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 16, is the third 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 Three - The
Shepherds' Candle
Candles:
Light two purple candles
(the Prophets' Candle and the Bethlehem Candle), and the pink candle (the
Shepherd's Candle). The pink symbolizes joy. Traditionally, the mother lights
the candles.
Story:
Explain how the shepherds
watched their flocks, heard the news that the Messiah had born, and went to see
the Baby Jesus in the manger - and how they reacted with great
joy.
Scriptures:
Isaiah 9:6-7 (Isaiah's
prophecy of how the Messiah would be born as a child, of David's line, the
Mighty God)
Luke 2:8-20 (how the shepherds heard the news and visited
Jesus)
John 10:1-18 (Jesus as the Good Shepherd)
Philippians 2:1-11
(Jesus' attitude of humility, shedding his majesty to come to earth as a
baby)
Songs:
"The
First Noel"
"While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night"
"Joy to the
World"
How can your family celebrate the joy of Jesus this Christmas? Labels: Advent, Advent wreath, Christmas, family traditions
