“For Unto You Is Born This Day in the City of David a Savior, Who Is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11)

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Christ the Lord!

An Advent Reader for Church in the Square

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11)

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SERIES OVERVIEW...... 3

HOW TO USE

THIS DEVOTIONAL...... 5

WEEK 1...... 7

WEEK 2...... 14

WEEK 3...... 21

WEEK 4...... 29

WEEK 5...... 36

2 INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

SERIES OVERVIEW

I remember waiting for Christmas morning as a kid. Each new gift arriving under the tree compelled me to trust and be patient. I had to believe that one day we would open those presents or this was all just a cruel joke. I had to wait because that day was not yet here.

Advent is about an arrival. In fact that’s what the word means. Often it conveys the arrival of a notable person or an event that changes the course of history. For instance we might say everything changed at the advent of the internet. The advent season therefore is the consideration of such an arrival--though one with infinitely greater result and meaning than the world wide web.

The Son of God arrived in the flesh to his parents Joseph and Mary. However his Heavenly Father had promised to send his people a child long ago who would be a Mighty God, Prince of

3 INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

Peace, and the Savior of the world. God promised the Messiah. God’s people waited for generations for the fulfillment of this prophetic word until the arrival of history’s most notable person and the most significant chain of events the world will ever know.

We live on the other side of this special arrival. Humanity’s longing for a savior has been realized in Jesus. Promised for generations God was true to his word in delivering a savior who would oppose the rival of his people, vanquish the evil one, and inaugurate a new creation and kingdom. Yet because we live on this side of the incarnation we regularly fail to recognize its power.

The advent season is an invitation to consider this posture of waiting; an ancient Christian practice that leads us to Christmas Day. Through this season in God’s Word we are led to and see more clearly Jesus, the Messiah. And in so doing we will learn in our own lives the discipline of waiting patiently on the Lord.

We will see Jesus as the Lord of time, creation, the spiritual realm, our hearts, and of glory. Perhaps each of these, like a weekly gift placed underneath a tree, will draw out from us patience and trust. After all we know that as each aspect of his lordship is expressed God will graciously increase in us a hope that is true, a salvation that is sure, and a promised future kingdom which is as good as arrived … a day when all will announce, Christ is Lord!

4 HOW TO USE THIS DEVOTIONAL

The Christmas season, need. The Messiah is coming if we aren’t mindful, can back to complete His plan of easily pass us by through restoration. the whirlwind of events, traveling, visiting relatives, The great thing about the or spending hours online Scriptures is that they can’t trying to find the right be exhausted. They can’t be bargain for the gift you overused, and they don’t so want to give someone. have an expiration date. This devotional is meant to Honestly, when we think help us pause, ponder, and about Christmas, there’s meditate on God’s Word. It’s not something new or purposed to make us look innovative to say. The early to the Word made flesh, church father, Augustine of Jesus Christ, in order to not Hippo, when referring to the miss the sole meaning of familiarity of the Christmas Christmas -- the Messiah has story, said, “Listen to what come to rescue a world in you know, reflect on what

“THE HOPES AND FEARS OF ALL THE YEARS ARE MET IN THEE TONIGHT”

- PHILLIPS BROOKS, O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM

5 INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

you’ve heard, love what you believe, and preach what you love.” Rehearse the Christmas gospel over and over. Use this as a personal devotional, as well as a group and family devotional. In the following pages, you’ll find 5 days for each week (Monday-Friday), and each week leading us closer to the birth of Jesus Christ. For the day your small group meets, use the particular day in your time together. If your small group meets on Sunday, use day 1.

At the beginning of each week, you’ll find an overview and a song. Use them as a reference point for each day of that particular week. Your small group may want to sing aloud together, or you may just read through the lyrics and let them point you back to God’s Word. As you go through the Daily Rhythm, don’t see it as a checklist to work through in a specific order. Instead, use it as a guide. Each rhythm is interconnected. See how reading Scripture each day shapes your prayer - how you pray for God’s will to be done or intercede on behalf of others. The time answering questions can often cause us to pause and sit in awe and thanksgiving towards Jesus.

Our desire is that this discipline will evoke worship and prayer daily, as we’re invited to read and consider what may be familiar narratives and events of Christmas. Come back to the anchor of God’s enduring faithfulness as it’s shown in our Savior, Jesus Christ. Our prayer is that this helps us see Jesus as more incredible than we believed before and that our appetite for God’s Word increases well beyond Advent and Christmas to every single day of the year.

6 WEEK 1: PROMISE

The first week of Advent is all about promises-- promises that lead to hope. You may remember, reading the introduction of this devotional, seeing the theme of waiting come up a few times. Waiting is often uncomfortable; it pulls to surface unfulfilled desires and longings that we have. The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church of Corinth praising God for being the God of all comfort. It makes you wonder about all of the promises God had spoken that Paul recalled. In a time when people were being shaken with fear of the future, division among one another, doubt, and even persecution, Paul was writing, “...promises of God find their yes in Him.” This week, call out to our Lord and worship Him as you look back to God’s promised Messiah for Israel and for us. Let Scripture point you forward to the future hope of the Messiah as you celebrate all the promises of God.

FOR ALL THE PROMISES OF GOD FIND THEIR YES IN HIM.

- 2 CORINTHIANS 1:20A

7 WEEK 1: PROMISE

DAILY RHYTHM

• Pray for God’s help. • Read the Scripture. • Walk through the Discussion Questions. • Reflect on or listen to the song. • Read through the prayer. • Review the weekly memory verse. BLUE for kids. • Devotional (recommended during a meal or before bedtime).

O COME, O COME EMMANUEL John Mason Neale, translator

O come, O come, Emmanuel, and cheer and ransom captive Israel, our spirits by Thine advent here; that mourns in lonely exile here, disperse the gloomy clouds of until the Son of God appear: night, Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel and death’s dark shadows put to shall come to Thee, O Israel. flight. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free shall come to Thee, O Israel. Thine own from Satan’s tyranny; from depths of hell Thy people O come, Thou Key of David, come, save, and open wide our heav’nly home; and give them vict’ry o’er the make safe the way that leads on grave high, Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel and close the path to misery. shall come to Thee, O Israel. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to Thee, O Israel. O come, Thou Dayspring, come

8 WEEK 1: PROMISE

DAY 1

SCRIPTURE: GENESIS 3:4-17 KEY VERSE “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15)

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Lord, you truly are the God of salvation. You are the hope of all the ends of the earth. You formed the mountains. You’ve stilled the roaring seas. You numbered the stars, and yet in your greatness, you are mindful of us as your image bearers. You’re the everlasting God who said in the darkness, “let there be light”, and your Son, Jesus, is the light of all mankind. Darkness cannot overcome it!

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2).

READER FOR KIDS

READ ANSWER Genesis 3:15 1.) To bring glory to God, 2.) To die for our sins, and 3.) To destroy evil. QUESTION God (the Father) promised to send CONVERSATION Jesus (God the Son). Why did God God keeps his promises. Why is that the Father send his Son (Jesus) to good news for us? (Ex: God promised to earth? save us. Jesus is God’s kept promise.)

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DAY 2

SCRIPTURE: ROMANS 8:18-30 KEY VERSE “For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now” (Romans 8:22).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Jesus, as we celebrate your birth, we yearn for your return. You’ve promised to come back. Your birth is evidence of God’s promise from before time; your cross is your obedience to the Father and your victorious offering to redeem us; your resurrection shows us that your death is not in vain, and your promise stands that you will return. There are many glimpses of your faithfulness, but we’re eagerly waiting as you are still working. Give us patience to endure in times of plenty and in times of want. Convict us, Holy Spirit, in our weakness. We are tempted to run to everything but Jesus. Help us, today and this week, to affirm in our hearts, “only Jesus”.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2).

READER FOR KIDS

READ Romans 8:22 CONVERSATION God made everything to know peace. What is QUESTION peace? How do we try to get rid of pain/sad- God made everything to know peace. ness/fear? Where do we try to find peace? (Ex: Why is all of creation groaning? Knowing God is in control, no matter what. Calm in my heart even when things are bad or ANSWER sad or scary. Love in my heart when someone Because until Jesus comes back the hurts me.) whole earth will not know whole peace.

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DAY 3

SCRIPTURE: ISAIAH 9:1-7 KEY VERSE “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2)

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Jesus, you are our Wonderful Counselor. You lead the way in perfection. Your Word says that you guide the humble in what is right and teach them your way (Psalm 25). You are the Mighty God. How can it be that an infant born in a barn stall is the ruler of the universe!? What a thought! You are an everlasting Father. You care for your sheep perfectly. Like a parent who would do anything for the good of children, you prayed for us before we were even born (John 17). You’re the Prince of Peace. Thank you for the humility you consistently displayed to us and for us. Thank you for offering us peace that is beyond any type of calm we could find. It’s in your name, Jesus, that we pray and say, “Thank you!”. Amen.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2).

READER FOR KIDS

READ ANSWER Isaiah 9:2 1.) Jesus show us the truth. 2.) Jesus helps us follow him. 3.) Jesus gives us hope. QUESTION Jesus is the light. What does it mean CONVERSATION that Jesus is the light? Jesus is the light. How do you need Jesus’ help this week? (Pray for whatever they share.)

11 WEEK 1: PROMISE

DAY 4

SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 1:1-17 KEY VERSE “… and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ” (Matthew 1:16).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER We thank you, Jesus, that God’s word is fulfilled in You: “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.” We thank you that your kingship far exceeds King David and the rulers that would follow. We say to you the words that the psalmist said, “Who is this King of Glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle...Who is this King of Glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of Glory!” (Psalm 24:8 and 10)

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2).

READER FOR KIDS

READ ANSWER Matthew 1:16 Because Jesus is God, but he is also a human being--like you and me. QUESTION Jesus had a family. Why was it im- CONVERSATION portant for Jesus to have a family? Jesus had a family. How does/can our family show each other God’s love? (Ex: Pray that God would help your family show love.)

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DAY 5

SCRIPTURE: REVELATION 21:1-8 KEY VERSE “‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away’” (Revelation 21:4).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER God, we have so much to look towards. Thank you that Christmas is not the end of the story but instead is a marker of your promises. Help us trust, today, that when you say it will happen, it means it will come to pass. The advent we’re in now causes us to continually pray for peace - that the peace of Christ would rule in our hearts as your children. Take some time in continued prayer, and ask the Spirit to expose your unbelief. Ask the Lord to remind you and restore the joy of salvation.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2).

READER FOR KIDS

READ ANSWER Revelation 21:4 1.) We won’t cry anymore. 2.) In Christ we won’t die any more. 3.) Everything will be QUESTION new and alive. Jesus will come back. What will happen when Jesus comes back? CONVERSATION Jesus will come back. What makes you sad? (Pray for each other trust Jesus, even when we’re sad.)

13 WEEK 2: PREPARATION

There’s a lot of preparation that goes on in the Christmas season. Some of us prepare for a long trip to visit family or to invite a handful of yearly travelers into our own home. We make lists of all the seasonal events we can take in. We try and figure out how to top last year’s festivities. Some of us brace ourselves for the reoccuring heartache we feel as we miss loved ones.

Preparation for the people of God can actually be as much about being still, resting, slowing down to consider than it is preparing for action. In a time of fear and uncertainty, the prophet Isaiah addressed Israel. The Assyrian empire had become the world’s great power and had begun to invade Israel, and Israel reacted by doing anything but trusting and following the Lord. They were going to action against God rather than resting in the promise that God would deliver them, but here’s what the Lord spoke to Israel through Isaiah:

Comfort, comfort my people, says your make straight in the desert a highway God. for our God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, Every valley shall be lifted up, and cry to her and every mountain and hill be made that her warfare is ended, low; that her iniquity is pardoned, the uneven ground shall become level, that she has received from the Lord’s and the rough places a plain. hand And the glory of the Lord shall be double for all her sins. revealed, A voice cries: and all flesh shall see it together, “In the wilderness prepare the way of for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” the Lord; -Isaiah 40:1-5

Ready your heart again. Slow down this week. Certainly, yes, prepare to celebrate the arrival and birth of Jesus Christ, but also let your preparation be a greater rest - a rest in the good news that Jesus Christ is coming back to restore all things. There is no one like Him!

14 WEEK 2: PREPARATION

DAILY RHYTHM

COME, THOU LONG EXPECTED JESUS Charles Wesley

Come, Thou long-expected Jesus, born to set Thy people free; from our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in Thee. Israel’s strength and consolation, hope of all the earth Thou art; dear Desire of ev’ry nation, joy of every longing heart. Born Thy people to deliver, born a child and yet a King; born to reign in us forever, now Thy gracious kingdom bring. By thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone; by Thine all-sufficient merit, raise us to Thy glorious throne.

15 WEEK 2: PREPARATION

DAY 1

SCRIPTURE: GENESIS 2:1-3 KEY VERSE “So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation” (Genesis 2:3). STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Jesus, you waited patiently for your Father’s timing. Nothing hurried you, and your life was always filled with trust in the will of God. Help us to grow into people who hope and wait for you “more than watchmen for the morning.” We rest as we remember that it is for you to know when you will come again and make all things new.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Colossians 1:15).

READER FOR KIDS

READ ANSWER Genesis 2:3 1.) Creation was complete and whole. 2.) God’s nature and identity is not only about QUESTION his work. 3.) God is the God of order. God rested. Why did God rest? CONVERSATION God rested. Do we rest? How? Why do we need rest as a family?

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DAY 2

SCRIPTURE: PSALM 8:1-9 KEY VERSE “O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens” (Psalm 8:1).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Use the words of Psalm 8 to pray today. Allow God’s words through David, the psalmist, to stir your imagination as you worship the Lord in his majesty.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Colossians 1:15).

READER FOR KIDS

READ ANSWER Psalm 8:1 1.) God is always good. 2.) God is perfect. 3.) God can do anything. 4.) God is always QUESTION beautiful. God’s name is majestic. What do you think that means? CONVERSATION God’s name is majestic. Are we always good, perfect, totally powerful, and always beautiful? (Ex: No. That’s why we need Jesus.)

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DAY 3

SCRIPTURE: ROMANS 1:16-25 KEY VERSE “ … because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen” (Romans 1:25).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Jesus, you tell us that “no one can serve two masters.” Today, we acknowledge the civil war that takes place within our hearts. We want to do what is right but do not possess the ability to carry it out apart from you (Romans 7). You also tell us, Jesus, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:4-5). Replace our likeness to the first Adam with your likeness, Jesus, the Second Adam from above. As you continue to pray, think about the phrase in the song, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Come, Desire of nations come! Fix in us Thy humble home. Rise, the womanʼs conquering seed, Bruise in us the serpentʼs head. Adamʼs likeness now efface, Shine Thine image in its place. Second Adam from above, Reinstate us in Thy love. Hark! The Herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!”

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Colossians 1:15).

READER FOR KIDS

READ ANSWER Romans 1:25 1.) Obey God’s Word (Bible). 2.) Trust Jesus in the bad and sad. 3.) Thank Jesus in the good. QUESTION 4.) Tell everyone about Jesus. It is good and right to worship only God. What does it mean to worship? CONVERSATION God rested. Do we rest? How? Why do we need rest as a family?

18 WEEK 2: PREPARATION

DAY 4

SCRIPTURE: COLOSSIANS 1:15-20 KEY VERSE “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Colossians 1:15).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. -Colossians 1:9-14

Pray with these verses as you prepare to read the rest of the Scripture passage listed below. Just as Paul prayed this for the Colossians, place yourself in His prayer. Pray this prayer for those in your family, your small group…

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Colossians 1:15).

READER FOR KIDS

READ 2.) Jesus is the greatest of all things and all Colossians 1:15 people (even mom and dad). 3.) The Son of God (Jesus) was always alive. QUESTION Jesus is God. What does it mean that CONVERSATION Jesus is “the firstborn of creation”? Jesus is God. What does that mean? (Ex: He knows everything. He loves us. We ANSWER should obey him.) 1.) Jesus is the leader of everyone.

19 WEEK 2: PREPARATION

DAY 5

SCRIPTURE: LUKE 1:39-45 KEY VERSE “And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord” (Luke 1:45).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER As week two of Advent comes to an end, we’ve been reminded of the Preparation for the Messiah. As you pray today, think about those words from John the Baptist and from the prophet, Isaiah: “Prepare the way for the Lord…” Ask God to clear out the obstacles to worshipping Jesus.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Colossians 1:15).

READER FOR KIDS

READ ANSWER Luke 1:45 Jesus is the best promise God ever kept. (1.) God promised Jesus would come. 2.) QUESTION God promised Jesus would save us. 3.) God God keeps his promises. What’s the promised Jesus would heal our world.) best promise God ever kept? CONVERSATION God keeps his promises. Do we always keep our promises? Why not? (Ex: No. Sometimes we’re scared to tell the truth or we forget. That’s why we need Jesus. We’re sad.)

20 WEEK 3: JOY & PEACE

And in another place Isaiah said, “The heir to David’s throne will come, and he will rule over the Gentiles. They will place their hope on him.” I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:12-13

To overflow with confident hope, finding joy and peace in Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit -- what a statement!!! Can you imagine God in flesh, Jesus Christ, the ruler of the universe, humbling himself to be born in a barn stall? Think about the ridicule Jesus faced as he grew up. He wasn’t even welcomed in his own neighborhood. Crowds would flock to him as he grew into a man but many would leave confounded, not understanding the purpose of Jesus. How does any of this lead to joy and peace?

Christ is being announced, in Romans 15, as the God of endurance and encouragement and that He has taken on all of the sins against his own Father. The everlasting Prince of Peace, the Wonderful Counselor, our Mighty God - from the beginning of time, He purposes to endure all things in our place, for our sake, in the goal of us

21 WEEK 3: JOY & PEACE

adoring Him over and over! We’re not alone in this. The angels were singing a song of adoration at the birth of our Savior after an angel had appeared to the shepherds:

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

-Luke 2:10-14

Let’s let our worship be ongoing as we live the joy and peace of Christ--that we would overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit as we celebrate The Christ!

22 WEEK 3: JOY & PEACE

DAILY RHYTHM

HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING Words- Charles Wesley; Music- Felix Mendelssohn

Hark! The herald angels sing, Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace. “Glory to the newborn King!” Hail the Son of Righteousness. Peace on earth and mercy mild. Light and life to all He brings, God and sinners reconciled. Risen with healing in His wings. Joyful all ye nations rise. Mild He lays His glory by, Join the triumph of the skies Born that man no more may die. With angelic hosts proclaim, Born to raise the sons of earth, “Christ is born in Bethlehem.” Born to give them second birth. Hark! The herald angels sing, Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!” “Glory to the newborn King!”

Christ, by highest heaven adored, Come, Desire of Nations, Come. Christ, the everlasting Lord. Fix in us Thy humble home. Late in time behold Him come, Rise, the woman’s conquering seed. Offspring of a virgin’s womb. Bruise in us the serpent’s head. Veiled in flesh the Godhead see, Adam’s likeness now efface; Hail the incarnate deity. Shine Thine image in its place. Pleased as man with men to dwell, Second Adam from above; Jesus our Immanuel. Reinstate us in Thy love. Hark! The herald angels sing, Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!” “Glory to the newborn King!” 23 WEEK 3: JOY & PEACE

DAY 1

SCRIPTURE: ISAIAH 35:1-10 KEY VERSE “The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing” (Isaiah 35:1–2).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER As we open your Word today, Lord, help us to see it as more than ancient words, but instead as words of life. The winter cold can bring about thoughts of darkness. In this time of year, some of us remember the absence of loved ones. Lord, we want to see that “weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30). The joy of remembering your promise is medicine to our current ailments and unbelief. The joy of looking forward to Jesus’ return as we look back to his birth, we want it to become fresh to us again this day.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit …” (1 Peter 3:18).

READER FOR KIDS

READ Jesus. 2.) Jesus defeats the power of evil. Isaiah 35:1-2 3.) Jesus forgives our sin. 4.) Jesus fills our sad hearts with love for God. QUESTION God brings joy to sadness. How CONVERSATION does God bring happiness to the Conversation: God brings joy to sadness. world? What is sad in our world? (Ex: Think of ways to bring Jesus’ joy to those things.) ANSWER 1.) God brings happiness through

24 WEEK 3: JOY & PEACE

DAY 2

SCRIPTURE: PSALM 16:1-11 KEY VERSE “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Father, there are so many things that tell us how we should feel. Thank You that the feelings the Bible commands are never given without truths that rouse those feelings. In this season, teach us to be content. Show us that our feelings are deceptive apart from what you say in the Bible. Protect us from the lies of the evil one when we are tempted to believe that true, everlasting pleasure is found anywhere apart from your Son, Jesus. He sits at your right hand, Father. Thank you that we find joy in your presence and that at your right hand are pleasures forevermore!

READER FOR KIDS

READ hearts (when we trust in Jesus). 4.) God is Psalm 16:11 everywhere.

QUESTION CONVERSATION With God there is only joy. Where is Near God there is only joy. Do you know God? Jesus’ joy? Who in our life needs to know Jesus’ joy? (Pray them to know Jesus. Pray ANSWER together for friends, neighbors, and family 1.) God is in heaven. 2.) God sent Je- members.) sus to earth. 3.) God’s Spirit is in our

25 WEEK 3: JOY & PEACE

DAY 3

SCRIPTURE: ISAIAH 35:1-10 KEY VERSE “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility” (Ephesians 2:14).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER come let us adore you today, Lord, for giving us your only Son, Jesus. He is our only way to be reconciled both to you, God, and to one another. Spend the next few minutes praying through Psalm 29: Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, and Sirion like a young wild ox. ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. The voice of the LORD flashes forth flames of fire. Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness. the LORD shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. The voice of the LORD is over the waters; The voice of the LORD makes the deer give birth the God of glory thunders, and strips the forests bare, the LORD, over many waters. and in his temple all cry, “Glory!” The voice of the LORD is powerful; The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty. the LORD sits enthroned as king forever. The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; May the LORD give strength to his people! the LORD breaks the cedars of Lebanon. May the LORD bless his people with peace! He makes Lebanon to skip like a calf, WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit …” (1 Peter 3:18).

READER FOR KIDS

READ love for each other. 4.) Jesus gives us peace in Ephesians 2:14 our hearts.

QUESTION CONVERSATION Jesus brings peace between people. How Jesus brings peace between people. Why don’t did Jesus bring this peace? we have peace with everyone? (Ex: 1.) Sin makes us mad at each other. 2.) Sin makes us sad when ANSWER we hurt each other. 3.) Sin tells us we are bet- 1.) Jesus died for our sins. 2.) Jesus brings ter and/or worse than others. 4.) Sin tells us to down what divides us. 3.) Jesus gives us disobey God.)

26 WEEK 3: JOY & PEACE

DAY 4

SCRIPTURE: 1 PETER 3:13-22 KEY VERSE “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit …” (1 Peter 3:18).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER You’re the God of hope and joy. Blessed is Jesus, the One who comes with grace, power, forgiveness, strength, humility, gentleness, and love, in the name of the Lord.

READER FOR KIDS

READ have peace (closeness with God) because 1 Peter 3:18 Jesus died for our sins (that separated us from God). QUESTION Jesus suffered to bring us peace. CONVERSATION What is peace? How do we have Jesus suffered to bring us peace. When do peace with God? you know you have peace? (Ex: My heart is happy. My heart is calm. My heart is joyful. ANSWER Jesus gives us all those things with God.) 1.) Peace is being close to God. 2.) We

27 WEEK 3: JOY & PEACE

DAY 5

SCRIPTURE: LUKE 1:46-56 KEY VERSE “And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior …” (Luke 1:46-47).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Lord, fill us with wonder and awe today. By the power of the Holy Spirit, help us to rejoice like Mary did as she “treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19). Take the things about Christ’s birth that we’ve made normal or stale and make them as if it’s the first time hearing the greatest story ever told. It’s in Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

READER FOR KIDS

READ something is. 2.) To worship, rejoice, and Luke 1:46-47 be glad in God.

QUESTION CONVERSATION God alone deserves to be God alone deserves to be magnified--he magnified. What does it mean to is great and big. What else do we treat magnify? like it’s bigger or better than God? What do we magnify? (Ex: Money, holidays, ANSWER each other, etc.) 1.) To show how big and great

28 WEEK 4: LOVE

One of the most familiar Bible passages for the church is John 3:16. Some of you reading this may remember memorizing this verse at an early age and could say it in your sleep. Let’s continue to verse 17:

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

We’re just a couple of days from Christmas morning. You’ve probably had your ears ringing from “All I want for Christmas Is You”, and for the hopeless romantics reading this, you’ve watched Love Actually 10 times already (don’t act like you didn’t). There are so many “loves” thrown out there at this time of year: It’s the season to be jolly, be cheerful, be extra generous. These are all good things, but for the people of God, these things mean nothing apart from the love of Christ. True love expressed is only defined by a love already given--a love given by the Father, through the Son, Jesus. He first loved us:

...whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

-1 John 7b-10

29 WEEK 4: LOVE

DAILY RHYTHM

JOY TO THE WORLD Isaac Watts

Joy to the world! the Lord is repeat, repeat the sounding joy. come: let earth receive her King. No more let sin and sorrow grow Let every heart prepare him nor thorns infest the ground; room, he comes to make his blessings and heaven and nature sing, flow and heaven and nature sing, far as the curse is found, and heaven, and heaven and na- far as the curse is found, ture sing. far as, far as the curse is found.

Joy to the earth! the Savior He rules the world with truth and reigns: grace, let all their songs employ, and makes the nations prove while fields and floods, rocks, the glories of his righteousness hills, and plains and wonders of his love, repeat the sounding joy, and wonders of his love, repeat the sounding joy, and wonders, wonders of his love.

30 WEEK 4: LOVE

DAY 1

SCRIPTURE: EZEKIEL 36:22-32 KEY VERSE “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. - 1 John 3:1-3

As you pray, thank God that Jesus is faithful and just to cleanse us from all of our sin. Thank God that He is still making us to look more and more like Christ until we see Jesus face to face.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26).

READER FOR KIDS

READ sin. 2.) To give us a new heart. 3.) Because Ezekiel 36:26 with a new heart we can love God.

QUESTION CONVERSATION God takes away our broken hearts. God takes away our broken heart. How are Why does God take away our hard/ our hearts broken? (Ex: We don’t always broken hearts? show love to others. We don’t always show love to God.) ANSWER 1.) Because our hearts are sick with

31 WEEK 4: LOVE

DAY 2

SCRIPTURE: JEREMIAH 31:31-40 KEY VERSE “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people” (Jeremiah 31:33).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER On this Christmas Day, we confess that we distort the meaning of love. We want the promise of your love on our terms. We often see you as loving only when we get good things, and we forget that there is no greater thing than to be loved by Jesus. Forgive us for not being satisfied with the gift of the Savior. Show us the way to put our hope in you our Savior and our God.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26).

READER FOR KIDS

READ showing love and being true. Jeremiah 31:33 CONVERSATION QUESTION God writes his law on our hearts. How do God writes his law on our hearts. we know God’s law? (Ex: The Bible tells us. What is God’s law? Jesus lived perfectly. God’s Spirit helps us know God’s law.) ANSWER 1.) The Bible. 2.) The truth. 3.) The story about God. 4.) God’s rules for

32 WEEK 4: LOVE

DAY 3

SCRIPTURE: 1 THESSALONIANS 3:1-13 KEY VERSE “... so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints” (1 Thessalonians 3:13).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER It’s the day after Christmas. As you pray, let the celebration of Jesus’ arrival continue. He remains steadfast in his love. He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26).

READER FOR KIDS

READ like Jesus. 3.) To be true like Jesus. 4.) To 1 Thessalonians 3:13 be forgiven and made new.

QUESTION CONVERSATION God makes us holy like Jesus. What God makes us holy like Jesus. How can does it mean to be holy? we live like Jesus this week? (Ex: Care for other people. Obey mommy and daddy. ANSWER Show love to those who hurt us.) 1.) To be like Jesus. 2.) To show love

33 WEEK 4: LOVE

DAY 4

SCRIPTURE: HEBREWS 10:19-39 KEY VERSE “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water” (Hebrews 10:22).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Lord, we can only draw near because you first drew near to us. Thank you for calling us out. We would have never sought you had you not been faithful to change our hearts. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who labors with us. You tell us that “[You yearn] jealously over the spirit that [you have] made to dwell in us” (James 4:5b). Help us to submit ourselves to you and to draw near to you over and over. It’s in the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26).

READER FOR KIDS

READ he gives us his Spirit to live in our hearts. Hebrews 10:22 That’s how he makes us clean.

QUESTION CONVERSATION Jesus makes us clean. How does God Jesus makes our hearts clean. Why do we make us clean? need Jesus to make our hearts clean? (Ex: Sin makes our hearts dirty and broken. Je- ANSWER sus died for our sins and makes us clean.) God makes us clean by sending Jesus to die for our sins. And then

34 WEEK 4: LOVE

DAY 5

SCRIPTURE: LUKE 2:7 KEY VERSE “And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn” (Luke 2:7).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Jesus rules the world with truth and grace. He makes the nations show the glories of His righteousness and wonder of His love!

Isaac Watts wrote the tune, Joy to the World, but it actually wasn’t just intended for the Christmas season. He wrote it with Psalm 98 in mind. As you continue to pray, use Psalm 98 as a guide.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26).

READER FOR KIDS

READ makes us mad and sad. 2.) He gives us Luke 2:7 happy hearts. 3.) He helps us obey. 4.) He gives us life. QUESTION Jesus brings joy, everywhere. How CONVERSATION does Jesus bring us joy? Jesus bring joy, everywhere. Where does our city need more joy? ANSWER (Pray together for all those people and 1.) He forgives our sin, and sin places.)

35 WEEK 5: THE CHRIST

Christ has come…..

By now, some of us are putting away the tree, we’re sweeping up the evergreen needles on our floor. The scents linger on as does the regret of eating all of the treats. It’s time to move on...to get back to work, right? Let us not move on! Yes, Christ has come, Christmas day has occurred, but there’s more. CHRIST WILL COME AGAIN! The thread that weaves through all of advent and through the rest of our lives is that the story is not over. God uses his rescue plan through Jesus’ birth, and yet the needle and thread punch through the heart of Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday as it now aims towards Christ’s return. His coming back to finally restore all things. Remember what the angel, Gabriel, told Mary: ...behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” -Luke 1:31-33 In the same chapter of Luke, Mary later responds with a song:

“My soul magnifies the Lord, he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, their hearts; for he has looked on the humble estate of his he has brought down the mighty from their servant. thrones For behold, from now on all generations and exalted those of humble estate; will call me blessed; he has filled the hungry with good things, for he who is mighty has done great things and the rich he has sent away empty. for me, He has helped his servant Israel, and holy is his name. in remembrance of his mercy, And his mercy is for those who fear him as he spoke to our fathers, from generation to generation. to Abraham and to his offspring forever.” He has shown strength with his arm;

During this last week, let Mary’s song point you to an unending declaration of promise, preparation, joy and peace, and love as we celebrate The Christ together: “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” -Revelation 7:10

36 WEEK 5: THE CHRIST

DAILY RHYTHM

WHAT CHILD IS THIS William Chatterton Dix

What child is this, who laid to rest on Mary’s lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping?

This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing. Haste, haste to bring Him laud, the babe, the son of Mary.

Why lies he in such mean estate where ox and lamb are feeding? Good Christians here for sinners near, the silent Word is pleading.

This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing. Haste, haste to bring Him laud, the babe, the son of Mary.

So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh. Come, peasant, king to own Him. The King of Kings salvation brings; let loving hearts enthrone him!

Raise, raise the song on high. The virgin sings her lullaby. Joy, joy for Christ is born, the babe, the son of Mary.

Nails, spears shall pierce Him through. The cross he bore for me, for you. Hail, hail the Word made flesh, the babe, the son of Mary. 37 WEEK 5: THE CHRIST

DAY 1

SCRIPTURE: PSALM 24:1-10 KEY VERSE “Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory!” (Psalm 24:10).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Lord, as we prepare for the New Year and even though Christmas has passed, we want to worship Jesus as the Eternal King. You rule over all of our days. We couldn’t come before you in your holiness were it not for the way made by Jesus. Thank you for removing the stain of sin through of the blood of your Son. He is the King of Glory!

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

READER FOR KIDS

READ who is the Lord of hosts (full of power Psalm 24:10 and might).

QUESTION CONVERSATION Jesus is the King. What kind of king Jesus the King. Do we need a king to is Jesus? worship and protect us? Why? (Ex: Yes. Because when we worship him we are ANSWER doing what we were made to do and we He is a king who is glorious need protection for the dark and pain of (beautiful and worthy) and a king sin and evil.)

38 WEEK 5: THE CHRIST

DAY 2

SCRIPTURE: PHILIPPIANS 2:9-11 KEY VERSE “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-11).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER On this New Year’s day, we think about all the things that we want to do over. We want a fresh start - to undo the things we’ve not done well. We’re guilty of bowing down to the good things that you give us instead of bowing to Jesus. Thank you, Jesus, that you don’t need a do-over. Your show us in your Word, “But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet. For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified” (Hebrews 10:12- 14). Thank you for the promise for remembering our sins no more! Amen!

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

READER FOR KIDS

READ him and saved us to worship him. Philippians 2:9-11 CONVERSATION QUESTION Everyone will worship Jesus. If we are Everyone will worship Jesus. Why made and saved to worship Jesus, what do we worship Jesus? are some ways we should worship him? (Ex: Know his Word. Obey his Word. Love ANSWER him and each other.) Because Jesus made us to worship

39 WEEK 5: THE CHRIST

DAY 3

SCRIPTURE: 1 CORINTHIANS 3:11 KEY VERSE “For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:11).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER God, we thank you that you don’t change. With each passing day, season, and year much is unknown to us, uncertain for us, and different about us. And yet you stay the same. You are faithful in your character and steady in your affection for your people. In the ways we’re tempted to distrust you and choose unbelief, God protect us. In the ways we move away from your eternal grace and love, God forgive us. When all around us and in us is prone to change, your faithfulness is good news for our souls.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

READER FOR KIDS

READ beautiful. Because of Jesus we can have life 1 Corinthians 3:11 and joy and know about his world.

QUESTION CONVERSATION Jesus is our foundation. What does it Jesus is our foundation. How do we forget mean that Jesus is our foundation? that sometimes? (Ex: We make decisions for ourselves. We don’t read the Bible. We ANSWER forget to pray to Jesus.) He shows us what is true and

40 WEEK 5: THE CHRIST

DAY 4

SCRIPTURE: 2 PETER 3:18 KEY VERSE “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Jesus, today we don’t want to just be concerned about the past and the present. We look back to remember, and we stand in the current events believing that you’re present, but we want to look forward too. We pray like the song we’ve sung before, “Be Thou my vision oh Lord of my heart.” Thank you that you’re the High King of Heaven! Thank you that you’re the beginning and the end, Jesus, the First and the Last. Thank you for your incarnation--for taking on human flesh all while you still were and still are ruling with truth and grace. It’s in your name, Jesus, that we pray. Amen.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

READER FOR KIDS

READ and follow him), and Savior (he died for us). 2 Peter 2:18 Today we get to know and celebrate this special truth because of the gospel. QUESTION Jesus is glorified forever. What does it CONVERSATION mean for Jesus to be glorified? Jesus is glorified forever. Talk about ways your family and kids can show Jesus glory. ANSWER (Ex: Showing love to each other. Trusting One day everyone will know that him when we’re sad or angry. Obeying mom Jesus is God (he made and controls and dad.) everything), Lord (we should obey

41 WEEK 5: THE CHRIST

DAY 5

SCRIPTURE: LUKE 2:11 KEY VERSE “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).

STUDY What does this passage show us about God? What does God’s character reveal about ours? How does this passage point to Jesus?

DAILY PRAYER Father, cause us to find incredible delight in the salvation that you have given us through Jesus Christ. Take our affections beyond just knowing truths about Jesus, and turn them into responses of praise because of the wonderful news that you know us personally. The same Jesus who was born as a baby dependent on his mother is the Christ who now pleads for us before Your throne.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSE The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

READER FOR KIDS

READ news, because Jesus was born to save the Luke 2:11 world.

QUESTION CONVERSATION Jesus was born Lord. What do you Jesus was born Lord. Talk about ways your know about Jesus being born? family can remember the goodness of Jesus in the middle of all the Christmas chaos. (Ex: ANSWER Pray to Jesus for help. Talk about your heart Angels shared the news with that always wants more and not always everyone. A special star showed where peaceful with what we have. Read God’s Jesus was born. Jesus’ birth is good Word.)

42 ...And Now...

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