He is Risen!

Jesus did wonderful miracles.  He was a mighty teacher, highly regarded by God and all the people.  But, religious rulers arrested Jesus because they didn't believe he was the son of God.  They handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him.  His followers thought he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel.  They didn't understand that he actually came to rescue all mankind.

Three days later, some women were at his tomb early in the morning, and they came back with an amazing report!  They said his body was missing, and they had seen angels who told them Jesus is alive!  Some of his followers ran out to see, and sure enough, Jesus' body was gone, just as the women had said!

Jesus died so that we could be friends with God.  Jesus can come into our life like a seed planted in the ground.  When a seed is buried, it can then grow fruit with many seeds.  When Jesus was buried, he did it so that many people could receive forgiveness for their sins.

Connecting Points
Take turns discussing the following questions with your kids this week.  Create meaningful conversation.  Adjust as needed.  Use one or two of these to begin a conversation.  Look for teachable moments - at home, in the car, whenever.  Pray and ask God to provide you opportunities to have spiritual conversations with your kids.

1. What would you do for a friend?  Have you ever given up something for a friend?
2. How can you get a lot of seeds from just one seed?  Read John 12:24 together.  How is planting a seed similar to what Jesus did when he was buried?
3. How can Jesus help us grow?  

April BGMC Challenge - 30 Pieces of SilverJudas, in Matthew 26:14-16, was willing to betray Jesus for 30 coins.  Through the month of April, and in conjunction with Easter, we have challenged our kids to collect 30 pieces of "silver" for BGMC.  Instead of using 30 silver coins to betray Christ, we're taking 30 pieces of silver to help spread the Gospel!  Everyone who brings 30 pieces of silver for a BGMC offering on May 4 will receive a prize!