Book excerpt: The Easter drama plays out on history’s stage with magnificent and larger-than-life characters. Yet some of the most important lessons of Easter come from those whose names you may not recognize: Simon the Leper, Malchus, the Centurion at the cross, Cleopas, Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, Barabbas, Simon of Cyrene, and Mary Magdalene offer a unique perspective on one of the greatest events in human history. And yet their stories are often overlooked. On the Road to the Cross allows you to experience Easter through the eyes of the everyday people who witnessed the triumphal entry, saw Jesus drag his cross to Calvary, and cried through Christ’s last words. Each new perspective opens the door to a fresh consideration of Easter and its impact on their lives and ours. Designed to guide Bible study groups and discipleship classes through the book, this companion leader guide to On the Road to the Cross offers session outlines, discussion points and questions, activities, prayers, and leader helps for facilitating a group.