Easter Object Lesson for Children's Church or Sunday School

Last year, in lieu of our annual children's church Easter candy hunt, we allowed the kids to bust a pinata at the beginning of the hour. We then used that activity as an object lesson for Jesus' death and resurrection:

• Jesus' body was bruised and broken at Calvary for our benefit. Each one of us had a part in his death, just like each of us took a whack at that pinata at the beginning of children's church.

• The candy that poured out of the pinata reminds us of Jesus' blood that He shed so freely for each one of us. His blood cleanses us from sin and makes us fit for Heaven.

• When the pinata broke, some of you rushed forward to gather the goodies that came out. Others stayed back a bit because you were shy, or because you didn't want to get in among the others, or maybe even because you thought the whole thing was silly and you didn't want to participate. Likewise, some people receive Jesus' gift of eternal life without hesitation. Others choose not to at all, and some just have not yet made up their minds whether they want to accept Him or not.

• Some of you that rushed forward and grabbed up lots and lots of candy were nice enough to share with others who didn't come forward and receive some for themselves. Jesus wants you to likewise share the Gospel with others! He died and arose for everyone, and it is not His desire that anyone should perish. It is our job to share the Good News of Christ.What a great illustration of Jesus' gift to us: a simple pinata! I hope that you will do something special for Easter Sunday as well. Then share your children's church Easter ideas with us!

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