This article was written by INCM Executive Director Steve Adams.
As the Easter season quickly approaches, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of planning, rehearsals, enlisting additional volunteers, and ensuring that every detail of the kids’ services goes smoothly. After all, Easter is one of the biggest celebrations of the year, and the pressure to deliver a memorable, well-organized experience is immense.
In the rush to make sure every craft is ready, every Bible story is clear, and every activity is engaging, you might find yourself working long hours, focused on the logistics. But Easter is a time to celebrate the incredible truth of Christ’s death and resurrection — and you can’t pour from an empty cup. You are called to teach these children the good news AND live in the joy of that good news yourself.
As I look back over 3 decades of Easter services, I admit I have this regret: If I could go back and do it all over again, I would be more intentional about truly celebrating Easter and not just executing Easter. There is a big difference between the two.
Take a moment and remember why we celebrate Easter: It’s the resurrection of Jesus that brings hope, joy, and new life. As a kids ministry leader, you have the privilege of leading children into a deeper understanding of that joy. But to pass on that passion and excitement, you must first take the time to experience it yourself. It’s easy to focus on what needs to be done, but it’s also vital to reflect on the magnitude of what this season represents.
I would like to suggest four ways to truly celebrate Easter and not just execute it:
- Set Aside Time for Reflection: Before the busyness takes over, take some quiet time for personal reflection. Spend time in prayer, thanking God for the incredible gift of Jesus’s sacrifice and resurrection. This will refresh your spirit and remind you why your role matters.
- Make Easter Personal: Don’t just teach the Easter story — live it. Celebrate the resurrection in your own life. Share the story of Easter with joy and passion, and let that energy flow into the children’s ministry. When you’re excited, they’ll be excited.
- Celebrate with Your Team: As you prepare for Easter services, make sure to celebrate with the people around you. Take moments to pray together, share stories, and encourage each other. You’re all working together for a bigger purpose.
- Enjoy the Kids: Finally, enjoy the children! Watch their faces light up as they hear the Easter story, sing songs of praise, and understand the hope that comes with resurrection. This is what it’s all about!
As you prepare for the busy Easter season, don’t forget to celebrate the reason behind the celebration. By taking time to reflect, rejoice, and reconnect with the joy of Easter, you’ll be better equipped to lead your kids into a deeper understanding of God’s love and grace.
Easter is a time to celebrate, not just execute — and your own celebration will make all the difference in how you lead your ministry.
