To demonstrate the idea of physical actions being important, use a sequence game. The leader stands at the front and does a series of simple actions (e.g. clap hands, stamp feet, touch head) for the congregation to copy. Build this up over several rounds. How many items can be in the pattern before no one remembers it all?

This activity is easily adapted to a variety of abilities. For example, if some of your attendees can’t stand, use actions that can be done sitting down. You could add verbal actions as well (e.g. shout “hello”) or even include actions that require interaction with neighbours (e.g. high five).

Example:
Round 1: clap, stamp, clap
Round 2: clap, stamp, clap, pat head, turn around
Round 3: clap, stamp, clap, pat head, turn around, clap, clap, tap knees
Round 4: clap, stamp, clap, pat head, turn around, clap, clap, tap knees, stamp, clap, stamp

Psalm 95:6-7a (ending after “he is our God) – used as the call to worship to set the scene and invite people into worship.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Romans 12:1

In the talk, we consider why we should worship (it’s simple, it’s because of how much God loves us!) and how we worship. We use the image of a treasure map; if you just sit look at it then you’ll never get the treasure. It’s the same with worship; if you don’t actively worship, then you don’t get the treasure of a close relationship with God.

For the talk, you will need a BIG picture of a treasure map and a way to display it at the front. We’re talking big enough to be seen by the people on the back row. You could either get someone to draw one, or print one on multiple sheets of paper to stick together. On the map, draw a wavy path, running from one side to the other. Position this at the front of the church, before the service starts.

You’ll also need a smaller picture of an arm chair, and one of a box of treasure. Keep these tucked away somewhere safe until you add them to the map during the talk.

A download of the treasure map is available, along with additional images you will need. There is also a photo example of the map we used in the photo gallery. 

As we respond, we invite people consider the questions asked at the end of the talk: how do you worship? When do you worship? Does this need to change?

There are three responses we suggest for this service:

1. Draw yourself on the treasure map as a commitment to move out of a place of observation/passivity into a lifelong journey of worship.
2. Offer space to for people to kneel down/raise hands/be physical in prayer.
3. Bury some treasure (e.g. chocolate coins) for people to find. Invite people to find coins each, one to keep for themselves and one to offer to God by placing it in on the alter.

To prepare the response options, you will need to provide some felt-tip pens for people to use to draw themselves on the map.

Space for physical worship can be anywhere. You may want to designate a space at the front, by a communion rail, but people can also respond where they are. You may wish to offer some cushions that people can kneel on if they wish; church floors can be hard!

For the buried treasure, get a large tub (the size depends on the size of your congregation) and fill it with something like sand, or shredded paper. Mix in enough items of treasure (wrapped sweets or chocolates) that there are two per person. Place the box on a table (if you have access to a tuff tray, these are a great way to keep any mess contained) and invite people to  come and search for their own buried treasure.