The 5-Finger Prayer

 

            Today's Snack: Make Jell-O Jigglers to go with this activity. Enjoy with some fruit juice.

 

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Supplies:

Jell-O Jigglers - 5 bite-sized cubes for each student

 

           

            The 5-Finger Prayer is a fun way to remember to pray, and who to pray for. Place 5 Jell-O Jigglers in front of each child. As you learn about the prayer that each of your five fingers symbolizes, enjoy a Jell-O Jiggler. Like prayer, it's sweet!

 

 

 

 

            1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."

            2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your daily prayers.

            3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.

            4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. This is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will tell you. It reminds us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.

            5. And last comes our little finger, your pinkie. It's the smallest finger of all -- which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective. You count - but never put yourself first. Leave that to God!