To like 5 of you just saying the word “Purim” is probably enough to remind you of everything I’m about to say.
For the rest of you, and people like me…here’s what I’m talking about.
In the biblical story of Esther the Jewish people celebrated being saved from Haman’s plot to “destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews–young and old, women and children–on a single day” (Esther 3:13)
This celebration is an annual event called, Purim.
So this coming Sunday, why not tell the story of Esther??!!!
Don’t tell the story just because it’s in the Bible, or even because Purim is next week. Tell the story because of how it impacts kid’s lives.
Think about it this way…the fact that there are Jewish people celebrating a holiday next week that originated from a historical event found in the Bible makes Scripture (and the reality that it REALLY happened) come alive for kids like never before.
It’s one thing to talk about an event, and to consider how it all happened and what it all meant. But when you can tie a story to something happening THIS WEEK…that just takes it to another level.
Consider D-Day or the bombing of Pearl Harbor or perhaps the most famous one, Independence Day…when we stop to think about what happened on that day many, many years ago it brings a special significance to the day and it also helps us connect to that event in history, even just a little bit more.
That’s the purpose of having ceremonial holidays, is it not? To remember the past and the lessons learned from the events that took place.
The same is true of Scripture. We are talking about historical events that altered the very course of history! Not only that, but then you add in the fact that God’s Word is alive, and powerful and able to work in our lives in amazing ways (Hebrews 4:12)…the possibilities are innumerable!
So this weekend, tell the story of Esther and why this coming week’s celebration of Purim is so special.
I think your kids will love it!
As a bonus, Google some pictures of Purim celebrations and show the kids how the holiday is celebrated even today!
Need help making your lesson awesome? Check out my done-for-you curriculum materials
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