October

I Can Show Love for Others by Serving Them

Everywhere Jesus went, He showed love by serving the people around Him. He healed the sick, comforted those who were sad, and blessed little children. He didn’t just serve when it was easy—He served because He truly loved everyone, even those who were unkind to Him. When we choose to help others, we are following Jesus’s example. We are being like Him when we share, include someone who feels lonely, or do something kind without being asked. As you teach the children to show love by serving others, you are helping them understand what it means to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ. The Savior said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35).

Jesus showed love for others.

• At the end of this lesson are pictures of Jesus showing love for others. Consider letting the children take turns picking one to talk about. You could discuss questions like these:

  • What is happening in this picture? (You might read together the scriptures referenced with each image.)

  • How do you think the people are feeling during this moment?

  • How can we follow Jesus’s example?

• Perhaps the children could share other stories they know about Jesus loving and serving others. If they need help, they could look for examples in New Testament Stories. Consider pausing the story occasionally to discuss questions like those listed previously.

I can show love for others by serving them.

• Can you think of a time when you felt loved because someone served you? Share that experience with the children and encourage them to share any similar experiences they’ve had. Then they could think of family members, friends, or others they know who may need help. It might be fun for them to trace their hands on a piece of paper and label it “Helping Hand.” Then they could write or draw on the helping hand one way they can serve others. Here are some examples:

  • Helping their parents wash dishes or clean the house

  • Giving a hug and saying kind words to someone who is sad

  • Becoming a friend to someone who is lonely at school

• You could also sing a song together such as “I’m Trying to Be like Jesus” (Children’s Songbook, 78–79). Children could think of hand actions to go along with the words.