Easter is a religious holiday that has been taken over by the Easter Bunny. I’m not sure where the bunny was when Jesus was crucified, or what he had to do with the resurrection of Christ. I do know that he is soft, cuddly and warm, and has the focus of Easter. It may be difficult to celebrate the death and resurection of Jesus, but that is what the holiday is about and one of the most important events in the history of the world. I will give you some ideas on how to incorporate the true Easter story into your home.
The best way to celebrate the death and resurection of Jesus is to read the story straight from the Bible. It can be read best from the gospel of Matthew and Mark. There are also many websites that have child friendly Easter stories. Book stores are also filled with Easter books, many of which tell the true story of Easter. Perhaps you could purchase one of these books and make it part of your bedtime routine during the Easter season. Teaching young children the true meaning of Easter will make the holiday much more special to them for the rest of their life! Talk the death on the cross, and the resurrection of Jesus through with your child and be sure to answer any questions they may have.
Many Christian book stores also have a video section. Many videos have been made for adults and children that tell the real Easter story. You may be able to rent a video and watch it in your home and help your child understand exactly what happened that first Easter weekend.
Resurrection Eggs are a great Christian activity to celebrate Easter. This egg kit can be purchased almost anywhere books are sold. You can also buy them online at several reatailers. The eggs tell the story of Easter in a way that any one can understand and make it fun! There are 12 eggs that each have an object inside that represents part of the Easter story. When they are all placed together you can read the Easter story and have items to show your child the lesson more clearly.
A fun way to teach your child about the death and resurrection of Christ is to make a cross and a tomb. A cross can be constructed of almost anything. Small crosses made of popsicle sticks are a great way to bring Jesus into your Easter celebrations. A tomb can be made out of a shoe box, or any box. A tangible item will help your child learn about the importance of this holiday and how it still is important to remember for all the years to come.
Jesus is the focus of the true Easter story, and should be in your home too. While there is much fun in the celebration of spring with the Easter bunny and all the baskets filled with chocolate and other candy, you should try to have some time set aside for Bible reading and teaching about that first Easter that has been celebrated for over 2000 years.
