Easter Devotion: My Father's Eyes (Day 15)

While all the people were listening, Jesus said to his disciples, "Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely."As he looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury.

He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 

"I tell you the truth," he said, "this poor widow has put in more than all the others.

All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; 

but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on." Luke 20:45-21:4

And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches.

Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.

For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.

And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will.  2 Corinthians 8:1-5

Questions:

- What was the warning that Jesus gave about the teachers of the law?

- Describe what he saw at the temple.

- Which offering do you think the religious leaders, the teachers of the law and the people standing around would think was more important - the rich or the poor widow's

- Which did Jesus point out as showing more faith?

- What about the Church in Macedonia...what were they recognized for by Paul?

- Which is more important - how much we give or how much faith and trust in God we have when we give it?

 - What can we learn from the widow and the church in Macedonia?

Thoughts: 

The Bible says that "Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7. God saw what it cost the rich to give to Him and what it cost the poor widow. He saw the level of trust that went behind each gift and He was more pleased with the widow's offering. But do we do the same when we look at those around us? Do we think highly of the celebrities of the world, the rich, the famous, the powerful yet turn away from the poor, the orphans, the widows? Who do we think about, pray for and admire? Our desire should be to see with God's eyes.

Prayer: 

Father God, help us to have your eyes...to see those around us for who they are on the inside and for their worth to You. Help us to give every bit of ourselves to you, no matter what it costs, knowing that You will take care of us. We love You Lord Jesus.

Poem: In the Bleak Mid-Winter (last verse)

What can I give Him,

Poor as I am?

If I were a shepherd

I would bring a lamb,

If I were a wise man

I would do my part,

Yet what I can I give Him,

Give my heart.

Song to Listen to:  My Father's Eyes

Here is the link: My Father's Eyes

For Further Study: 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: Stumbling Over Jesus (Day 14)

He went on to tell the people this parable: "A man planted a vineyard, rented it to some farmers and went away for a long time.

At harvest time he sent a servant to the tenants so they would give him some of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenants beat him and sent him away empty‑handed. He sent another servant, but that one also they beat and treated shamefully and sent away empty‑handed. He sent still a third, and they wounded him and threw him out.

"Then the owner of the vineyard said, 'What shall I do? I will send my son, whom I love; perhaps they will respect him.'

"But when the tenants saw him, they talked the matter over. 'This is the heir,' they said. 'Let's kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.' So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. "What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them?

He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others." When the people heard this, they said, "May this never be!"

Jesus looked directly at them and asked, "Then what is the meaning of that which is written: " 'The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone'?

Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces, but he on whom it falls will be crushed."

The teachers of the law and the chief priests looked for a way to arrest him immediately, because they knew he had spoken this parable against them. But they were afraid of the people.  Luke 20:9-19

Questions:

- What happened to the servants that the owner sent to collect some of the fruit?

- Then whom did the owner send? What did the tenants do to him?

- This parable was like a secret code. Who do you think the owner is? Who are the servants? Who is the son?

- What was the message that Jesus was trying to give through this story?

- Who understood Jesus' meaning and how did they react?

Thoughts: 

What made the Jewish leaders so angry was that Jesus was saying that He was God's son. Most of the Jewish leaders did not recognize that Jesus was God's Son because they were not pursuing God through faith but through works (but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it. Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the "stumbling stone." Romans 9:31-32). They did not want to believe that Jesus was the Son of God and they did not like that the people were following Him and listening to Him rather than listening to them. Today, if we tell the truth about Jesus, some will become very angry, just like the Jewish leaders. Many people do not want to believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to God. They want to think that they are good enough on their own and that they can earn their salvation.

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me the faith to believe that You are the Son of God, that God sent You to earth to die for my sins and rise from the dead. Help me to tell others about you, in a loving and gentle way.

Song:   I Lay in Zion

I lay in Zion for a foundation, a Stone,

I lay in Zion for a foundation, a Stone,

A tried Stone, a precious Cornerstone,

A sure Foundation, a sure Foundation.

A tried Stone, a precious Cornerstone,

he that believeth shall, shall not make haste.

Wonderful, counselor, the Mighty God,

The everlasting Father;

Wonderful, Counselor, Prince of Peace

Here is a link for the song: I Lay in Zion

For Further Study: 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: Why Was Jesus So Angry? (Day 13)

On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple area and began driving out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves,

and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts.

And as he taught them, he said, "Is it not written: " 'My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations'? But you have made it 'a den of robbers.'"

The chief priests and the teachers of the law heard this and began looking for a way to kill him, for they feared him, because the whole crowd was amazed at his teaching.

When evening came, they went out of the city.  

Mark 11:15-19

Questions:

- Did Jesus ever get angry? If so, when?

- What made Him angry?  (It wasn't just the unfair money exchanging and imperfect animals being sold there...the area of the temple where this was taking place was in the Court of the Gentiles. This was a place that was set aside for foreigners to come and pray and worship the Lord. All the noise and activity would have kept people from meeting the Lord and worshipping Him at the temple)

- Is church supposed to be a place where we run around, are loud and yell or is church a place where we are quiet, pray and sing praises to God?

- Like Jesus, is it ever okay to get angry? If so, when?

Thoughts: 

There were three things that made Jesus angry: 1) The money changers and sellers were making money off of worshipping God? (Can you see any parallels to this today in our culture?) 2) This area of the temple was set aside for the worship of God by foreigners and Jesus wanted to make sure that they had a chance to find God. (Are our churches friendly to strangers and those of another faith?)

3) They were treating God's place of worship with disrespect. Jesus got angry because people were not being treated right and God was not being honored. Those are good reasons to be angry.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, help us to welcome everyone to our church, no matter what they look like or where they are from. Help us to honor You, Lord. Thank you for Your love.

Song: Jesus Loves the Little Children

Additional information: Here is a website with printable children's activities that coincide with this story: Jesus Cleanses the Temple. I also blogged about this very topic. You can read it at Why was Jesus so angry?

For Further Study: 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: And Jesus Wept (Day 12)

As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.

The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side.

They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you." Luke 19:41-44

"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'

But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?

Be perfect (complete, entire, full-grown), therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." 

Matthew 5:43-48

Questions:

- Why do you think Jesus began to cry when He saw Jerusalem?

- Jesus had been to Jerusalem many times before, why do you think He cried this time?

- What did Jesus say would happen to Jerusalem?

(In 70 AD, the Romans conquered Jerusalem, destroyed the temple and totally demolished the city...this is what Jesus was referring to).

- What was the reason that these terrible things were going to take place?

- Many of the people in Jerusalem would turn against Jesus later in that same week and call for His death. Yet, He loved them. What lesson can we learn from Jesus?

- Could this same cry of Jesus apply to the world today?

Final Thought: 

If many of us had been treated the way Jesus was treated, we would have wanted revenge. Yet Jesus did not want revenge. He did not want judgment to fall upon Jerusalem. And He does not want judgment to fall upon our world. He wants everyone He created to experience His peace. But the only way they can do that is by accepting Jesus as their Savior. We can show love for our enemies by praying for them and sharing the story of Jesus with them when we have the chance.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, just as you wept over Jerusalem and its people, may our hearts be broken for those who are lost. Give us eyes to see and ears to hear the cries of those who have never known You and may we do all we can to bring them the saving knowledge of who You are and Your love for them. Use us, we pray. In Your name, Amen.

Song:  They Will Know We Are Christians

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord

And we pray that all unity may one day be restored

And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love

They will know we are Christians by our love

We will work with each other, we will work side by side

We will work with each other, we will work side by side

And we'll guard each one's dignity and save each one's pride

And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love

They will know we are Christians by our love

A great video of this song performed by Jars of Clay with mission footage is here: They'll know we are Christians

Food for Thought: 

This would be a great time to talk to your children about mission work. There are over 2 billion people who have never heard of the name Jesus. They, like Jerusalem, are wept over by our Lord Jesus. Our children can have hearts for the lost and a desire to share Christ with the world if we will pray and share with them what God is doing in the world and how they can be involved. Check out this blogspot for more info on sharing missions with your children and educating yourself.

For Further Study: 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: Praise Him (Day 11)

As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.

When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:

"Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!" 

"Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"

Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!"

"I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."  Luke 19:36-40

The next day the great crowd that had come for the Feast heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem.

They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the King of Israel!"

Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written,

"Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey's colt." At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.  John 12:12-16

Questions:

Why is it called Palm Sunday?  (the palm branch was a symbol of triumph and victory in the Jewish tradition)

Why did Jesus ride on a donkey?

What does it mean to fulfill prophecy?

Why were the people so excited to see Jesus?

What were the people expecting Jesus to do...die for them or rule over them as a Jewish king by conquering Rome?

Why do you think the Pharisees told Jesus to make everyone stop praising Him?

What did Jesus mean by his reply that "the stones will cry out?"

Final Thought: 

Jesus deserves our praise and our joy, but not for what he can do for us (like the Jews who praised Him for His miracles and for their hope in His conquering Rome) but for who He is. We can praise Him every day throughout the day, through singing, prayer, talking about who He is and what He has done, reading our Bibles and doing our best to obey Him. We can look forward with excitement to His return to earth some day!

Prayer:

We praise You Lord Jesus for who You are! You are mighty and powerful yet humble and gentle. Thank you for entering our hearts as our Savior. May we love You for who You are!

Songs:  All Glory, Laud and Honor 

All glory, laud, and honor,

to thee, Redeemer, King,

to whom the lips of children

made sweet hosannas ring.

1. Thou art the King of Israel,

thou David's royal Son,

who in the Lord's name comest,

the King and Blessed One.

(Refrain)

Here is a website for the music: All Glory

Praise Him 

Praise Him, praise Him,

praise Him in the morning,

praise Him in the noontime.

Praise Him, praise Him,

praise Him when the sun goes down.

For Further Study: 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: A Race to the Tomb (Day 10)

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.

So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!"

So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.

Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.

He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.

Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen.

Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)  John 20:1-9

Did you know that the forty days of Lent do not include the Sundays? Can you guess why that is? Lent is a time of thinking about Jesus' death. Every Sunday of the year, however, is a celebration of Jesus' resurrection. For that reason, we will spend the Sundays during Lent looking at one of the resurrection stories.

Questions:

- Why did Mary Magdalene go to the tomb early that Sunday morning? (the Sabbath time of rest was over and she had gone to the tomb to anoint Jesus' dead body with spices)

- What did Mary think when she saw that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb?

- Who were the two disciples that raced to the tomb? (the disciple "Jesus loved" is John, the author of the book of John)

- Who got there first?

- Why do you think John did not go in at first?

- What did Simon Peter discover inside the tomb?

- Do you think that if Jesus' body was taken by either an enemy or a friend, they would have taken off the strips of linen that wrapped His body and neatly folded the cloth that had been around Jesus' head?

- What do you think it means that John "saw and believed"?

Thoughts: 

The fact that John and Peter raced to the tomb, shows that in their hearts they still held out hope that all was not lost after Jesus' death, even though they did not understand His statements that He would rise from the dead. Peter, ever the leader and eager follower, pushes past John and enters the tomb. What do you think his thoughts were after he had, just two days before, denied ever knowing Jesus? Graciously, God allows Peter and John to see, with their own eyes, the empty, neat and orderly tomb. They believe even when they do not understand. We can learn a lesson from Peter and John. We may not always understand how or why God is doing something, but we can believe Him, have faith in Him and eagerly await the day when our faith will become sight.

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, thank you for rising from the dead! Thank you for giving us the Bible so that we can know this truth. Help us to have faith in You, even when we don't understand everything that is happening around us or to us. We celebrate your resurrection this day and every day!

Song: Christ the Lord is Risen Today

Christ, the Lord, is risen today, Alleluia!

Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!

Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!

Sing, ye heavens, and earth, reply, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia! 

Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia! 

Dying once, our souls to save, Alleluia! 

Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia! 

Love's redeeming work is done, Alleluia!

Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!

Death in vain forbids Him rise, Alleluia!

Christ has opened Paradise, Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia! 

Following our exalted Head, Alleluia! 

Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia! 

Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

Here is a link for the music: Christ the Lord is risen today

For Further Study: 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: Trust and Obey (Day 9)

As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them,

"Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it.' "

Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them.

As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?"

They replied, "The Lord needs it."

They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it.  Luke 19:28-35

Discuss 

- What did Jesus tell the disciples to do?

- Do you think this was a strange request...why?

- What did Jesus know about the colt/donkey? 

- Why would Jesus ride on a colt/donkey? (read Zechariah 9:9 - Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. - and discuss how Jesus fulfilled that prophecy)

- Did the disciples obey Him? Do you think they had any questions in their heads about this?

- Why do you think the owners let the disciples take the colt?

Final Thought: 

Sometimes the Lord calls us to do something. yet we still may worry how it will all work out. The disciples may have worried also. When we worry, we are basically saying to God that we don't trust Him to work in our lives the way He says He will. You see, Jesus knew all about the colt and how His Father in Heaven had prepared that colt for Him. In the same way, when Jesus asks us to do something, He already has everything prepared for us. All we have to do is trust and obey His Word.  

"Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength."

"But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Prayer: 

Thank the Lord for always preparing the way before us. Ask Him to help us walk in that way, trusting and obeying Him. 

Song: Trust and Obey

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,

What a glory He sheds on our way!

While we do His good will, He abides with us still,

And with all who will trust and obey.

Refrain:

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way

To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

But we never can prove

The delights of His love

Until all on the altar we lay;

For the favor He shows,

For the joy He bestows,

Are for them who will trust and obey.

Lord I love you, please help me to

Trust and obey

Then in fellowship sweet

We will sit at His feet,

Or we'll walk by His side in the way;

What He says we will do,

Where He sends we will go;

Never fear, only trust and obey.

Here is a website with the song and lyrics song

For further study 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: Extravagant Love (Day 8)

Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus' honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him.

Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, "Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages." He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.

"Leave her alone," Jesus replied. "It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me."

 John 12:1-8

Discuss 

1) Mary, Martha and Lazarus decided to give a dinner party, possibly celebrating how Lazarus had been raised from the dead. Who was the dinner given to honor?

2) How did Mary choose to honor Jesus?

3) Why was this so special?

4) Who was upset about it and why?

5) What did Jesus say to him?

6) What can we learn, from Mary's example, about loving Jesus?

Final Thought 

Mary was overwhelmed with her love for Jesus. She could have used the perfume for herself, maybe her wedding, or sold it, but she saw Jesus as more important. When she wiped his feet with her hair, she did the job of a servant. But Mary also did something else. Anointing was normally done to kings or very important people. Mary knew that Jesus was important and so, she anointed Him. What is a way that you can show Jesus that He is more important to you than the things you have?

Prayer 

Thank Jesus for His incredible love for us, a love that sent Him to the cross. Ask Him to help us love Him more than anything else in the world. 

Song - Lord, You are More Precious than Silver

Lord, You are more precious than silver.

Lord, You are more costly than gold.

Lord, You are more beautiful than diamonds,

And nothing I desire compares to You.

Who can weigh the value of knowing You?

Who can judge the worth of who You are?

Who can count the blessings of loving You?

Who can say just how great You are?

Here is a link for the music: Lord, You are

For further study 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: A Life Changed (Day 7)

Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy.

He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore‑fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.

When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.

All the people saw this and began to mutter, "He has gone to be the guest of a 'sinner.' "

But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount."

Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost."  Luke 19:1-10

Questions

What kind of man was Zacchaeus?

Why do you think he wanted to see Jesus? 

Why do you think Jesus wanted to eat at his home for dinner?

What did the people around Jesus think of His decision to eat with Zacchaeus? Why?

What did Zacchaeus decide to do after being with Jesus?

What lessons can we learn from Zacchaeus?

Final Thought 

Zacchaeus showed his faith in Jesus by what he did. First, he wanted to see Jesus so badly that he climbed a tree. Then, he gladly came down and hosted Jesus for dinner. Jesus didn't tell Zacchaeus to pay back the money he had stolen. Being with Jesus for even a short time caused Zacchaeus to want to do what was right and thus show his love for Jesus. Just an afternoon with Jesus totally changed his heart and his life. When we follow Jesus, we will want to do what is right also.  

Prayer

 Thank Jesus for accepting us just as we are but not leaving us like that. Thank Him that the Holy Spirit changes us on the inside once we accept Him as our Savior. 

Song - Just as I Am, without One Plea    (esp. the second verse)

Just as I am, without one plea, 

but that thy blood was shed for me, 

and that thou bidst me come to thee, 

O Lamb of God, I come, I come. 

Just as I am, and waiting not,

  To rid my soul of one dark blot,

  To Thee, Whose blood can cleanse each spot, 

O Lamb of God, I come, I come. 

Here is a music link. Just as I Am

You may also want to sing the children's song: Zacchaeus was a wee little man. Here is a link with music and words: Zacchaeus

For further study 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: Boldness in Action (Day 6)

As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by."

He called out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!"

Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!"

Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?"

"Lord, I want to see," he replied.

Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight; your faith has healed you."

Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God.  Luke 18:35-43

Discuss 

1) What did the blind man do when he heard that Jesus was passing by?

2) Why did people rebuke/scold him and tell him to be quiet?

3) What did he do when they hushed him?  Why?

4) When Jesus healed him, what did Jesus say had healed him?

5) Do you ever get embarrassed to tell others you are a Christian? If so, what lesson can you learn from the blind man?

6) What was the response of the people, who had previously scolded the blind man, once he was healed by Jesus?

7) Do you think your boldness for Jesus can bring praise to Him from other people?

Final Thought

Jesus was not embarrassed by the blind man's loud cries. He loved to see faith like that of the blind man, bold and persistent. It was a faith that 1) didn't care what others thought, 2) directly admitted his need and 3) followed Jesus immediately and gladly with a heart full of praise.

Prayer

Ask God to help you be more bold for Him and to trust that when you pray to Him, He hears you.

Song - Take My Life and Let It Be

Take my life and let it be

Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.

Take my hands and let them move

At the impulse of Thy love

At the impulse of Thy love

Take my feet and let them be

Swift and beautiful for Thee.

Take my voice and let me sing,

Always, only for my King.

Always, only for my King.

Take my lips and let them be

Filled with messages from Thee.

Take my silver and my gold,

Not a mite would I withhold.

Not a mite would I withhold

Take my love, my Lord, I pour

At Thy feet its treasure store.

Take myself and I will be

Ever, only, all for Thee.

Ever, only, all for Thee. 

Take my life and let it be

Consecrated Lord to Thee

Take myself and I will be 

Ever, only, all for Thee

Ever, only, all for Thee

Here is a link for music and lyrics - Song

For further study 

There are many children throughout the world who are very bold in their faith in Christ, especially in nations where it is hard to be a Christian. Sharing their stories can encourage a bolder faith in your children. A wonderful resource is Kids of Courage

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: Hold Everything with Open Hands (Day 5)

18  And a ruler asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 19 And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. 20 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’” 21 And he said, “All these I have kept from my youth.” 22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 23  But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich. 24 Jesus, seeing that he had become sad, said, “How difficult it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! 25 For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” 26 Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” 27 But he said, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” 28 And Peter said, “See, we have left our homes and followed you.” 29 And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come eternal life.”  Luke 18:18-30

Discuss
1) What question did the ruler ask Jesus?
2) How did Jesus answer? Why did the man go away sad?
3) Why do you think Jesus told him to sell everything he had?
4) What in your life might hold you back from following Jesus?

Final Thought
If we truly want to follow Jesus, we have to let it all go. Let go of everything of this world that holds our attention and our heart more than God. That's what Jesus was asking this rich young ruler...let go of your possessions. Don't you see that I am so much more fulfilling than money? Desire Me more than your riches. Yet the man went away sad because he could no do that. For some it may be riches, for others a career, for others the opinions of their family and friends, for others it's the dreams and goals they had for themselves. When we follow Jesus, we have to put all that before Him and say, take what you want, change what you want...my life belongs to You...I will follow where You lead. When we do that, He will answer, He will lead, He will strengthen us for the journey because, "What is impossible with men, is possible with God."

Prayer

Song - When I Survey the Wondrous Cross


1. When I survey the wondrous cross
on which the Prince of Glory died;
my richest gain I count but loss,
and pour contempt on all my pride.

2. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
save in the death of Christ, my God;
all the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to his blood.

3. See, from his head, his hands, his feet,
sorrow and love flow mingled down.
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,
or thorns compose so rich a crown.

4. Were the whole realm of nature mine,
that were an offering far too small;
love so amazing, so divine,
demands my soul, my life, my all.


Song with lyrics

Easter Devotion: Walking in Humility (Day 4)

(Jesus) told his next story to some who were complacently pleased with themselves over their moral performance and looked down their noses at the common people: "Two men went up to the Temple to pray, one a Pharisee, the other a tax man. The Pharisee posed and prayed like this: 'Oh, God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, crooks, adulterers, or, heaven forbid, like this tax man. I fast twice a week and tithe on all my income.'
"Meanwhile the tax man, slumped in the shadows, his face in his hands, not daring to look up, said, 'God, give mercy. Forgive me, a sinner.'"
Jesus commented, "This tax man, not the other, went home made right with God. If you walk around with your nose in the air, you're going to end up flat on your face, but if you're content to be simply yourself (to humble yourself), you will become more than yourself." Luke 18:9-14

Discuss
1) Describe the two men in the story. How were they alike? How were they different?
2) Which kind of prayer is easier to pray?
3) Which prayer did God like better? Why?
4) What does it mean to "humble yourself?"

Final Thought
We may not pray a prayer, like the Pharisee did, out loud, but how often do we think prideful thoughts...think we are better than other people, that we deserve good things because of our good behavior, think we are smarter, prettier, more talented...think that surely God should reward someone like us. When we think this way we are fooling ourselves. The truth is we all sin, we all make mistakes, think wrong thoughts, say wrong things, do wrong things. We all need Jesus to enter our lives, clean us up and change us from the inside out. We all need to be humbled...to stop thinking so much about ourselves and instead think so much about God.

Prayer

Song - Amazing Grace  

(maybe talk through the verses with your children before you sing this song...help them understand we don't "deserve" anything from God but praise Him, because of His grace we have all that we will ever need)

Easter Devotion: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen!!! (Day 3)

1 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” 8 Then they remembered his words.
 9 When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. 11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. 12 Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.  Luke 24:1-12


Did you know that the forty days of Lent do not include the Sundays? Can you guess why that is? Lent is a time of thinking about Jesus' death. Every Sunday of the year, however, is a celebration of Jesus' resurrection. For that reason, we will spend each of the six Sundays during Lent looking at one of the resurrection stories.

Discuss
1) What did the women expect to see and do at the tomb?
2) What did they find instead?
3) What was their reaction?
4) How do you think they felt when the disciples did not believe them?

Final Thought
These women loved Jesus very much. They followed Him and cared for Him during His life, watched and wept as He died on the cross, and continued to be faithful to Him in His death by bringing spices for His body. Unlike Jesus' disciples, these women did not deny Jesus or run away in fear when He was arrested. Isn't it fitting, then, that they were the first ones to know about His resurrection?

Prayer

Song - Christ the Lord is Risen Today

Christ, the Lord, is risen today, Alleluia! 

Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia! 

Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia! 

Sing, ye heavens, and earth, reply, Alleluia! 

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia! 

Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia! 

Dying once, our souls to save, Alleluia! 

Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia! 

Love's redeeming work is done, Alleluia! 

Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia! 

Death in vain forbids Him rise, Alleluia! 

Christ has opened Paradise, Alleluia! 

Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia! 

Following our exalted Head, Alleluia! 

Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia! 

Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

Here is a link for the music: Christ the Lord is risen today

* Some of the content of this blog is based on the book Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard.*

Easter Devotion: God Wants A Full House (Day 2)

Jesus replied. "There was once a man who threw a great dinner party and invited many. When it was time for dinner, he sent out his servant to the invited guests, saying, 'Come on in; the food's on the table.'
"Then they all began to beg off, one after another making excuses. The first said, 'I bought a piece of property and need to look it over. Send my regrets.'
"Another said, 'I just bought five teams of oxen, and I really need to check them out. Send my regrets.'
"And yet another said, 'I just got married and need to get home to my wife.'
"The servant went back and told the master what had happened. He was outraged and told the servant 'Quickly, get out into the city streets and alleys. Collect all who look like they need a square meal, all the misfits and homeless and wretched you can lay your hands on, and bring them here.' 
"The servant reported back, 'Master, I did what you commanded— and there's still room.'
"The master said, 'Then go to the country roads. Whoever you find, drag them in. I want my house full!'"
Luke 14:16-24

Discuss
1) Pretend that you were having the most fantastic birthday party ever - but everyone you invited said they couldn't come. How would that make you feel?
2) What did the man giving the party in Jesus' story do?
3) A parable is a story with a meaning. In this parable, the man giving the party is God. Whom did the first guests represent? The second group of guests? What message was Jesus giving the Jews throughout this story?
4) When God calls us to know Him or spend time with Him, sometimes we give excuses too. What are some of the excuses we use instead of accepting God's invitations?

Final Thought
God is always calling us to know Him better. He loves us so much! Just as parents want their children to know them better or friends want to know each other better, God wants us to know Him! Psalm 34:8 says "Taste and see that the Lord is good." Knowing God is like enjoying a wonderful feast. And we are invited because of what Jesus did on the cross for us. Those who accept will have a seat at God's glorious banquet in Heaven.

Prayer

Song - Just As I Am

 Just as I am, without one plea,
but that thy blood was shed for me,
and that thou bidst me come to thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
sight, riches, healing of the mind,
yea, all I need in thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Here is a link for the music:  Just as I am

Easter Devotion: Jesus Welcomes Children (Day 1)

People brought babies to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. When the disciples saw it, they shooed them off. Jesus called them back. "Let these children alone. Don't get between them and me. These children are the kingdom's pride and joy. Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in."  Luke 18:15-17

Begin the Lenten devotions by asking your child(ren) what Easter means to them, beginning with your youngest child. Each child can then add to what the child before them said. This will give you a good idea of their current understanding of Easter.

Explain that for the next six weeks until Easter, your family will be spending a few minutes every day talking about Jesus and what Easter means.

Begin by reading Luke 18:15-17: People were also bringing babies to Jesus to have him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them.
But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

You can ask the following questions:

 - Why did the disciples rebuke (scold) the parents who were bringing their children to see Jesus?

 - Do you ever feel, as a child, that adults don't have time for you and that you aren't as important as other adults?

 - If you do feel that way sometimes, do you know that Jesus understood how children feel? Remember, He too was a child. He never wanted children around Him to feel that way and so He made sure that His disciples let all the children come to Him.

- Then, Jesus said a wonderful thing..."the kingdom of God belongs to children." What do you think He meant by that?

- Jesus wanted the children to know that they were just as special to Him as the adults.

- He said one more thing: no one will enter the kingdom of God unless they enter like a little child. What do you think that meant?

- Do you know that children believe easily in Jesus and they trust Him. Jesus wanted the adults to believe easily in Him and trust Him just like children.

- Are there any other thoughts or questions?

Say a prayer with your children thanking Jesus that He notices and loves children.

Sing "Jesus loves the little children"

Easter resources:

Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard

Stories Behind the Traditions and Songs of Easter by Ace Collins

Preparing Hearts for Easter through Lent

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday...the beginning of the Easter or Lenten season. This time will culminate with Good Friday on March 29th and Easter on March 31st. This is the greatest celebration for Christians yet for many children, mine included, it often revolves around Easter egg hunts and candy with very little reflection on what this most holiest of days really means. 

"Easter egg hunts and chocolate candies inspire great enthusiasm in children! But how can we as Christian parents inspire in our children appreciation for Jesus' death and excitement for His resurrection? 

It is the Christmas dilemma all over again, except that Christmas is easier in some respects. Children readily grasp the idea of a sweet little baby in a manger. Stars, angels and sheep on a hillside form lovely pictures in a child's mind. 

Easter is a bit trickier, however. The cross is not a comfortable image. Suffering and death are subjects that most adults want to avoid, and they certainly don't relish tackling them with their young children," Ann Hibbard from Family Celebrations at Easter. I will be drawing much of the ideas for the following Lenten devotions from her book. 

So how to make Easter meaningful for our children? I believe that if we, as parents, can spend a few minutes every day sharing from the Bible the story of Easter, we can help our children and ourselves understand and embrace the Easter message. Just like we prepare for Christmas with the Advent season, we can prepare for Easter with the Lenten season. 

The Lenten season begins today. I will do my best to post a Lenten devotion for each day of Lent until Easter. I pray these devotions will help you and your children learn more about the meaning of Easter and draw closer to Jesus Christ. 

I will also include any resources that I have found which do a good job of sharing the Easter story with children. If you, as my reader, have any suggestions, please share them and I will post them daily.