We’re already at the end of the first full week in Lent. Time goes by so quickly when we are busy with all the routine day-to-day work and activities. So I wanted to include here at least one Lenten meditation each week for children. I’ll use somewhat the same format as I did several years ago in an article I wrote for MY LIGHT magazine , in which children can view Jesus’ life and death in relation to their world.
A good source for Lenten meditations can be found in Christ’s passion. Today we’ll think about the beginning–when Pilate condemns Jesus to death. Even though Pilate couldn’t really find anything to punish Jesus for, he let the crowd sway his decision. [Mark 15:12-15]
Pilate spoke to them again, “What do you wish me to do with the man you call the King of the Jews?” They called back, “Crucify him!” Pilate asked them, “Why, what evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him!” So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas for them; and after flogging Jesus, he handed him over to be crucified.
MEDITATION: Today I condemned Libby. She wore her ugly purple sweater and stupid matching headband. Tiffany giggled loudly when she saw Libby at her school locker. “You look like a grape with wavy hair.”
Maria pointed a finger. “Did you put on the light when you got dressed today?” They turned to me laughing, so I felt like I needed to join in. That I needed to say something cool also.
“I think Libby just got sloppy with her grape juice this morning,”I said. We laughed more. But when Libby ran past us, I pretended to cough and looked away.
Who have I condemned today with a look, a thought, or my words? Who have I made suffer because I was not brave enough to love–especially when it was difficult?
Jesus, help me be strong and loving toward all those I encounter each day. Amen.
ACTIVITIES:
- Have your child illustrate Pilate condemning Jesus or the meditation scene with the school children.
- Older children might want to write their own meditation and prayer focusing on the cruelty of condemning others.
- Take a positive approach. Help your child list how many ways he has shown (or could show) love to others today.
For more Lenten meditations and activities, click on the following link at Fridge Art–a center for family oriented activities.
And for another beautiful picture of the Biblical scene highlighted above, visit Wikipedia.
The illustration at the top of the page is from Karen’s Whimsey. She has many other religious clip art available.