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 18, 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
