A Quick Change

Theme: Now is the time to trust in the Lord; later may be too late.

Bible Verses: Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. (Matthew 24:40–41)

Materials Needed:

• Small glass or plastic containers

• Index cards, 3” x 5” or 4” x 6”

• Pennies

Bible Lesson

In this day of self-sufficiency it is important to remember that the world is temporary and life is short. The Lord began this present world, and he will also end it someday. The Scripture lesson describes the second coming of Christ after the time of distress is past (Matthew 24:29). Two people working side by side will be separated, one taken away to judgment while the other is left to enjoy the Lord’s presence. Verses 37–39 compare this separation to the great flood, when the wicked perished and the faithful remained safe on board the ark. The message still applies to us. We should always be prepared and ready for the Lord’s coming.

Science Activity

This activity is fun for all ages. It involves the rapid removal of a card from under a coin so that the coin falls into a glass. First, cover the top of the glass with the card and place the coin on the card. Next, knock the card from under the coin with a rapid flick of the finger. This takes a bit of practice. The goal is to get the penny to drop downward into the glass.

The coin is said to have inertia. The rapid motion of the card does not put appreciable force on the coin. Suddenly, the coin loses its support and gravity takes over. Similarly, life conditions at any moment can change quickly, especially when the Lord returns.

When the card is removed rapidly, the coins fall into the glass.

Science Explanation

The law of inertia was studied by Galileo and Isaac Newton four centuries ago. It states that objects at rest remain at rest, and objects in motion remain in motion, unless a force is applied. Note that this is a description of nature and not a fundamental explanation, which is still lacking in the science realm.

The root meaning of the word inertia is “lazy” or “sluggish.” All objects, including coins, have inertia. Thus they tend to resist sudden motion. If time permits, this activity can be made more dramatic. It involves a small tablecloth (without a hem), dishes, a glass, and silverware. Use a small table covering, about four feet by four feet, and dishes that are somewhat heavy (and inexpensive). For added effect, fill the glass with water. When preparations are complete, take hold of an edge of the table covering with both hands. Add to the suspense by acting unsure of yourself. Pull it slowly to show that everything moves. Then quickly jerk the tablecloth off the table in a downward direction. As with the coin, the place setting should be left undisturbed. Practice this activity ahead of time, as always.