I love the scene in The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King where the unlikely heroes, Frodo and Sam, are making their last, desperate effort to destroy the one ring in the depths of Mt. Doom. What makes the final destruction of the ring in this last book of J.R.R. Tolkien’s trilogy so incredibly magnificent and satisfying is the context. Before that, we have been taken on a long journey that has introduced us to the magnitude of evil, despair, and ruin brought about by the ring and its influence. You don’t simply go from a peaceful, idealistic life in the Shire to the triumphant destruction of the ring. The story would have lost its grandeur and appeal if Tolkien had not shown us the evil and despair.
This example can serve to remind us about the necessity of giving children the proper context for understanding the glorious triumph of Jesus’ resurrection. What was the “long journey” leading up to His resurrection? What did Jesus triumph over? Why is it good news for us? How should we respond?
Resurrection Sunday (Easter) is just seven weeks away. How could you use this time with your children to more intentionally set the context for Jesus’ resurrection and answer these questions? Consider the following resources and suggestions:
Are you looking for resources for Easter? We want to help! Browse the resources we've created to help the children in your church or home see the full context of the eternal hope and joy that is found in our resurrected Savior.
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