Read some of Jesus' parables and discuss the symbolic meanings. Put children in small groups. Ask them to think of a situation from today's society that illustrates the same point and act it out. For instance, in the parable of the talents from Matthew chapter 25, children might compare it to a wealthy businessman who entrusts his affairs to his three financial advisors. The first two invest some money and receive good returns on it and their boss is pleased. The last just keeps the money in a safe deposit box so he won't risk losing the boss' money. The boss fires him for not even trying. Alternatively, you can read a modern illustration such as Kids' Sunday School Place's account of a farmer who tries to rescue birds from the dangerous cold without success. Ask the children how the story relates to God sending Jesus to earth in human form.
The frequent rejoinder to be "like Jesus" can be intimidating for kids who wonder what they could possibly have in common with someone who was never even naughty as a child. A simple warm-up activity from Kids' Sunday School Place asks kids to compare themselves to Jesus -- birthplace, family life, travels, experiences, goals and temptations. Make a class chart that answers these questions for each child and Jesus to illustrate that just like Jesus, every child is born into a family who loves him and takes care of him, teaches him family traditions, takes trips together and faces temptations.
Set up a medical play station with doctor costumes and equipment. Let the kids take turns playing patients with broken bones, diseases and chronic conditions such as blindness and deafness and doctors. When they come to this clinic, Dr. Jesus heals them.
In Matthew chapter seven, Jesus instructs the people that they will be able to discern the righteous from the unrighteous, "by their fruits." In other words, someone who has truly committed herself to Jesus will show evidence through her actions in daily living. Challenge children to decide whether a person's lifestyle matches his profession to be a follower of Christ. Read some brief descriptions of a fictional person, such as "Bob takes his family to church every Sunday. He frequently donates money to church projects and local charities. He is an electrician and earns a good living but he overcharges customers he doesn't like while giving huge discounts to his buddies." Sunday School Resources lists other possible scenarios. Ask the children whether each person's actions are a Christ-like example to others and why or why not.