Heaven Is Being Close to God

Story to read: The Millennium
Bible: Revelation 20

The Picture

What is heaven really like? Some people think it’s just clouds and harps. But heaven is even better than that: heaven is being close to God, forever. It’s like the warmest hug that never has to end. It’s being right next to the person who loves you the very most, all the time, with nothing ever pulling you apart again.

That’s what heaven is: close to God, safe with God, happy with God — the best thing there is, forever and ever.

Our Refrain

“Jesus wins, and he loves us.”

Ask: “What is heaven?” (Being close to God, forever!)

Activity

Close and Cozy Circle: Have everyone sit in a tight little circle or group hug and say together, “Heaven is being close to God, forever!” Talk about a favorite cozy, safe feeling (like being tucked in at bedtime, or held by someone who loves you) and say heaven feels even better than that, forever.

Coloring option: Color a picture of children and grown-ups holding hands in a circle around a bright light, showing everyone close together with God.

Simple Prayer

“God, thank you that heaven means being close to you forever. I want to be close to you now, too. Amen.”

Note for the Teacher

This session intentionally leaves out any teaching on hell — the outline calls for framing this entirely positively. If a child asks what happens to people who don’t want to be close to God, a simple, gentle answer for this age is: “God loves everyone and wants everyone close to him forever — that’s what we’re celebrating today.” Keep the whole session focused on the warmth and safety of nearness to God.