Children's Easter Devotion: A Criminal Saved (Day 23)

The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Christ of God, the Chosen One."

The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, "If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself."

There was a written notice above him, which read: This is the King of the Jews.

One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."

Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."

Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." Luke 23:35-43

Questions:

- What did the people standing around Jesus say to Him as He was on the cross?

- Could Jesus have saved Himself? If so, why didn't He?

- What did the second sinner realize about himself? About Jesus?

- What did he ask of Jesus?

- What did Jesus say to him and why?

- What does this tell us about paradise/Heaven? (indicates we go there as soon as we die)

Thoughts: 

This criminal understood what even Jesus' disciples did not yet understand. He knew that he was a sinner and deserved death. He also knew that Jesus had done nothing wrong. But most amazing, he understood that Jesus' kingdom was not an earthly kingdom. As others sneered at a broken, dying man, the criminal humbly asked a favor of Jesus, the King of the Universe. Jesus had no words for the mockers, but for the man of faith, criminal though he was, Jesus, King of Kings, gave assurance of eternal life.

Prayer: 

Thank you so much Jesus for Your sacrifice for me. Thank You that You help me realize that I am a sinner and that I need Your forgiveness. I humbly come to You today, admitting my sin, asking for Your forgiveness and trusting that when I die, I will go to Heaven to be with You. I love You Jesus!

Song: We are the Reason

As little children we'd dream of Christmas morn

And all the gifts and toys we knew we’d find

But we never realized a baby born one blessed night

Gave us the greatest gift of our lives

We are the reason that He gave His life

We were the reason that He suffered and died

To a world that was lost He gave all He could give

To show us the reason to live

As the years went by we learned more of our gifts

The giving of ourselves and what that means

On a dark and cloudy day a man hung crying in the rain

Because of love

Because of love

*Chorus

I finally found the reason for living

It’s in giving every part of my heart to Him (every part to Him)

And all that I do every word that I say (you know I’ll be saying)

I will give all my life just for Him, just for Him (every thing for Him)

We are the reason that He gave His life

We are the reason that He suffered and died

To a world that was lost He gave all He could give (all that he could give all)

To show us the reason to live

#He is the reason to live

(don’t you know do you know the reason

that he came, oh he came to save us

when he gave his life for us) he suffered and died

To a world that was lost He gave everything (everything that He had He gave)

To show us the reason to live

Here is a link for the song: We are the reason

Today's thoughts came from Family Celebrations at Easter by Ann Hibbard

Children's Easter Devotion: Open Our Eyes Lord

Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened.

As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.

He asked them, "What are you discussing together as you walk along?" 

They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, "Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?"

"What things?" he asked. 

"About Jesus of Nazareth," they replied. "He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.

In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning

but didn't find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see."

He said to them, "How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?"

And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if he were going farther.

But they urged him strongly, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them.

When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.

Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight.

They asked each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?"  Luke 24:13-32

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 next three Sundays during Lent looking at one of the resurrection stories.

Questions:

- Who are the two men walking on the road to Emmaus? (Historians believe that Cleopas was the brother of Joseph, thus he was Jesus' uncle) 

- Who joins them? Do they recognize Him?

- How do the two men describe Jesus and what had they hoped He would do for Israel?

- What did Jesus tell them?

- When did they finally recognize Jesus?

- What do you think they meant when they said: "Were not our hearts burning within us?"

Thoughts: 

These two men are examples of the typical followers of Jesus. They understood Him to be a great prophet. They had high hopes that Jesus would redeem Israel, but most of them did not see Jesus for who He really was. It wasn't until God "opened their eyes" that they recognized Him. All of us are like that too. God has to "open our eyes" - help us understand who He is, before we can recognize Him as our Savior. We can pray daily that God will continue to open our eyes to Him. We can also pray that He will open the eyes of people around the world so millions will come to a saving knowledge of Him.

Prayer: 

Father God, we thank You that You have given us our own "road to Emmaus" experience with You. We thank You that You daily open our eyes and help us see You and understand who You are. We pray the same for people all over the world, that they will see Jesus for who He really is and will accept Him as their Lord and Savior. We love You Jesus!

Song: Open The Eyes of My Heart Lord

Open the eyes of my heart, Lord

Open the eyes of my heart

I want to see You

I want to see You

Open the eyes of my heart, Lord

Open the eyes of my heart

I want to see You

I want to see You

To see You high and lifted up

Shinin' in the light of Your glory

Pour out Your power and love

As we sing holy, holy, holy

Here is a link to the song sung by Mercy Me: Open the Eyes

Children's Easter Devotion: He Thought of Us (Day 22)

As they led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus.

A large number of people followed him, including women who mourned and wailed for him.

Jesus turned and said to them, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children.

For the time will come when you will say, 'Blessed are the barren women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!'

Then " 'they will say to the mountains, "Fall on us!" and to the hills, "Cover us!" ' 

For if men do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?"

Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed.

When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left.

Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.  Luke 23:26-34

Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.  Isaiah 53:12

Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies.

Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Romans 8:33-34

Questions:

- Why do you think Simon of Cyrene (Cyrene, Libya) was made to carry Jesus' cross? (the cross would have weighed anywhere from 40-125 lbs. depending on whether He carried the whole cross or just the crossbeam; either way, this would have been a heavy load to carry for a few miles for a healthy man and Jesus had spent a night without sleeping, drinking or eating and had been brutally beaten and whipped)

- As Jesus was being led to His death, who was He thinking about...Himself or others? How do we know this? (comment to women following Him)

- Why did He tell the women of Jerusalem to weep for themselves and their children? (He saw the coming destruction of Israel as a nation that occurred in 70 AD by Rome as well as future persecution of Jews and the Church)

- Who was crucified with Jesus? What is important about this? (read Isaiah 53:12 - fulfills prophecy that He would be crucified with criminals)

- Did the suffering that Jesus was experiencing cause Him to stop praying or to pray even more? How do you think He could pray through all the pain? (He had made prayer a lifestyle and it was as natural to Him as breathing)

- Who does Jesus pray for on the cross? Who does He think of first?

- What can we learn from His prayer? (even in the midst of our greatest sins, God loves us and wants to forgive us...His greatest desire is not for punishment but for us to be forgiven)

- What is Jesus doing today, right now, in Heaven? (read Romans 8:33-34)

Thoughts: 

Jesus was suffering greatly. We would understand if His prayers had been for Himself, for God to give Him the strength to endure, to ease the pain...but they weren't. Instead, even to the very end and in the greatest pain and agony, the thoughts and prayers of Jesus were for others. He prayed for the Jews and for the future Church, and He prayed for you and for me. You see, it wasn't just the Jewish leaders or Pilate or the Roman soldiers who crucified Jesus...it was each of us. Our sins caused Him to suffer and die. He willingly died so that we would not have to. When He prayed to His Father, asking for forgiveness, He was thinking of you and me. And He still prays that prayer in Heaven, for us. What a precious Savior we serve!

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, how can we begin to thank You for what You did on the cross and continue to do for us in Heaven today? Words can not express our thanks and our love for You. Help us to follow Your  example, to forgive our enemies and to pray for those who hurt us. And help us to continue in prayer, every day, throughout the day. We love you so much Jesus!

Song: Above All

Above all powers

Above all kings

Above all nature

And all created things

Above all wisdom

And all the ways of man

You were here

Before the world began

Above all kingdoms

Above all thrones

Above all wonders

The world has ever known

Above all wealth

And treasures of the earth

There's no way to measure

What You're worth

CHORUS

Crucified

Laid behind a stone

You lived to die

Rejected and alone

Like a rose

Trampled on the ground

You took the fall

And thought of me

Above all

Here is a video with music and words: Above All

Another wonderful song with this theme is We are the Reason - here are some videos with the words

We Are The Reason

Children's Easter Devotion: He Did This For Me (Day 21)

Pilate called together the chief priests, the rulers and the people, and said to them, "You brought me this man as one who was inciting the people to rebellion. I have examined him in your presence and have found no basis for your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us; as you can see, he has done nothing to deserve death. Therefore, I will punish him and then release him." 

With one voice they cried out, "Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us!" (Barabbas had been thrown into prison for an insurrection in the city, and for murder.)

Wanting to release Jesus, Pilate appealed to them again.

But they kept shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!"

For the third time he spoke to them: "Why? What crime has this man committed? I have found in him no grounds for the death penalty. Therefore I will have him punished and then release him."

But with loud shouts they insistently demanded that he be crucified, and their shouts prevailed.

So Pilate decided to grant their demand.

He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, the one they asked for, and surrendered Jesus to their will.  Luke 23:13-25

The soldiers led Jesus away into the palace (that is, the Praetorium) and called together the whole company of soldiers. They put a purple robe on him, then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on him. And they began to call out to him, "Hail, king of the Jews!"

Again and again they struck him on the head with a staff and spit on him. Falling on their knees, they paid homage to him.

And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him.  Mark 15:16-20

He was despised and rejected— a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on Him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care... we thought His troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for His own sins!...He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed...He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet He never said a word. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter...Unjustly condemned, He was led away...But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush Him and cause Him grief. Yet when His life is made an offering for sin, He will have many descendants.

Isaiah 53:3-10

I offered my back to those who beat me and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard. I did not hide my face from mockery and spitting. Isaiah 50:6

"All this I have told you so that you will not go astray.

They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God.

They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.

I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you." John 16:1-4

Questions:

- Before you begin, ask the children to pray, asking God to help them understand, in even some small way, what Jesus did for them and for the world, so that we might be saved

- Why did all this have to happen to Jesus?

- Whose plan was this? (read Isaiah 53:3-10)...this was God's plan. Talk to children about how it wasn't Satan defeating Jesus but all of this happened according to God's plan, to fulfill prophecy

- What did Pilate believe about Jesus?

- Why did he decide, in the end, to have Him crucified?

- How did the soldiers treat Jesus?

- How did Jesus react? (read Isaiah 50:6)

- Read John 16:1-4...what did Jesus say would happen to His followers?

- Is this happening right now in the world? (talk about persecution of Christians...to learn more go to Kids of Courage

- Do you think you could stand for Jesus even if you were being treated cruelly?

- How can you prepare now so that like Pilate, you won't give into peer pressure and like Jesus, you can take abuse for Jesus?

Thoughts: 

It's hard to begin to understand why Jesus suffered this way. He didn't have to. At any time He could have stopped it all. It wasn't the Jewish leaders or the crowds or the Roman soldiers who were in control. God was in control. It was the Lord’s good plan to crush Him and cause Him grief. Yet when His life is made an offering for sin, He will have many descendants. We are those descendants when we accept Him as our Lord and Savior. Jesus did this for each of us. He stayed there and took all the hurt and pain because He did not want us to suffer the same thing in Hell, forever. He loves us more than we can ever imagine. It's His love that kept Him there.

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, how can we begin to thank You for what You did for us. You took the hurt of the world on your shoulders, the beatings, the mocking, the crown of thorns and the cross, out of Your great love for us. What a wonderful Savior we serve. May we live our lives, every day, in honor of You. We so look forward to one day being with You forever, in Heaven. We love You Jesus!

Song: He Will Carry You

There is no problem too big

God cannot solve it

There is no mountain too tall

He cannot move it

There is no storm too dark

God cannot calm it

There is no sorrow too deep

He cannot soothe it

If He carried the weight of the world upon His shoulders

I know, my brother that He will carry you

If He carried the weight of the world upon His shoulders

I know, my sister that He will carry you

He said come on to me all who are weary

And I will give you rest

Children's Easter Devotion: Truth Will Prevail (Day 20)

The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him.

They blindfolded him and demanded, "Prophesy! Who hit you?"

And they said many other insulting things to him.

At daybreak the council of the elders of the people, both the chief priests and teachers of the law, met together, and Jesus was led before them.

"If you are the Christ," they said, "tell us." Jesus answered, "If I tell you, you will not believe me, and if I asked you, you would not answer.

But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God."

They all asked, "Are you then the Son of God?" He replied, "You are right in saying I am."

Then they said, "Why do we need any more testimony? We have heard it from his own lips." 

Then the whole assembly rose and led him off to Pilate. And they began to accuse him, saying, "We have found this man subverting our nation. He opposes payment of taxes to Caesar and claims to be Christ, a king."

So Pilate asked Jesus, "Are you the king of the Jews?" 

"Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied.

Then Pilate announced to the chief priests and the crowd, "I find no basis for a charge against this man."

But they insisted, "He stirs up the people all over Judea by his teaching. He started in Galilee and has come all the way here."

On hearing this, Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean.

When he learned that Jesus was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that time.

When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see him. From what he had heard about him, he hoped to see him perform some miracle.

He plied him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer.

The chief priests and the teachers of the law were standing there, vehemently accusing him.

Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked him. Dressing him in an elegant robe, they sent him back to Pilate.

That day Herod and Pilate became friends—before this they had been enemies.  Luke 22:63 - 23:12

"Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.  Matthew 7:6

Questions:

- What did the guards do to Jesus? Why?

- What questions did the Jewish leaders ask Jesus?

- How did Jesus answer them?

- What lies did the people tell about Jesus?

- What did Pilate think of Jesus and why did Pilate send Him to Herod?

- Why did Herod want to see Jesus?

- Why did Jesus not answer Herod? (read Matthew 7:6)

- Why did Herod and Pilate become friends that day?

Thoughts: 

Here is God Himself being abused by the very people He created. During this abuse, Jesus spoke nothing but the truth, and they hated Him for it. The world will often hate the truth and those who dare to speak it. Pilate, the Roman governor put in charge of Judea at that time, recognized that there was nothing wrong with Jesus...that He should not be condemned to death. But Pilate gave into the desires of the people...he was swayed by peer pressure. Herod, the local ruler who ruled with permission of the Roman government, was really only interested in being entertained. When Jesus wouldn't perform for Herod, ie, "giving dogs what is sacred or casting pearls before pigs," Herod turned on Jesus and abused Him.  Ironically, Herod and Pilate became friends that day...partners in the greatest crime committed in the history of the world. Today there are military leaders, church leaders and political leaders who will mock Christianity and do all they can to abuse those who follow Jesus, but ultimately, God is in charge. Jesus is "seated at the right hand of the mighty God." He will reward those who are on the side of truth and punish those who oppose Him.

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, what You suffered for us is unimaginable. You, the way, the truth and the life, allowed incredible abuse so that we would not have to suffer that same abuse for all eternity. We love You so much Jesus. Please help us to stand up for truth and to pray for those who suffer abuse because they are Christians. Thank You Jesus.

Song: Oh How He Loves You and Me

Oh, how He loves you and me,

Oh, how He loves you and me.

He gave His life, what more could He give;

Oh, how He loves you, Oh, how He loves me,

Oh, how He loves you and me.

Jesus to Calv'ry did go,

His love for mankind to show.

What He did there brought hope from despair.

Oh, how He loves you, Oh, how He loves me,

Oh how He loves you and me.

Here are some videos of this song: How He Loves

Children's Easter Devotion: The Pain of Betrayal (Day 19)

While he was still speaking a crowd came up, and the man who was called Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him, but Jesus asked him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?"

When Jesus' followers saw what was going to happen, they said, "Lord, should we strike with our swords?"

And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear.

But Jesus answered, "No more of this!" And he touched the man's ear and healed him.

Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple guard, and the elders, who had come for him, "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come with swords and clubs?

Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on me. But this is your hour—when darkness reigns."  Luke 22:47-53

Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people came to the decision to put Jesus to death. They bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate, the governor.

When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders.

"I have sinned," he said, "for I have betrayed innocent blood." 

"What is that to us?" they replied. "That's your responsibility."

So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.

The chief priests picked up the coins and said, "It is against the law to put this into the treasury, since it is blood money."

So they decided to use the money to buy the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners.

That is why it has been called the Field of Blood to this day.

Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: "They took the thirty silver coins, the price set on him by the people of Israel, and they used them to buy the potter's field, as the Lord commanded me."  Matthew 27:1-10

If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were raising himself against me, I could hide from him.

But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship as we walked with the throng at the house of God.  Psalm 55:12-14

Questions:

- Who was Judas? What do we know about him? (disciple, used to steal from the money bag, upset when Mary anointed Jesus' feet with perfume, the devil entered him and he agreed with temple leaders to betray Jesus for 30 silver coins)

- Why do you think he chose to betray Jesus?

- How did he betray him?

- How do you think Jesus felt? (read Psalm 55:12-14)

- How did Judas feel after he saw that Jesus had been arrested?

- Do you think Jesus would have forgiven Judas, the way he forgave Peter, if Judas had gone to Him and confessed his sin, asking for forgiveness?

- What can we learn from Judas?

Thoughts: 

Betrayal - such a horrible, hurtful action. We can only imagine how Jesus felt when one of the men he had spent the last three years with, who He had given all of Himself to, would turn and betray Him. Sadly, in this world, betrayal continues to happen every day. Husbands betray wives, wives betray husbands, children betray parents, friends betray friends. Jesus did not have to suffer betrayal, but He chose to for our sake. He wanted us to know that He understands the hurt of betrayal. He knows what it feels like when someone you love turns his or her back on you and wants nothing more to do with you. He understands, He cares and He is there to bring comfort, strength and grace.

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, thank You that You chose to suffer the things on this earth that You knew we would suffer. We love You so much. Help us to never betray You or another person. And, if we are betrayed, may we turn to You for understanding, comfort and the grace to forgive.

Song:  Why?    by Michael Card

Why did it have to be a friend

Who chose to betray the Lord

Why did he use a kiss to show them

That's not what a kiss is for

Only a friend can betray a friend

A stranger has nothing to gain

And only a friend comes close enough

To ever cause so much pain

And why did there have to be thorny

Crown pressed upon His head

It should have been the royal one

Made of jewels and gold instead

It had to be a crown of thorns

Because in this life that we live

For all who seek to love

A thorn is all the world has to give

And why did it have to be

A heavy cross He was made to bare

And why did they nail His feet and hands

His love would have held Him there

It was a cross for on a cross

A thief was supposed to pay

And Jesus had come into the world

To steal every heart away

Yes, Jesus had come into the world

To steal every heart away

Here is a video of the song: Why?

Children's Easter Devotion: As You Will, Lord God (Day 18)

Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."

He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled.

Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."

Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."

Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter.

"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."

He went away a second time and prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done."

When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy.

So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.

Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

Rise, let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"  Matthew 26:36-46

Questions:

- Why did Jesus go to the garden?

- What did Jesus want Peter, James and John to do with Him in the garden?

- Did Jesus want to suffer and die?

- Although He didn't desire to go through the agony He knew was waiting for Him, what did He say to God?

- How can we apply the prayer, "Yet not as I will but as You will" to our lives?

- What was the trouble with the disciples?

- What can we learn from them about the difficulties of prayer?

Thoughts: 

I am so thankful that the Bible shows us Jesus' humanness. He didn't want to die. He knew that it was the Father's plan, but the humanity in Him did not want to suffer and be crucified. He did not want to become sin and be poured out as a drink offering for us. Yet, even greater than His desire to avoid the horrible suffering, was His desire to obey the Father and bring God glory. So, in agony, sweating drops of blood (Luke 22:44), He prayed one of the most important prayers recorded: "Yet not as I will but as You will." Like Jesus, there will be times in our lives when we want something desperately. Jesus shows us that it is okay to pray for these things. But, in the end, our final prayer needs to be: "Yet not as I will but as You will, Lord God."

Prayer: 

Lord God, we thank You for Jesus. We thank You for His humanity. We thank You, even more, for His willingness to suffer and die for each of us. May we desire, more than anything, that Your will, Your plan, Your desire, be done in our lives. Thank You Lord God.

Song: Take My Life and Let It Be

Take my life and let it be

consecrated, Lord, to Thee.

Take my moments and my days,

let them flow in ceaseless praise.

Take my hands and let them move

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.

Take my lips and let them be

filled with messages from Thee.

Take my silver and my gold

not a mite would I withhold.

Take my intellect and use

every power as You choose.

::Chorus::

Here am I, all of me.

Take my life, it's all for Thee.

Take my will and make it Thine

it shall be no longer mine.

Take my heart it is Thine own

it shall be Thy royal throne.

Take my love, my Lord I pour

at Your feet its treasure store

Take myself and I will be

ever, only, all for Thee.

Take myself and I will be

ever, only, all for Thee.

Here is a video of the song sung by Chris Tomlin Take My Life

Children's Easter Devotion: Denial and Restoration (Day 17)

"You will all fall away," Jesus told them, "for it is written: " 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.' But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee."

Peter declared, "Even if all fall away, I will not."

"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times."

But Peter insisted emphatically, "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you." And all the others said the same.  Mark 14:27-31

Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. But when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them.

A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, "This man was with him."

But he denied it. "Woman, I don't know him," he said.

A little later someone else saw him and said, "You also are one of them." "Man, I am not!" Peter replied.

About an hour later another asserted, "Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean."

Peter replied, "Man, I don't know what you're talking about!" 

Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed.

The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times."

And he went outside and wept bitterly.  Luke 22:54-62

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."

Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."

The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.  John 21:15-17

Questions:

- While Jesus and His disciples were still eating the Passover meal, what did Jesus predict would happen when He was arrested?

- What did Peter say in response and what did Jesus then predict about Peter?

- How do you think that may have made Peter feel?

- What happened, later that evening, when some people asked if Peter was a follower of Jesus?

- Why do you think he lied and said he did not know Jesus?

- How did Peter react when he remembered Jesus' prediction?

- After Jesus' resurrection, Jesus met the disciples while they were fishing. What did He tell Peter?

- Why do you think Jesus asked Peter the same question three times?

- Did Jesus forgive Peter for denying Him?

- What did Peter go on to do after Jesus went to Heaven?

Thoughts: 

While the disciples were all eating with Jesus, it was easy to promise Jesus that they would never deny Him, never abandon Him. But when things got difficult, when the soldiers and the crowds calling for Jesus' death showed up, the disciples ran. They were afraid. They were confused. Peter, usually the most outspoken of the twelve, again becomes the most outspoken. But this time, he is not proclaiming that Jesus is the son of God or that he will stand by Jesus no matter what. Instead, he is denying that he even knows Jesus. When Peter realizes what he has done, how he has fallen, he is in absolute anguish. Yet, after all this, he still holds out hope. He runs to the tomb to see if Jesus is alive and later, he jumps out of a fishing boat to swim to shore to see Jesus. And Jesus, knowing that Peter had denied him out of fear, forgives Peter and reinstates him into His service. Three times He asks Peter about his love and three times Peter assures Jesus of his love. Three times he denied and three times he confesses. Praise God that we have a God of second chances!

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, it is not always easy to follow You. Please help us to never deny Your name. May we speak with boldness about who You are and why we love You. We lift up, in prayer, those Christians throughout the world who face what Peter faced...possible persecution or even death for being a Christian. Give them the strength they need to not deny Your name.

Song: Second Chances

The song "Second Chances" from the Veggie Tales movie, Jonah would be a good song to play. I had a hard time finding a clip on the computer but you may be able to find one or watch the video which is a great story of a man who got a second chance from God. 

For further study: This would be a good time to talk to your children about the persecuted church and how they daily face what Peter faced. You can read more at Kids of Courage

Children's Easter Devotion: Were you There?

Then the disciples went back to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.

They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?" 

"They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him."

At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.

"Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?" Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him."

Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).

Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "

Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.  John 20:10-18

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 next four Sundays during Lent looking at one of the resurrection stories.

Questions:

- Who was Mary Magdalene? (Jesus had cast seven demons from her - Luke 8:2, she was one of his followers and was at the cross - Mark 15:40; she saw him buried - Mark 15:47)

- Why do you think Mary stayed at the tomb after Peter and John had left?

- What do you think she felt when she realized it was Jesus who was talking to her?

- What can we learn from Mary's example?

Thoughts: 

We can only imagine what Mary's thoughts were that Sunday morning upon seeing her Lord alive! She had watched Him be killed and seen His dead body placed in the tomb. While all but one of the disciples (John) didn't dare show their faces at the cross out of fear, she stayed there, supporting Jesus' mother Mary, and showing her love and dedication for Jesus up to the bitter end. And for Mary, even His death was not the end of her devotion. She risked her life to return to the tomb that Sunday morning. Jesus rewarded her faithfulness by choosing Mary, a woman who had been possessed by seven demons (we can only imagine the horror she experienced), to be the first one to see Him after He rose. Oh praise You sweet Jesus! You reveal Yourself to children and women...the ones who society so often abuses and persecutes. What a wonderful Savior we serve!

Prayer: 

Sweet Jesus...how precious You are! We can't wait to see you face to face the way Mary did in the Garden. Some day, we know, You will return and take us to live with You forever. Until that day, may we live our lives with all the devotion and love of Mary Magdalene. Thank You Jesus!

Song: Were You There?

(You can almost hear Mary singing this song because she was there for each of these events)

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb?
Oh sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble
Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree?

Were you there when He rose up from the grave?
Were you there when He rose up from the grave?
Oh sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble
Were you there when He rose up from the grave?
Were you there when He rose up from the grave?

Here is a link to the song 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.*

Children's Easter Devotion: Come to the Table (Day 16)

When evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve. While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me."

They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, "Surely not I?"

"It is one of the Twelve," he replied, "one who dips bread into the bowl with me.

The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born."

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take it; this is my body."

Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it.

"This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many," he said to them.

"I tell you the truth, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it anew in the kingdom of God."

When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.  Mark 14:17-26

Questions:

- What Jewish holiday were Jesus and His disciples celebrating?

- What did Jesus predict about one of His followers? How do you think that made Jesus feel?

- What represented Jesus body that would be crucified for our sins?

- What represented Jesus blood that would be spilled or our sins?

- What is this sharing of the bread and wine called in the Christian faith? Talk about the importance of communion. (If your children are believers, you may want to have communion with them at this time, to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us).

Thoughts: 

"The wine and the matzot, or unleavened bread, were a very important part of the Passover celebration. Passover was the celebration of God's deliverance of the Jews from slavery in Egypt. When Jesus identified Himself with the bread and the wine, He was telling His disciples, and us, that it would be by His death that we would be delivered from sin." Ann Hibbard from Family Celebrations at Easter.

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, thank you for the sacrifice you made on the cross for my sins. Whenever I take communion, may I be reminded of how much You love me and may I commit my life to You. I love You Jesus.

Song: Come to the Table by Michael Card

Come to the table

And savor the sight,

The wine and the bread that was broken.

And all have been welcome to come

If they might

Accept as their own these two tokens.

The bread is his body,

The wine is the blood

And the one who provides them is true.

He freely offers

We freely receive.

To accept and believe him is all we must do.

Come to the table

And taste of the glory

And savor the sorrow

He's dying tomorrow.

The hand that is breaking the bread

Soon will be broken.

And here at the table

Sit those who have loved him,

One is a traitor and one will deny,

Though he's lived his life for them all

And for all be crucified.

Come to the table he's prepared for you

The bread of forgiveness the wine of release.

Come to the table and sit down beside him.

The Saviour wants you to join in the feast.

Come to the table and see in his eyes

The love that the Father has spoken.

And know you are welcome

Whatever your crime,

Though every commandment you've broken.

For he's come to love you

And not to condemn.

And he offers a pardon of peace.

If you'll come to the table

You'll feel in your heart

The greatest forgiveness,

The greatest release

Come to the table

And taste of the glory

And savor the sorrow

He's dying tomorrow.

The hand that is breaking the bread

Soon will be broken.

And here at the table

Sit those who have loved him,

One is a traitor and one will deny,

Though he's lived his life for them all

And for all be crucified.

Come to the table he's prepared for you

The bread of forgiveness the wine of release.

Come to the table and sit down beside him.

The Saviour wants you to join in the feast.

Children's Easter Devotion: Being a Servant (day 15)

It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. 

The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus.

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?"

Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."

"No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." 

Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me."

"Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!"

Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.

When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. 

"Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them.

"You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet.

I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.

I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 

Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. John 13:1-17

"whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,

and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:26-28

Questions:

When dinner was served, what did Jesus do that surprised the disciples?

Why did it surprise them...whose job was it to wash feet?

Why did Jesus do it?

What can we learn from Jesus' example?

Are there things that we are not willing to do, especially for members of our own family? What attitude does Jesus want us to have?

What's one way you can be a servant to others today?

Thoughts: 

Servanthood is not a popular idea these days. Everyone wants to be in charge...few want to serve. Yet Jesus' example is bold and strong. If the Son of God would stoop to wash the dirty, filthy feet of His disciples to show them His love, what is He asking us to do to show His love to the world? No act of service should be too small or too dirty for us to do when it is done in love. We need to be the hands and feet of Jesus. There is nothing more powerful than the lifestyle of love through humble service to others.

Prayer: 

Lord, make me a servant. Help me to be Your hands and feet to a world that is hurting. Show me one way, today, that I can serve other people. May I live a lifetime of service to You and those around me. Thank You Jesus for Your example.

Song: Make Me a Servant

Make me a servant

Humble and meek

Lord let me lift up those who are weak

And may the prayers of my heart always be

Make me a servant

Make me a servant

Make me a servant today

Children's Easter Devotion: For the Love of Money (Day 14)

Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people.

Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve.

And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. They were delighted and agreed to give him money.

He consented, and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present.  Luke 22:1-6

Questions:

- What were the chief priests and teachers of the law wanting to do? Why?

- Who entered Judas?

- Who was Judas? Do we know anything about him? (see John 12:4-6 - 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.)

- What seems to be most important to Judas?

- What did Judas agree to do?

Thoughts: 

To betray a friend is one of the most hurtful things we can do. And for Judas, who was one of Jesus' twelve closest friends, to do this is hard to believe. His greed and love of money opened the door for Satan to actually enter him and whisper in his heart the thoughts of betrayal toward Jesus. Judas was willing to hand over the Son of God, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords for money. May we never do this! May we never turn our backs on Jesus and on our Christian faith in order to become rich and powerful. The Bible says: For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:10. Instead, we need to remember what Hebrews 13:5 says: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your promise that You will never leave us or turn Your back on us. Please help us to never leave You. Help us to be content and at peace with what You have given us and not be greedy for more. Thank You for Your love!

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.*

Children's Easter Devotion: Seeing through God's Eyes (Day 13)

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.*

Children's Easter Devotion: Stumbling Over Jesus (Day 12)

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.*