Jesus’ miracles are powerful reminders of His compassion, love, and divine authority. They show us that He cares deeply for every need—physical, emotional, and spiritual. Two incredible examples of His miracles are the Feeding of the 5,000 and Calming the Storm. These stories not only reveal His power but also His heart for those in need.
Let’s explore these two miracles and how we can teach their lessons to children through fun, hands-on activities.
1. The Miracle of Feeding the 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21)
This miracle is one of the most well-known in the Bible. It shows how Jesus can provide for our needs, no matter how impossible the situation may seem.
The Story
Jesus had been teaching and healing all day, and a large crowd followed Him into a remote area. As evening approached, the disciples suggested sending the people away to find food. But Jesus had a different plan.
Matthew 14:16-17 (KJV) – “But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.”
Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, blessed the food, and miraculously multiplied it. Every person ate until they were full, and there were 12 baskets of leftovers!
Lesson for Kids:
Jesus is our Provider. He cares about our physical needs and can do more than we can imagine. This story teaches us to trust Him, even when things seem impossible.
Kid-Friendly Activities for the Feeding of the 5,000
1. “Loaves and Fishes” Craft
What You’ll Need:
- Paper plates
- Crayons or markers
- Cut-out fish and bread shapes
- Glue sticks
Instructions:
- Draw a basket on the paper plate.
- Color and decorate cut-out loaves and fish.
- Glue the loaves and fish inside the basket to represent how Jesus multiplied them.
Discussion:
Talk about how Jesus can take small things and turn them into something great when we trust Him.
2. “Feeding the Crowd” Snack Activity
What You’ll Need:
- Crackers or bread pieces
- Goldfish crackers
- Small baskets or paper cups
Activity:
- Give each child five crackers and two fish-shaped crackers.
- Talk about how Jesus multiplied the food to feed thousands.
- Share the snack together and remind them of Jesus’ power to provide.
2. The Miracle of Calming the Storm (Mark 4:35-41)
This miracle demonstrates Jesus’ power over nature and reassures us that He is with us in every storm of life.
The Story
After a long day of teaching, Jesus and His disciples got into a boat to cross the Sea of Galilee. Suddenly, a violent storm arose, and the disciples were terrified.
Mark 4:38 (KJV) – “And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?”
Jesus woke up, rebuked the wind and waves, and said, “Peace, be still.” Immediately, the storm stopped, and the sea became calm.
Lesson for Kids:
Jesus is our Protector. He is always with us, even in life’s storms. We can trust Him to bring peace when we are afraid.
Kid-Friendly Activities for Calming the Storm
1. “Storm in a Jar” Science Experiment
What You’ll Need:
- A clear jar with a lid
- Water
- Blue food coloring
- Vegetable oil
- Glitter (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill the jar two-thirds full with water and add a few drops of blue food coloring.
- Add a layer of vegetable oil on top.
- Add glitter for fun if desired.
- Shake the jar to create a “storm” and watch as the water calms down.
Discussion:
Talk about how Jesus calmed the real storm with just His words and how He can bring peace to our lives, too.
2. “Peace, Be Still” Drama
What You’ll Need:
- A blue sheet or blanket (to represent water)
- A small toy boat or box for the “boat”
Activity:
- Divide children into groups—some can be the disciples, and one can play Jesus.
- Use the blanket to simulate the storm, waving it up and down while acting out the story.
- When Jesus says, “Peace, be still,” everyone freezes as the storm calms.
Discussion:
Talk about how Jesus brings peace to our lives when we pray and trust Him.
Why Jesus’ Miracles Matter Today
Jesus’ miracles are not just stories of the past—they reveal His unchanging character. He still cares for us today, providing for our needs and calming our storms. These stories remind us to turn to Him in every situation, trusting His power and compassion.
Hebrews 13:8 (KJV) – “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.”
Conclusion: Trusting Jesus Every Day
The miracles of Jesus show us that nothing is impossible for Him. He cares for us, provides for our needs, and brings peace to our hearts. By teaching these stories to children, we help them build a strong foundation of faith and trust in God’s power and love.
Encourage your kids to remember that Jesus is always with them—in times of joy and in times of fear—and He will never leave them.
