The story of Christmas and Easter of the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus is more than a great valentine love story. It’s true, not a mere fable or holiday tradition. Jesus is not make-believe but real. The power of God to raise Jesus from the dead and perform all the other miracles written in the Bible takes more than a make-believe superpower. Unless people see Jesus as real and worthy of more than a simple nod of acknowledgment over the holidays, the Gospel message will do little to change their hearts.
The holidays consequently provide teachers with many opportunities but also some challenges. Cut through all the secular traditions surrounding these holiday celebrations so Jesus doesn’t get lost in all the trappings and fictional lore. Make sure students of all ages understand that Jesus is not only real but is who He claimed to be and did what none other could do for us.
Youth and Adults Caught Up in the Traditions and Trappings
Teens and adults tend to get caught up in the trappings that go with holiday traditions. They then forget, or neglect, important things like their relationship with the Lord. We so easily forget the greatest reason to party, what really needs to be adorned, and the truly indescribable gift — the focus of lessons in the Christmas Reminders Curriculum for adults.
Bible teachers, keep bringing youth and adult students back to the real purpose for the holidays. Whether through lessons geared to the holiday theme, prayer emphasis, or sharing times that help refocus, constantly emphasize the need to keep Jesus central in all we do.
Children Caught Up in Fictional Characters
While children can also need reminders, they more so may need help making the distinction between truth and fiction. Think about Cupid, the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus. — What do teachers do about these fictional characters and other symbols surrounding the different holidays? How do we emphasize that Jesus is not make-believe but so much more?
Bible teachers, help children understand not only what is most important but also what is real and truly makes a difference. Jesus isn’t mere holiday folklore. Use guided conversation to point to how Jesus is more than a fictional character, even more than children’s superheroes. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, something that cannot be said of any other.
Resources to Help Make the Holidays More Than Mere Tradition, Showing that Jesus is Not Make-Believe Holiday Folklore
Look for lessons and tools to help explain the holidays more clearly. Present Jesus accurately, authentically, and as absolute truth. Use activities, decor, and other resources that reinforce this emphasis and keep the focus where it belongs. Click on the links below for help doing that.
New Year:
Valentine’s Day
Easter
Mother’s Day
Father’s Day
Halloween:
Thanksgiving:
Christmas: