One of my family's
favorite Christmas traditions is the Advent wreath. On each of the four Sundays
in Advent (the four weeks before Christmas), our family gathers around the
wreath with cookies and eggnog and hot chocolate. Not only is this cozy family
time, but it focuses us with joyful anticipation on the birth of
Jesus.
This Sunday, December 23, is the fourth Sunday in Advent, but it's
never too late to participate. If you'd like to join the Sundin family in this
tradition, here are some family friendly, kid-tested ideas. Adjust these to the
ages of any children present to create a meaningful time for your
family.
Advent Week Four - The Angels'
Candle
Candles:
Light two purple candles (the Prophets' Candle and the
Bethlehem Candle), the pink candle (the Shepherd's Candle), and the last purple
candle (the Angels' Candle). The purple symbolizes penance. Traditionally, the
father lights the candles.
Story:
Explain how God sent His
angels as messengers to tell Mary she would give birth to the Messiah, to
reassure Joseph, to announce the birth to the shepherds, and to warn Joseph of
Herod's plot.
Scriptures:
Luke 1:26-38 (how an
angel told Mary she would give birth to the Messiah)
Matthew 1:18-25 (how an
angel told Joseph that Jesus was the Messiah)
Luke 2:8-14 (how a host of
angels announced Jesus' birth to the shepherds)
Matthew 2:13-15 (how an angel
warned Joseph of Herod's plot and told him to escape to Egypt)
Matthew
2:19-21 (how an angel told Joseph when it was safe to return to
Israel)
Songs:
"Hark! the Herald Angels
Sing"
"Angels We Have Heard on High"
"It Came upon a Midnight
Clear"
"Angels from the Realms of Glory"
Let's all bring glory to the
newborn king this Christmas! Labels: Advent, Advent wreath, Christmas, family traditions
