Exploring Manna and Quail: A Journey Through Exodus 16

Today, we're diving into an incredible story from the Bible about God's provision for the Israelites during their journey through the desert. As they traveled towards the Promised Land, they faced many challenges, but God never let them go hungry. Instead, He provided them with quail and manna—two miraculous foods that played a vital role in their survival.

The Quail Call

First up, let's talk about quail. The Israelites enjoyed this delightful bird as a source of meat. I have a smaller stuffed version of a quail that can actually make a lifelike call when you press a button—how cool is that? It's not only affordable, but it adds a fun element to your lessons. 

What is Manna?

Now, onto the star of the show—manna! This heavenly food was new to the Israelites, and its name literally means "What is it?" Imagine pulling out a jar of this mysterious substance in front of your younger students and asking them if they think it looks appetizing. When they inevitably ask, "What is it?" you can respond with a grin, "Exactly!"

For the older kids, you could up the ante by revealing that it’s actually potato flakes! To really engage them, arrange for your classroom helper to ask you the question at the right moment, and then launch into a fun "Who's on First?" routine reminiscent of Abbott and Costello. It's a fantastic way to keep the energy high and the learning fun!

The Bread from Heaven

Manna came down every morning with the dew and was described as tasting like wafers made with honey. Isn't that a delightful image? But there was one important rule: hoarding was strictly forbidden! Those who tried to gather more than a day's worth would wake up to discover a pot of worms in their bucket the next morning. God wanted His people to depend on Him daily for their needs, and this lesson of faith is just as relevant for us today.

As we reflect on this story, it's essential to remember the deeper lesson behind God's provision. He desires us to rely on Him for our daily needs, encouraging a relationship built on trust and faith. This is a reminder that we are never alone in our journeys; God is always there to provide for us.

Props Over Paper

As we wrap up, I want to emphasize one last point: props are always better than paper! Engaging with tangible items like stuffed animals and jars of food can transform a lesson into an unforgettable experience for students. This hands-on approach not only makes learning more enjoyable but also deepens their understanding of biblical stories.

Find curriculum to go with this craft!

Our "Walking Alingside Jesus" curriculum helps your students see Jesus through the Old Testament!

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