First, you will need a Bible, one or more baskets, and plastic Easter eggs. Next, select some Bible references you feel would be fitting. Write the book, chapter, and verse on a slip of paper, and place one inside each Easter egg. Along with the Bible reference, insert a clue for the location of a hidden treasure that goes along with the verse. For example, one slip of paper might include Hebrews 13:5, while another indicates bookshelf. Hebrews 13:5 reads, “Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have. For He has said, ‘I will never fail you nor forsake you.'” The prize could be another Easter egg hidden on the bookshelf with pennies (for a rainy day!) or an IOU for an outing to have frozen yogurt, a movie night with popcorn, or an evening roasting marshmallows over a bonfire.
To keep costs to a minimum, be creative with your treasure selections. Remember the man who built his house upon the sand (Matt. 7:24-27)? A miniature jar of swirled, colored sand not only adds décor to a shelf, but is a great reminder of how a solid foundation can make a difference. (You also can add a small rock on top of the sand to enhance the lesson.)
Perhaps in your teens’ quests for independence, rebellious, cruel, thoughtless words have taken over. Proverbs 14:17 states, “A man of quick temper acts foolishly, but a man of discretion is patient.” For a more blunt approach, try Proverbs 21:23: “He who keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.” The treasure could be a package of tangy candies to show how words can leave a bitter or sweet taste.
“But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness…against such there is no law” (Gal. 5:22). How about an orange, apple or banana hidden in the kitchen? Or if you have some spare seashells collected from a trip to the beach, not only may kindness printed on the inside inspire compassion, but your souvenir sharing would add a personal touch.
As you select Bible verses and prizes, consider needs. New socks can be incorporated with Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Perhaps the next time your teen is contemplating a decision, these words may inspire direction.
Once you’ve gathered your verses and filled the eggs, place them in the basket. A basket can be made for each teen, or the leader can pass one basket around, allowing each teen to take an egg. (If a separate basket is used for each teen, you may want to color coordinate the eggs so each is opening the same verse and clue.) No matter which way you choose, the treasures can be duplicated according to the number of teens, and the hunt for treasures remains a team effort.
Keep in mind, it’s not only important for your teen to become more familiar with the Bible but also to understand Scripture. When an egg is opened, the hunt is on! Once the treasure has been found, it’s time to refer to the Bible and read the passage. Then as a group or family, discuss the meaning and how it applies.
If younger children bless your home or group, as well, don’t leave them out of this fun adventure; just simplify it with short verses and offer your assistance to help find and read the passages.
