The Last Words of Jesus: Father, Into Thy Hands I Commit My Spirit

Some time ago, I stumbled upon a video produced by a Christian organization about Easter.  Rather than a serious-minded drama depicting Jesus on the cross, or Roman soldiers mocking Jesus and gambling for his garment as he hung in the background, it was something very different!  A very creative teacher had instructed a group of elementary-age children to write their version of the Easter weekend events, which they had been studying in class for some time.  Along with the story they told, they also drew pictures of Jesus talking to his disciples, standing in front of the crowd as they yelled, "Crucify him, crucify him!" After that, they told of Jesus appearing to his followers after the resurrection.  It was entertaining and funny, all the while presenting a simple presentation of the gospel message.

         

First, they talked about how Jesus loved his people and walked around talking to them, and helping them.  He healed some and fed others but always said to them, "I love you," and "God loves you."  The people responded with delight that God loved them and cheered when Jesus said that He loved them, and would save them.

           

Another theme was the fact that Jesus was going to wash away their sin by dying on the cross.  The video didn't deal with the complexities of sin, forgiveness, and regeneration, which are 'preacher terms;' instead, Jesus told them he would cleanse them of their sin, and help them to experience God at work in their lives.  If those in the crowd would simply believe in Jesus as Savior, and ask him to come into their hearts, he would save them, and help them every day.

           

Finally,  the video pictures Jesus appearing to the disciples on the beach after the resurrection;  people hugged him and sang songs, and all had big smiles.  Jesus has come back from the grave!  This was an obvious act of God and was His way of proving that Jesus was his son and that the crucifixion and resurrection were God's way of saving us all from our sins. 

           

This all came from the mouths of children!  They didn't use many religious terms or try to 'guilt' anyone to go to church or give an offering.  These children "got it:"  They presented the message of the Gospel:  God loves us and sent Jesus to save us.  And, when we ask him to save us, he washes away our sins and helps us to live better lives.   

Pretty good work for a bunch of kids, eh?     

           

This is what Easter is all about!  Jesus, God's Son, was crucified on the cross, buried, and then came back from the dead.  When we receive these truths into our lives, Jesus saves us, transforms us, and begins to bless us, forever.  Amen!

 

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