This week’s lesson is based on the importance of supporting each other as we each strive to be Christ-like. To kick off we started with a game I call “Marshmallow Relay”
The Game:
We set up two main stations. Station 1 is a small table with marshmallows, and station 2 is across the room with a small bucket/bowl. Between the two points are a few designated markers. Each student is then given a plastic spoon and told to put the handle in their mouth.
At the first station, a student attempts to put a marshmallow on their spoon without using their hands. If they are struggling, a second student can (without using their hands) help that student. The Marshmallow carrier must walk to the first marker and pass the marshmallow to the next student. They progress to the next marker. Depending on how many markers are set up, you’ll see several fascinating trades until they reach the bowl, at which point they drop the marshmallow.
If a student drops the marshmallow, they must pick it back up without using their hands. Again another student is allowed to help them pick it up without using their hands too.
This game got absolutely wild and silly as they attempted to pick up the marshmallow from the table and the floor!
The Lesson
Tonight, we dove into Galatians 6:1-5.
In verses 1-2, we are told to share each other’s burdens and help each other if we stumble and fall off the path God has for us (sin). The attitude of helping, however, should be marked with gentleness and humility.
The question should be asked, why should we do it with gentleness and humility? Verse 1 tells us to be careful when we help others so that we can avoid the same temptation; then, verse 3 tells us that we shouldn’t act like we’re too good or important to help others. The text suggests that in the community context, we should realize that we may all stumble and fall and have issues. No one is perfect, and the same grace we desire from others should be given to others.
In our game, each student had their own struggles. But it was necessary for them to get down and help each other to accomplish the mission ahead. If we are to be successful in our walk with Christ, we need a community of believers who are humble and graceful enough to help each other carry our burdens.
While the passage teaches us the importance of relying on each other, it also reminds us of our personal responsibility through verses 4 and 5. In these verses, we are told not to compare our walk with Christ to others. Focus on your own walk and let God help you grow because, at the end of the day, you’re responsible for your own actions and words. Yes, the community is there to help you and each other, but if you’re not doing what you need to do, then you’re taking away the time they need to focus on what God has for them.
Adventures in Student Ministry 