What an exciting start to our intergenerational summer adventure as we began our journey through the life of Moses! Families, children, youth, and adults gathered together to learn, create, worship, and discover an important truth that will guide us throughout this month's adventure:

Setting the Stage for Moses

We began our evening by introducing the songs that will accompany us throughout our Month of Moses. As voices from every generation joined together in worship, we were reminded that God's faithfulness spans all ages.

Next, we were introduced to Moses and the incredible story that led to his birth. Participants learned how God used Joseph's difficult journey to Egypt to save His people during a terrible famine. What began as a story of jealousy and hardship became a story of God's provision and protection.

As we explored the history of the Israelites, we discovered how Jacob's family settled in Egypt and grew into a great nation. But after many years, a new Pharaoh came to power who did not remember Joseph. The Israelites were forced into slavery, creating the circumstances that would eventually lead God to raise up Moses as their deliverer.

One of the key lessons from this part of the story was:

"God used Joseph's difficult journey to protect His people. What looked like a tragedy became the way God provided safety, food, and a future for Israel."

Discovering the Word "Protect"

Our Large Group activity centered around the word PROTECT. Volunteers helped reveal the letters one at a time as participants guessed the mystery word. Once the word was discovered, we discussed the many ways protection appears in the story of Baby Moses.

• Moses' mother protected him by placing him in a basket.
• God protected Moses as he floated along the Nile River.
• Pharaoh's daughter protected Moses by choosing to care for him.
• Miriam protected her baby brother by courageously watching over him and helping reunite him with his mother.

Throughout the evening, participants were encouraged to gently pat their knees whenever they heard the name "Moses" and make a hug motion whenever they heard the word "protect."

Diving into Scripture

Before reading Scripture, groups discussed important questions:

• How do your parents take care of you?
• How does God protect and take care of you?

Participants shared in many different ways—through conversation, drawings, pointing to pictures, and partnering with friends.

We then explored Exodus 1:8-22 and Exodus 2:1-10, reading about the difficult circumstances facing the Israelites and the miraculous protection surrounding Baby Moses.

The story sparked thoughtful discussion:

• How would you have protected Baby Moses?
• What do you think Pharaoh's daughter thought when she found the baby?
• How did Moses' mother and sister feel?
• Which woman in the story showed the greatest trust in God?

Together, we saw how God was already working behind the scenes long before Moses would become the leader who delivered Israel from Egypt.

Save Moses! Basket Regatta Challenge

The highlight of the evening may have been our hands-on engineering challenge!

Participants were tasked with creating a floating basket for Baby Moses using everyday materials. Their baskets had to be no larger than 3" x 5", hold their precious cargo safely, and travel down a rain gutter using only their breath, a straw, a paper fan, or gentle assistance.

The creativity was incredible! Families worked together, problem-solved, encouraged one another, and celebrated every successful voyage. The activity reminded us that just as Moses was carefully protected in his basket, God continues to care for us through every challenge we face.

A Beautiful Ending

The Basket Regatta provided a joyful ending to a wonderful first week together.

As we left, everyone carried home this important truth:

God protected Moses. God protected His people. And God continues to protect and care for us today.

We can't wait to continue The Moses Adventure next week as we discover more about God's plan and purpose for Moses and His people!