It’s springtime, which means we’re inching closer to Resurrection Day — and what better opportunity to teach our children about Jesus?
As Christians, Easter Sunday serves as a reminder of a defining day in cosmic history, and it’s one we look forward to with joy, anticipation and gratitude.
Not just another holiday, Resurrection Sunday serves as an excellent opportunity to teach our children about Jesus and the selfless, life-changing work He did for us on the cross. Read on to learn how to prepare your child to celebrate Resurrection Day this year.
What is Resurrection Day?
Resurrection Day, otherwise known as Easter Sunday, is the day we celebrate Jesus rising from the dead as an atonement for our sins. Two thousand years ago, our Lord and Savior was brought into Jerusalem, tried, convicted and sentenced to a criminal’s death by crucifixion.
While the world thought they were killing a heretic and a blasphemer, our God had bigger plans. Jesus conquered death and paid the ultimate penalty for our sins. He tore the veil that separates us from God so we can be reconciled to Him once and for all.
Through this act, we have unhindered access to God. Those of us who place our faith in Jesus know that we have been justified and will spend an eternity with Him in paradise once we die. We commemorate Jesus’ unfathomable sacrifice on Resurrection Day and use this as an opportunity to celebrate His love for us and honor His work on the cross.
How to Prepare Your Children for Resurrection Day
Whether it’s your child’s first year celebrating Resurrection Day or you’re looking to add some new traditions to your usual lineup of activities, here are some tips to help you prepare your child for celebrating this day:
- Read the Bible story together. The crucifixion and Resurrection are included throughout the Gospels. For the full story, read Matthew 27 and 28 and meditate on God’s Word as a family.
- Discuss what the Resurrection means to you. Believers have a personal relationship with Jesus. Share yours with your children and encourage them to discuss why they are grateful Jesus died to save them.
- Write thank you notes to Jesus. If you need a hands-on way to engage younger children with the Resurrection story, encourage them to write letters or draw cards to thank Jesus for His sacrifice.
- Attend your church’s Palm Sunday and Good Friday services. Many churches divert from their usual sermon schedule to deliver topical Palm Sunday (the Sunday before Easter) and Good Friday (the Friday before Easter) services. During these times, the pastor may retell the crucifixion story, which is another good opportunity for your children to hear it.
KEY TAKEAWAY
On Resurrection Day, we commemorate and thank God for sending His Son, Jesus, to be the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. Use the days or weeks leading up to this holiday to remind your children about Jesus’ boundless love for them.
“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.’” ~Matthew 28:5-6 (NIV)
APPLICATION
The days and weeks leading up to Resurrection Day are the perfect time to build deeper connections with your children. Remind your children that God created them for a specific reason by playing Pile of Purpose.
Find this game and more now in the Everyday MomentsTM activities collection!
