Separation Saturday

Living Brightly with Elayne Cross

Passover, Pascha, Easter, Holy Week, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, so many terms to cover one holiday or Holy Day. Join Elayne as she unpacks and clarifies the significance of this very important day of remembrance

Four questions Jews ponder to remember and reflect on the Exodus

1. On all nights we eat wheat (bread) why on this night do we only eat crackers (unleavened bread)?
2. On all nights we eat vegetables why on this night do we eat bitter vegetables?
3. On all nights we do not dip in salt water even once why on this night do we dip twice?
4. On all nights we sit or recline why on this night must we all recline?

These questions lead to discussions making clear distinctions between an average night from this very special night highlighting tears of slavery, hurried exit, bitterness of slavery, and reclining in freedom.

Four questions Christians can use to remember and reflect on Easter

1. On all holidays the date remains the same why on this holiday does the date change?
2. On all Sundays we attend church why on this Sunday do more people attend church?
3. On all weeks we do not recognize the days why during this week do we have special name?
   1. Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Silent Saturday, and Easter Sunday
4. On all Sundays we eat food why on this Sunday do we receive gifts and candy?
   1. Hunt for eggs, wear special clothes, or any other special things you do to celebrate Easter to remember all Jesus has done

These questions lead to discussions making clear the distinction between an average Sunday and Holiday and the significance of this week, this Sunday, and this Holiday. Jesus and Christianity’s roots in Judaism and the foreshadowing of the Exodus story, the significant steps in Jesus Journey to the cross and resurrection and the celebration of life provided through His sacrifice.