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• Silver Coins Reflection

  • What to Do: Gather 30 coins (pennies, quarters, or even paper cutouts) to represent the thirty pieces of silver Judas received. Pass them around, then read the betrayal story aloud. Discuss what Judas traded Jesus for and ask, “What do we sometimes trade Jesus for?” (e.g., selfishness, distractions). End by placing the coins in a jar as a reminder to choose loyalty to God.

  • Why It Fits: This directly ties to Judas’ deal with the chief priests, highlighting the tangible cost of betrayal and encouraging families to reflect on their own faithfulness.

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• Darkness Candle Ritual

  • What to Do: Light a candle in a darkened room. Talk about how Judas’ actions brought darkness into Jesus’ life. Slowly blow out the candle, symbolizing that darkness, and sit quietly for a moment. Relight it to show Jesus’ love overcomes even betrayal, then pray for strength to stay true to Him.

  • Why It Fits: The extinguishing of light echoes the Tenebrae tradition and Judas’ turn to darkness, while relighting it points to hope amidst the day’s somber mood.

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• Forgiveness Stones

  • What to Do: Give each family member a small stone. Read about Judas’ betrayal, then share a time someone let them down or they let someone else down. Drop the stones into a bowl of water one by one, symbolizing forgiving others as Jesus forgave, even in betrayal. End with a prayer for healing.

  • Why It Fits: Jesus’ mercy extends even to Judas, and this activity reflects Spy Wednesday’s call to examine our hearts, release grudges, and trust God’s grace.

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• Spy Search Game

  • What to Do: Hide a small object (like a coin or a note saying “Judas”) around the house. Have kids search for it. Once found, discuss how Judas “hid” his intentions and how we can be honest with God instead. Reward the finder with a treat to keep it fun.

  • Why It Fits: The “spy” element connects to Judas’ secretive plot, turning a serious theme into an interactive lesson on integrity and openness with God.