Despite the scorching summer heat, we had a fantastic afternoon at Messy Church as we explored the miracle of Jesus Walking on Water (Matthew 14:22–33).
We began with a fun storm-themed game where children and adults became crashing waves on the Sea of Galilee! With storm music playing, everyone tried to collect the “waves” (tea towels tucked into pockets) as the storm tossed and turned around us. There was lots of laughter and excitement as we imagined what it might have been like for the disciples caught in the storm.
We then watched an engaging retelling of the story from Saddleback Kids, helping us to bring the Bible account to life before moving into our craft activities: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U69Ag6wEyB0
During our worship time, we reflected on the Bible story together and discussed what it means for us today. We thought about how Peter was able to walk on the water while he kept his eyes fixed on Jesus, and how he began to sink when he focused on the wind and waves around him instead.
We talked about the storms we all face in life – not just storms of wind and rain, but times of worry, sadness, illness, loneliness, family difficulties and uncertainty. The story reminds us that Jesus is with us through every storm and that we can trust Him even when life feels difficult.
Our key message for the afternoon was:
“Keep your eyes on Jesus.”
The children enjoyed making their own “Eyes on Jesus” binoculars to take home as a reminder of this important truth. Other activities included creating moving Jesus walking on water scenes, building boats with Bible verse sails, and making story booklets to help retell the miracle. They also decorated a stormy sea scene with paint, for our Messy Church display.
We spent time singing “Miracles” by Valley Creek Kids, a song that is becoming a favourite at Messy Church as we continue our Miracles of Jesus series. It has been wonderful to see the children becoming more familiar with the words and actions each month: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daW8aZvGD4I&list=RDdaW8aZvGD4I&start_radio=1
As always, we finished by sharing a meal together. A huge thank you to our wonderful volunteer, Lucy, who prepared a delicious pasta bolognese followed by chocolate mousse for dessert. We are so grateful to all our volunteers whose love, time and dedication make Messy Church possible each month.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back next month for the final session in our Miracles of Jesus series as we explore Jesus Turning Water into Wine.
“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” – Matthew 14:27
