The period of preparation for Christmas Day has always seemed to us the right time to try new ways of drawing our kids to Jesus. This happened year round too, but seemed so much more relevant when the season is sometimes focused on everything but what is most important and eternal. We realized that all too often, our kids would see us busy with activity and busyness. Shopping, decorating, and cooking, in addition to all the parties and gatherings we attend, kept us very busy. Although it was all fun, it was a lot of work- especially for Moms!
Taking our eyes off the true reason for family celebration, we often fell into a trap of anger, impatience, and frustration. There was a sense of deep struggle as we tried make sure our kids really understood that all these things only point to a greater event- the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We thought, "How can this change?", so we put together this Family Devotional. We've been sharing these on line now for many years as a source of encouragement to you.
We've set this up so that the devotional is split into three segments, with the final one giving you many days before Christmas morning to complete it all. Part Two will arrive here on the blog December 8. Part Three hits a week later on the 15th, and the final part December 22.
Our goal as parents is to train our children in the ways of the Lord and to see our children own a personal, ongoing, life-changing relationship with God. If you want to use this with your children, grandchildren, or children you love, consider these suggestions:
1. Make this doable. Try to commit to a family devotional time. Decide on a practical time. Avoid setting yourself up for failure. Adjust it as necessary so they enjoy the time- but also expect some “pushback”. Remember, it’s about the relationship not the accomplishment. Guard against any discouragement if it doesn’t go as well as you wish, and be sure to guard against pride if it does.
2. Print this and keep this devotional on the dinner table. Explain to your kids why the book is there. Someone is bound to remember.
3. Model praying for your kids. It will be easier for them if they follow your lead. Praise and confession may be vague terms for younger ones. Explain the words. Start simply: “Lord, I praise you for being the God who loves us”, or “I confess I was mean to my sister today. Forgive me for hurting her feelings”.
4. Be honest with your family what you are praying for including your own sin and weakness. It models prayer to them as well as keeps you accountable.
5. If you have older children, allow them to share the responsibility of reading the verses. Leading them to Him is the goal.
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Week One of Four
God Shows His Heart – “The Gift in a Manger”
Scripture: Luke 2:10–11
“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’”
Imagine you’re one of the shepherds that night. You're just out there doing your job, looking after sheep. You think no one is paying attention to you or even appreciates your hard work. Suddenly the sky lights up with angels announcing good news of great joy. That’s not something that happens every night!
This “Good News” wasn’t just about a baby being born—it was about what that baby meant and the mission He came to accomplish. He was a touchable God! Through Jesus, God was showing His heart. He wasn’t distant or angry. He wasn’t unreachable. God the Father wanted the world to know that He cares deeply, loves completely, and came to pay the price for our sin. My sin. Your sin. All this so we can live in harmony with Him now. And we can spend eternity with Him instead of being separated from Him.
Think about that! The Creator of the Universe came to us in the most gentle, humble way possible. If we were the ones to choose how God would make his presence on the earth known, we might want Him to come in a great show of power. But not the God who created all things. He had a different and much better idea! That’s what God is like—He comes close when we need Him most- and His ideas are always better than ours.
When we look at Jesus, we see what God the Father is really like too. Jesus is kind, patient, forgiving, full of compassion and willing to sacrifice on our behalf. That’s God’s heart too.
Discussion Questions
- Why do you think God chose to send Jesus as a baby instead of as a powerful king or warrior?
- What does it show you about God’s character that He wanted to be close to us?
- How can you show God’s kindness to someone who might feel left out or overlooked this week?
- Who can you tell about Jesus and his wonderful plan for us?
Prayer
Stop and pray together as a family. Thank God for who he is. Then, stop and thank him for his wonderful gift!
(All content copyright Mark Taft.)
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