Preparing Your Family for Christmas

As your family prepares for Christmas this year, I would like to encourage you to intentionally take time together to remember and celebrate Jesus’ birth and the hope and joy He offers. There are many Advent devotionals and resources available for families. One of my favorites is the Jesse Tree Family Devotions. These are great for families with children in elementary school and younger. Jesse Tree is a way of preparing for Advent by journeying through stories on Jesus’ family tree. The Jesse Tree tradition is rooted in Isaiah 11:1: “A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” Jesse was the father of David, Israel’s greatest king. And Jesus is descended from the line of David. He is the branch God promised would grow from Jesse’s family tree. Each day of December, you read a Bible story about someone on Jesus’ family tree and hang an ornament symbolizing the story on your Jesse Tree. As you decorate your tree, you’ll see how God prepared for Jesus to be born through many generations. You can find more information and download the Jesse Tree Devotions for families as well free downloadable ornaments here.

We also have printed copies of the Lifeway Kids Family Advent Guide available at all our campuses for families to pick up to use during the month of December. Each week includes a short Bible passage to read together and an explanation section to lead your family to talk about the passage. There are suggested family activities, songs, and further Bible reading suggestions included as well. You can download it here. You can also pick up these Advent Guides as well as a countdown to Christmas activity sticker calendar at the Parent Resource board at your campus starting on November 22.

I pray your family will find rest in the hope, love, peace, and joy that only Jesus can bring. He is the ultimate gift. Let’s celebrate Him this Advent season!