Journey to Easter Devotion

Day 6

 Journey to the Cross

Read

Context:  Matthew 27:11-61; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 18:28-19:42

Enrichment: Isaiah 53 and Hebrews 10

Take time to read at least one of the New Testament accounts in full. 

Note to parents: While we want to be careful about the sensitivities of our children, we do not gloss over the details of the crucifixion in order to “protect” them. While a scientific and historical explanation of the particulars of Roman crucifixion is not appropriate or necessary, don’t hesitate to to answer the children’s questions when they seek clarification for what scourging is or about some other aspect of the scriptural narrative. We should all be disturbed by the horror of crucifixion; it is the payment for sin we each deserve.  We should all “survey the wondrous cross” and be brought to our knees, overwhelmed with both sorrow and gratitude.

Questions for family discussion

*For younger children

• Look up the following references describing the moment of Jesus’ death. Matthew 27:50, Mark 15:37, Luke 23:46; John 19:30. None of the writers say, “Jesus died.” What do they say? 
• We thought Jesus was the Snake Crusher! Did the snake, God’s enemy,  kill Jesus? (See John 10:17-18)
• What did Jesus say about those who crucified him? (Luke 23:34) 
• What must happen for sins to be forgiven? (Hebrews 9:22)
• Why did Jesus die? (Isaiah 53:5-6)

*Questions for older children and adults

• What do Jesus’ horrible suffering and death tell us about the seriousness of the sins we so easily excuse?
• Read these verses: Matthew 27:51, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45. What happened in the temple when Jesus died? 
• Do you remember what that curtain was for? Why is it no longer necessary? (Hebrews 10:5-22) 
• Spend time discussing the questions in the section above. 

Prayer and Praise

The Journey video used the hymn, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.” Why would the “Prince of Glory” undergo such suffering? How does this make you feel?

What is your own richest gain? Are you willing to count it loss for the Savior who died in your place out of "love so amazing, so divine"? Spend time confessing to Jesus the things that distract you from loving him with “your soul, your life, your all.”

*Some of this material taken from Mighty Acts of God by Starr Meade, Crossway Books. 2010. Page 237.