Easter is my favorite holiday because it is through  Jesus’s resurrection that we have certain hope of eternal life! As the Apostle Paul so strongly writes, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins” (1 Corinthians 15:17).  But thanks be to God, Christ is raised and our sins can be forgiven through Him!

As Easter approaches, and our family prepares for this fun holiday (“Holy” day), I want them to remember Easter is not about eggs, baskets or bunnies; but I also need to take time to reflect upon the sacrificial death of Jesus, grieve over my sin that He bore, and rejoice in His victory over death.

Allow yourself to feel both the weight of sorrow and the elation of joy with the early disciples as you go through this family scripture reading plan for Easter.

A Family Scripture Reading Plan for Easter

Day 1: The Triumphant Entry & The Cleasing of the Temple,  Matthew 21:1-17

Day 2: The Annointing at Bethany and The Lord’s Supper, Matthew 26:1-30

Day 3: The Garden of Gethsemane, Matthew 26:31-56

Day 4: Jesus Faces the Sanhedrin, Matthew 26:57-74

Day 5: Jesus Before Pilate, Matthew 27:1-26

Day 6: The Crucifixion & Burial, Matthew 27:27-56

Day 7: Jesus’s Resurrection & The Great Commission, Matthew 28:1-20

If these scriptures left you wanting more, I encourage you to read the account of Jesus’s death and resurrection in the rest of the gospels. Mark, Luke, & John also share their perspectives and celebrate our glorified Savior.

Also try this Easy Object Lesson for Easter– a low prep way to get your kids or teens thinking about the true meaning behind the symbols of Easter.

What is your favorite part of the Easter story? I love when the angel says, “He is not here. He is risen just as He said.” Share yours in the comments!

Read for more ways to help your family focus on Jesus this Easter.