Advent week 4, 2015

Sunday, December 20, 2015
Fourth Sunday.  This candle is sometimes called the candle of love.  It symbolizes that God loves us so much He sent His Son to save us.  (Light all four candles).  Read one of your family's favorite versions or translations of Jesus's birth.  Prayer:  Now Jesus's birthday is very near.  May his birthday bring joy and happiness to all of us as we try to be more like Jesus.  Help us to show love for others.

Monday, December 21, 2015
Luke 2:19  But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
This season is a time for memories and reflection.  Mary ,the mother of Jesus, might have felt pleased at all the fuss made over her special child.  She knew that her child was the Son of God, but rejoiced in knowing so many other people heard the same message from God's angels.What memories Mary would have all her life of this special time!  Prayers:  Thank you, God, for our memories of special times. Please be with people who are lonely this season and help their memories bring them comfort.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015
1 Corinthians 10:31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
One of the most popular holiday traditions if to bake and decorate cookies.  A long time ago, these treats were hung on Christmas trees.  Now people make them for parties and to share with friends and family.  When we make these treats, we should thrink about the people who we will share them with.  How can we glorify God, even in our simple cookie making?  Prayer:  God, help us to use our holiday treats to spread your love to other people.

Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Matthew 25:40 The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine you did for me"
The tradition of giving gifts on Christmas is very old.  The ancient Romans exchanged gifts on New Year's Day.  When the apostles brought the Gospels to Rome, the Romans learned about the Wise Men's gifts to Jesus.  As Christianity spread, the gift giving custom changed to imitate the Three Wise Men and gifts were given on Christmas instead of New Year's. Sometimes we become so focused on giving perfect gifts that we forget why we give them.  What gifts can we give that don't cost money?  Prayer?  God, thank you for the best gift of all, Your Son, Jesus.  Help us give gifts that show our love for others.