LONG EXPECTED 2017 ADVENT GUIDE

Introduction

‘I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near: a Star shall come out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel.’ Numbers 24:17 This guide goes through the week after Christmas so be sure to continue Prophecies like Numbers 24:17 and Zechariah 6:12-13 filled the Jewish reading after Christmas. Each devotional may also include discussion people with a hope that God would one day send a Deliverer. The questions, accompanying song suggestions, daily readings for the star, the branch, and the scepter became symbols associated with this remainder of the week, and directions for parents hoping to lead their messianic figure who would fill the roles of Prophet, Priest and King. families in a time of worship (although you certainly can utilize the Prophet: The One who reflects the Light of God’s Word (star). Priest: Family Worship section even if you aren’t married or don’t have kids!). The One interceding on our behalf and through whom we are grafted Most of the activities suggested for each week’s Family Worship time can in as God’s children (branch). King: The One who will reign over all be planned the week of, however, please take note of Week 4’s activity creation forevermore (scepter). The season of Advent (meaning “arrival” as that one may require a little bit of advanced planning if you hope or “coming”) is a time when the Church rejoices over the first coming of to accomplish it the week before Christmas. The second section is a Jesus, this long expected Messiah, who humbled Himself by entering our list of Additional Resources. We would recommend checking out the world as a little baby. It’s a joyful time as we reflect on the truth that that Additional Resource section before you begin this guide in case you little baby in a manger is our Prophet, Priest and King. Advent is also want to incorporate any of these resources and suggestions for the a time when we watch and wait for His second coming, when He will coming weeks. victoriously return to judge the living and the dead. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!

But because of all the hustle and bustle that comes this time of year, Thank You it can quickly change from being the most wonderful to the most for taking the time to work through this guide during the Advent season. stressful. So our hope is that the devotionals and resources contained We pray that the Lord might use it to grow each of us in the grace and in this guide will help direct our eyes back to Jesus; the “reason for the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. season.” Additionally, we hope this guide will assist parents in leading and discipling their children well in the midst of the bombardment of ‘And say to him, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, “Behold, the Man whose commercialism we all face, and also encourage the establishing of God- name is the Branch: for He shall branch out from His place, and He glorifying, fun and memorable traditions in the home. shall build the temple of the Lord. It is He who shall build the temple of the Lord and shall bear royal honor, and shall sit and rule on His throne. This guide is laid out in 2 sections. The first section contains the Advent And there shall be a Priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace shall devotionals. These devotionals are intended to be read one a week on be between them both.”’ — Zechariah 6:12-13 Sunday for six consecutive Sundays, starting the first Sunday of Advent, as well as Christmas Day. Week One DISCUSSION QUESTIONS THE MAN OF HOPE | HEBREWS 2 1.) What about being human makes us more valuable than angels?

“What is man, that you are mindful of him…?” This is the 3:15), displaying His mercy and kindness by honoring the most natural response for us to give upon hearing the good value He placed on them before the foundation of news of the coming of our Lord. It’s natural because we the world. easily observe the many wonders of God’s creation every day, from the vibrant colors