Trailblazer: a 4-Week Teaching Series for Children's Ministry Topic: Jesus' Teachings Scripture: the Gospels Decorating Theme: The Great Outdoors Age Group: Elementary Discipleship Activity: Get Trailblazer Journals, the discipleship activity that goes along with this teaching series, here! Jesus was a true trailblazer—not just for his time, but for all time! Jesus' teachings and way of life often went against the grain of what people expected, showing us a whole new way to live and love. While blazing new trails, Jesus never wavered from the path of following God, and he paved the way for us to follow his lead. In this 4-week series, kids will learn to trust Jesus even when it’s not easy, show others the way to God, let God’s love take the lead, and pray the way Jesus prayed. BIG IDEAS & BIBLE STORIES Let’s trust Jesus even when it’s not easy! (The Beatitudes: Matthew 5:1–12; James 1:2–12) Let’s show others the way to God! (Salt and Light: Matthew 5:13–20; Colossians 3:12–17) Let God’s love take the lead! (Love for Enemies: Matthew 5:43–48; Psalm 99:1–5) Let’s pray the way Jesus prayed! (The Lord's Prayer: Matthew 6:5–15; Psalm 32:1–7) WEEKLY CURRICULUM SUMMARIES: This week, kids explore Jesus' teachings about blessings called the Beatitudes. Hiking can be tough, but the view at the top is worth it. This week, we'll hear how Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with a series of blessings for things that seem contrary to what we might naturally want to do. Even when following God’s path feels hard, it leads to something greater, so let’s trust Jesus even when it’s not easy! This week, kids explore Jesus' teachings about being the salt and light of the world. Using a flashlight on a dark trail or sprinkling salt to perk up a campfire meal can make a big difference. This week, we'll learn how Jesus taught that we’re like salt and light—helping others see God’s goodness and inviting others to glorify God. Through our good deeds and the way we shine God’s love, let’s show others the way to God! This week, kids explore Jesus' teachings about showing love for our enemies. It’s not always easy to share a tent with someone who wants all the space. This week, we'll hear how Jesus taught us to love others—even those who might be unkind—by showing kindness without expecting anything in return, just like God loves us unconditionally. When it’s hard to respond with love, we can choose to follow God’s example and let God’s love take the lead! This week, kids explore Jesus' teachings about how to talk to God through the Lord's prayer. Saying the same prayer over and over can feel like walking the same trail many times without noticing the beauty all around you. This week, we'll learn how Jesus taught us to talk to God through the Lord’s Prayer, showing that prayer isn’t about fancy words or routines but about a real connection with God. By following Jesus’ example, let’s pray the way Jesus prayed! MEMORY VERSE: “Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior.” — Psalm 25:5a (NIV)