Big Idea:

Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins.

Read Together

Mark 15:37–39 – "And Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, 'Truly this man was the Son of God!'"

The Story

On the day we call Good Friday, Jesus was nailed to a cross. The soldiers made fun of Him, put a crown of thorns on His head, and even spit on Him. It looked like the saddest day ever.

But even though it looked bad, this was God's plan. Jesus was taking the punishment we deserved. He was the perfect Lamb of God, dying so our sins could be forgiven.

When Jesus breathed His last, something amazing happened. The curtain in the temple tore in two. That curtain had kept people out of the Most Holy Place where God's presence was. Now, because of Jesus, we can be close to God!

Advent Connection

Christmas is sweet because it leads us to the cross. The baby in the manger came to die for us. That's why we call it Good Friday—because Jesus' death is our life.

Talk About It

• Why do we call it Good Friday if Jesus died? • What did the torn curtain mean? • How does it feel to know Jesus took your punishment?

Activity

Cross Craft

• Use popsicle sticks (or paper) to make a simple cross. • Write on it: "Jesus died for me." • Place it near your nativity to remind you why Jesus came.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for dying on the cross for our sins. Thank You that the curtain was torn and we can be close to God. Amen.

Family Challenge

Tonight, turn off the lights at dinner. Light a single candle and talk about how even on the darkest day, Jesus was bringing us the light of salvation.