A Promise, A Prayer, and A Purpose by Stacey Lynn

 We must not forget the reason for this Lenten season! Our focus has been directed in many different places over the past week or so. Let us remember the gift that was given to each one of us. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is our promise that the lives we live are not in vain. Our lives have a purpose! Jesus' triumph over death gives us courage and faith that we can overcome and endure the challenges of life. So whatever our circumstances are we can be confident and know that better days are ahead! In my own mind and soul I'm looking at the END of this challenge that we are facing with the Coronavirus as a RESURRECTION. A renewal of life, a return to "normal" living, a strong come back from this pandemic. This is a form of resurrection! 
     "With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God's grace was so powerfully at work in them all." - Acts 4:33  
As believers in Christ we have a future of hope and great confidence with grace, for there is power in Christ Jesus for all who trust and believe!
Some of us have young children and talking about the resurrection of Jesus may be a little difficult to explain to them. So below, I have added the Jelly bean prayer and the last memory bible verse we were learning in Sunday school.. If you don't have jelly beans at home you can use colored pencils, markers, or crayons to symbolize each color. As you read each line of the prayer you can breakdown it's meaning in a way that you feel comfortable sharing with your child. You can also have them draw a cross on a piece of paper and color it in using all of these fun colors! Reading this prayer reminds us that God loves us, forgives us, and is always with us! " Draw near to God, and God will draw near to you."- James 4:8