Spring in Atlanta brings two things in abundance—Lenten celebrations and a whole lot of pollen. The pollen? I could do without. But intergenerational Lenten experiences? I wouldn’t miss them for anything.

The liturgical year draws us into the life of Jesus, reminding us of the moments that define our faith. But why do the Old Testament stories matter just as much?

Dr. Sandra Richter explains it beautifully: “The great narratives of the Old Testament have been preserved for us for a reason. Rehearsing these stories to each other reminds us of who we are. It reminds us of who our God is. ‘Stories that matter’ strengthen us… If the God I serve is the God of the exodus, the conquest, and the resurrection, then there is real hope, real strength, a real reason to get back in the game. But what if I don’t know the God of the exodus, the conquest, and the resurrection? What if the God I’ve come to know is the God of shallow pop songs and feel-good motivational speeches? … Then I’m in trouble. And so is the kingdom.” (The Epic of Eden: Deborah, p. 102)

Part of our family tradition during Lent is to watch The Ten Commandments with Charlton Heston: the OG when it comes on network television (4/12/25 on ABC). Part of my personal tradition is to watch The Passion of the Christ (Netflix). This year we have access to The Chosen’s presentation of The Last Supper, Part 1 (opened 3/29), Part 2 (opens 4/4), and Part 3 (opens 4/11). As a visual learner, I’m here for it all.

Another powerful way to experience the season is through discovering Jesus in the Passover, both in the classroom and at home. Faith formation that engages all five senses deepens our understanding, making these traditions come alive:

• Wonder Ink offers a series of five Easter-themed Sunday School lessons, culminating in an Around the Table Passover Event using candy to give the account of the plagues. Families and children journey through the Easter season while experiencing elements of a traditional Jewish Passover meal that point to Jesus. But why limit this to Lent? Imagine using these lessons for a VBS at a local nursing home, with kids and youth as teachers! We’ll be inviting our senior saints and women’s ministry team to join us to take this on the road.
• Chosen People Ministries recently led our entire church in a Passover Seder. For a little over two hours, we shared a meal, honored the roles of men, women, and children at the table, and explored how every part of the Seder points to Jesus. Children delighted in interactive elements—stickers representing the plagues, plastic locusts, flies, and frogs—while one thoughtful hostess even provided coloring books and a plush lamb for the little ones at her table. It was a night filled with laughter, learning, and deep connection as we discovered more about the Messiah of the Passover. Free children’s resources can be found here. One of our moms of three littles, two very littles, set her dinner and table that night in a way that worked for her family committed to starting this tradition.
• Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper is more than just sacred art—it’s storytelling through paint. Da Vinci, a scientist, artist, and master of detail, wove layers of meaning into his famous work. Last week, in our kids’ Sunday school, we explored this masterpiece alongside objects that tell Jesus’ story. We compared an original darkened print with a lighter version, discussing how artists of faith once shaped Biblical storytelling. My co-teacher, an incredible art educator, helps our students see the beauty of sacred art. Last year, we introduced them to the Mona Lisa, inviting them to “do the Mona” by sitting still with hands folded in their laps, ready to receive instructions. My unruly rosemary bush provided the stalks of rosemary for the lingering smell of the woman with the alabaster jar of perfume.

Each of these traditions—whether through art, food, film, or storytelling—points us to the God who still rescues, hears the cries of His people, gathers us in community, provides, restores, blesses, and calls us to a believer’s obedience through His Son, Jesus.

From our tables to our classrooms, from sacred art to sacred meals, we are invited to tell the story of our Savior—because it’s a story that matters.

“One generation commends Your works to another; they tell of Your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendor of Your majesty – and I will meditate on Your wonderful works.” Psalm 145:4-5