Light in the Darkness – a John 12 Craft

The story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead is a powerful reminder of Jesus’ power over death and the darkness in the world. In John 12, we see Jesus entering Jerusalem for the last time before his crucifixion. As he enters the city, the people welcome him with palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna!"

To create a craft that reflects this story, we will make a simple lantern using paper and a tea light candle. This lantern will remind us of the light that Jesus brings to our lives and the hope that we have even in the darkest of times.

Materials Needed

• Colored paper (yellow, orange, and red)
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Tea light candle
• Glue

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of yellow paper into a 10cm x 20cm rectangle.
2. Fold the paper in half lengthwise, and then fold it in half again.
3. On one end of the folded paper, draw half of a heart shape using a pencil and ruler. Cut along the pencil line to create a heart-shaped opening in the paper.
4. Unfold the paper and fold it in half widthwise.
5. Cut strips of paper in the colors of the flames (yellow, orange, and red) and glue them inside the lantern, making sure they are visible through the heart-shaped opening.
6. Carefully place the tea light candle inside the lantern.
7. Light the candle and enjoy the warm glow of the lantern.

As we light our lantern, we are reminded of the light that Jesus brings to our lives. Even in the darkest of times, we can hold onto the hope and promise of eternal life with him. Let this lantern be a symbol of that hope and a reminder of the power of Jesus’ love and grace.