2 Versions:  Please scroll about halfway down to find the  Story with Scripture Version


Easter ‘Stay-In-Your-Car’ Scavenger Hunt

Scripture-only Version   


1.  1101 Manning Street

John 12:12-16 (ESV)

 12 The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. 13 So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” 14 And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written,

15 “Fear not, daughter of Zion;
behold, your king is coming,
    sitting on a donkey's colt!”

16 His disciples did not understand these things at first, but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been written about him and had been done to him.

Worship Song: Hosanna in the Highest https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEZuxYeV4lE&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=22


                                                                                                                             2. 101 College Street

Matthew 26:14-16 (ESV)

14 Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. 16 And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.

Worship Song:  Man of Sorrows   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7ZJ5D5q54g&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=17

                                                                                                        

                                                                                                               3. 3602 Quail Hollow Drive

Matthew 26:17-19, 26-28 (ESV)

17 Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?” 18 He said, “Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.’” 19 And the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover. 26 Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” 27 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, 28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

Worship Song:  Behold the Lamb  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XR77xKx_0CQ&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=35


                                                                                                               4. 4017 Quail Ridge Drive

Mark 14:32-50 (ESV)

32 And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. 34 And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” 35 And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36 And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” 37 And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? 38 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 39 And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. 40 And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. 41 And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand

43 And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44 Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man. Seize him and lead him away under guard.” 45 And when he came, he went up to him at once and said, “Rabbi!” And he kissed him. 46 And they laid hands on him and seized him. 47 But one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear. 48 And Jesus said to them, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? 49 Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.” 50 And they all left him and fled.

Worship Song:  Oh the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hzYKovRsJ8&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=24


                                                                                                                       5.       1021 E. 19th Avenue

John 18:12-19:1 (ESV)

12 So the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. 13 First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. 14 It was Caiaphas who had advised the Jews that it would be expedient that one man should die for the people.

15 Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, 16 but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in. 17 The servant girl at the door said to Peter, “You also are not one of this man's disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” 18 Now the servants and officers had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter also was with them, standing and warming himself.

19 The high priest then questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. 20 Jesus answered him, “I have spoken openly to the world. I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. 21 Why do you ask me? Ask those who have heard me what I said to them; they know what I said.” 22 When he had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” 23 Jesus answered him, “If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?” 24 Annas then sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.

25 Now Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. So they said to him, “You also are not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it and said, “I am not.” 26 One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Did I not see you in the garden with him?” 27 Peter again denied it, and at once a rooster crowed.

28 Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governor's headquarters. It was early morning. They themselves did not enter the governor's headquarters, so that they would not be defiled, but could eat the Passover. 29 So Pilate went outside to them and said, “What accusation do you bring against this man?” 30 They answered him, “If this man were not doing evil, we would not have delivered him over to you.” 31 Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” The Jews said to him, “It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death.” 32 This was to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken to show by what kind of death he was going to die.

33 So Pilate entered his headquarters again and called Jesus and said to him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?” 35 Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” 37 Then Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” 38 Pilate said to him, “What is truth?”

After he had said this, he went back outside to the Jews and told them, “I find no guilt in him. 39 But you have a custom that I should release one man for you at the Passover. So do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” 40 They cried out again, “Not this man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber.

19  1Then Pilate took Jesus and flogged him.

Worship Song:  Glorious Day  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXp6xcY5IqU&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=21

 

                                                                                                                    6. 1318 Fuller Street

John 19:2-15 (ESV)

2 And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head and arrayed him in a purple robe. 3 They came up to him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and struck him with their hands. 4 Pilate went out again and said to them, “See, I am bringing him out to you that you may know that I find no guilt in him.” 5 So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold the man!” 6 When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no guilt in him.” 7 The Jews answered him, “We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die because he has made himself the Son of God.” 8 When Pilate heard this statement, he was even more afraid. 9 He entered his headquarters again and said to Jesus, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave him no answer. 10 So Pilate said to him, “You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have authority to release you and authority to crucify you?” 11 Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above. Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin.” 12 From then on Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, “If you release this man, you are not Caesar's friend. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar.” 13 So when Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Stone Pavement, and in Aramaic Gabbatha. 14 Now it was the day of Preparation of the Passover. It was about the sixth hour. He said to the Jews, “Behold your King!” 15 They cried out, “Away with him, away with him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar.”

Worship Song:  How Could You Say No? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTO78YxUoMQ


                                                                                                     7.  328 N. College Street

John 19:16-22 (ESV)

16 So he delivered him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus, 17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. 18 There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. 19 Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” 20 Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek. 21 So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but rather, ‘This man said, I am King of the Jews.’” 22 Pilate answered, “What I have written I have written.”

Worship Song:  O the Blood  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC59rgmcu34&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=26


                                                                                                                           8.      1403 E. 12th Avenue

John 19:23-27 (ESV)

23 When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic. But the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom, 24 so they said to one another, “Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be.” This was to fulfill the Scripture which says,

“They divided my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.”

So the soldiers did these things, 25 but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.

Worship Song:  At the Cross  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00Nci1ATvPg&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=6

 

                                                                                                      9. 1720 Frankfort Street

John 19:28-37 (ESV)

28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” 29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

31 Since it was the day of Preparation, and so that the bodies would not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken and that they might be taken away. 32 So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who had been crucified with him. 33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water. 35 He who saw it has borne witness—his testimony is true, and he knows that he is telling the truth—that you also may believe. 36 For these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They will look on him whom they have pierced.”

Worship Song:  Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLJ0IjLAmOA&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=4


                                                                                                             10.    1821 Janes Avenue

Matthew 27:57-59 (ESV)

57 When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who also was a disciple of Jesus. 58 He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate ordered it to be given to him. 59 And Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen shroud

Worship Song:  Jesus Paid It All  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hs05AtP2wd8&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=5

 

                                                                                           11.   517 Quail Nest Road

Matthew 27:60-66 (ESV)

60 and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had cut in the rock. And he rolled a great stone to the entrance of the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were there, sitting opposite the tomb. 62 The next day, that is, after the day of Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate 63 and said, “Sir, we remember how that impostor said, while he was still alive, ‘After three days I will rise.’ 64 Therefore order the tomb to be made secure until the third day, lest his disciples go and steal him away and tell the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last fraud will be worse than the first.” 65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard of soldiers. Go, make it as secure as you can.” 66 So they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard.

Worship Song:  Beneath the Cross of Jesus  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKWMu1rT4z4&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=38


                                                                                                                              12.   420 Soward Street


Matthew 28 (ESV)

28 Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”

11 While they were going, behold, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had taken place. 12 And when they had assembled with the elders and taken counsel, they gave a sufficient sum of money to the soldiers 13 and said, “Tell people, ‘His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ 14 And if this comes to the governor's ears, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15 So they took the money and did as they were directed. And this story has been spread among the Jews to this day.

16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

(How about you?  Now that you know what Jesus did for you, what are you going to do with that information?  You might know the story and have the information in your head.  And you might already believe it really happened as recorded in the Bible.  But have you let that information sink about 12 inches to your heart?  Have you put your trust in Jesus as your only way to heaven? If not, take the time now to accept His free gift of eternal life and follow these instructions:  Just talk to God (pray).  Realize it’s not the prayer that saves you but your trusting Jesus that saves you.  “Dear God, I know I’m a sinner.  I know my sin deserves to be punished.  I believe Jesus died for me and rose from the grave.  I trust Jesus alone as my Savior.  Thank you for the forgiveness and everlasting life I now have.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.”  Having trusted Jesus as your only way to heaven, you’ll want your relationship with Him to grow by telling Him often what’s on your mind.  This is known as prayer.  You’ll want to read the Bible every day to learn more about Him.  You will want to worship with God’s people in a local church.  And on this new journey, you’ll want to meet regularly with a person who is a mature Christian to help you with questions, concerns and any struggles you have, to keep you on the straight path.  You’ll be forever blessed!)

 

Happy Resurrection Day!

Worship Song:  He’s Alive!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0XXxs5b7rg&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=8

As you travel home:  Come People of the Risen King  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jD2KYdHyX44&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=11

click here to download this information.   Easter "Stay-In-Your-Car" Scavenger Hunt SOV


Easter ‘Stay-In-Your-Car’ Scavenger Hunt

Story Version with Scripture

 

Read before leaving home:

“Benny, go get your cousin and let’s go!”  Dad said on Easter Sunday as he finished helping his daughter, Betsy, clear the lunch dishes from the table.  Mom and Dad both grabbed their phones as all five of them headed out the door.   

“I thought we were supposed to stay home during this virus thing,” said Chip, the cousin from out-of-state who was visiting during spring break but unable to return home because of the Coronavirus in his hometown. 

“This scavenger hunt is completely safe,” Mom replied, “We will stay in our car the entire time we are going around town to different locations reading the Easter story and looking for a clue at each stop.”

“I love scavenger hunts!”  added Benny. 

Chip, looking troubled said, “Yeah, the scavenger hunt part sounds fun, but I’m not too sure about the Easter story thing.  We don’t do that churchie stuff at home and…” 

Dad interrupted and continued, “AND so while you’re here with us, we’d appreciate your cooperation in celebrating Easter with us.  Although, we usually celebrate with our Church family, we’ll worship a little different this year and maybe even be able to wave at some of our friends out doing what we’re doing.  OK, let’s go!  Seatbelts on everyone?”   

 

1.   1101 Manning Street

 

Dad stopped the car and said, “OK, here we are at the first stop.  Let’s make this scavenger hunt a little more interesting and make it a competition to see who can find all the clues on their own.  Here’s a pencil & scratch paper for each of you to write down the clue you find at each stop, and whoever finds all the clues correctly will win that chocolate bunny Mom gave me this morning.  Everybody in?”

“In!”  everyone chimed together.

Dad continued, “Who wants to read the first scripture?”           

“I will!” Betsy quickly responded and read,

 

“John 12:12-16 (MSG)

12The next day the huge crowd that had arrived for the Feast heard that Jesus was entering Jerusalem. They broke off palm branches and went out to meet him. And they cheered:

Hosanna!

Blessed is he who comes in God’s name!

Yes! The King of Israel!

Jesus got a young donkey and rode it, just as the Scripture has it:

No fear, Daughter Zion:
    See how your king comes,
    riding a donkey’s colt.

16 The disciples didn’t notice the fulfillment of many Scriptures at the time, but after Jesus was glorified, they remembered that what was written about him matched what was done to him.”

Mom instructed, “Now, think about what Betsy just read and without saying anything, see if you can find something at this house that was mentioned in the reading.  Don’t say it, just write it down.”                               

 “I found it,” Chip puzzlingly replied, “But I don’t get it.  Sure doesn’t sound like the Easter story I’m familiar with.” 

Dad answered, “This scripture is referring to what we now call Palm Sunday, where Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey. The crowd was so excited to see Him they cut palm branches to wave and lay in His path.  They had heard all the wonderful miracles Jesus had done.  They even wanted to make Him their King!  This event was predicted hundreds of years prior and recorded in the Old Testament book of Zechariah.  This is the beginning of what is commonly known as the Holy Week, Jesus’ last week before His death and resurrection.”

Benny said, “One down…. let’s get on to the next stop!” 

Mom added, “Great!  And here’s music for us to listen and sing with while we’re driving to our next stop!”

Worship Song:  Hosanna in the Highest  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEZuxYeV4lE&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=22


                                                                                                              2.   101 College Street


Benny volunteered to read the next passage,

“Matthew 26:14-16 (MSG)

14 That is when one of the Twelve, the one named Judas Iscariot, went to the cabal of high priests and said, “What will you give me if I hand him over to you?” They settled on thirty silver pieces. He began looking for just the right moment to hand him over.”

Benny asked, “Why would one of Jesus’ own disciples want to hand him over to the religious authorities?”             

Mom replied, “Judas didn’t understand the big picture of why Jesus went to Jerusalem.  Jesus already knew the religious authorities were wanting Him dead and they wanted to end the people following Him. The disciples and religious authorities did not understand the Kingdom Jesus was talking about. They thought He was talking about an earthly kingdom, not a heavenly, eternal one.  Judas might have thought Jesus had gone too far and things were getting out of hand.  But Jesus already knew exactly what was in Judas’ heart, what Judas was planning to do, and how it would fulfill God’s plan.”

Betsy added, “That was a great question, Benny.  I had never questioned that before. Now I have a better understanding.  Thanks.”

“That’s why it’s good to study the Bible together,” Dad explained.  “We all have different questions and can gain understanding from each other, as long as our answers are also grounded in the Bible, God’s Word.  Everyone write down your clue and get ready to move on!”  Mom played the next song as they traveled to the next location.

 Worship Song:  Man of Sorrows  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7ZJ5D5q54g&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=17


                                                                                                 3.    3602 Quail Hollow Drive


“Can I read one?” asked Chip.                                                                                  “Sure you can,” Dad replied.

Chip began reading,   

“Matthew 26:17-19, 26-29 (MSG)

17 On the first of the Days of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and said, “Where do you want us to prepare your Passover meal?”

18-19 He said, “Enter the city. Go up to a certain man and say, ‘The Teacher says, My time is near. I and my disciples plan to celebrate the Passover meal at your house.’” The disciples followed Jesus’ instructions to the letter, and prepared the Passover meal.

26-29 During the meal, Jesus took and blessed the bread, broke it, and gave it to his disciples:

Take, eat.
This is my body.

Taking the cup and thanking God, he gave it to them:

Drink this, all of you.
This is my blood,
God’s new covenant poured out for many people for the forgiveness of sins.

I’ll not be drinking wine from this cup again until that new day when I’ll drink with you in the kingdom of my Father.”

Dad explains, “This special gathering was Jesus’ last meal with the disciples.  It’s now known as the Last Supper.  But that was not the only reason it was special.  The Passover meal was observed by the Jewish people every year to remind them of the time that God brought them out of their slavery in Egypt.  After 9 plagues and Pharaoh still refusing to let the Israelites leave, God sent the angel of death to kill the firstborn in every home.  The Israelites were instructed to put the blood of a sacrificed lamb on the doorposts of their home so the angel of death would “pass over” their door and not enter to do harm there.  Pharaoh then, after the death of his own son, told the Israelites to leave Egypt immediately.  In that special last meal with His disciples, Jesus was pointing to Himself as being the sacrificed lamb, the bread symbolizing His body and His blood shed for forgiveness of our sins, in the cup.  When we have communion at church, we are remembering Jesus’ sacrifice of His life and His blood shed for us to forgive our sins. Then He gives us the hope of being with Him again in the Kingdom of God.”                

“Wow!” Benny exclaimed.  “I’ve never realized how the Passover, the Last Supper and Communion fit together!  I’m going to read that Moses section of the Old Testament again and look for other references to Jesus.”                                           

“Wonderful,” Dad replied.  “We can do that next week together.  Anyone need more time to write down the clue?  Let’s get on to the next stop.  Music, Ann dear.”

Worship Song:  Behold the Lamb  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XR77xKx_0CQ&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=35

 

                                                                                                      4.   4017 Quail Ridge Drive


“I’ll read this one,” Mom said,

“Mark 14:32-42 (MSG)

32-34 They came to an area called Gethsemane. Jesus told his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” He took Peter, James, and John with him. He plunged into a sinkhole of dreadful agony. He told them, “I feel bad enough right now to die. Stay here and keep vigil with me.”

35-36 Going a little ahead, he fell to the ground and prayed for a way out: “Papa, Father, you can—can’t you?—get me out of this. Take this cup away from me. But please, not what I want—what do you want?”

37-38 He came back and found them sound asleep. He said to Peter, “Simon, you went to sleep on me? Can’t you stick it out with me a single hour? Stay alert, be in prayer, so you don’t enter the danger zone without even knowing it. Don’t be naive. Part of you is eager, ready for anything in God; but another part is as lazy as an old dog sleeping by the fire.”

39-40 He then went back and prayed the same prayer. Returning, he again found them sound asleep. They simply couldn’t keep their eyes open, and they didn’t have a plausible excuse.

41-42 He came back a third time and said, “Are you going to sleep all night? No—you’ve slept long enough. Time’s up. The Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up. Let’s get going. My betrayer has arrived.”

Benny questioned, “Ok, I hate to keep asking questions, but this is confusing!  Why, if Jesus knew He came to earth to die, did He ask His Father to get Him out of this?  And then if the Father is God, why couldn’t He save Jesus or find another way?”

“Let’s take one question at a time there, Benny,” Mom replied.  “Anyone have an answer for him?”

“I remember in Sunday School when we learned how Jesus was fully human and fully God.  There are numerous Bible verses that talked about Jesus being tempted, hungry after His fasting for 40 days and nights in the wilderness, tired as He fell asleep in the boat during the storm, and He wept with His friends over Lazarus’ death. That makes it easier to understand why Jesus, in His humanness, asked the Father for a way out. He already knew the agony He would endure.  His being fully God is seen in how He quickly He asked for the Father’s will to be done and was obedient to His Father’s will.  He was tempted by Satan, but never sinned.  He shares the same characteristics as God:  all powerful & all knowing. I memorized John 14:9 that says, “Whoever has seen Me (Jesus) has seen the Father.”

“Thanks, Betsy.” Benny said, “I get it now.  So how come God couldn’t save us another way if He’s God.  Why did Jesus have to die?”

Mom replied, “The Bible teaches us that God is a perfect and good judge.  Job 34:12 says God will not do wickedly, and the Almighty will not pervert justice.  A good judge punishes wrongdoing.  Remember Romans 3:23?  For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.  Do you remember what the punishment for sin is?”

“Yes!” Benny quickly replied. “Romans 6:23, For the wages of sin is death.  It just clicked!  I get it!  Jesus is the only perfect person who could take our place and die instead of us.  He took our punishment!  Wow!  That’s amazing.  I just memorized Romans 5:8 at AWANA that says God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

“Very good, both of you!  Putting God’s words in your hearts really helps answer some tough questions!  I’m proud of you!”  Dad beamed.  “Hope you wrote down the clue cause with a little music we are on to our next stop!

Worship Song:  Oh the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hzYKovRsJ8&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=24


                                                                                                          5.   1021 E. 19th Avenue


“I’m the only one who hasn’t read yet, so I’ll take this one,” Dad said,

“John 19:1 (MSG)

So Pilate took Jesus and had him whipped.”

“I imagine his whipping was a lot more serious than the spankings I got when I was little!  Betsy commented.

“You’re right, Betsy.  Whipped, which the Romans called flogging, was the term the Romans used to describe a beating with a leather whip with barbs. The barbs would actually tear the skin as they crossed the body.  Some people would die from the loss of blood from the flogging alone,” Dad explained.

“Wasn’t crucifixion enough?”  asked Chip. 

“One would think so.  But it was part of God’s plan.  God knew Jesus would be beaten before going to the cross and predicted it hundreds of years before it happened.  Those predictions are found in the Old Testament book of Isaiah where it says that His appearance was so marred, it was beyond the resemblance of human.  And another place in Isaiah it says that He was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His stripes we are healed.  God wanted the people then, that knew these scriptures and us now, who can read and look back, to see that Jesus really was His Son, the Promised One, our Redeemer!”  His life fulfilled the Old Testament prophesies.

“I know these parts of the Easter story are very difficult to think about,” Mom added, “But God really wants us to understand how serious sin is and to what length He went to, to redeem us.  His love is beyond measure!”  She pauses for a moment and continues, “Let’s write our clue down and listen while we move on.”

Worship Song:  Glorious Day  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXp6xcY5IqU&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=21

                                                                                                                   

                                                                                                         6.    1318 Fuller Street


“My turn now,” Betsy began reading as they pull up to the next location,

“John 19:2-3 (MSG)

The soldiers, having braided a crown from thorns, set it on his head, threw a purple robe over him, and approached him with, “Hail, King of the Jews!” Then they greeted him with slaps in the face.”

            “This clue is easy!  I think I have all the clues so far!  That chocolate bunny is going to taste soooo good!”  Chet laughed assuredly.

            “You sound very sure of yourself, Chet; so did those soldiers who were mocking Jesus with His own title.  They had no clue that He IS the King and Creator of everything!”  Mom commented, “Six more stops to go!  Here’s the next song!”

Worship Song:  How Could You Say No? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTO78YxUoMQ


                                                                                                           7. 328 N. College Street


“Number 7!  Hey, there’s Ken and his family!  Everybody wave!”  Benny exclaimed.  “OK, I’ve got this one.

John 19:16-19 (MSG)

 Pilate caved in to their demand. He turned him over to be crucified.

They took Jesus away. Carrying his cross, Jesus went out to the place called Skull Hill (the name in Hebrew is Golgotha), where they crucified him, and with him two others, one on each side, Jesus in the middle. Pilate wrote a sign and had it placed on the cross. It read:

Jesus the Nazarene
the king of the jews.”

“Pilate caved in?” questioned Chet. “What does that mean?”

“Pilate was the Roman governor, the judge of that area at the time, who had the authority to sentence Jesus.  He could not find anything wrong with Jesus, especially anything deserving death.  But the religious leaders of the time and the crowd were about to become violent, demanding Jesus’ crucifixion.  Keeping the peace was a priority at the time, so Pilate gave into the demand of the crowd.  So even with Jesus’ sentence of death by crucifixion, He was without sin.  He was the perfect sacrifice, not deserving the punishment that we deserve because of our sin.”

“I understand now and found the clue, … but I need a little time to think this one through,” Chet replied quietly.

“Let’s listen as we move onto the next stop,” Dad replied as he pulled away from the curb.

Worship Song:  O the Blood  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC59rgmcu34&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=26


                                                                                                       8.   1403 E. 12th Avenue


“We’re here, Chip,” announced Betsy.  “You ready to read?”

            Chip, deep in thought, startles and replies, “Yeah, I got this one.

John 19: 23-24 (MSG)

When they crucified him, the Roman soldiers took his clothes and divided them up four ways, to each soldier a fourth. But his robe was seamless, a single piece of weaving, so they said to each other, “Let’s not tear it up. Let’s throw dice to see who gets it.” This confirmed the Scripture that said, “They divided up my clothes among them and threw dice for my coat.” (The soldiers validated the Scriptures!)”

            “So, this is another event that was foretold hundreds of years ago and written in the Old Testament that would happen and did happen, as I read?” Chet questioned.

            “Yes, Chet!  I believe it was written in the book of Psalms.  Do you remember, Dan?”  Mom asked.

            “I believe so.  It was a common practice at a crucifixion for the soldiers who were there to divide the clothing of the condemned person, here being Jesus.  They didn’t want to tear His tunic because it was made all one piece, without seams. The soldiers rolled dice to see who would win it.  Oops, I think I just gave that clue away, sorry!” Dad said.

            Chip chuckled, “That’s OK, Uncle Dan.  I can’t wait to see what’s next!  Let’s go!”

Worship Song:  At the Cross  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00Nci1ATvPg&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=6

 

                                                                                                 9.    1720 Frankfort Street


They rolled up to the curb and Mom began to read,

“John 19:32-37 (MSG)

Then the Jews, since it was the day of Sabbath preparation, and so the bodies wouldn’t stay on the crosses over the Sabbath (it was a high holy day that year), petitioned Pilate that their legs be broken to speed death, and the bodies taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first man crucified with Jesus, and then the other. When they got to Jesus, they saw that he was already dead, so they didn’t break his legs. One of the soldiers stabbed him in the side with his spear. Blood and water gushed out. 35 The eyewitness to these things has presented an accurate report. He saw it himself and is telling the truth so that you, also, will believe. 36-37 These things that happened confirmed the Scripture, “Not a bone in his body was broken,” and the other Scripture that reads, “They will stare at the one they pierced.”

            “So am I understanding this right?  The disciple John, author of this book, was an actual witness?  AND this was another detail of Jesus’ death that was foretold in the Old Testament, hundreds of years ago?  Wow, God is really into details.  He really wants us to understand this and to believe!”  Chip exclaimed.

            Benny, noticing a new kind of reaction in his cousin’s response, replied, “Exactly, Chip!  God wanted us to know for sure that Jesus was dead, not just unconscious.  It’s so cool that we have a firsthand, eyewitness record of this event now some 2000 years later.”

            “The story only gets better!”  Dad added.  “Let’s see what’s next!  Start the music, please!  Let’s roll!”   

Worship Song:  Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLJ0IjLAmOA&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=4


                                                                                                     10.      1821 Janes Avenue


Dad brought their vehicle to a stop at their next location and began reading,

“Matthew 27:57-59 (MSG)

Late in the afternoon a wealthy man from Arimathea, a disciple of Jesus, arrived. His name was Joseph. He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Pilate granted his request. Joseph took the body and wrapped it in clean linens,”

            Chip remarked, “Kind of like a mummy, right?” 

            “Yes, similar.”  Mom replied.  “But think about something else for a minute.  Who would you expect to ask for Jesus’ body, His family and disciples, or a stranger we know little about?”

            “His family and disciples, of course!”  replied Benny.  “So why would a stranger ask for Jesus’ body and where were Jesus’ family and disciples?”

            “I don’t have my Bible with me, but I remember being at a Bible study on this passage.  Joseph of Arimathea was part of the religious community. And Nicodemus, also part of the religious community, helped Joseph in Jesus’ burial at the tomb.  They were both seeking the kingdom of God and neither of them consented to put Jesus on trial.  Jesus’ mother was understandably emotionally exhausted and there is no evidence that His half brothers and sisters were in Jerusalem.  The disciples had fled in fear of being associated with Jesus by the Romans.  Joseph asked Pilate for His body.  Some Bible scholars say that these two men, although hiding their belief in Jesus while Jesus was alive, then came forward publicly to bury Him.  That took courage!   Pretty amazing.”

            “I want to be courageous for Jesus, too,” Betsy added.  “But sometimes I’m scared to talk to my friends about Jesus.  Remembering how courageous Joseph and Nicodemus were will help me be bolder in telling my family and friends about Jesus.”

            “I’m sure we could all use some help in that area, Betsy!  Let’s move on with another inspirational song,” Dad agreed as he pulled away from the curb.

Worship Song:  Jesus Paid It All   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hs05AtP2wd8&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=5

 

                                                                                                      11.   517 Quail Nest Road


Betsy, knowing it would be her turn to read, looked at the passage, hesitated and said, “OK, this directly follows the last passage we read where Joseph and Nicodemus had just wrapped Jesus’ body in clean linen.

Matthew 27:60 (MSG)

put it in his own tomb, a new tomb only recently cut into the rock, and rolled a large stone across the entrance. Then he went off. But Mary Magdalene and the other Mary stayed, sitting in plain view of the tomb.”

            Benny questioned, “Is this the part of the story where the Romans seal and guard the tomb in fear of Jesus’ disciples or someone stealing Jesus’ body and then saying He has risen like Jesus foretold before His death?”

            “That’s right, Benny,” Dad responded.  “Not only was the rock too big for a single person to roll, but the seal would make it tamper-proof for any person.  But it didn’t prevent God’s plan from becoming a reality!”

            “On to the last stop, Dan!  The best is yet to come!” Mom exclaims excitedly as she starts the next song.

Worship Song:  Beneath the Cross of Jesus  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKWMu1rT4z4&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=38

 

                                                                                                  12.     420 Soward Street


The Robins’ vehicle slows as they come to the last address, but finding no house, they finally stop.  “What?  Must be a misprint!  There’s nothing here but an empty lot!  Now what?” Chip said disappointedly.

“Let’s not assume the worst, Chip.  Go ahead and read the scripture and we’ll see what we can find here; or not find,” Dad instructed as he winked at Betsy and Benny.

Chip began reading,

“Matthew 28:1-10 (MSG)

28 1-4 After the Sabbath, as the first light of the new week dawned, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to keep vigil at the tomb. Suddenly the earth reeled and rocked under their feet as God’s angel came down from heaven, came right up to where they were standing. He rolled back the stone and then sat on it. Shafts of lightning blazed from him. His garments shimmered snow-white. The guards at the tomb were scared to death. They were so frightened, they couldn’t move.

5-6 The angel spoke to the women: “There is nothing to fear here. I know you’re looking for Jesus, the One they nailed to the cross. He is not here. He was raised, just as he said. Come and look at the place where he was placed.

7 “Now, get on your way quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He is risen from the dead. He is going on ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there.’ That’s the message.”

8-10 The women, deep in wonder and full of joy, lost no time in leaving the tomb. They ran to tell the disciples. Then Jesus met them, stopping them in their tracks. “Good morning!” he said. They fell to their knees, embraced his feet, and worshiped him. Jesus said, “You’re holding on to me for dear life! Don’t be frightened like that. Go tell my brothers that they are to go to Galilee, and that I’ll meet them there.”

Chip couldn’t contain himself and said, “Whoa!  An earthquake and angels rolling the stone away!  And the EMPTY tomb!  And then the women actually see, hold and talk to Jesus!  What do I do with all this!  It’s too much!”

“Let me help you, Chip,” Dad replied.  “Let’s think back to some of the things we talked about earlier.  We talked about how we are all sinners.  Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”  The Bible says that by sinning we have earned death.  That means we deserve to die and be separated from God forever.  Since there was no way we could come to God, the Bible says that God came to us!  Jesus, God’s only Son, took on flesh and was born a baby.  He lived a perfect life; the life of a servant; loving, teaching and healing all that had need.  The Bible then says that Jesus took the penalty that we deserved for sin, placed it upon Himself, and died on the cross in our place.  Three days later, Jesus came back to life to prove that sin and death had been conquered and that His claims to be God were true.”

“Yeah, I see all that.  It makes sense.  But all this talk about the Bible.  How do you know you can trust it?  It’s just an old book, right?” Chip questioned.

“Good question.  I could tell you I’ve read it and that it works for me.  But more than that (Dad slows down his speaking) I choose to believe the Bible because it is a reliable collection of historical documents written by eyewitnesses during the lifetime of other eyewitnesses.  They report supernatural events that took place in fulfillment of specific prophecies and claim that their writings are divine (from God) rather than human in origin.  That’s a lot to take in, I know!”  Dad smiled.

 

“No, it’s OK.  Like we talked about all the Old Testament prophesies coming true.  I can trust the Bible!”  Chip responded. 

 

“Then there’s just one part missing, Chip.”  Dad added and continued, “You have to decide what you are going to do with Jesus, now that you know and understand what He did for you and why.  Here’s another scripture:  Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace [undeserved favor] you have been saved [delivered form sin’s penalty] through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”  You must depend on Him alone to forgive you and give you eternal life.”

 

“I do, I do trust in Him!  Can you help me tell God that I trust Him!” Chip asked.

 

“I would be delighted, Chip.”  Dad replied with a tear of joy in his eye.  “Just say this prayer after me.  Realize it’s not the prayer that saves you but your trusting Jesus that saves you.”

 

Dad prays and Chip repeats, “Dear God, I know I’m a sinner.  I know my sin deserves to be punished.  I believe Jesus died for me and rose from the grave.  I trust Jesus alone as my Savior.  Thank you for the forgiveness and everlasting life I now have.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

“Thanks, Uncle Dan.  This is the best day in my life!  What do I do now?”  Chet inquired.

 

Dad replied, “You have eternal salvation now, Chip.  Having trusted Jesus as your only way to heaven, you’ll want your relationship with Him to grow by telling Him often what’s on your mind.  We call this prayer.  You’ll want to read the Bible every day to learn more about Him.  You will want to worship with God’s people in a local church.  AND tell others about Jesus!  How about we keep in touch weekly after you go home. We can face time.  I can coach you as questions, concerns, and struggles come up to keep you on the straight path.”

 

“I’ll take you up on that!  How about a group hug here in the car!” Chip beamed as never before.  “Betsy and Benny, you can split that chocolate bunny.  I already won the best prize this Easter!”

 

Mom started the music and they all joined in singing on the way home, an Easter they would never forget for so many reasons. 😊

 

(How about you?  Now that you know what Jesus did for you, what are you going to do with that information?  You might know the story and have the information in your head.  And you might already believe it really happened as recorded in the Bible.  But have you let that information sink about 12 inches to your heart?  Have you put your trust in Jesus as your only way to heaven? If not, take the time now to accept His free gift of eternal life and follow the same instructions Dan gave to his nephew, Chip!   You’ll be forever blessed!)


Happy Resurrection Day!

Worship Song:  He’s Alive! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0XXxs5b7rg&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=8

For on your way home:  Come People of the Risen King  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jD2KYdHyX44&list=PLNbwoRVHLNM4LlBvjWZv2brmWgV0YgwyY&index=11

click here to download this information. Easter "Stay-In-Your_Car" Scavenger Hunt Story Version with Scripture