John the Baptist: Hey, kids! This is a buffling story about a guy named John who lived in the desert and threw a big splash party by the river! He had a super important job to get everyone ready for Jesus. Let’s dive in!
John’s Desert Life
John grew up near the Jordan River. He wasn’t into fancy things and wore a scratchy camel-hair shirt—like a fuzzy blanket! He ate locusts (crunchy bugs!) and sweet honey. “Yum!” he said. He looked wild, but he was happy out there.
A Big Job from God
God gave John a special mission. “Tell everyone I’m sending someone awesome soon!” God said. That someone was Jesus! John jumped up. “I’m on it!” he shouted. He ran to the river, ready to get loud and splashy.
Shouting by the Water
The Jordan River sparkled in the sun. John stood tall. “Get ready!” he yelled. People came from towns—moms, dads, kids, everyone! “What’s he saying?” they asked. John’s voice boomed. “Someone special is coming! Be good and love each other!”
Splash Time
John had a fun idea. “Say sorry for bad stuff, and let’s wash it away!” he said. He dunked people in the river—splash, splash! The water was cool. Kids giggled. “I feel new!” people said. John called it baptizing. It was like a big clean start!
Crowds Get Curious
More people showed up. “Who’s the special one?” they asked. John grinned. “He’s bigger than me! I’m just the helper!” he said. Fancy leaders in robes came too. “Are you the big deal?” they asked. “Nope!” John said. “I’m pointing to him!”
Busy River Days
The riverbank got muddy. John kept splashing people. Farmers, fishermen, even sneaky tax guys came! “Come on in!” John said. He didn’t care who you were. His hair was messy. His smile was big. He loved his job!
Talking About Jesus
One day, John said, “The special one’s shoes are so cool, I can’t even untie them!” The crowd buzzed. “Who is it?” they wondered. John just laughed. He knew Jesus was close. Birds chirped. The desert felt alive with excitement.
Spreading the Word
People went home happy. “John’s wild, but he’s right—something big’s coming!” they said. The news spread fast. John kept baptizing and eating bugs. He was the loudest cheerleader for Jesus, getting everyone pumped!
Summary for Kids: John the Baptist
So, kids, John the Baptist lived in the desert and splashed people in the river to get them ready for Jesus. He shouted, “Be good!” and told everyone a special someone was coming. It was a wet, wild party!
Would you eat John’s bug snacks? What would you say by the river?
Read More: The Birth of Jesus
