Following the Star: The Story of the Wise Men 

Long ago, when Jesus was still a little child, something amazing happened in the sky. A new star appeared, brighter than any other star. Far away, in countries east of Israel, there were wise men who studied the stars. One night, they noticed this new bright star, and they felt in their hearts that God was showing them something special.

The wise men knew that this shining star meant a great king had been born. Not just any king, but the king promised by God. So they packed their bags, brought their gifts, and traveled on a long journey. The road was dusty, the days were hot, and the nights were cold, but they kept going because they wanted to meet Jesus.

When they reached Jerusalem, they asked, “Where is the child born to be king ” King Herod heard about this, and he pretended to be interested, but his heart was not good. He told the wise men to find the child and come back to him, but he did not plan to worship Jesus.

The star moved again, and the wise men followed it until it stopped right above the house where Jesus was staying. They were filled with so much joy. When they saw Jesus with Mary, His mother, they knelt down and worshiped Him. They opened their treasures and gave Him gold, frankincense, and myrrh. That night, God warned the wise men in a dream not to go back to Herod, so they took a different road home. They listened to God and obeyed Him.

Memory Verse:

Matthew 2:10
“When they saw the star, they were filled with joy.”

Three Lessons to Learn:

1. God guides us when we look for Him. The wise men found Jesus because their hearts were sincere.

2. Jesus deserves our best. The wise men brought special gifts. We can give Jesus our love and obedience.

3. Obeying God keeps us safe. The wise men listened to God in their dream and followed His direction.

Suggested Arts and Crafts:

• Make a star lantern: Craft a star using cardboard and colored paper. Place a small light inside to remind kids that God guides us.

• DIY treasure boxes: Kids decorate small boxes and add drawings of what they want to offer to Jesus.

• Journey map: Create a map showing the wise men’s travel and let kids draw the star along the path.

Suggested Games:

• Follow the star: Hide stars around the room; kids follow the trail until they reach “Bethlehem.”

• Gift relay: Kids run while carrying “gifts” to represent giving their best to Jesus.

• Star freeze dance: Play music while kids dance; when the music stops, they freeze like shining stars.

Suggested Sunday School Songs:

1. “O star of wonder”

2. “This little light of mine”

3. “Away in a manger”

Story Powerpoint: Download