Recognizing how Jesus changes our lives is so encouraging. Let’s see if we can identify some of these changes in our own lives and those around us.

• Sometimes meeting Jesus leads to immediate changes, and other times the changes seem more gradual. Have you ever known someone whose life was dramatically different after becoming a Christian? (Answers will vary. You and other adult classroom leaders might want to share from their experience as well.)
• What are some specific changes that can occur when we trust in Jesus? (There are immediate changes that are not visible: we were lost and then are found, we have eternal life, we are part of God’s family. Outwardly, we might treat our friends and family with more respect, patience, and kindness. We might change old habits such as media consumption. We might have more discipline to obey the biblical commandments.)

Distribute supplies (or invite students to have them ready at home). Have students write down this sentence: “I am becoming more _______, _______, and _________.” If you are meeting online, consider writing the sentence on a doc and sharing your screen. You may want to share your own words (example: patient, forgiving, and disciplined). Teens will fill in the blanks with words that reflect their own personal growth. Allow your students to decorate their reminder as time allows. Challenge them to post this in their bedrooms to remind them that they are becoming more like Jesus every day.

When you look your paper or card, what do you see? All of us are on a journey. Will you commit to encouraging your friends and family members when you see them demonstrating positive changes? Let’s do this not only this week, but all the time. We need each other!

Be sure to circle back with students during the week either by texting or emailing. Encourage them as they are working through the change this week. You could also share with them if they ask you how you are doing with the challenge.