JESUS IS BORN – Interactive Bible Story (Luke 2:8-18)

Instructions:  Ask the children to copy your gestures throughout the story.

Imagine in your mind that it is the middle of the night. You are a shepherd (a person taking care of sheep) outside the city of Bethlehem. It is dark. It is quiet except for an occasional “Baaaa”.

(Wrap arms around yourself) It’s a little chilly. You are sitting around a campfire with the other shepherds, keeping warm. Then suddenly you see an unusual light in the sky.

(Put one hand above eyes, looking up) A shepherd says, “Do you see what I see?”

(Point up) “Yes! Look at that light!”  Another shepherd replies looking at the sky, “I wonder what it is?”

The light was an angel sent by God who said: “Don’t be afraid.  I have good news!  A Baby has been born tonight.  A very special Baby whose name is Jesus.  He is in the town of Bethlehem right now in a stable all wrapped up and tucked in a manger.”

Suddenly the sky was full of angels all praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest.”

Let’s say that together boys and girls:”Glory to God in the highest.”

Let’s say it again:”Glory to God in the highest.”

(On knees showing worship with hands together) The shepherds got on their knees on the ground in worship.  Then the angels disappeared and the sky was dark again.

(Stand up) The shepherds talked to one another and decided they would quickly go to Bethlehem and see for themselves what the angel had just told them about.

(Walk in place) The shepherds walked as fast as they could!  They walked and walked and walked and walked until finally they reached the town of Bethlehem and found the stable. Jesus’  mother, Mary, and Mary’s husband, Joseph, greeted the shepherds.

(On knees showing worship with hands together) When the shepherds saw baby Jesus wrapped in a blanket and sleeping in the manger, they got on their knees and celebrated the birth of Jesus by worshiping Him.

Sing:Manger of My Heart from A Very Mary Christmas album. (Click on song title to hear a clip.)

Following the song, you may want to take an opportunity to share with your class that the reason God sent Jesus to earth as a baby was so He could die on the cross for our sins. If there are boys and girls in your group who have not accepted Jesus as their personal Savior, this could be a great opportunity if you sense the Holy Spirit leading in that direction.