Last Updated on March 6, 2024
Easter is such a powerful and holy season that is quickly being overshadowed by an overgrown rabbit, and the real meaning is lost on over-sugared children.
Many adults are even unsure as to why we celebrate Easter and why it is even more important than Christmas. Discover (or rediscover) the beauty of this pivotal event in the relationship between God and man!
- If you are unfamiliar with why Easter is celebrated, read the account of Jesus’ death and resurrection in Matthew chapter 28, Mark chapter 16, Luke chapter 24, John chapters 20 – 21, and Acts chapter 1.
- Rediscover why you celebrate Easter and pull yourself away from the plastic eggs, fluffy bunnies, and chicks with a time of self-examination through reading scripture.
- If your kids have Easter baskets, try and keep the focus off of the “stuff.” How about a new children’s devotional or book? Include a bookmark with a scripture about a character trait you would like for them to grown in this year, or include a cross necklace (on a leather cord for your son) and explain the significance of the cross.
- Make Resurrection Rolls and put them in bright baskets to give to friends and neighbors. Be sure to include an explanation on why the rolls are “empty” (to signify the empty tomb — Christ is risen!).
- Check local news sites for listings of Passion plays in your area. Invite another family to attend with you.
- Make time as a family to watch movies that bring to reality the stories of the Bible, The Ten Commandments with Charlton Heston might be old, but it sets you up for great discussion. For adults and older children The Passion of the Christ, though it is hard to watch, brings the reality of the cross before your eyes, and heart.
- Introduce your family to the concept of dying to our selfish desires to train our focus on God and deepen our relationship with Him by fasting. Fasting doesn’t necessarily mean skipping a meal. What would be a sacrifice for your family? Replacing dessert with a time of prayer? Going TV-free for a week? Singing praises together instead of plugging in to an iPod?
- Celebrate Passover and the Last Supper with a traditional Seder. What a meaningful way to teach your children that Christ is our sacrificial Lamb in fulfillment of Scripture.
Spring is a time of new life and awakening. Encourage your family in a spiritual awakening!
