Face to Face Advent Reflections
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Table Of Contents
Introduction
Face to Face with the God of
First Sunday- Zechariah: A Costly Hope by Susan Horikiri
First Monday- Elizabeth: Waiting Out Disgrace by Tanya Eichler
First Tuesday- Elizabeth & Mary: Impossible Longing, Hidden Hope by Kelly Dycavinu
First Wednesday- Mary: Mary Mary by Linda Smythe
First Thursday- The Magi: Waiting Correctly by Kathy Krahn
First Friday- Simeon: Wait Right Here by Esther Hizsa
First Saturday- Anna: The Long Wait by Esther Hizsa
Face to Face with the Prince of
Second Sunday- Sleep in Heavenly Peace by Kelly Dycavinu
Second Monday- Zechariah: In Silence by Susan Horikiri
Second Tuesday- Zechariah: A God of His Word by Kelly Dycavinu
Second Wednesday- Joseph: Heavy Weight Lifted by Kelly Dycavinu
Second Thursday- Shepherds: A Shepherd’s Song by Kelly Dycavinu
Second Friday- Simeon: It’s Time by Esther Hizsa
Face to Face with the God of
Second Saturday- Zechariah: His Name Is John! by Susan Horikiri
Third Sunday- Shepherds: What Does the Fox Say? by Kelly Dycavinu
Third Monday- Angels: What Joy by Kathy Krahn
Third Tuesday- Shepherds: The Shepherd and The Lamb by Kelly Dycavinu
Third Wednesday- Simeon: Uncontainable Joy by Esther Hizsa
Third Thursday- Anna: Soon We Will Be Free! by Esther Hizsa
Face to Face with the King of
Third Friday- Herod: What Kind of King by Kelly Dycavinu
Third Saturday- Zechariah: The Wildest God-Thing of All by Susan Horikiri
Fourth Sunday- Simeon & Mary: Bewildering Words by Esther Hizsa
Fourth Monday- Anna: Praise Jesus! He Really Loves Us by Esther Hizsa
Fourth Tuesday- Mary: On Being Loved by Kelly Dycavinu
Christmas Day- Impossible Gift by Linda Smythe
Introduction
Our title, Face to Face, captures two main ideas. First, we realize that for many people the Christmas
Story is familiar—perhaps so familiar we may skim over the story thinking, “I’ve heard it all before.” Our
desire is for each reader to come face to face with the biblical characters in order to see and hear the
Christmas Story anew. What are the nuances of their stories? The details that may get overlooked in a
quick read? The significance of their stories for us today?
Second, the Christmas Story does not stand in isolation from other scripture. It begins “In the
beginning…” and is about God’s desire and efforts to bring us back into a face to face relationship with
Himself. We invite readers to consider how the events and happenings of the Christmas Story tie into
God’s grand design to reconcile us to Himself.
These reflections are intended to be family-oriented. In seeking to reach a wide variety of age categories,
we recommend that parents use, adapt, or set aside the various components according to the needs of
your family.
May your Christmas season be filled with wonder as you meet the God of hope, peace, joy and love face
to face!
Kelly Dycavinu, Editor
Contributors: Kelly Dycavinu, Esther Hizsa, Susan Horikiri, Kathy Krahn, and Tanya Eichler
Design/Layout: Terri Bowe
Face to Face with the God of
A Costly Hope
There are hurts a man buries deep. He does it to keep their jagged edges from piercing those he
loves, or crippling his very spirit, or decaying into blasphemous bitterness.
I carried mine wrapped securely in a shroud of faithfulness. Faithful to my wife Elizabeth. Faithful to
my priestly duties. Faithful to my God. The same God who showed me no outstanding sin, yet year
after year withheld His primal blessing from my dear Elizabeth.
As tears flowed into her childless hands I held her tight, and my own hurt tighter, driving it down,
down, down. Down so deep, wrapped so tight, I thought I couldn’t find it anymore.
Until the angel came! “A baby,” he said. “Like in spirit unto Elijah,” he told me. “A way-maker for
the Lord Himself,” he declared.
My heart leapt at his words, but bile filled my mouth. So many years swallowing disappointment, this
promise like a fist to the gut, brought it all back up.
“How can I know?”
Hope costs so much you see. I couldn’t afford it, not anymore.
by Susan Horikiri
Question: Have you ever felt God let you down?
Together: Take a moment to tell God how you feel about this (silently, unless you feel comfortable
sharing.)
Prayer: Thank you, Father, that you know us and love us. Help us to trust you, even with the places
inside us that hurt, especially with the places that hurt. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
First Sunday: Zechariah
Read: Luke 1: 1-18
First Sunday: Zechariah
Read: Luke 1: 1-18
25
25
Prayer: Thank you, Father, that you know us and love us. Help us to
trust you, even with the places inside us that hurt, especially with the
places that hurt. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Waiting Out Disgrace
Imagine, waiting for years, wanting a baby, yet never being able to have one. In the time when Jesus was
born, people believed that children were a sign of God’s favour; to not be able to have a baby was a
disgrace.
Even in her old age, it appears that Elizabeth didn’t give up hope for a child. Perhaps she remembered
Sarah, Abraham’s wife, who became pregnant with Isaac when she was too old to be a mother. Maybe
God would do the same for her?
So Elizabeth waited and continued to pray and hope for many years. All the while, she put up with
people around her gossiping, wondering why she hadn’t been blessed with children like they had been,
wondering what she had done to fall out of favour with God.
How difficult it can be to continue to hope when it looks like God has not answered our prayers. How
much more difficult, when people around us think we’re to blame.
by Tanya Eichler
Question: Have you been waiting a long time for God to answer a prayer? Do you wonder why it’s taking
so long? If maybe you’ve done something wrong?
Together: Have each person hold a Bible up in the air. On the count of three find Luke 11:9-13. The
first one who finds it reads it out loud.
Prayer: Father of good gifts, help us to keep hoping and keep asking You for what we need. Thank you
for giving us the Holy Spirit who stays with us while we wait and helps us receive the gifts God has given.
Amen.
First Monday: Elizabeth
Read: Luke 1: 5-7
First Monday: Elizabeth
Read: Luke 1: 5-7
24
24
Prayer: Father of good gifts, help us to keep hoping and keep
asking You for what we need. Thank you for giving us the Holy
Spirit who stays with us while we wait and helps us receive the
gifts God has given. Amen.
Impossible Longing, Hidden Hope
Looking at the lives of both Elizabeth and Mary reveals a God who works in mysterious ways. On one
hand, there’s Elizabeth. She’s married but she’s old and barren. On the other hand, there’s Mary. She’s
young, unmarried and a virgin. Yet both Elizabeth and Mary are pregnant! Here are two women on
opposite ends of impossibility.
Luke tells us Elizabeth was “upright in the sight of God observing all the Lord’s commandments and
regulations blamelessly,” yet she feels disgraced among her people because of her childlessness (vs. 25).
Imagine Elizabeth, after decades of desire, after decades of disgrace. Did she ever give up hope for a
child of her own? Could she fathom the fulfillment of her impossible longing?
And what of Mary? The angel tells us Mary is highly favoured
by God, but to be given a child out of wedlock? I’m sure this
would not have been even last on her list of hopes. Especially
since, in her day and age, pregnancy outside of marriage could
lead to public trial and humiliation. Imagine Mary, and all
those around her, struggling as their ideas and expectations
are uprooted. Would any of them have asked for this
experience? Not likely. Yet this child, Jesus, would bring to
light unacknowledged longings and satisfy their hidden hopes.
We may never understand or solve the mysteries of God and His ways, but through the lives of Elizabeth
and Mary, God demonstrates His ability to fulfill our impossible longings and to satisfy our hidden
hopes.
by Kelly Dycavinu
Question: Can you think of other Bible stories where God does something no one expected?
Together: Share stories of God’s mysterious ways. (hint: Exodus 14:19-21; Numbers 22:21-34; 1 Samuel
16:7-12)
Prayer: God, help us to trust You when You don’t do things the way we want or expect. Amen
First Tuesday: Elizabeth & Mary
Read: Luke 1: 5-7, 24-37
First Tuesday: Elizabeth & Mary
Read: Luke 1: 5-7, 24-37
God’s Plan All Along
Matthew 1:22
All this took place to fulfill what the
Lord had said through the prophet:
“The virgin will be with child and will
give birth to a son, and they will call
him Immanuel”—which means, “God
with us.”
23
23
Together: Share stories of God’s mysterious ways. (hint: Exodus
14:19-21; Numbers 22:21-34; 1 Samuel 16:7-12)
First Wednesday: Mary (Infant Holy, Infant Lowly)
Read: Luke 1: 26-38
First Wednesday: Mary (Infant Holy, Infant Lowly)
Read: Luke 1: 26-38
Mary Mary
Imagine two girls; both named Mary, both nearing the age of marriage, both living in Nazareth around 15
B.C.
One girl’s father was a devout Jew, a man who loved the God of the Israelites. This girl’s home was often
noisy with joyful laughter and song. She was betrothed to Joseph.
The other girl’s father was dark and surly, a tax collector who preferred his tankard to his Torah. This
motherless Mary was called Kelev—dog—by her father, because he was cruel. In those days, this was the
worst thing you could call someone. Like the other Mary, Kelev’s home was noisy, but with loud drunken
cursing and smashing pottery. Who would marry this girl?
Perhaps you might imagine these two girls as friends, being the same age and living in the same area, but
they were not. Their lives were lived as though they were worlds apart—until one night the two girls did
meet.
Something had happened: Mary and Joseph were not yet married but she was already pregnant! Her
father wept; her mother howled. Mary spoke of an angel, a strange visitation. They wanted to believe her,
but how could it be? Hide, they said.
Late at night, Mary went to the well for water. Only people with something to hide went to the well at
night.
Kelev was hiding, too. She didn’t see Mary near the well until it was too late. Mary cried out, “Wait!
Don’t go!”
Kelev cringed.
“My baby – when I saw you – He stirred!” Mary gasped, “Oh! I have to tell you something…”
Kelev tried to hide her bruised face. Mary reached out, touched the other girl’s cheek. The bruises
disappeared. “Mary. You are Mary. God sees you; He’s here, He’s coming. He will rescue you.” There
in the darkness, both Marys embraced, wept, laughed, and believed the unbelievable.
by Linda Smythe
22
22
Prayer: Jesus, please call (fill in her/his name) by their name. Let
her/him know s/he is loved. Show me ways to love them, too.
Question: Does Kelev remind you of anyone you know?
Together: Talk about what God might be doing right now to help that person know God loves and
cherishes them. Sing Infant Holy, Infant Lowly.
Prayer: Jesus, please call (fill in her/his name) by their name. Let her/him know s/he is loved. Show me
ways to love them, too.
Infant holy, infant lowly,
For His bed a cattle stall;
Oxen lowing, little knowing
Christ, the babe, is Lord of all.
Swift are winging, angels singing,
Noels ringing, tidings bringing:
Christ the babe is Lord of all.
Flocks were sleeping, shepherds keeping
Vigil till the morning new
Saw the glory, heard the story,
Tidings of a gospel true.
Thus rejoicing, free from sorrow,
Praises voicing greet the morrow:
Christ the babe was born for you.
First Wednesday: Mary (Infant Holy, Infant Lowly)
Read: Luke 1: 26-38
First Wednesday: Mary (Infant Holy, Infant Lowly)
Read: Luke 1: 26-38
Waiting Correctly
I sit with children as they colour. I ask them about waiting, and they begin to talk.
"I don't like waiting for a long time."
"If I’m waiting for a good thing, like ice-cream, then I’ll wait."
"My mom says that I wait loudly, and all over the place, like a jumping bean."
"Waiting rooms are always full."
"I don't wait for my uncle anymore, he doesn't come... sometimes he does though."
"It’s hard to wait for my birthday, because I know that it’s soon."
"I don't like waiting in a line at the restaurant when I’m hungry. When I complain, my brother says
that I’m waiting wrong."
Children learning to be patient as they wait. Watching, imagining what is to come, who is to come, waiting.
For what were the Magi waiting? Or for whom? Why were they looking to the skies? Had the Magi
learned to wait correctly? With hope, listening, on the move, attentive? Matthew says they were
“overjoyed” when they saw the star over the place where Jesus was—their motion-filled waiting coming to its
conclusion.
Am I waiting correctly? With hope, walking towards God?
by Kathy Krahn
Question: How have you seen others wait (in grocery line-ups, traffic jams, etc)? How do you wait? Is it
different from how you want to wait?
Together: Play a game of Red Light, Green Light.
Prayer: Father, help us to wait patiently. We know that patience develops strength of character in us and
helps us trust You more each time, until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady. Amen.
First Thursday: The Magi
Read: Matthew 2: 1-12
First Thursday: The Magi
Read: Matthew 2: 1-12
21
21
Together: Play a game of Red Light, Green Light.
Wait Right Here
Simeon was a devout and righteous man who loved to worship God at the temple in Jerusalem. He
talked with God a lot and did whatever God asked of him. Simeon often told God how sad he was that
God’s people were mistreated by the Romans. Simeon waited patiently for the day when God would
send the King He promised. Would he live to see the day?
One day God told Simeon that, yes, before he died he would see the King with his very own eyes. Can
you imagine Simeon’s joy? But where would he see Him? Simeon wondered. In the north, the south,
the east, the west? In Bethlehem, in Nazareth? In Jericho or Jerusalem? Then he got it. He knew where
to go to meet the King. The temple. Every boy born in Israel was brought to the temple in Jerusalem to
be presented to God. Simeon did not have to go looking all over the place to find Jesus. He just had to
stay right where he was and the baby King—King Jesus— would come to him.
Do you ever have trouble seeing Jesus in your life? I don’t mean seeing with your eyes, but in your
mind, believing He is right there with you, face to face? Like Simeon, you don’t have to go looking all
over the place to find Jesus. You too can wait right where you are. The Bible says our bodies are the
temple where Jesus’ Spirit lives. As you wait right there and think about Jesus and talk to Him, you will
see Him. You will recognize Him by the smile on His face.
by Esther Hizsa
Question: Do you ever have trouble seeing Jesus in your life? When did you last see Him and what was
He doing?
Together: On your chain link write down a feeling word that describes how you felt when you saw Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, when I see You I feel ________ . When I don’t see You, I feel________. Help me to be
patient and remember that if I keep looking for You, I will find You. Amen.
First Friday: Simeon
Read: Luke 2: 21-35
First Friday: Simeon
Read: Luke 2: 21-35
20
20
I felt when I saw Jesus.
The Long Wait
There was someone else that was watching and waiting for the King. Anna was an old woman. She
became a widow after she had been married for only seven years—and that was eighty four years
ago. That means she was over a hundred years old! Old Anna never left the temple. All day, every
day and every night, she prayed and worshiped God. She waited and waited and waited. And
while she waited she hung onto hope that, one day, she would see the King.
by Esther Hizsa
Question: Have you ever had to wait for something? For how long? Can you imagine waiting for
84 years?
Together: Set aside a special treat for each family member. See who can wait the longest to enjoy
the treat. Will it be minutes? Days? Weeks?
Prayer: God, help us to hold onto to our hope in You. For the rest of our lives may we hope in
You each and every day—even if we live to be older than 100! Amen.
First Saturday: Anna
Read: Luke 2: 36-38
First Saturday: Anna
Read: Luke 2: 36-38
19
19
Prayer: God, help us to hold onto to our hope in You. For the
rest of our lives may we hope in You each and every day—even
if we live to be older than 100! Amen.
Face to Face with the Prince of
Sleep in Heavenly Peace
The authors of the book Sleeping with Bread: Holding What Gives You Life tell the following
story:
During the bombing raids of World War II, thousands of children were orphaned and left
to starve. The fortunate ones were rescued and placed in refugee camps where they
received food and good care. But many of these children who had lost so much could not
sleep at night. They feared waking up to find themselves once again homeless and without
food. Nothing seemed to reassure them. Finally, someone hit upon the idea of giving each
child a piece of bread to hold at bedtime. Holding their bread, these children could finally
sleep in peace. All through the night the bread reminded them, “Today I ate and I will eat
again tomorrow.”
Most of us do not have firsthand experience of war. Most of us have never experienced the threat
of homelessness or starvation. Most of us live our day-to-day lives with our physical needs met. But,
spiritually, have you ever felt homeless? Hungry? Starving? Have you ever longed for real peace
with God? Jesus, the Prince of Peace, is at work in our lives. When we take time to notice how He
brought us peace today, we can trust He’ll bring us more peace tomorrow.
by Kelly Dycavinu
Question: Name one thing from your day that brought you comfort or peace, made you happy,
nourished your soul?
Together: Cut out six loaves of bread for each family member using the sheets provided. Over the
next six days, before bedtime, write on a loaf of bread one thing that brought you comfort or peace,
made you happy, or nourished your soul. Sleep with this under your pillow as a reminder of what
Jesus has done and can do.
Prayer: Jesus, please bring peace to those at war, joy for those who are sad, and food for those who
are hungry. Amen.
Second Sunday
Read: Luke 2:14
Second Sunday
Read: Luke 2:14
18
18
Question: Name one thing from your day that brought you
comfort or peace, made you happy, nourished your soul?
In silence I stumbled like a chastised child out of the Holy Place and into the bright morning sun
beyond. All the people were there, waiting faces turned up to see what had been taking me so long.
Instinctively I raised my hand in blessing, and the crowd fell silent, but it was a silence I could not fill.
There was an awkward pause, and then suddenly everyone was talking at once. (Everyone except me of
course.)
“Surely he’s seen a vision!”
“…..Or maybe an angel!”
“…..Give him space!”
“……Give him water!”
“….Let him pass, clearly the hand of God goes with him!”
I could hardly wait to finish my assigned time at the temple. I fled home to the arms of my Elizabeth,
away from the fawning respect of those who did not understand that indeed the hand of God followed
me, but in judgment, not in blessing.
Or so I thought.
Have you ever heard of a God that seeks you in the darkness? That meets you best in brokenness? Who
plucks you from despair? Even the despair of your own sinful heart?
The hurt and anger I had worked so hard to hide were forced into His light… and yet I found He loved
me still! He knew all about my dark secret and still had included me in His glorious plans.
I found my peace with God in the silence.
by Susan Horikiri
Second Monday: Zechariah
Read: Luke 1: 19-23
Second Monday: Zechariah
Read: Luke 1: 19-23
17
17
Together: Tell about an unexpected way that God has met you
in your life.
Question: What did Zechariah learn about God?
Together: Tell about an unexpected way that God has met you in your life.
Prayer: Thank you, Father, that you gladly come and find us right in the very middle of our
messes and imperfections. Grant us eyes to see You coming! Amen.
Second Monday: Zechariah
Read: Luke 1: 19-23
Second Monday: Zechariah
Read: Luke 1: 19-23
A God of His Word
How can I be sure?
In many ways, Zechariah’s question seems reasonable. He’s old. Elizabeth’s old. Not only is his wife
beyond child-bearing years, but she’s barren. Even if age isn’t an issue, she’s unable to have children. For
these reasons, when the angel tells Zechariah that he and Elizabeth will have a son, it seems a natural
response for Zechariah to doubt, to disbelieve what he hears. How can I be sure?
Except for one thing. Zechariah forgets whose words are being spoken.
The angel, Gabriel, is one who stands in the presence of God, one who is sent by God to deliver this
message. The words Zechariah hears are God’s words. And when God speaks, it’s a done deal. Look, for
instance, at the first chapter of Genesis. God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. Seven times
you’ll read “God said… and it was so.” He’s a God of His word.
When Zechariah is struck silent for his disbelief, there’s a sense of reprimand, there’s a sense of caution,
but there’s also a sense of grace and mercy. It seems to me God understands we have a better chance of
hearing and believing His words when our own words of doubt don’t get in the way.
by Kelly Dycavinu
Question: What are some miracles that Jesus spoke and made happen? What is something that God
spoke that we are yet looking forward to happening? (hint: Revelation 21:3).
Together: Take one minute to sit in silence and then sing Silent Night.
Prayer: Lord, we believe. Help us in our unbelief! (Mark 9:24) Amen.
Second Tuesday: Zechariah (Silent Night)
Read: Luke 1: 11-20
Second Tuesday: Zechariah (Silent Night)
Read: Luke 1: 11-20
16
16
Question: What are some miracles that Jesus spoke and made
happen? What is something that God spoke that we are yet looking
forward to happening? (hint: Revelation 21:3)
Silent night! holy night!
All is calm all is bright
Round yon virgin mother and child
Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace!
Sleep in heavenly peace
Silent night! holy night!
Son of God love's pure light
Radiant beams from thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord at thy birth
Jesus, Lord at thy birth
Silent night! holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia
Christ the Saviour is born
Christ the Saviour is born!
Second Tuesday: Zechariah (Silent Night)
Read: Luke 1: 11-20
Second Tuesday: Zechariah (Silent Night)
Read: Luke 1: 11-20
Heavy Weight Lifted
A child?
Impossible.
Surely there’s been a mistake. A misunderstanding?
Not Mary. Not my Mary.
Fear and doubt wrestle me to the ground. It can’t be true, can it? Mary with child? We are yet to be
united as one. How can this be?
Anger grips me in a choke hold. I can’t breathe. If anyone has harmed her!
But, no. She says that’s not so.
If she’s not been harmed, and the child is not mine… what then?
Sorrow slams into my soul, dropkicking me to the dirt. I’m down for the count.
One.
My Mary with another man?
No, she wouldn’t, would she?
Two.
You’re a fool, Joseph. There had to be someone else.
What other explanation is there?
Three.
I will call off the marriage. Quickly. Quietly.
I wait for the bell, the ding ding ding, to announce my defeat. But it does not come. Instead, I hear:
“Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her
is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he
will save his people from their sins.”
A heavy weight lifts from my shoulders. There is no other man. The someone else—the other
explanation—is God!
by Kelly Dycavinu
Second Wednesday: Joseph (What Child Is This?)
Read: Matthew 1: 18-25
Second Wednesday: Joseph (What Child Is This?)
Read: Matthew 1: 18-25
15
15
Together: Sing What Child Is This?
God’s Plan All Along
Matthew 2:23
Joseph took the child and his mother
and he went and lived in a town
called Nazareth. So was fulfilled
what was said through the prophets:
“He will be called a Nazarene.”
Question: Sometimes earthly explanations fall short because God can work the impossible. Do you
have any examples from your own life? Have you ever struggled to make sense of a situation only to
discover God was in it all along?
Together: Sing What Child Is This?
Prayer: God, we may not always understand Your ways, but we trust in Your promise that, in all
things, You work for the good of those who love You (Romans 8:28). Amen.
What Child is this who laid to rest
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.
Nails and spear shall pierce Him through,
The cross be borne for me, for you.
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,
Come peasant, king to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Second Wednesday: Joseph (What Child Is This?)
Read: Matthew 1: 18-25
Second Wednesday: Joseph (What Child Is This?)
Read: Matthew 1: 18-25
A Shepherd’s Song You’re dirty!”
“You stink!”
“Is that dung in your hair?”
The town boys skipped around Jered as he walked through the market square.
“Dirty dumb dung boy,” they began to chant, over and over. “Dirty dumb dung boy, dirty dumb dung
boy.”
Jered hated the days when he was sent to town to collect supplies. The boys knew when he would come:
at the end of the day when discounts were given on the day-olds. It was the same thing every time. The
boys taunted and mocked him. They stared and, sometimes, they threw stones. They always sang.
Dirty dumb dung boy. The four words echoed in Jered’s mind as he walked back to the fields. The sky
was darkening and soon the campfire would be lit to keep off the cold. Dirty dumb dung boy. If only I
didn’t ever have to go into town, he thought. If only I was anything other than a shepherd. Dirty dumb
dung boy. If only I could get that song out of my head.
And then, the night sky brightened as though it were day. Jered’s heart raced with fear and he ran to join
the others. There was a stranger among them—a glowing stranger! “Do not be afraid,” he said, “I bring
you good news of great joy….” There was ringing. Bells, Jered thought, do I hear bells? He looked to the
others. They were as astonished as he was. They all looked like camels with their jaws dropped to the
side.
The ringing grew louder. Lights of all colours shimmered in the sky. Then the song erupted. “Glory to
God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favour rests.” It was the most dazzling
dance, the most majestic music, the sweetest sound! It was a song Jered knew he would sing for the rest of
his life. “Glory to God in the highest!”
by Kelly Dycavinu
Question: How did the boys’ taunting make Jered feel? How did he feel when he heard the angels sing?
Together: Sing Do You Hear What I Hear?
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the angels’ joyful song. Thank you for the beautiful songs You sing to us and
the wondrous sights we have seen. Amen.
Second Thursday: The Shepherds (Do You Hear What I Hear?)
Read: Luke 2: 8-14
Second Thursday: The Shepherds (Do You Hear What I Hear?)
Read: Luke 2: 8-14
14
14
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the angels’ joyful song. Thank you for the
beautiful songs You sing to us and the wondrous sights we have seen.
Amen.
Said the night wind to the little lamb:
"Do you see what I see?
Way up in the sky, little lamb
Do you see what I see?
A star, a star, dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite"
Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy:
"Do you hear what I hear?
Ringing through the sky, shepherd boy
Do you hear what I hear?
A song, a song, high above the trees
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea"
Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king:
"Do you know what I know?
In your palace warm, mighty king,
Do you know what I know?
A Child, a Child shivers in the cold
Let us bring Him silver and gold
Let us bring Him silver and gold"
Said the king to the people everywhere:
"Listen to what I say:
Pray for peace, people everywhere!
Listen to what I say!
The Child, the Child, sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light"
Second Thursday: The Shepherds
(Do You Hear What I Hear?)
Read: Luke 2: 8-14
Second Thursday: The Shepherds (Do You Hear What I Hear?)
Read: Luke 2: 8-14
Second Friday: Simeon
Read: Luke 2: 25-32
Second Friday: Simeon
Read: Luke 2: 25-32
It’s Time
There was something special about Simeon and everyone knew it: he loved God more than anything
else. Whatever you can think of, Simeon loved God more than that. For that reason, the Holy Spirit
loved to rest on him. And that was in the days before Jesus, when very few people had the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit told Simeon that God’s King, the Saviour of the world, would come before Simeon
died. He would see the King! So Simeon waited and watched for Him in the temple. And while he was
in the temple he prayed about all the bad things he saw in the world “Please send the King soon,” he
prayed.
Simeon wanted to be in the temple all the time because he didn’t want to miss seeing the King, but he
had to leave sometimes to eat, sleep, and spend time with his family. He didn’t have to worry that he
would miss seeing Jesus though. The Holy Spirit would let him know.
When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple, the Holy Spirit whispered in Simeon’s ear. “It’s
time.” And Simeon went and saw the King, the Saviour of the world. Simeon saw Him with his very own
eyes, just like God promised. He could trust the Holy Spirit to lead him to Jesus.
by Esther Hizsa
Question: Are you ever afraid you will miss out on something important?
Together: Take turns guessing what important things each person doesn’t want to miss (a TV show, an
event, etc.).
Prayer: Jesus, help us trust that you know what is most important for us and Your Holy Spirit will remind
us so we never miss it. Amen.
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13
Together: Take turns guessing what important things each person
doesn’t want to miss (a TV show, an event, etc.).
Face to Face with the God of
Questions: John’s name means “the Lord is gracious.” Imagine how Zechariah felt holding his son,
John, for the first time.
Together: Talk about the names in your family. What do they mean? Do you know why they were
chosen?
Prayer: Thank You, Father God, that You know us. You know the number of hairs on our heads. You
know what makes us happy or sad or angry. You knew us even before we were born and You call us by
name. Amen.
Second Saturday: Zechariah & Elizabeth
Read: Luke 1: 57-80
Second Saturday: Zechariah and Elizabeth
Read: Luke 1: 57-80
His Name Is John!
“Call him… ‘the Lord is gracious!’”
He Himself plunges into our darkness,
Scoops us—dripping, nascent—lightward.
From ancient roots, and promises,
blood of prophets.
From gnashing lips, hate-bittered,
and destruction.
From enemies without, terrors within,
He brings us forth.
In blazing love-fury
Dries our tears
Plies our hearts
Prepares us
Stretched, stilled, resplendent,
Joy-mongers on
His path of peace.
“Call him…”the Lord is gracious!”
His name is John.
by Susan Horikiri
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12
Together: Talk about the names in your family. What
do they mean? Do you know why they were chosen?
What Does the Fox Say?
You may be familiar with What Does the Fox Say?— one of the latest songs to go viral on the
internet. The lyrics state the obvious: Dog goes woof. Cat goes meow. Bird goes tweet and
mouse goes squeak. But then the song raises a question with a little-known answer: What does
the fox say?
Today, Fox is going to help us see beyond the obvious or well-known parts of the shepherds’
story and help us discover something new.
While one family member reads Luke 2:8-20, have everyone else close their eyes and imagine
they are a fox. You are in the field with the shepherds when the angels appear. What do you
hear? See? Smell? What do you think? What do you say? Follow the shepherds to Bethlehem
and ask these same questions again.
Read the scripture passage through two or three times, if necessary. You may wish to write down
what each person shares.
Remember, this imagining is meant to help us experience more than what’s familiar and
hopefully uncover little-known answers to the some unasked questions.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that Your word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12) and fun to explore.
Amen.
by Kelly Dycavinu
Fun Fact
The stuttering, throaty noises
made by kits- or young foxes-
when the play is
called gekkering.
Third Sunday: Shepherds
Read: Luke 2: 8-20
Third Sunday: Shepherds
Read: Luke 2: 8-20
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Prayer: Lord, thank You that Your word is living and active
(Hebrews 4:12) and fun to explore. Amen.
What Joy What joy,
Dear Angels,
to be sent
to proclaim
that God
had arrived.
Each of you
tes�fied
so greatly
wholeheartedly
with determined abandon
and celebra�on
brighter and brighter
the sky awash
with wonder.
What joy,
Dear Angels,
to finally
announce:
God With Us.
My hope is
to celebrate
and echo Your joy.
I long to
live my life
so bright
with announcement
that it makes
the world wonder:
who has walked in?
I would love
to make
that introduc�on-
What joy
that would be!
Kathy Krahn
Third Monday: Angels
Read: Luke 2: 8-14
Third Monday: Angels
Read: Luke 2: 8-14
10
10
Together: Draw on the paper provided how you think that
night might have looked.
Question: How do you imagine the angels? Do you think they were excited to tell the shepherds
that God was coming?
Together: Draw on the paper provided how you think that night might have looked.
Prayer: Jesus, may each day of our lives be an announcement to others that You are with us!
Amen.
Third Monday: Angels
Read: Luke 2: 8-14
Third Monday: Angels
Read: Luke 2: 8-14
The Shepherd and The Lamb
Jered ran towards Bethlehem; his legs aching, lungs stinging, ears still ringing. Glory to God in the
highest! Only a few short hours ago, he had hoped never to set foot in town again, and now, here he
was. He couldn’t get there fast enough!
Jered was the first shepherd to arrive. At the sound of his approach, the sleeping mother stirred. A
man, seated against the wall, resting, raised his head. His arm was cradled around a feeding trough at
his side.
“The angels!” Jered gasped. “They said I’d find a baby.”
The man, Joseph, studied the breathless and bewildered boy. Clearly he had heard from God and had
been sent to them.
“The child is here,” Joseph said. He motioned to where the baby lay in the trough beside him.
“This is Christ the Lord!” Jered said. Joseph smiled softly. He watched the young shepherd gaze with
wonder at the child.
“Have you ever held a baby?” Joseph asked.
“No. Not unless sheep count. I’ve helped with the birth of many lambs,” Jered replied.
“Well, then, he’ll be in good hands.” Joseph picked up his son and Jered realized what was being
offered.
“I’m dirty,” Jered said, looking at his hands, his clothes.
Joseph looked around the stable. “There’s not much here that isn’t,” he said.
As Jered held the infant, his joy overflowed into praise. Glory to God in the highest!
The other shepherds arrived and filled the small stable. Soon they all sang in joy and praise. It was near
dawn when they finally left. Jered told everyone he met about what he had seen and heard. Crowds
gathered to listen. Among them, Jered saw the boys from the market place.
“Today a Saviour has been born to you,” he said looking into their astonished faces. “He is Christ the
Lord! The Lamb of God!”
Being a shepherd wasn’t so bad after all.
by Kelly Dycavinu
Third Tuesday: The Shepherds
(Go Tell It On The Mountain)
Read: Luke 2: 15-20
Third Tuesday: The Shepherds
(Go Tell It On The Mountain)
Read: Luke 2: 15-20
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9
Prayer: Pray for your friends, family and neighbours who
need to hear about Jesus.
Question: God had a special job for Jered and it brought him much joy. What do you think
God might like you to do that also fills you with joy?
Together: Sing Go Tell It On the Mountain.
Prayer: Pray for your friends, family and neighbours who need to hear about Jesus.
Third Tuesday: The Shepherds
(Go Tell It On The Mountain)
Read: Luke 2: 15-20
Third Tuesday: The Shepherds
(Go Tell It On The Mountain)
Read: Luke 2: 15-20
Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born
Down in a holy manger
The humble Christ was born
And God sent down salvation
That blessed Christmas morning
Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born
While shepherds kept their watch
O'er silent flocks by night
Behold throughout the heavens
There's shone a holy light
Halleluiah
Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born
That Jesus Christ is born
God’s Plan All Along
Matthew 2:4-6
When Herod had called together all the people’s chief priests and teacher’s of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
Uncontainable Joy
Simeon had no doubt when he saw Mary and Joseph holding their first born son that this baby was
the Saviour-King God had promised. He knew because the Holy Spirit that had been resting on him
was now dancing inside of him. When Simeon took Jesus in his arms, his joy and the Holy Spirit’s
joy were so great that he could hardly contain himself. Their joy burst out in praises to God. Joy
came in wondrous words, through a laughing mouth with hot tears rolling down Simeon’s cheeks.
He praised God saying, “My Master my job is done; You can dismiss me in peace, for I have seen
with my own eyes the King You sent. This child will one day invite all people, the ones who know
You and the ones who don’t, to see who You really are, receive God’s love and share God’s love the
way you do.”
When Simeon heard what he had just said, he knew those words were not his own. The Holy Spirit
gave them to him. And that made Simeon all the more joyful because then he knew they were true.
This King, this Jesus, was going to do it.
by Esther Hizsa
Question: Have you ever felt so much joy you thought you would burst? When?
What made you feel so joyful?
Together: Sing Joy to the World.
Prayer: Give three cheers for Jesus!
Hip, hip, hooray! Hip, hip, hooray! Hip, hip, HOORAY! AHHHH-MEN!
Third Wednesday: Simeon
Read: Luke 2: 25-33
Third Wednesday: Simeon
Read: Luke 2: 25-33
8
8
Question: Have you ever felt so much joy you thought you
would burst? When? What made you feel so joyful?
Soon We Will Be Free
When Anna saw Simeon and Mary and Joseph with their baby boy, her old heart did a double
flip. She knew without a doubt that she was looking at the promised Messiah, the King, the
Saviour of the world. Just like Simeon, her joy overflowed into praises to God.
Now it was time. After eighty four years of fasting and praying in the temple, Anna went out
into the streets. Everyone must have wondered if their eyes were playing tricks on them. Was
that really Anna? And could she really be over a hundred? She looked so young!
Anna herself was surprised; she hadn’t had this much energy in eighty-four years. Tirelessly
she went everywhere telling everyone about the child Jesus. “He’s here!” she told them. “God
has sent his Messiah, The King, the Saviour of the world. Soon we will be free!”
by Esther Hizsa
Question: How do you express your joy?
Together: Take turns listing as many different expressions of joy as possible (e.g. yippee!).
Have fun saying them loud and joyfully.
Prayer: Jesus, we celebrate and rejoice in knowing that You are with us right here, right now.
Amen.
Third Thursday: Anna
Read: Luke 2: 36-39
Third Thursday: Anna
Read: Luke 2: 36-39
7
7
Together: Take turns listing as many different expressions of joy as
possible (e.g. yippee!). Have fun saying them loud and joyfully.
Face to Face with the King of
What Kind of King
King Herod. Who was he? He is often called Herod the Great, but take a look below and
see what you think? What kind of king was he? How does he compare to Jesus, the King of
Love?
When the Magi asked for the “one who has been born king of the Jews,” no wonder Herod
felt threatened! He had done many horrible things to become king and it was tricky trying to
maintain that power. If only Herod would have realized that Jesus was much more than king
of the Jews. If only he would have realized that Jesus is King over a much bigger territory, that
Jesus is Lord of All. If only he would have realized Jesus, the King of Love, came to love
him, too.
by Kelly Dycavinu
Third Friday: Herod
Read: Matthew 2: 1-8; 13-20
Third Friday: Herod
Read: Matthew 2: 1-8; 13-20
6
6
Prayer: Jesus, please forgive me for being mean sometimes. Help me
listen when You ask me to show love. Amen.
King Herod Jesus, King of Love
Appointed king of Judea by the Roman Senate Appointed and sent by God
Non-Jewish, an Idumean: no claim to kingship
through David’s line
Both earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, from
the line of David; God’s Son
Reigned 37-4 BC Reigns forever
King over Judea, Galilee, Iturea, Traconitis King over all creation
Destroys his family: murdered his wife, three
sons, and other family members
Grows His family: invites us to become
children of the Father and share in His
inheritance
Killed innocent babies to maintain power and
control (vs. 16)
Sacrificed His life so that others may live
Rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem Established our bodies as God’s temple
Secretive, sneaky and deceptive The Way, the Truth and the Life
Died (vs. 19) Died and rose again
Question: What might have happened if Herod swallowed his pride, went with the Magi, and
worshipped Jesus? What did he stand to lose? What did he stand to gain?
Together: Sit quietly for a moment and think about a time when you were stubborn and wouldn’t
listen and others were hurt because of your pride.
Prayer: Jesus, please forgive me for being mean sometimes. Help me listen when You ask me to show
love. Amen.
Third Friday: Herod
Read: Matthew 2: 1-8; 13-20
Third Friday: Herod
Read: Matthew 2: 1-8; 13-20
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6
Prayer: Jesus, please forgive me for being mean sometimes. Help me
listen when You ask me to show love. Amen.
God’s Plan All Along
Matthew 2:14-15
Joseph took the child and his mother during the
night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the
death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord
had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I
called my son.”
The Wildest God-Thing of All
How Elizabeth and I rejoiced in our Johnny, our walking, talking taste test of God’s insane
graciousness! How we thrilled to hear it, the thrum of God’s Spirit, pulsing ever louder in his
life. And then, too soon, it was time to surrender him, released into his future.
It is said there is a place of stillness in the eye of every storm. Perfect love can draw us in, shield
our hearts, free our spirits, and allow us to ride the waves with audacious confidence.
For years I struggled, trying to love enough, trust enough, obey enough to get into that place.
It’s taken long years of journeying for me to finally see that it is not my love or strength or
obedience that will ever hold me in that eye of rest. The perfect, fear-casting love is God’s, not
mine.
My son will do great God-things, for so it has been promised. Oh that he may also discover the
greatest, hardest, wildest God-thing of all: surrender into the vortex of God’s love.
by Susan Horikiri
Question: What makes it so hard sometimes to surrender fully into God’s love?
Together: Look one another in the eye and say: God loves you.
Prayer: Jesus, we pray for ourselves in the future, for our children, and for the generations to
follow, that we would discover the greatest, hardest, wildest God-thing of all: surrender into the
vortex of Your love. Amen.
Third Saturday: Zechariah
Read: Luke 3:1-19 and Luke 7:18-23
Third Saturday: Zechariah
Read: Luke 3:1-19 and Luke 7:18-23
5
5
Together: Look one another in the eye and say: God loves you.
Bewildering Words
When Simeon prophesied about Jesus, Mary and Joseph were amazed. Then Simeon felt the Holy
Spirit fluttering inside him again. The Holy Spirit had more to say. Simeon heard these words come out
of his mouth, “This child is destined for the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will
be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your soul too.”
Mary and Joseph must have looked bewildered and wondered what Simeon was talking about. Simeon
was bewildered too. But in time the Holy Spirit would explain it. When Jesus grew up He said many
things that made people love Him or hate Him and that made it very clear whether they were really
God’s people or not. It made them see the state of their own hearts and if they realized they did hate
Jesus, it gave them a chance to say sorry and join God’s people.
But what about that last bit about a sword piercing Mary’s soul too? What did that mean? When Jesus
grew up and began preaching and doing mighty deeds, Mary saw peoples’ reactions to her Son. And
when she saw that some people hated Him enough to kill Him it felt like a sword had pierced her soul.
But she would also see that their hate was not bigger than Jesus’ love. There would come a day when
she would see just how big and unbeatable Jesus’ love really is.
by Esther Hizsa
Question: Do you have a friend who doesn’t know or like Jesus? Perhaps he/she even says bad things
about Him.
Together: Cut a heart out of a piece of paper and write that person’s first name on it. Tape it where you
will see it every day so you can pray for them.
Prayer: Jesus, I feel sad when people don’t know You very well. Please help my friend (fill in name) get
to know how much You love him/her. Amen.
Fourth Sunday: Simeon and Mary
Read: Luke 2: 25-35
Fourth Sunday: Simeon and Mary
Read: Luke 2: 25-35
4
4
Together: Cut a heart out of a piece of paper and write that
person’s first name on it. Tape it where you will see it every day
so you can pray for them.
Fourth Monday: Anna
Read: Luke 2: 36-38
Fourth Monday: Anna
Read: Luke 2: 36-38
Praise Jesus! He Really Loves Us
The moment old Anna saw baby Jesus, she began to praise God. I wonder how she expressed her
thanks to God for loving us so much. Did she dance her praise? Did she sing her praise? Did she use
an old familiar psalm that fit just right? Or did she make up a song of her own?
Once I made up a praise song to the tune of “I Am Slowly Going Crazy” by Sharon, Lois and Bram.
It has actions too. You put your right hand on your cheek and your left hand on your right elbow and
sing:
Jesus really, really loves me. 1-2-3-4-5-6 switch. (put your left hand on your cheek and your right hand
on your left elbow)
Really, Jesus really loves me. 6-5-4-3-2-1 switch. (switch back)
by Esther Hizsa
Questions: How do you praise God? Talking, singing, dancing, drawing?
Together: Choose a song you all know and add your own lyrics of praise to Jesus.
Prayer: Thank you, God, that You love to hear, see, and feel our praise. Thank You for giving us fun
ways to praise You.
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3
Prayer: Thank you, God, that You love to hear, see,
and feel our praise. Thank You for giving us fun ways
to praise You.
On Being Loved
Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
As I think about Mary and the first time she held Jesus in her arms, I can’t help but recall when I
became a mother. I remember holding my newborn son. I remember watching him sleep and studying
his face, his nose, his lips. I remember the overwhelming love I felt for him. I marveled, not so much
about the extent of my capacity to love another, but about the nature of the love itself. It was a love
centered entirely on him, who he was, his very being. It was not associated with any aspect of behaviour
or what he had done (how could it be?). For the first time in my life, I felt I had a glimpse of the
unconditional love God feels for us—love that is directed toward our very being and completely
disconnected from our doing.
How often do we seek to earn His love? How often do we rely on our own actions to earn acceptance?
How often is our best behavior really about begging to belong?
God’s love is unconditional. It can’t be earned. It can’t be bought. It can’t be bartered or sold. Yet,
while we cannot earn His love with our actions, we can honour it with them. First, by receiving His love
and, second, by sharing it.
by Kelly Dycavinu
Question: Did you know that Jesus loves you as much as God loves Him?
Together: Read John 15:9. Share with your child(ren) about the moment you first met them, about the
first time you held each of them in your arms, and about how you felt.
Prayer: Thank you, God, for making me perfectly wonderful (Psalm 139:14) and for loving me the way
You love Jesus. Amen.
Fourth Tuesday: Mary
Read: Luke 2: 16-20
Fourth Tuesday: Mary
Read: Luke 2: 16-20
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2
Christmas Day (Love Came Down at Christmas)
Christmas Day (Love Came Down at Christmas)
Impossible Gift
ancient bones, wrinkled skin
revived, enlivened, transformed
by new life,
this life inside
weary spirit, broken heart
surprised, thrilled, healed
by Holy Spirit,
God’s Spirit within
desperate dreams, fragile hopes
offered, prayed, answered
by only God,
only God Almighty
mind boggled, soul tickled
laughing, embracing, rejoicing
by this son,
God’s Only Son
by Linda Smythe
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1
Together: Share how Jesus has changed your life.
Sing Love Came Down at Christmas.
Question: What words in this poem do you relate to?
Together: Share how Jesus has changed your life. Sing Love Came Down at Christmas.
Prayer: God, thank You for sending Jesus. Jesus, thank You for coming! Holy Spirit, thank You for
filling our hearts with love. Amen.
Love came down at Christmas
Love all lovely, love divine
Love was born at Christmas
Star and angels gave the sign
Worship we the Godhead
Love incarnate, love divine
Worship we our Jesus
But wherewith for sacred sign?
Love shall be our token
Love be yours and love be mine
Love to God and all men
Love for plea and gift and sign
Christmas Day (Love Came Down at Christmas)
Christmas Day (Love Came Down at Christmas)
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