Freeze! Family Advent Devo: Thursday Dec. 19

Gather: Around the Advent wreath and bring your nativity nearby. Light two purple candles and one pink candle. Remember that these are the candles of hope, peace and joy.

Do Together: Put the wise men near the stable. Make and send a special card for someone that you want to make sure feels treasured.

Read: Matthew 26:10-11 -- When the wise men saw the star, they were filled with joy. They entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they honored him. Then they opened their treasure chests and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Share Together: Do you remember what the wise men brought when they came to see Jesus? They brought him gifts! They did this because Jesus was God’s great king. Did you know that is why we give gifts on Christmas? Part of our celebration of Jesus’ birth is that we give Christmas presents to each other. We give presents because it is the time when we remember the greatest gift ever given. God gave us Jesus, his only Son!  That is good news of great joy for all people. When we give gifts this Christmas, let’s remember that Jesus is the greatest gift, God with us.

Pray Together: Dear God, thank you for giving us your own Son, Jesus. He is the best gift ever given. Help us to remember him when we give presents on Christmas. Amen.