The flight to Egypt (recorded in Matthew 2:13-23) provides additional evidence of Joseph’s care for Mary and Jesus.
Because of his obedience, Joseph, Mary, and Jesus were able to escape King Herod’s anger and make their way to Egypt.
The gifts from the wise men probably provided the funds needed for their trip.
This passage references a fulfillment of the prophecy found in Hosea 11:1,
When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.
Read the story written for young children on pp. 186-189 in the Whirl Story Bible: Lectionary Edition.
Discussion Topics
Joseph’s obedience
God’s protection
Traveling at night in the sandy desert
Focus Verse
Joseph got up and, during the night, took the child and his mother to Egypt.
Matthew 2:14 CEB
Commentary
To let us know that in Jesus, Emmanuel, God did indeed draw near to us, took on our lot and our life, and experienced and endured all that we did — disappointment, fear, violence, even death. All so that we would know that we are not alone — that we do not suffer alone, fear alone, live and die alone.
David Lose, Working Preacher
Hands-On Preschool Activities
Choose one or more of these hands-on activities as you guide the discussion with your children.
Print and glue these simple paper pyramids. (If you have younger preschoolers, prepare the pyramids in advance.) Add them to a tray of magic sand or sandy playdough for sensory play.
Create palm trees from pipe cleaners and green and brown pony beads.
Make a nighttime picture with blue or black construction paper, a paper moon, and star stickers.
Help your students cut, fold, and glue the storytelling diorama.
