 4. But that is wrong . We need to put 10% in the farmer's bank account.
Tenant 1. I know what we'll do. We will pay the farmer double next year.
Narrator. And so it was agreed. The tenants worked the farm for the second year (act out). After selling their produce, Tenant 1 begins to share out the profits again.
Tenant 4. But what about the farmer's 10%?
Tenant 1. But we need a new engine for that tractor.
Tenant 2. And we need to buy in some seed.
Tenant 3. And I need another new dress.
Tenant 4. But that is wrong. We are robbing the farmer.
Tenant 1. You took his money last year. I know what we'll do. We will pay the farmer double next year.
Narrator. And so it was agreed. Meantime the farmer in Disneyland had run out of money, so he sent his first servant to his bank back home.
Servant 1. How much money have those tenants put in the farmer's bank account?
Bank Manager. They haven't put any money in.
Servant 1. ring - - - ring, ring - - - ring - - - Hello. This is the farmer's servant. You haven't put any money in his account. I am coming over to deal with you right now.
Narrator. The tenants have been found out. What will they do?
Tenant 1. We have been found out. The farmer's servant is coming over to see us. What shall we do?
Tenant 2. Let's beat him up.
Tenant 3. Yes, let's beat him up.
Tenant 4. But that is wrong.
Tenant 1. We are all in this together. You were happy enough to take the farmer's money. We will have to beat the servant up.
Narrator. And so the servant was beaten up by the tenants (act out). The servant "limped" back to Disneyland to tell what had happened. The farmer was angry and said.
Farmer. I will send my second servant. He is an expert in karate. The tenants are certain to listen to him.
Narrator. And so the second servant went to the farmer's bank.
Servant 2. Have those tenants put any money in the farmer's account yet?
Bank Manager. None at all.
Servant 2. ring - - - ring - - - . This is the farmer's servant. He is really angry with you. I am coming over right now to deal with you.
Tenant 1. The second servant is coming over. We will have to beat him uo as well.
Tenant 2. Yes, let's beat him up.
Tenant 3. Yes, we'll beat him up.
Tenant 4. No. That would be wrong.
Tenant 1. We have to stick together in this. We'll beat him up.
Narrator. And so the second servant was beaten up (act out). The servant 'crawled' back to Disneyland. Now the farmer was really angry. He said.
Farmer. I know. I will send my son. The tenants are certain to listen to him, because he is my son.
Son. (on arriving at the bank). Any money in the farmer's account yet?
Bank Manager. Nothing at all.
Son. ring - - - ring - - - This is the farmer's son. Dad's really angry with you. You have stolen his money and beaten up his servants. I am coming over to deal with you right now.
Tenant 1. The farmer's son is coming over. What shall we do?
Tenant 2. Let's beat him up as well.
Tenant 3. No. This is the son. Let's kill him. If we kill the son, the farmer will have nobody to leave the farm to, and we will get it.
Tenant 1. Right, we will kill the son.
Tenant 2. Yes, we will kill the son.
Tenant 4. No. That would be wrong.
Tenant 1. We will have to stick together. You have helped steal the farmer's money and beat up his servants. You will have to help us kill the son as well.
Narrator. And so the son was killed by the tenants (act out e.g. shot). It is now time to bring back the farmer (Addressing the class). What do you think the farmer will do to those wicked tenants? Remember, they have stolen his money, beaten up his servants and killed his son. That's right, he will probably either kill them or, at the very least, have them put in jail. But what about this fourth tenant? She didn't really want to join in with what the other three were doing. So is she as guilty as the others? Yes she is. Even though she was reluctant to join in, in the end, she went along with what was happening and is therefore just as guilty as the others.
What could this fourth servant have done once she realised the other three were doing wrong? Three things. a. She could have told someone what was happening e.g. the farmer, or the police. b. She could have said "no" and refused to have anything to do with the wrongdoing. c. If the others still insisted on doing wrong, she could simply have left. Some of you may find yourselves in a group that is doing wrong. In that case, you may have to tell, say 'no' or walk away. This is never easy, so the best time to do it is right at the start, the moment you realise what is happening, before you become like that fourth tenant and get too involved.
A lot of young people get in trouble today because they get in with 'the wrong crowd'. Although they don't want to do wrong themselves, peer pressure from their "friends" makes it hard for them to say 'no'. What are some of the bad things that groups of young people may do today? - e.g. Bullying, vandalism, graffiti, disobeying parents, drinking, smoking, drugs, sex - - - . Some of you may be thinking "Get real teacher. Everyone is 'doing it' these days." Firstly, everyone is not 'doing it'. There are still those who do what is right and follow God's ways. Secondly, even if everyone were 'doing it' that still wouldn't make it right. God has given us rules to live by, and these will never change. Just because many people happen to break one of God's laws, that does not make it right. Some things will always be right, and some things will always be wrong.
So be very careful in your choice of friends. And if your friends are doing wrong and won't listen to your warning, then you will have to be strong and end the friendship, otherwise you are likely to end up in trouble as well.
The Unmerciful Servant.
Note. This play is based on the parable of the Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18. 21-35).
Characters, King, King's Secretary, Two Guards, Three Servants, Jailor.
Narrator. One day the King decided that it was time for his servants to pay back the money they owed him.
King. Guards! Bring in the first servant (Guards march the first servant to the King). Secretary! How much does this servant owe me?
Secretary. (Consulting her 'Record Book') This servant owes you $100.
King. Pay me back my $100. (The servant pays the King the money he/she owes). You are free to go. Guards! Bring in the second servant. (The second servant is brought before the King). Secretary! How much does this servant owe?
Secretary. This servant owes you 1 million dollars!
King. You owe me a million dollars. Pay me back.
Second Servant. (Falling to his knees and pleading). Oh please, I will pay you back every cent, I just need a little more time to get the money.
King. I am going to be really generous to you. I am cancelling your debt. You are free to go.
Narrator. So the second servant left the King's presence, having been forgiven a debt of 1 million dollars. As he went, he meets the third servant.
Second Servant. You owe me $2. Pay me back my $2.
Third Servant. (Falling to his knees and pleading). Please, I will pay you back your $2. I just need a little more time.
Second Servant. (Grabbing the third servant by the throat and beginning to choke him). That's not good enough. I want my $2 back now.
Third Servant. Please, Just give me a little more time to pay you back.
Second Servant. No. I want my $2 back now. Guards! This servant owes me $2. Throw him into jail until he pays his debt.(The third servant is thrown into jail).
Narrator. (Turning to the audience). Who saw what happened? (A number of hands should go up). Do you think it fair that the second servant was forgiven a debt of 1 million dollars, but he wouldn't forgive the third servant $2? No! Neither do I. Well, go and tell the King what you saw (Choose someone to do this).
King. Guards! Bring back that wicked servant. (Second servant is brought back before the King). Is this true what I hear. I forgave you 1 million dollars, but you wouldn't forgive your fellow servant $2? (The second servant has nothing to say). Guards! Throw this servant in jail. And release the other servant.
Conclusion. Jesus died on the cross so that each one of us could be forgiven all the wrong things we have ever done. In comparison to all the wrongs we have done, any wrongs that have been done against us are probably rather like comparing $2 with a million dollars. If we want Jesus to forgive us when we do wrong, we must forgive others that wrong us.
Note. See Teaching tip 36 (Newsletter 49) for steps to forgiving others.
The water pump.
This is a good play for to demonstrate to children how we can be "cleaned up" on the inside by Jesus. As leader, I do the narrating myself, and get the actors to act out their parts by following the narration. The actors either read their lines, or repeat their lines, after I speak them out. Alternatively for very young children, there is no need for your actors to say any lines - just follow your narration.
Actors. Water pump. (One arm is used as the lever, and the other as the spout). Mrs (Smith). Mr (Brown).
Note. You can use any names you wish - perhaps the surnames of your two actors.
Props. Bucket, duster, sponge, spray can (labelled "Water pump polish"), coat (large enough to put over the 'water pump') and a spanner (I use a large cut out cardboard one with the words "water pump spanner" written on it).
Narrator. In villages in some countries, if people need water, they have to go to a water pump to obtain it. This is a play about one such water pump (Choose your first actor, and demonstrate how the pump works). One day Mrs Smith came along with her empty bucket to get some water, because she needed to bath her ten children. She put her bucket under the spout of the water pump, and began to move the lever up and down. Out came the water. She was about to take her bucket of water home when she looked at it and said:-
Mrs. Smith. "Oh no. This water is dirty."
Narrator. Mrs Smith threw the water away (pretend to throw it over the other children) and had a good look at the water pump.
Mrs. Smith. "This water pump is rather dirty. I need to give it a good dusting."
Narrator. So she got out her duster, and gave the water pump a good dusting. She thought "It looks a lot cleaner now, I will get clean water this time." She put her bucket in place, and began to pump out the water. But when she looked at the water she said:-
Mrs, Smith. "This water is still dirty (throw it away). Dusting obviously wasn't good enough. I will have to give the pump a good wash."
Narrator. So she got out her soap and sponge, and gave the water pump a good wash. "It is bound to give clean water now " she thought. But when she pumped out more water, it was still dirty (throw it away).
Mrs. Smith. "I know. I will have to give the pump a good polish." (Get out the spray can and duster and polish the pump).
Narrator. "It looks just like new " thought Mrs Smith, "It is certain to give clean water this time." But when she pumped out more water, it was still dirty (throw it away).
Mrs. Smith. "There is only one last thing to do, I will have to paint the water pump."
Narrator. So she painted it all over (Put the coat on the water pump to represent the new paint). "It must give clean water this time" thought Mrs. Smith. But when she pumped out the water, it was still dirty. Mrs Smith didn't know what else she could do, but just then, along came her friend - Mr Brown.
Mr. Brown. "What is wrong with you?"
Mrs. Smith. "This water pump is what is wrong. I have dusted it, washed it, polished it, even painted it, but it still gives dirty water!"
Mr. Brown. "I know what the problem is. This water pump gives dirty water, not because it is dirty on the outside, but because it is dirty on the inside! Let me have a look."
Narrator. So Mr. Brown opened up the water pump (undo the coat), got out his special water pump spanner, made a few adjustments, closed up the pump and said "Now give it a try." This time, out came clean water. So Mrs. Smith was able to go home, and bath all her children.
Application. The Bible tells us that "Man looks on the outside, but God looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16.7). In other words, when I see all of you, I might say to myself "What a good looking, well dressed group of children these are." I just see your outsides. But God sees your hearts - he sees what you are like on your insides, whether you are clean or dirty. That is what really matters to God.
Many people are like that water pump. Dirty things - such as lies, swearing, hatred, envy, jealousy, greed and selfishness - come out of them because they are dirty on the inside. And there is nothing they can do to clean themselves on the inside. Even if they have ten baths every day, they will still be dirty on the inside. The good news is that there is Someone who can clean us up on the inside. His name is Jesus. So the next time you have a bath or shower and clean yourself on the outside, ask yourself "Am I also clean on the inside?" If the answer is "No", then ask Jesus to come and clean you up on the inside. If you do that, then gradually bad things will stop coming out from you, and good things - such as kindness, generosity, honesty and love - will start coming from you instead.
# posted by Maurice Sweetsur @ 6:29 PM 
Puppet plays.
Puppet plays.
What is Christmas all about?
When I do puppet plays, I usually record the script beforehand - using different 'character' voices, and then play it back while children operate the (glove) puppets. This way I am able to 'watch' the entire group, and also have a puppet/human dialogue if required. For this play, you will need one animal (I use a sheep) and four 'human' puppets. Write the word "Christmas" on a large piece of paper, and display it in a prominent position.
Script.
Host. Today we are going to ask the very important question "What is Christmas all about?" But firstly, let me introduce you to my panel of guests. Let's give a big welcome for my first guest - Miss know it all.
Miss Know it all. Thank you for inviting me onto your show. I am Miss know it all, so you only have to ask me the question, because I know everything.
Host. Well, we will see about that a little later. But secondly, let me introduce Mr. Don't know a lot.
Mr. Don't know a lot. Don't be fooled by my name, because actually I know heaps and heaps of things. So ask me the question, and I will give you the right answer.
Host. Thank you Mr. Don't Know a lot. Our next guest is Mr. Remember well.
Mr. Remember well. As you can tell by my name, I remember everything. So ask me the question, and I will give you the answer.
Host. Thank you Mr. Remember well. Our final guest is Mr. Shaun the sheep. Say "hello" Shaun.
Shaun. Baa, Baa.
Host. Thank you Shaun, If we have time, I will ask Shaun his opinion, but really I don't think he will be much help at all. The question then is "What is Christmas all about?" I am going to save us all some time because I know the answer myself. Christmas is all about money. Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but only because Mary and Joseph had to go there to register to pay their taxes to Caesar. So that's the answer - Money. That's why my mum and dad are always complaining what an expensive time of the year Christmas is with so many presents to buy. But, to be fair, I will ask my guests if they have any other opinions. Miss Know it all. Do you know what Christmas is all about?
Miss Know it all. I certainly do. It's not about money you silly old fool. Christmas is all about Food. When Jesus was born, he was placed in a Manger - which is a cattle's eating trough. So that is why people eat so much at Christmas, like Turkey, Christmas pudding and lots of chocolate. So that's the answer to your question - Food.
Host. Thank you Miss Know it all. Remind me not to invite you back on my show. Now, Mr. Don't know a lot, do you know what Christmas is all about?
Mr. Don't know a lot. Well, it's not about money or food. No, Christmas is all about Singing. After Jesus was born, Angels appeared to some Shepherds and they began to sing "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men." So that is the answer - Singing. That is why groups go out carol singing today.
Host. Thank you Mr. Don't know a lot. That was certainly a very "interesting" answer. Mr. Remember well. Do you remember what Christmas is all about?
Mr. Remember well. I certainly do. You should have asked me first, because I remember the answer to the question. Christmas is all about Presents. After Jesus was born, some wise men brought gifts of gold, incense and myrrh to Him. That is why people exchange gifts at Christmas today. So the answer is Presents.
Host. Thank you Mr. Remember well. Finally, I suppose we should ask our last guest Shaun the sheep if he has any opinion. Shaun. Do you know what Christmas is all about?
Shaun. Baa. Baa.
Host. Come along Shaun, give us your answer.
Shaun. Baa. Baa. I need a volunteer to help me.
Self. (Holding up your hand). I will be your volunteer Shaun. My hand was the first to be raised. What would you like me to do?
Shaun. Do you see that paper with "Christmas" written on it?
Self. Yes, I see it.
Shaun. Write out the fourth and fifth letters.
Self. ok.(Counting and writing). I have done that Shaun. What next?
Shaun. Now write out the first six letters.
Self. (Counting and writing) I have done that as well Shaun.
Shaun. That is the answer to our question - "Christmas is Christ."
You may then wish to conclude by recapping on what Christmas is and what Christmas is not all about.
What is Easter all about?
You will need three “people” puppets, one “animal” puppet ( I use a sheep), a piece of plain paper, and a pair of scissors.
SCRIPT.
HOST. Today, we are going to ask the question “ What is Easter all about? “, but firstly let me introduce you to my panel of guests. Representing the younger generation is Miss Know it all.
MISS KNOW IT ALL.. Thank you for inviting me back on your show. Just ask me the question, and I will give you the answer, because I know everything.
HOST. Secondly, representing the older generation, is Mr Don’t know a lot.
MR. DON’T KNOW A LOT. Although my name is Mr. Don’t Know a lot, I know heaps and heaps of things, so all you need to do is ask me the question.
HOST. Finally, representing the animal kingdom, is Shaun the sheep. Say “hello” Shaun.
SHAUN. Baa. Baa.
HOST. Thank you Shaun. If we have time, I will ask Shaun his opinion, but I don’t really think he will be much help at all. Today’s question is “What is Easter all about?” and I happen to know the answer myself. Easter is all about HOLIDAYS. Everybody I know go on holiday at Easter, so that is the answer – holidays. However, just in case there are any other opinions, I will ask my guests the question. Miss Know it all, do you know what Easter is all about?
MISS KNOW IT ALL. I certainly do. Easter is not about holidays. Easter is all about BUNNIES. Everyone knows that Easter is the time that all the bunny rabbits come out.
HOST. Thank you Miss Know it all. That was certainly a very “interesting” answer. Now, Mr. Don’t know a lot, do you know what Easter is all about?
MR. DON’T KNOW A LOT. It’s certainly not about Holidays or Bunnies! No, Easter is all about EGGS. There are ordinary chicken’s eggs, but the ones I like best are those Cadbury Cream eggs. They are so delicious. I have heaps and heaps of them at Easter time. So that is your answer – Eggs.
HOST. Thank you Mr. Don’t Know a lot. You certainly lived up to your name! Now Shaun, have you any idea at all what Easter is all about?
SHAUN. Baa. Baa. Baa.
HOST. Come on Shaun. Don’t be shy. Give us your answer.
SHAUN .Baa. Baa. I need a volunteer to help me.
SELF. (Holding up your hand). I will be your volunteer Shaun. What would you like me to do?
SHAUN. Take that piece of paper and fold over the top right corner.
SELF. (Folding the top right corner so that it meets the left edge). I have done that Shaun, what next?
SHAUN. Take the top left corner and fold it over.
SELF. (Folding as before so that the top left corner meets the right edge to produce a “house” shape). Oh I see it now Shaun, Easter is about spending time at home with your families!
SHAUN. Now fold the paper down the middle.
SELF. (Folding as directed, to produce an “aeroplane” shape). Oh yes, now I understand. Mr. Host was right all the time. Easter is all about going off on holiday on an aeroplane!
SHAUN. Now cut a strip off the paper, next to the longest edge.
SELF. On no, Shaun, that would spoil my aeroplane.
SHAUN. Just do as you’re told Mr. (name), and cut a strip off the paper.
SELF. Don’t you talk to me like that you silly sheep. I will put you back in your sheep pen, if you are not careful.
SHAUN. Just cut a strip off the paper.
SELF. Oh alright – though I am sure this is going to spoil my aeroplane. (Cut about a 1 cm. strip parallel to the longest edge). I have done that Shaun, what next?
SHAUN. Open the paper up.
SELF. (Opening up the paper to reveal a cross). I think Shaun has given us the right answer. Easter is all about a cross. But not a paper cross. It’s about a wooden cross on which Jesus Christ, God’s Son, died to take away our sins.
How do you get to heaven ?
You will need four “people” puppets, one “animal” puppet (I use a sheep), a piece of plain paper and a marker.
SCRIPT.
HOST. Hello, and welcome to my show. Let me introduce you to my guests. Firstly we have Miss Know it all.
MISS KNOW IT ALL. Hi.
HOST. Next, we have Mr. Remember well.
MR. REMEMBER WELL. How are you all ?
HOST. Then we have Mr. Don’t know a lot.
MR. DON’T KNOW A LOT. Hello everybody.
HOST. And finally we have Shaun the sheep.
SHAUN. Baa. Baa.
HOST. Today’s question is “How do you get to heaven?” Actually, that’s rather an easy one. Everyone knows that if you are good, you go to heaven, but if you are bad, you don’t. So, if you do more good things than bad ones you will go to heaven.
MISS KNOW IT ALL. Wait a minute. Wait a minute. That’s not right. If we could all get to heaven by being good, there was no need for Jesus to come and die for us.
HOST. Oh ! You have a point there. So how can we get to heaven then Miss Know it all ?
MISS KNOW IT ALL. By believing. If you believe in God, you will go to heaven.
MR. REMEMBER WELL. What nonsense ! You are both wrong. Even the devil believes in God, but he’s not going to get to heaven.
HOST. Give us your answer then Mr. Remember well.
MR. REMEMBER WELL. This is a question I have studied for fifty years, but I have finally found the answer. To get to heaven you need to be - - - - - - DEAD !
HOST. Amazing. And it only took you fifty years to find that out!
MR. REMEMBER WELL. Wait, there’s more. As well as being dead, the Bible teaches that we need to be a Christian.
HOST. Now we are getting close. But how can a person become a Christian, Mr. Remember well ?
MR. REMEMBER WELL. I have no idea. It may take me another fifty years to find that out.
HOST. I am afraid that we haven’t got that long. Mr. Don’t know a lot, can you help us out ?
MR. DON’T KNOW A LOT. I certainly can. You become a Christian by going to church. It’s as simple as that.
HOST. But that can’t be right. If I went to live in my garage, that wouldn’t turn me into a Motor car would it ? So going to church wouldn’t turn me into a Christian. No, there must be another answer. Shaun, we are getting really desperate here. You are our last hope. Do you know how we can get to heaven ?
SHAUN. I can do better than that. I can give you the key that will unlock the gates of heaven.
HOST. You have a key to the gates of heaven ?
SHAUN. Yes. It’s a combination lock, so can someone write down the numbers for us ?
SELF. I can do that Shaun.
SHAUN. The numbers are 511531.
SELF. (Write down the numbers, big enough for everyone to see, but as you do, bend the tops of the first and third “1” slightly to the right. Bend the top of the second “1” slightly to the left).
HOST. You mean that’s the key that will get us into heaven ?
SHAUN. It sure is. Just turn the paper upside down, and have a look.
SELF. (Turning the paper upside down, to reveal the word “JESUS”). Shaun has given us the right answer. Jesus is the key to heaven. He said “ I am the way. Nobody comes to the Father, except by me."
The Lost sheep.
Note: This play can now be viewed on You Tube. (Google 'You tube Maurice Sweetsur).
With the aid of a sheep puppet, I perform this ventriloquism skit after telling the 'lost sheep' story.
Self. I would like to introduce you to a friend of mine. This is Shaun the sheep. Say 'Hello' Shaun.
Shaun. Baaah.
Self. Thank you Shaun. I have brought Shaun along to our class today because he tells me that he's the very sheep we were hearing about in the story - the sheep that ran away. Is that true Shaun?
Shaun. Baaah.
Self. Thank you Shaun, I thought it was. Now Shaun, will you tell these boys and girls your side of the story?
Shaun. Baaah.
Self. Thank you very much Shaun, I knew you would. Firstly Shaun, what made you run away?
Shaun. Baaah. I wanted to do what I wanted to do, and go where I wanted to go.
Self. That's like a lot of boys and girls today. They just want to go their own way, and don't listen to their parents, teachers, or even God. What happened after you ran away?
Shaun. It got darker.
Self. Well it does get dark at night Shaun, but what happened next?
Shaun. It got darker.
Self. Yes, and then?
Shaun. It got darker.
Self. I think we all understand that Shaun. It was very dark, but what happened next?
Shaun. It got colder.
Self. Oh I see. It was cold as well as dark that night. What happened next?
Shaun. It got colder.
Self. Yes, and then?
Shaun. It got colder.
Self. I am sure we all understand that Shaun. It was very dark and very cold, and you must have been very frightened by now. But what happened next?
Shaun. Then I heard a lion.
Self. Oh Shaun, that must have terrified you. What happened next?
Shaun. Then I heard a wolf.
Self. Oh Shaun! A wolf as well as a lion. What did you do?
Shaun. I ran and ran and ran.
Self. I'm not surprised. I think that if I were on my own on a cold, dark night and I heard a lion and a wolf, I would run and run and run. What happened next?
Shaun. I ran and ran and ran.
Self. Yes, and then?
Shaun. I ran and ran and ran and ran.
Self. Yes Shaun, but after you ran and ran and ran, and ran and ran and ran, and ran and ran and ran and ran, what happened next?
Shaun. I ran and ran and ran into a thistle.
Self. Oh Shaun, that must have been very painful for you. What happened next?
Shaun. All of a sudden, there was the Good Shepherd.
Self. That's right, he came out on that cold, dark night just to look for you. Did he give you a row for running away?
Shaun. No, he just picked me up and took me home.
Self. I expect that was when you got a row for running away?
Shaun. No, we just had a big celebration party.
Self. That's right. The Good Shepherd was so happy at finding you that he invited all his friends, relatives and neighbours to celebrate with him. What do you think of the Good Shepherd now?
Shaun. He's so good to me.
Self. Will you ever run away again?
Shaun. No, I will never leave the Good Shepherd again.
Self. Good, I think you have learned your lesson.
Shaun. I want to go back to the Good Shepherd now.
Self. We understand that Shaun. You don't want to be away from the Good Shepherd for too long. We will let you go back to him.
Shaun. Before I go, can you answer me a question.
Self. We will if we can Shaun. What is your question to us?
Shaun. Where does a sheep go to get a wool cut?
Self. I know where I go to get a hair cut, but where would a sheep go to get a wool cut? - - - - - - I think you will have to give us the answer Shaun.
Shaun. He goes to the Baa Baa's!
Self. Good bye Shaun.
The lost son.
Here is a play based on Jesus' famous parable of the lost son (sometimes called the prodigal or the wasteful son). I use it with my classes, having first retold the parable itself. The play is set in the present time and has four scenes, involving four actors - the father, the younger son, the older son and a home help. There is a narrative to introduce each scene. I select a good reader to do this, or sometimes do it myself with a slightly younger class.
This play is more suitable for 9 year olds and upwards. I usually do it as a radio play by recording the children as they read their parts, and conclude by playing it back to the whole class. Prior selection of the younger son and the home help will enable you to personalise the play by inserting their names into the script.
Note. For younger children this could be used as a puppet play.
Scene 1.
Narrator. This is a play about a patient father and his wasteful son. The first scene takes place in a house somewhere near ____________ (name of local street) in ___________ (name of local town or city).
(Younger) son. Hi Dad.
Father. Yes son.
Son. Is it true that when you die, I will get half your money?
Father. Yes son. Your brother and you will share my savings in the __________ bank.
Son. Well I can't wait until you die. I want my share now.
Father. Why is that son?
Son. I am tired of school and living around here. I want to go to downtown _____________ (name of nearest large city) and really party - in the Night clubs, casino and all-night bars.
Father. If that is what you really want, here is your share of the money.
Son. Gee. Thanks Dad. You are really quite a cool dude after all.
Scene 2.
Narrator. True to his word, the wasteful son went to the bright lights of downtown ____________ and really partied - drinking, gambling and party-going. He made many friends who helped him spend his money. However, after a few months, all his money had gone - and now his so-called friends didn't want to know him.
Unemployment was high in ____________, and the wasteful son had no money, no job, nowhere to live and very little food to eat. Eventually, he managed to gat a job selling hot dogs from a wheelbarrow.
Son. Hot dogs. Hot dogs. Get your hot dogs here.
Woe is me. Business is bad. Woe is me. Woe is me. WOE IS ME.
I am a fool. I have nowhere to live, no money, no friends, my clothes are dirty and torn, and I only have hot dogs to eat. Even my father's home help is better off than I am. I should never have left home. I know! I will return to my father. I am no longer worthy to be called his son, but perhaps he will give me a job in his lolly shop.
Scene 3.
Narrator. So the wasteful son returned home, wondering what type of reception he would get from his father. He thought that his father would probably be very angry and tell him to clear off. But as he neared home, he saw his father running towards him.
Footsteps.
Son. Father, I have sinned against you and against God. I am not worthy to be called your son.
Father. My son. My son. You have come home. Oh what joy you have given me. You were dead to me and now you are alive. You were lost and now you are found.
Son. But father, I am not worthy to be called your son.
Father. The only thing that matters is that you have come home. We must have a celebration party to welcome you home. Miss _______. Miss _______ .
Home help. Yes sir.
Father. My beloved son has returned home. Make sure he has everything he needs. Give him the best coat, put a ring on his finger, shoes on his feet, and invite all my friends round for a celebration homecoming party.
Home help. Whatever you say sir. Come with me Master _______ . I will get your old room ready for you.
Scene 4.
Narrator. The older son, however, was not as forgiving as his father. As he returned home from working in his father's lolly shop, he heard the sound of joyful music.
Older son. Miss _________ . What on earth is going on?
Home help. Your brother has returned home and your father is jumping for joy. He has given him a bicycle, a computer, a play station, and a big bag of his favourite lollies. He is now having a big celebration party, and he wants you to join them.
Older son. No way! It sounds as though Dad has really gone crazy. Send him out to me please.
Home help. Whatever you say.
Footsteps.
Father. Yes son. What do you want?
Older son. Dad, have you gone completely crazy? That rotten brother of mine has dared to come home, and instead of sending him away, you have welcomed him back as though he had never done any wrong, It is just not fair.
Father. Son, you are with me always, and whatever is mine is yours also. But your brother was dead to me and now he is alive again, he was lost and now he is found. It is only right that we should celebrate his return.
Conclusion.
Narrator. Just like the forgiving father in this play, our heavenly Father waits patiently for his lost children to return home. And when we do, he welcomes us gladly. All our sins are forgiven and forgotten and there is much rejoicing in heaven.
I don't believe in God.
You will need two 'people' puppets, a boy and a girl. I have called them James and Jessica.
Jessica. How are you today James?
James. Great. I got good marks in my school test, so my Dad took me to see my favourite Soccer team play. They won 5 - 0, and then we stopped off at McDonald's for tea.
Jessica. That's wonderful, James. I hope that you gave God thanks for all the good things that have been happening to you.
James. I don't believe in God.
Jessica. Why do you say that James?
James. I think that I would like to believe in God. But there is no proof that He actually exists.
Jessica. But James, the proof of God is all around you.
James. I don't understand what you mean, Jessica.
Jessica. Just use your eyes. Look at the millions of stars, all the living things like flowers, birds, animals and people. Think about how wonderful they all are. They must have been made by a very clever Creator. Otherwise you have to believe that everything made itself, beginning with nothing!
James. I hadn't thought about it like that before. But if there is a God, why hasn't He sent someone to earth to tell us about Himself?
Jessica. He has. He has sent many messengers to us in fact. They were usually called Prophets, and we can read about everything they said in the Bible. The Bible is really God's love letter to you James. If you read it, you will get to know what God is really like, and how special you are to Him.
James. But if God really loves us, as you say, why hasn't He come to reveal Himself to us in person?
Jessica. Two thousand years ago. He did just that. He came to earth in human form. We called Him, Jesus.
James. But how do we know that Jesus was really God?
Jessica. He did things that only God could do. He defied the natural laws of the universe by doing miracles like multiplying matter, defying gravity, commanding nature (such as storms) to obey Him, commanding the sick to be healed and the dead to come back to life. And then He proved how much He really loves us by allowing Himself to be crucified on a cross so that we could be forgiven our wrongdoings.
James. That was a wonderful thing to do. But what a sad ending.
Jessica. That is not the ending, James. You see, death couldn't hold Jesus because He was faultless. Jesus took His life up again, and is alive for evermore.
James. You have given me something to think about, Jessica.
Jessica. Good. Remember that God has promised to reveal Himself to all those who genuinely seek Him.
What is Christmas all about?
When I do puppet plays, I usually record the script beforehand - using different 'character' voices, and then play it back while children operate the (glove) puppets. This way I am able to 'watch' the entire group, and also have a puppet/human dialogue if required. For this play, you will need one animal (I use a sheep) and four 'human' puppets. Write the word "Christmas" on a large piece of paper, and display it in a prominent position.
Script.
Host. Today we are going to ask the very important question "What is Christmas all about?" But firstly, let me introduce you to my panel of guests. Let's give a big welcome for my first guest - Miss know it all.
Miss Know it all. Thank you for inviting me onto your show. I am Miss know it all, so you only have to ask me the question, because I know everything.
Host. Well, we will see about that a little later. But secondly, let me introduce Mr. Don't know a lot.
Mr. Don't know a lot. Don't be fooled by my name, because actually I know heaps and heaps of things. So ask me the question, and I will give you the right answer.
Host. Thank you Mr. Don't Know a lot. Our next guest is Mr. Remember well.
Mr. Remember well. As you can tell by my name, I remember everything. So ask me the question, and I will give you the answer.
Host. Thank you Mr. Remember well. Our final guest is Mr. Shaun the sheep. Say "hello" Shaun.
Shaun. Baa, Baa.
Host. Thank you Shaun, If we have time, I will ask Shaun his opinion, but really I don't think he will be much help at all. The question then is "What is Christmas all about?" I am going to save us all some time because I know the answer myself. Christmas is all about money. Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but only because Mary and Joseph had to go there to register to pay their taxes to Caesar. So that's the answer - Money. That's why my mum and dad are always complaining what an expensive time of the year Christmas is with so many presents to buy. But, to be fair, I will ask my guests if they have any other opinions. Miss Know it all. Do you know what Christmas is all about?
Miss Know it all. I certainly do. It's not about money you silly old fool. Christmas is all about Food. When Jesus was born, he was placed in a Manger - which is a cattle's eating trough. So that is why people eat so much at Christmas, like Turkey, Christmas pudding and lots of chocolate. So that's the answer to your question - Food.
Host. Thank you Miss Know it all. Remind me not to invite you back on my show. Now, Mr. Don't know a lot, do you know what Christmas is all about?
Mr. Don't know a lot. Well, it's not about money or food. No, Christmas is all about Singing. After Jesus was born, Angels appeared to some Shepherds and they began to sing "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men." So that is the answer - Singing. That is why groups go out carol singing today.
Host. Thank you Mr. Don't know a lot. That was certainly a very "interesting" answer. Mr. Remember well. Do you remember what Christmas is all about?
Mr. Remember well. I certainly do. You should have asked me first, because I remember the answer to the question. Christmas is all about Presents. After Jesus was born, some wise men brought gifts of gold, incense and myrrh to Him. That is why people exchange gifts at Christmas today. So the answer is Presents.
Host. Thank you Mr. Remember well. Finally, I suppose we should ask our last guest Shaun the sheep if he has any opinion. Shaun. Do you know what Christmas is all about?
Shaun. Baa. Baa.
Host. Come along Shaun, give us your answer.
Shaun. Baa. Baa. I need a volunteer to help me.
Self. (Holding up your hand). I will be your volunteer Shaun. My hand was the first to be raised. What would you like me to do?
Shaun. Do you see that paper with "Christmas" written on it?
Self. Yes, I see it.
Shaun. Write out the fourth and fifth letters.
Self. ok.(Counting and writing). I have done that Shaun. What next?
Shaun. Now write out the first six letters.
Self. (Counting and writing) I have done that as well Shaun.
Shaun. That is the answer to our question - "Christmas is Christ."
You may then wish to conclude by recapping on what Christmas is and what Christmas is not all about.
What is Easter all about?
You will need three “people” puppets, one “animal” puppet ( I use a sheep), a piece of plain paper, and a pair of scissors.
SCRIPT.
HOST. Today, we are going to ask the question “ What is Easter all about? “, but firstly let me introduce you to my panel of guests. Representing the younger generation is Miss Know it all.
MISS KNOW IT ALL.. Thank you for inviting me back on your show. Just ask me the question, and I will give you the answer, because I know everything.
HOST. Secondly, representing the older generation, is Mr Don’t know a lot.
MR. DON’T KNOW A LOT. Although my name is Mr. Don’t Know a lot, I know heaps and heaps of things, so all you need to do is ask me the question.
HOST. Finally, representing the animal kingdom, is Shaun the sheep. Say “hello” Shaun.
SHAUN. Baa. Baa.
HOST. Thank you Shaun. If we have time, I will ask Shaun his opinion, but I don’t really think he will be much help at all. Today’s question is “What is Easter all about?” and I happen to know the answer myself. Easter is all about HOLIDAYS. Everybody I know go on holiday at Easter, so that is the answer – holidays. However, just in case there are any other opinions, I will ask my guests the question. Miss Know it all, do you know what Easter is all about?
MISS KNOW IT ALL. I certainly do. Easter is not about holidays. Easter is all about BUNNIES. Everyone knows that Easter is the time that all the bunny rabbits come out.
HOST. Thank you Miss Know it all. That was certainly a very “interesting” answer. Now, Mr. Don’t know a lot, do you know what Easter is all about?
MR. DON’T KNOW A LOT. It’s certainly not about Holidays or Bunnies! No, Easter is all about EGGS. There are ordinary chicken’s eggs, but the ones I like best are those Cadbury Cream eggs. They are so delicious. I have heaps and heaps of them at Easter time. So that is your answer – Eggs.
HOST. Thank you Mr. Don’t Know a lot. You certainly lived up to your name! Now Shaun, have you any idea at all what Easter is all about?
SHAUN. Baa. Baa. Baa.
HOST. Come on Shaun. Don’t be shy. Give us your answer.
SHAUN .Baa. Baa. I need a volunteer to help me.
SELF. (Holding up your hand). I will be your volunteer Shaun. What would you like me to do?
SHAUN. Take that piece of paper and fold over the top right corner.
SELF. (Folding the top right corner so that it meets the left edge). I have done that Shaun, what next?
SHAUN. Take the top left corner and fold it over.
SELF. (Folding as before so that the top left corner meets the right edge to produce a “house” shape). Oh I see it now Shaun, Easter is about spending time at home with your families!
SHAUN. Now fold the paper down the middle.
SELF. (Folding as directed, to produce an “aeroplane” shape). Oh yes, now I understand. Mr. Host was right all the time. Easter is all about going off on holiday on an aeroplane!
SHAUN. Now cut a strip off the paper, next to the longest edge.
SELF. On no, Shaun, that would spoil my aeroplane.
SHAUN. Just do as you’re told Mr. (name), and cut a strip off the paper.
SELF. Don’t you talk to me like that you silly sheep. I will put you back in your sheep pen, if you are not careful.
SHAUN. Just cut a strip off the paper.
SELF. Oh alright – though I am sure this is going to spoil my aeroplane. (Cut about a 1 cm. strip parallel to the longest edge). I have done that Shaun, what next?
SHAUN. Open the paper up.
SELF. (Opening up the paper to reveal a cross). I think Shaun has given us the right answer. Easter is all about a cross. But not a paper cross. It’s about a wooden cross on which Jesus Christ, God’s Son, died to take away our sins.
How do you get to heaven ?
You will need four “people” puppets, one “animal” puppet (I use a sheep), a piece of plain paper and a marker.
SCRIPT.
HOST. Hello, and welcome to my show. Let me introduce you to my guests. Firstly we have Miss Know it all.
MISS KNOW IT ALL. Hi.
HOST. Next, we have Mr. Remember well.
MR. REMEMBER WELL. How are you all ?
HOST. Then we have Mr. Don’t know a lot.
MR. DON’T KNOW A LOT. Hello everybody.
HOST. And finally we have Shaun the sheep.
SHAUN. Baa. Baa.
HOST. Today’s question is “How do you get to heaven?” Actually, that’s rather an easy one. Everyone knows that if you are good, you go to heaven, but if you are bad, you don’t. So, if you do more good things than bad ones you will go to heaven.
MISS KNOW IT ALL. Wait a minute. Wait a minute. That’s not right. If we could all get to heaven by being good, there was no need for Jesus to come and die for us.
HOST. Oh ! You have a point there. So how can we get to heaven then Miss Know it all ?
MISS KNOW IT ALL. By believing. If you believe in God, you will go to heaven.
MR. REMEMBER WELL. What nonsense ! You are both wrong. Even the devil believes in God, but he’s not going to get to heaven.
HOST. Give us your answer then Mr. Remember well.
MR. REMEMBER WELL. This is a question I have studied for fifty years, but I have finally found the answer. To get to heaven you need to be - - - - - - DEAD !
HOST. Amazing. And it only took you fifty years to find that out!
MR. REMEMBER WELL. Wait, there’s more. As well as being dead, the Bible teaches that we need to be a Christian.
HOST. Now we are getting close. But how can a person become a Christian, Mr. Remember well ?
MR. REMEMBER WELL. I have no idea. It may take me another fifty years to find that out.
HOST. I am afraid that we haven’t got that long. Mr. Don’t know a lot, can you help us out ?
MR. DON’T KNOW A LOT. I certainly can. You become a Christian by going to church. It’s as simple as that.
HOST. But that can’t be right. If I went to live in my garage, that wouldn’t turn me into a Motor car would it ? So going to church wouldn’t turn me into a Christian. No, there must be another answer. Shaun, we are getting really desperate here. You are our last hope. Do you know how we can get to heaven ?
SHAUN. I can do better than that. I can give you the key that will unlock the gates of heaven.
HOST. You have a key to the gates of heaven ?
SHAUN. Yes. It’s a combination lock, so can someone write down the numbers for us ?
SELF. I can do that Shaun.
SHAUN. The numbers are 511531.
SELF. (Write down the numbers, big enough for everyone to see, but as you do, bend the tops of the first and third “1” slightly to the right. Bend the top of the second “1” slightly to the left).
HOST. You mean that’s the key that will get us into heaven ?
SHAUN. It sure is. Just turn the paper upside down, and have a look.
SELF. (Turning the paper upside down, to reveal the word “JESUS”). Shaun has given us the right answer. Jesus is the key to heaven. He said “ I am the way. Nobody comes to the Father, except by me."
The Lost sheep.
Note: This play can now be viewed on You Tube. (Google 'You tube Maurice Sweetsur).
With the aid of a sheep puppet, I perform this ventriloquism skit after telling the 'lost sheep' story.
Self. I would like to introduce you to a friend of mine. This is Shaun the sheep. Say 'Hello' Shaun.
Shaun. Baaah.
Self. Thank you Shaun. I have brought Shaun along to our class today because he tells me that he's the very sheep we were hearing about in the story - the sheep that ran away. Is that true Shaun?
Shaun. Baaah.
Self. Thank you Shaun, I thought it was. Now Shaun, will you tell these boys and girls your side of the story?
Shaun. Baaah.
Self. Thank you very much Shaun, I knew you would. Firstly Shaun, what made you run away?
Shaun. Baaah. I wanted to do what I wanted to do, and go where I wanted to go.
Self. That's like a lot of boys and girls today. They just want to go their own way, and don't listen to their parents, teachers, or even God. What happened after you ran away?
Shaun. It got darker.
Self. Well it does get dark at night Shaun, but what happened next?
Shaun. It got darker.
Self. Yes, and then?
Shaun. It got darker.
Self. I think we all understand that Shaun. It was very dark, but what happened next?
Shaun. It got colder.
Self. Oh I see. It was cold as well as dark that night. What happened next?
Shaun. It got colder.
Self. Yes, and then?
Shaun. It got colder.
Self. I am sure we all understand that Shaun. It was very dark and very cold, and you must have been very frightened by now. But what happened next?
Shaun. Then I heard a lion.
Self. Oh Shaun, that must have terrified you. What happened next?
Shaun. Then I heard a wolf.
Self. Oh Shaun! A wolf as well as a lion. What did you do?
Shaun. I ran and ran and ran.
Self. I'm not surprised. I think that if I were on my own on a cold, dark night and I heard a lion and a wolf, I would run and run and run. What happened next?
Shaun. I ran and ran and ran.
Self. Yes, and then?
Shaun. I ran and ran and ran and ran.
Self. Yes Shaun, but after you ran and ran and ran, and ran and ran and ran, and ran and ran and ran and ran, what happened next?
Shaun. I ran and ran and ran into a thistle.
Self. Oh Shaun, that must have been very painful for you. What happened next?
Shaun. All of a sudden, there was the Good Shepherd.
Self. That's right, he came out on that cold, dark night just to look for you. Did he give you a row for running away?
Shaun. No, he just picked me up and took me home.
Self. I expect that was when you got a row for running away?
Shaun. No, we just had a big celebration party.
Self. That's right. The Good Shepherd was so happy at finding you that he invited all his friends, relatives and neighbours to celebrate with him. What do you think of the Good Shepherd now?
Shaun. He's so good to me.
Self. Will you ever run away again?
Shaun. No, I will never leave the Good Shepherd again.
Self. Good, I think you have learned your lesson.
Shaun. I want to go back to the Good Shepherd now.
Self. We understand that Shaun. You don't want to be away from the Good Shepherd for too long. We will let you go back to him.
Shaun. Before I go, can you answer me a question.
Self. We will if we can Shaun. What is your question to us?
Shaun. Where does a sheep go to get a wool cut?
Self. I know where I go to get a hair cut, but where would a sheep go to get a wool cut? - - - - - - I think you will have to give us the answer Shaun.
Shaun. He goes to the Baa Baa's!
Self. Good bye Shaun.
The lost son.
Here is a play based on Jesus' famous parable of the lost son (sometimes called the prodigal or the wasteful son). I use it with my classes, having first retold the parable itself. The play is set in the present time and has four scenes, involving four actors - the father, the younger son, the older son and a home help. There is a narrative to introduce each scene. I select a good reader to do this, or sometimes do it myself with a slightly younger class.
This play is more suitable for 9 year olds and upwards. I usually do it as a radio play by recording the children as they read their parts, and conclude by playing it back to the whole class. Prior selection of the younger son and the home help will enable you to personalise the play by inserting their names into the script.
Note. For younger children this could be used as a puppet play.
Scene 1.
Narrator. This is a play about a patient father and his wasteful son. The first scene takes place in a house somewhere near ____________ (name of local street) in ___________ (name of local town or city).
(Younger) son. Hi Dad.
Father. Yes son.
Son. Is it true that when you die, I will get half your money?
Father. Yes son. Your brother and you will share my savings in the __________ bank.
Son. Well I can't wait until you die. I want my share now.
Father. Why is that son?
Son. I am tired of school and living around here. I want to go to downtown _____________ (name of nearest large city) and really party - in the Night clubs, casino and all-night bars.
Father. If that is what you really want, here is your share of the money.
Son. Gee. Thanks Dad. You are really quite a cool dude after all.
Scene 2.
Narrator. True to his word, the wasteful son went to the bright lights of downtown ____________ and really partied - drinking, gambling and party-going. He made many friends who helped him spend his money. However, after a few months, all his money had gone - and now his so-called friends didn't want to know him.
Unemployment was high in ____________, and the wasteful son had no money, no job, nowhere to live and very little food to eat. Eventually, he managed to gat a job selling hot dogs from a wheelbarrow.
Son. Hot dogs. Hot dogs. Get your hot dogs here.
Woe is me. Business is bad. Woe is me. Woe is me. WOE IS ME.
I am a fool. I have nowhere to live, no money, no friends, my clothes are dirty and torn, and I only have hot dogs to eat. Even my father's home help is better off than I am. I should never have left home. I know! I will return to my father. I am no longer worthy to be called his son, but perhaps he will give me a job in his lolly shop.
Scene 3.
Narrator. So the wasteful son returned home, wondering what type of reception he would get from his father. He thought that his father would probably be very angry and tell him to clear off. But as he neared home, he saw his father running towards him.
Footsteps.
Son. Father, I have sinned against you and against God. I am not worthy to be called your son.
Father. My son. My son. You have come home. Oh what joy you have given me. You were dead to me and now you are alive. You were lost and now you are found.
Son. But father, I am not worthy to be called your son.
Father. The only thing that matters is that you have come home. We must have a celebration party to welcome you home. Miss _______. Miss _______ .
Home help. Yes sir.
Father. My beloved son has returned home. Make sure he has everything he needs. Give him the best coat, put a ring on his finger, shoes on his feet, and invite all my friends round for a celebration homecoming party.
Home help. Whatever you say sir. Come with me Master _______ . I will get your old room ready for you.
Scene 4.
Narrator. The older son, however, was not as forgiving as his father. As he returned home from working in his father's lolly shop, he heard the sound of joyful music.
Older son. Miss _________ . What on earth is going on?
Home help. Your brother has returned home and your father is jumping for joy. He has given him a bicycle, a computer, a play station, and a big bag of his favourite lollies. He is now having a big celebration party, and he wants you to join them.
Older son. No way! It sounds as though Dad has really gone crazy. Send him out to me please.
Home help. Whatever you say.
Footsteps.
Father. Yes son. What do you want?
Older son. Dad, have you gone completely crazy? That rotten brother of mine has dared to come home, and instead of sending him away, you have welcomed him back as though he had never done any wrong, It is just not fair.
Father. Son, you are with me always, and whatever is mine is yours also. But your brother was dead to me and now he is alive again, he was lost and now he is found. It is only right that we should celebrate his return.
Conclusion.
Narrator. Just like the forgiving father in this play, our heavenly Father waits patiently for his lost children to return home. And when we do, he welcomes us gladly. All our sins are forgiven and forgotten and there is much rejoicing in heaven.
I don't believe in God.
You will need two 'people' puppets, a boy and a girl. I have called them James and Jessica.
Jessica. How are you today James?
James. Great. I got good marks in my school test, so my Dad took me to see my favourite Soccer team play. They won 5 - 0, and then we stopped off at McDonald's for tea.
Jessica. That's wonderful, James. I hope that you gave God thanks for all the good things that have been happening to you.
James. I don't believe in God.
Jessica. Why do you say that James?
James. I think that I would like to believe in God. But there is no proof that He actually exists.
Jessica. But James, the proof of God is all around you.
James. I don't understand what you mean, Jessica.
Jessica. Just use your eyes. Look at the millions of stars, all the living things like flowers, birds, animals and people. Think about how wonderful they all are. They must have been made by a very clever Creator. Otherwise you have to believe that everything made itself, beginning with nothing!
James. I hadn't thought about it like that before. But if there is a God, why hasn't He sent someone to earth to tell us about Himself?
Jessica. He has. He has sent many messengers to us in fact. They were usually called Prophets, and we can read about everything they said in the Bible. The Bible is really God's love letter to you James. If you read it, you will get to know what God is really like, and how special you are to Him.
James. But if God really loves us, as you say, why hasn't He come to reveal Himself to us in person?
Jessica. Two thousand years ago. He did just that. He came to earth in human form. We called Him, Jesus.
James. But how do we know that Jesus was really God?
Jessica. He did things that only God could do. He defied the natural laws of the universe by doing miracles like multiplying matter, defying gravity, commanding nature (such as storms) to obey Him, commanding the sick to be healed and the dead to come back to life. And then He proved how much He really loves us by allowing Himself to be crucified on a cross so that we could be forgiven our wrongdoings.
James. That was a wonderful thing to do. But what a sad ending.
Jessica. That is not the ending, James. You see, death couldn't hold Jesus because He was faultless. Jesus took His life up again, and is alive for evermore.
James. You have given me something to think about, Jessica.
Jessica. Good. Remember that God has promised to reveal Himself to all those who genuinely seek Him.
# posted by Maurice Sweetsur @ 6:26 PM
