“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 7 v 19 – 21

Lesson Aim

To understand that a person needs to value lasting treasures.

Hook: A sock, a packet of sweets, a Bible, a £5 note

Select one child to help you. Dramatically bring out a sock inside which you have hidden a £5 note. Lay it on a table in front of the child, alongside the packet of sweets and the Bible.

Explain that you are going to give the child which ever one of the items they wish to select with no catches. They select it and take it for themselves.

Application

Most children will select the sweets which is what you are aiming for. Then ask them how long the sweets will last for – 10 minutes / half an hour?

Take the sock and reveal the money. Suggest things which they might have bought with the five pounds. These could have lasted for a month or perhaps six months.

Finally refer to the Bible. How long will the truths in the Bible last for? Eternity. This is the ‘treasure’ which every person needs to value and needs to store up in their hearts.

Story tip

Give some thought as to which child you ask – a “church child” may choose the Bible because they feel that is what’s expected of them!