Today’s object lesson is on the theme of team work. I hope this can be of interest to youth ministries, youth counselors, family devotionals and family home evenings:

Object lesson: a can opener.

Present a can opener to the family or class and discuss how each component of the can opener contributes to the opener’s mission, to open cans.

The blade must be sharp to cut into the lid.

The handle must be turned to move the blade along the metal to be cut.

The handles need to be pressed together to force the blade to be inserted into the lid to cut the can.

Each of these is a different members of the can opener. Each has a specific purpose. Each must do their job fully in order for the rest to be successful. Discuss with the class the traits you feel that make a successful team. Or what traits can make a happy and functioning family unite or class. You might discuss such topics as: Leadership, sharing the glory, practice or   knowing tour duties to name just a few.

Discuss how each person’s personality and insight can provide a unique perspective to a question that others may not discover. Discuss the possible consequences when a team does not work together. If you have some personal experiences you would like to share regarding successful or unsuccessful team work, this may be a good time to share them.

Have something to add to today’s blog? Feel free to do so in the comment section of this blog.