Invite one of these persons to share with the children about the beginning of your congregation. The architecture of sanctuaries is filled with symbols and meaning. One congregation in Northbrook, IL has a framed plaque hung in the sanctuary that describes all of the many details in the sanctuary with biblical, historical, and ministry meanings. Spend time exploring the sanctuary with children by walking around, touching woods and fabrics, and hearing the stories about the sanctuary that shape the community. The preceding weeks culminate in this passage.
Children can understand what it is like to make a choice.
Many children are in a supportive environment where parents nurture their children in a Christian home, while there are many children who face difficulties in being a Christian. Children who follow Jesus might be made fun of, have family members who are not supportive, or live in a culture where to be a Christian is to be in physical danger. This would be a time to talk about peer pressure with older children in a safe environment with mature Christians they trust. Younger children can role play situations where they can rehearse different responses, such as choosing to pick up toys when a parent asks or to keep on playing, or taking special care of a Bible or Bible story book. As you take each one out ask what is great about the item and also how it might break or go out of style.