Easter Bonus Session 1
Dear families,
This week, we looked at the contrasting images of the Triumphal Entry: the joyful celebration of the crowds as Jesus entered Jerusalem, and the heartbreak Jesus felt as He wept over a city He desired to save. While the people were excited by the arrival of a miracle-performing prophet, many did not yet understand the sacrifice He was about to make.
Thousands had gathered in Jerusalem for Passover, expecting a conquering king who would free them from Roman rule. They were not anticipating a Suffering Servant—the sacrificial Passover Lamb—who would lay down His life for their sins. Jesus, in His all-knowing grace, received their praise even though He knew many would soon turn against Him.
Jesus celebrated the promises of “Hosanna” (meaning “save us”) while weeping for those who would refuse to see God’s love. Thankfully, Christ’s once-and-for-all sacrifice wasn’t just for those in Jerusalem at that time; it is for everyone who places true faith in His finished work on the cross.
As you talk with your children this week, remind them that Jesus created all people and cares deeply for them. We celebrate Him today not just as a king on a donkey, but as the King of Kings who secured eternal salvation for all who repent and believe in Him!
FAMILY TALKING POINTS
CHRIST CONNECTION
This is the big idea of how this week’s Bible story points to Jesus.
- Babies & Toddlers: Jesus is the King who came to save us. God wants us to trust in Jesus and live with Him forever.
- Younger Preschool: Jesus wanted the people to believe that He is the King and Savior of the world. God wants all people to turn away from sin and trust in Jesus.
- Older Preschool: Jesus is the King and Savior. God wants all people to turn away from their sin, trust in Jesus, and receive life with God forever.
- Kids: The people welcomed Jesus as their King, but He came to be a different kind of King. Jesus is the Savior who died and rose again to rescue us from our sins.
BIG PICTURE QUESTION & ANSWER
This is an important biblical truth that your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Who is Jesus? Jesus is the Son of God who came to earth to save us.
KEY PASSAGE
This is a Bible verse that relates to what your child will encounter each week of this unit.
- “For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
** Next week: Jesus Saves Us to Follow Him (Matthew 27-28; Mark 15-16, Luke 23-24, John 19-20)
Imago Dei Church Kids Ministry 