Week Three - Joy
Week Three ~ December 15 - Light the Joy Candle
Read: But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:10-11
As we journey through the Advent season, we find ourselves in the third week, focusing on the theme of joy. The anticipation of Christ’s birth brings about a unique joy that can transform our hearts and lives. This week, let’s reflect on the beautiful message delivered by the angel to the shepherds, as recorded in Luke 2:10-11.
Reflection:
In these verses, we see the angel’s proclamation of good news that brings great joy. It’s significant that joy is tied to the birth of Jesus, the Savior, who comes for everyone. The shepherds—often overlooked in society—were the first to receive this incredible news. Their humble status reminds us that joy is not reserved for the elite or the fortunate; it is available to all, regardless of our circumstances. This week let’s take a moment to reflect on what joy means in our lives. Joy is often portrayed as a fleeting emotion, but the joy of Christ’s coming is deeper and more enduring. It invites us to experience hope, peace, and love, even in challenging times.
Closing Thought:
As we move closer to Christmas, let’s carry the message of joy with us. Embrace the assurance that the Savior is born and is present in our lives. May this Advent season be a time of joyful anticipation, where we not only look forward to celebrating Christ’s birth but also share that joy with others.
PRAY TOGETHER AS A FAMILY!
Advent Story Cubes
Materials Needed:
• A set of blank dice or any small cubes (you can make your own by cutting cardboard into cubes) • A list of Advent-themed prompts or images (you can draw these on paper or use stickers) to stick on the cubes • A timer (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cubes: If using blank dice, decorate them with Advent-themed images or words. You can include items like "Christmas tree," "angel," "presents," "nativity scene," "candle," etc. Alternatively, you can write prompts on slips of paper and place them in a bowl for players to draw.
2. Decide on a Format: Players can take turns rolling the cubes or drawing a prompt from the bowl. If using dice, have the player roll all the cubes to see which images/words come up.
3. Create a Story: The player then has to create a short story incorporating all the images or words that appeared on the cubes. Encourage creativity and humor, and remind them that the goal is to have fun and embrace the spirit of joy during Advent.
4. Share the Stories: After creating their stories, players can share them with the group. This can lead to laughter and enjoyment as everyone enjoys the unique tales that emerge.
5. Optional Variation: For added fun, set a timer for each storytelling round to challenge players to come up with their stories quickly.
Read: But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:10-11
As we journey through the Advent season, we find ourselves in the third week, focusing on the theme of joy. The anticipation of Christ’s birth brings about a unique joy that can transform our hearts and lives. This week, let’s reflect on the beautiful message delivered by the angel to the shepherds, as recorded in Luke 2:10-11.
Reflection:
In these verses, we see the angel’s proclamation of good news that brings great joy. It’s significant that joy is tied to the birth of Jesus, the Savior, who comes for everyone. The shepherds—often overlooked in society—were the first to receive this incredible news. Their humble status reminds us that joy is not reserved for the elite or the fortunate; it is available to all, regardless of our circumstances. This week let’s take a moment to reflect on what joy means in our lives. Joy is often portrayed as a fleeting emotion, but the joy of Christ’s coming is deeper and more enduring. It invites us to experience hope, peace, and love, even in challenging times.
Closing Thought:
As we move closer to Christmas, let’s carry the message of joy with us. Embrace the assurance that the Savior is born and is present in our lives. May this Advent season be a time of joyful anticipation, where we not only look forward to celebrating Christ’s birth but also share that joy with others.
PRAY TOGETHER AS A FAMILY!
Advent Story Cubes
Materials Needed:
• A set of blank dice or any small cubes (you can make your own by cutting cardboard into cubes) • A list of Advent-themed prompts or images (you can draw these on paper or use stickers) to stick on the cubes • A timer (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cubes: If using blank dice, decorate them with Advent-themed images or words. You can include items like "Christmas tree," "angel," "presents," "nativity scene," "candle," etc. Alternatively, you can write prompts on slips of paper and place them in a bowl for players to draw.
2. Decide on a Format: Players can take turns rolling the cubes or drawing a prompt from the bowl. If using dice, have the player roll all the cubes to see which images/words come up.
3. Create a Story: The player then has to create a short story incorporating all the images or words that appeared on the cubes. Encourage creativity and humor, and remind them that the goal is to have fun and embrace the spirit of joy during Advent.
4. Share the Stories: After creating their stories, players can share them with the group. This can lead to laughter and enjoyment as everyone enjoys the unique tales that emerge.
5. Optional Variation: For added fun, set a timer for each storytelling round to challenge players to come up with their stories quickly.
Posted in Holidays