This weekend we celebrate the most influential events in both the Christian and Jewish faiths. Easter, in the Christian faith, is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, after being crucified to pay for the sin of the world. Passover, celebrated by Jews, is the remembrance of God’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt after the Ten Plagues. As your little ones grow they will need to know the particulars of these events because they will be confronted with them through out their lives. Even if you do not practice a certain faith you owe it to you kids to help them understand these.
This history of both Christianity and Judaism are explained in the pages of the Holy Bible, or Torah. American culture and language are filled with references to the stories found there. Good Samaritan laws refer to the parable Jesus told of the Good Samaritan who helped his enemy in time of need. The Ten Commandments, given by the God of the Hebrews to Moses on Mt Sinai, are the foundation of British Common Law, which in turn is the basis for our civil and criminal court systems. David and Goliath are referred to in literature and common language referring the Jewish King David who killed the giant Goliath with a stone and a sling. Even the calendar used in the western world for the past 2.000 years refers to B. C. (Before Christ), and A. D. (After the Death of Christ). Certainly you can think of many more examples of these influences. A proper education in America requires at least a general understanding of these things.
In the Holy Bible the Old Testament is filled with accounts of God’s people and their many activities. Reading these stories to your children enriches their understanding of the world and their place in it. The New Testament is the story of the life of Jesus Christ, accepted by most as an honorable and righteous teacher and leader. Again, great material for teaching your kids about how to live their lives well. Below find some links for finding these references.
Happy Easter and Happy Passover!!!! JUDY
5 Great Old Testament Bible Stories
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/christiancrier/2014/08/11/5-great-old-testament-bible-stories/
Bible Stories from the Old Testament
http://www.learningscriptures.info/bible-stories-old-testament/
(Almost) The Whole Continuous Story of the Old Testament in Just 11 Books
Crucifixion Details of the
Resurrection of Christ
The Link to the film, The Passion of the Christ
The Passion of The Christ 2004 English Movie Full – gloria.tv