Theme: Z is for Zeal for Zion – A Journey Beginning with the Living Christ

Objective:
To honor the risen Lord by focusing on His resurrection, divine nature, and the way He lives through us. This unit helps students see themselves and others in God’s image and understand the global nature of Christ’s mission.

Scripture Focus:

  • Genesis 1:27 – “So God created man in his own image…”
  • 1 John 3:2 – “Now are we the sons [and daughters] of God.”
  • Mosiah 2:28 – “Have ye looked upon your brother or sister in the image of God?”
  • 3 Nephi 15:21 – “Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold.”
  • Matthew 28:6 – “He is not here: for he is risen.”

Unit Titles:

  1. The Image of God in Me
  2. Jesus Was a World Traveler
  3. What Would Jesus Look Like to Me?
  4. Mary, the Mother of Nations
  5. He Lives: The Power of the Resurrection

Activity 1: Mirror Drawing – “God Made Me This Way”

  • Materials: mirrors, drawing paper, colored pencils
  • Prompt: Draw how God sees you. Label with divine attributes like “Brave,” “Kind,” or “Peacemaker.”

Discussion Points:

  • Why are people portrayed differently in sacred art?
  • Is Jesus limited to one face? One nation? One era?
  • Why do we focus on His resurrection, not just the cross?

Activity 2: Sacred Art Walk

  • Display multicultural images of Christ.
  • Students reflect and discuss which images resonate and why.

Writing Prompt:

  • “If Jesus came to my house today, what would He look like? What would He say to me?”

Supplemental Visuals (no crosses):

  • Dove – Holy Ghost
  • Olive Branch – Peace & Covenant
  • Light or Sunburst – His Living Presence
  • Tree of Life – Eternal Family

Extension Unit: Jesus the Traveler

  • Map activity of Christ’s journey from Bethlehem to Bountiful
  • Introduce oral traditions from Indigenous tribes about a radiant teacher
  • Research legends of Mary’s journeys to Egypt, Ephesus, and beyond

Journal Reflection:

  • “Christ came for all. He lives for all. He walked with those we haven’t even read about yet.”

Closing Thought:

“If God made us all in His image, then to hate another’s image is to disrespect the Artist.” – K. Kirton Niner

Family Motto:

“We do not bear the cross. We bear the Light. He lives, and we live with Him.”

This curriculum respects your sacred boundary: it focuses on the resurrected Christ, avoids the symbol of the cross, and reflects the worldwide love of the Savior.