Hello families! We hope these family reflections help you and your kids and students take their next steps in following Jesus during this Advent season. Each week’s reflection will be paired with a verse from the Christmas hymn, Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus. This hymn captures the longing of our hearts in Advent, and becomes more than a song, but a beautiful prayer. Wherever you and your family find yourselves in this Advent season, remember that God is right there, present and near.
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus
Words: Charles Wesley, 1744 (Verses 1 & 4)
Verse 1
Come, Thou long expected Jesus,
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us;
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel's strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear Desire of ev'ry nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
Verse 2
Joy to those who long to see Thee
Day-spring from on high, appear.
Come, Thou promised Rod of Jesse,
Of Thy birth, we long to hear!
O'er the hills the angels singing
News, glad tidings of a birth;
"Go to Him your praises bringing
Christ the Lord has come to earth!"
Come, Thou long expected Jesus,
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us;
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel's strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear Desire of ev'ry nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
Verse 2
Joy to those who long to see Thee
Day-spring from on high, appear.
Come, Thou promised Rod of Jesse,
Of Thy birth, we long to hear!
O'er the hills the angels singing
News, glad tidings of a birth;
"Go to Him your praises bringing
Christ the Lord has come to earth!"
Verse 3
Come to earth to taste our sadness,
He whose glories knew no end.
By His life He brings us gladness,
Our redeemer, Shepherd, Friend.
Leaving riches without number,
Born within a cattle stall;
This the everlasting wonder,
Christ was born the Lord of all.
Verse 4
Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child, and yet a King,
Born to reign in us for ever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By Thine all-sufficient merit
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.
Come to earth to taste our sadness,
He whose glories knew no end.
By His life He brings us gladness,
Our redeemer, Shepherd, Friend.
Leaving riches without number,
Born within a cattle stall;
This the everlasting wonder,
Christ was born the Lord of all.
Verse 4
Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child, and yet a King,
Born to reign in us for ever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By Thine all-sufficient merit
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.
Advent Wreath: A Symbol of Longing
Rhythms and liturgy build the muscle of our faith. Similar to the flow of a school morning, or a calm evening, routines build patterns of mindfulness and consistency in our lives. Just as physical muscles grow through repetition and intentional movement, our spiritual lives are strengthened through regular practices that draw our attention to God’s presence and promises. Liturgy simply means “the work of the people,’” a pattern of worship that shapes what we love and how we live.
The liturgy of the Advent wreath is one such rhythm, both a visual and physical reminder of the season of joyous anticipation we are waiting in. The wreath is a circle of evergreen branches, holding four outer candles and one central candle.
Each element carries an intentional meaning:
• The circular shape reminds us of God’s unending love and faithfulness, with no beginning and no end.
• The evergreen branches represent the everlasting life that Jesus offers to all who believe.
• The candles symbolize the light of Christ breaking into the darkness of the world, one candle at a time, week by week, as hope, faith, joy, and peace grow brighter leading up to Christmas.
When and How to Use Your Advent Wreath
We encourage you to make lighting the Advent wreath a weekly family rhythm of worship, a family liturgy. Choose a consistent time that fits naturally into your week, perhaps around a meal or in the evening before bedtime.
Place the wreath at the center of your table or living space as a visual reminder of God’s presence among you. Each week, this Advent Guide will offer a short video to reflect on the meaning of each candle available to you via email and is available through our Nona Church YouTube Channel. Let this be more than a tradition, it’s an invitation to slow down, to wonder, and to allow Christ to form your family through this simple yet sacred rhythm. Our hope is that this guide will spark meaningful conversations and nurture continual formation in the way of Jesus throughout the Advent season.
Let this be more than a tradition, it’s an invitation to slow down, to wonder, and to allow Christ to form your family through this simple yet sacred rhythm. Our hope is that this guide will spark meaningful conversations and nurture continual formation in the way of Jesus throughout the Advent season.
The liturgy of the Advent wreath is one such rhythm, both a visual and physical reminder of the season of joyous anticipation we are waiting in. The wreath is a circle of evergreen branches, holding four outer candles and one central candle.
Each element carries an intentional meaning:
• The circular shape reminds us of God’s unending love and faithfulness, with no beginning and no end.
• The evergreen branches represent the everlasting life that Jesus offers to all who believe.
• The candles symbolize the light of Christ breaking into the darkness of the world, one candle at a time, week by week, as hope, faith, joy, and peace grow brighter leading up to Christmas.
When and How to Use Your Advent Wreath
We encourage you to make lighting the Advent wreath a weekly family rhythm of worship, a family liturgy. Choose a consistent time that fits naturally into your week, perhaps around a meal or in the evening before bedtime.
Place the wreath at the center of your table or living space as a visual reminder of God’s presence among you. Each week, this Advent Guide will offer a short video to reflect on the meaning of each candle available to you via email and is available through our Nona Church YouTube Channel. Let this be more than a tradition, it’s an invitation to slow down, to wonder, and to allow Christ to form your family through this simple yet sacred rhythm. Our hope is that this guide will spark meaningful conversations and nurture continual formation in the way of Jesus throughout the Advent season.
Let this be more than a tradition, it’s an invitation to slow down, to wonder, and to allow Christ to form your family through this simple yet sacred rhythm. Our hope is that this guide will spark meaningful conversations and nurture continual formation in the way of Jesus throughout the Advent season.
Week 1
Click Here To Watch Weekly Advent Video
Welcome to Week 1 of the Family Ministry Advent Guide! Week by week, we will walk through this advent season, together, as a family. These four weeks of advent we will engage with four separate emotions, all of which align our hearts with God as we wait for His triumphal return. This first week of advent centers around hope.
We all hope for things, whether or we realize it or not. Sometimes we hope for something new- like a new friend, a new opportunity, or that Christmas present that we really want. Other times we hope for something to get better; like hard times in our life, when someone is sick, or something broken in our life. We often put our hope in the things around us or our circumstances. But these things change, or leave, or break and we are eventually left feeling empty, wanting something else, or disappointed.
This advent season, God invites us to practice a different kind of hope. In the Old Testament and the New Testament, God’s people put their hope in a person, not in their circumstances. They didn’t hope for something new for something to get better, they put their hope in a person- they put their hope in Jesus. The Israelites in the Old Testament waited expectantly for the promise of a savior. That promise was fulfilled when Jesus was born! Jesus offered salvation through His life, death, and resurrection. After Jesus left, he promised that he would come back and the early church in the New Testament waited expectantly for His return. And we are still waiting for Jesus to come back!
God’s invitation to us this advent season is to redirect our hope to Jesus, fixing our eyes on Jesus’ triumphal return to make all things new. This advent season, we will take a look at an old hymn with a powerful message. Let’s take a look at the first verse of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus:
Come, Thou long expected Jesus,
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us;
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel's strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear Desire of ev'ry nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
The Bible Project defines hope this way: “Christian hope looks back to the risen Jesus in order to look forward”. We can look back at all of the promises that Jesus kept so that we can have hope that He will do it again. Jesus always keeps His promises, and He is coming back to make all things new.
Day 1: Read Romans 8:18-25
Paul says we hope for what we don’t yet see. What’s something you’re hoping and waiting for right now? How can remembering Jesus’ return give us hope while we wait?
Day 2: Read Isaiah 40:28-31
When you feel tired, stressed, or discouraged, how does putting your hope in God give you new strength? What are some ways our family can help each other stay hopeful?
Day 3: Read Psalm 130
What promises from the Bible give you hope when things feel dark or uncertain?
Day 4: Read Lamentations 3:19-26
This verse reminds us that God’s love never runs out. How does remembering God’s past faithfulness give us hope for the future?
Day 5: Read Romans 5:1-5
How can we have hope even when life is hard or things don’t go our way? What’s a time when God used something hard to grow your hope in Him?
Day 6 Family Activity: Hope Lantern
Supplies:
A clean mason jar or clear plastic cup for each family member
Small battery-powered tea light (or real candle if safe)
Tissue paper (yellow, orange, white, light blue)
Glue and paintbrush
Black marker or thin black paper strips
Instructions:
Family Discussion
Talk about how even when things feel dark or uncertain, Jesus shines hope into our hearts—He is the light that never goes out.
Welcome to Week 1 of the Family Ministry Advent Guide! Week by week, we will walk through this advent season, together, as a family. These four weeks of advent we will engage with four separate emotions, all of which align our hearts with God as we wait for His triumphal return. This first week of advent centers around hope.
We all hope for things, whether or we realize it or not. Sometimes we hope for something new- like a new friend, a new opportunity, or that Christmas present that we really want. Other times we hope for something to get better; like hard times in our life, when someone is sick, or something broken in our life. We often put our hope in the things around us or our circumstances. But these things change, or leave, or break and we are eventually left feeling empty, wanting something else, or disappointed.
This advent season, God invites us to practice a different kind of hope. In the Old Testament and the New Testament, God’s people put their hope in a person, not in their circumstances. They didn’t hope for something new for something to get better, they put their hope in a person- they put their hope in Jesus. The Israelites in the Old Testament waited expectantly for the promise of a savior. That promise was fulfilled when Jesus was born! Jesus offered salvation through His life, death, and resurrection. After Jesus left, he promised that he would come back and the early church in the New Testament waited expectantly for His return. And we are still waiting for Jesus to come back!
God’s invitation to us this advent season is to redirect our hope to Jesus, fixing our eyes on Jesus’ triumphal return to make all things new. This advent season, we will take a look at an old hymn with a powerful message. Let’s take a look at the first verse of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus:
Come, Thou long expected Jesus,
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us;
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel's strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear Desire of ev'ry nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
The Bible Project defines hope this way: “Christian hope looks back to the risen Jesus in order to look forward”. We can look back at all of the promises that Jesus kept so that we can have hope that He will do it again. Jesus always keeps His promises, and He is coming back to make all things new.
Day 1: Read Romans 8:18-25
Paul says we hope for what we don’t yet see. What’s something you’re hoping and waiting for right now? How can remembering Jesus’ return give us hope while we wait?
Day 2: Read Isaiah 40:28-31
When you feel tired, stressed, or discouraged, how does putting your hope in God give you new strength? What are some ways our family can help each other stay hopeful?
Day 3: Read Psalm 130
What promises from the Bible give you hope when things feel dark or uncertain?
Day 4: Read Lamentations 3:19-26
This verse reminds us that God’s love never runs out. How does remembering God’s past faithfulness give us hope for the future?
Day 5: Read Romans 5:1-5
How can we have hope even when life is hard or things don’t go our way? What’s a time when God used something hard to grow your hope in Him?
Day 6 Family Activity: Hope Lantern
Supplies:
A clean mason jar or clear plastic cup for each family member
Small battery-powered tea light (or real candle if safe)
Tissue paper (yellow, orange, white, light blue)
Glue and paintbrush
Black marker or thin black paper strips
Instructions:
- Tear tissue paper into small pieces and glue them around the outside of the jar to create a glowing “stained glass” effect.
- Once dry, write or glue a strip across the jar that says “HOPE” (or a short verse like Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace…”).
- Place a tea light inside and light it each night of the week as you talk or pray about where you see God bringing light into dark places.
Family Discussion
Talk about how even when things feel dark or uncertain, Jesus shines hope into our hearts—He is the light that never goes out.
Week 2
Click Here To Watch Weekly Advent Video
Welcome to week two of the family ministry advent guide. This week, we’re reflecting on peace. I don’t know about you, but peace and quiet during the holiday season can feel hard to find. Between end-of-year school events, concerts, plays, shopping for gifts, and making travel plans—phew! I’m tired just thinking about it all.
So in the middle of all the busyness, where do we find peace? Right now, take a deep breath in… and exhale. And again. Maybe your mind was racing a moment ago, or maybe it’s starting to slow down. In seasons when life feels rushed, we can pause and remember the peace that’s always available in the stillness of God’s presence. Emmanuel—God with us—is with us right now. Sometimes, in the hurry of life, we forget such a simple but powerful truth.
In verse three of our hymn, we read:
Come to earth to taste our sadness,
He whose glories knew no end;
By His life He brings us gladness,
Our Redeemer, Shepherd, Friend.
Leaving riches without number,
Born within a cattle stall;
This the everlasting wonder—
Christ was born the Lord of all.
Christ came in the humblest way to enter our world of pain and bring us life and gladness. Because of Him, we can have peace. Philippians 4:7 reminds us that God offers “peace that surpasses all understanding.” Paul wrote those words while imprisoned—yet even there, he experienced the deep peace that comes from Jesus.
So when the world outside, or even the world within, feels overwhelming, call on Jesus. His peace will surround and comfort you. This Advent season, may the peace of God guard and guide your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Day 1: Read Isaiah 52:7-10
This passage celebrates the good news that God brings peace, salvation, and joy to His people. How can our family share the “good news” of Jesus with others and help bring peace to those around us this Christmas?
Day 2: Read Revelation 21:1-5
This passage reminds us that one day God will make everything new again when Jesus returns, so we can have joy! How does knowing that God is making all things new give our family peace as we celebrate Jesus’ birth and look forward to His return?
Day 3: Read Ephesians 2:11-22
This passage teaches that Jesus brings peace and unites people who were once divided, making us part of God’s family. How can our family share that same peace and help others feel included and loved this Christmas season?
Day 4: Read Isaiah 9:1-7
Isaiah tells us that a special child would be born to bring light, peace, and hope to the world. Jesus! How can our family reflect this light and share the peace of Jesus with others?
Day 5: Read Micah 5:2-5a
Micah prophesied that a ruler would come from Bethlehem, someone who would bring peace to the whole world! How does knowing that Jesus was born in a small town like Bethlehem help us see that God can use ordinary places and people for His extraordinary plans?
Day 6
Family Activity: Silent Night Challenge
Supplies:
A candle
A Bible
A timer or phone
Instructions:
Welcome to week two of the family ministry advent guide. This week, we’re reflecting on peace. I don’t know about you, but peace and quiet during the holiday season can feel hard to find. Between end-of-year school events, concerts, plays, shopping for gifts, and making travel plans—phew! I’m tired just thinking about it all.
So in the middle of all the busyness, where do we find peace? Right now, take a deep breath in… and exhale. And again. Maybe your mind was racing a moment ago, or maybe it’s starting to slow down. In seasons when life feels rushed, we can pause and remember the peace that’s always available in the stillness of God’s presence. Emmanuel—God with us—is with us right now. Sometimes, in the hurry of life, we forget such a simple but powerful truth.
In verse three of our hymn, we read:
Come to earth to taste our sadness,
He whose glories knew no end;
By His life He brings us gladness,
Our Redeemer, Shepherd, Friend.
Leaving riches without number,
Born within a cattle stall;
This the everlasting wonder—
Christ was born the Lord of all.
Christ came in the humblest way to enter our world of pain and bring us life and gladness. Because of Him, we can have peace. Philippians 4:7 reminds us that God offers “peace that surpasses all understanding.” Paul wrote those words while imprisoned—yet even there, he experienced the deep peace that comes from Jesus.
So when the world outside, or even the world within, feels overwhelming, call on Jesus. His peace will surround and comfort you. This Advent season, may the peace of God guard and guide your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Day 1: Read Isaiah 52:7-10
This passage celebrates the good news that God brings peace, salvation, and joy to His people. How can our family share the “good news” of Jesus with others and help bring peace to those around us this Christmas?
Day 2: Read Revelation 21:1-5
This passage reminds us that one day God will make everything new again when Jesus returns, so we can have joy! How does knowing that God is making all things new give our family peace as we celebrate Jesus’ birth and look forward to His return?
Day 3: Read Ephesians 2:11-22
This passage teaches that Jesus brings peace and unites people who were once divided, making us part of God’s family. How can our family share that same peace and help others feel included and loved this Christmas season?
Day 4: Read Isaiah 9:1-7
Isaiah tells us that a special child would be born to bring light, peace, and hope to the world. Jesus! How can our family reflect this light and share the peace of Jesus with others?
Day 5: Read Micah 5:2-5a
Micah prophesied that a ruler would come from Bethlehem, someone who would bring peace to the whole world! How does knowing that Jesus was born in a small town like Bethlehem help us see that God can use ordinary places and people for His extraordinary plans?
Day 6
Family Activity: Silent Night Challenge
Supplies:
A candle
A Bible
A timer or phone
Instructions:
- Set the Scene: Gather your family in a cozy spot and dim the lights, or if it is not too cold, head outside once it is dark. Light a candle to remind everyone that Jesus is the Light of the World, bringing peace into even the darkest places.
- Read Together: Read Philippians 4:6–7 aloud: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
- Silent Night Challenge: Set a timer for one minute of silence. During that time, everyone sits quietly and thinks about Jesus being with them. Younger kids can close their eyes or imagine sitting with Jesus in a peaceful place.
- Share Together: After the minute is up, talk about what you noticed. Was it hard to sit quietly? Did you feel calm or peaceful? What are some ways you can make space for peace at home this week?
- Pray as a Family: End by thanking God for His peace and asking Him to help your family remember that He is with you in every moment, whether you are busy or silent.
Week 3
Click Here To Watch Weekly Advent Video
Welcome to week three of the family ministry advent guide. This week we will take some time to reflect on joy. Though the world may try to sell us a watered-down temporary version of joy on our phones or tablets, promotions at work, compliments from people we admire, etc., God invites us to partake in His uncircumstantial, unshakeable joy. This true joy that comes from God alone is available to us at all times out of God’s abundant love for us! Isn’t that something to celebrate today?
How blessed we are to be able to receive the love of the Savior, the love of Christ Jesus, the Lord of all who was born humbly in a manger, died, and resurrected for us; this is the reason for our JOY!
Verse three of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus invites us to bring our real selves to Him with our very real circumstances– good or bad, and to receive His goodness which leads to uncircumstantial joy. We may have sadness, but He came to walk through it with us. On this earth we may have little, we may face many difficulties, but His glory knows no end, He fulfills every longing in our hearts, and He provides for every need. Let’s take a look at the third verse of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus:
Come to earth to taste our sadness,
He whose glories knew no end.
By His life He brings us gladness,
Our redeemer, Shepherd, Friend.
Leaving riches without number,
Born within a cattle stall;
This the everlasting wonder,
Christ was born the Lord of all.
Because of Jesus’ coming we have the Spirit of the living God inside of us if we have come to accept Him as our Savior. The good news is that because of this, Galatians 5:22-26 reveals to us that this very Spirit produces fruit in us and once of these fruits is JOY! Joy that we can trust will not leave us in our dark times, and joy that we can carry to those around us. In moments of celebration this season, and difficult times, let’s rely on the Spirit to produce joy in us and remember that because of Jesus’ love, we can always find a reason to be joyful– even in the little things like baking with family or taking a walk in neighborhood and paying attention to the flowers.
Day 1: Read Galatians 5:22-26
The Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit helps us show love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Which of these do you see growing in our family, and which one could we ask God to help us grow in this season?
Day 2: Read Philippians 4:4-8
We are encouraged to rejoice, not worry, and think about what is good and true. What is something you need to trust God for instead of feeling anxious or stressed?
Day 3: Read Psalm 118
This Psalm reminds us to give thanks to the Lord because His love endures forever! What are some things that you are grateful for this Christmas season, and how can we show our gratitude to others?
Day 4: Read Psalm 96
This Psalm invites everyone to sing a new song to the Lord and tell of His goodness. What is your favorite Christmas song that celebrates and shares the good news of Jesus?
Day 5: Read Hebrews 12:1-3
We are encouraged to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and not give up when life gets hard. During this season, what are some ways our family can keep our focus on Jesus and remember why we can have joy?
Day 6
Family Activity: Baking “Joy” Cookies
Taste and see that the Lord is GOOD! Psalm 34:8 says “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh the joys of those who take refuge in Him!”
Enjoy a sweet treat with your family and prompt them to discuss the things that brought them joy this week. Make sure that each person gets a chance to share. Some questions you can ask are: What does joy feel like to you? What’s one thing God has done this week that made you smile? End with a short prayer thanking God for joy, even in the little things! Celebrate with God, how He has brought you personally.
Chocolate Chip Joy Cookies
A sweet way to celebrate the goodness of God together!
Ingredients:
½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg (or 1 tablespoon applesauce if avoiding eggs)
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup chocolate chips or M&Ms
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until smooth.
Add vanilla and egg (or applesauce); mix well.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
Mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
Stir in chocolate chips or M&Ms.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are golden.
Cool slightly — then enjoy warm with your family!
Welcome to week three of the family ministry advent guide. This week we will take some time to reflect on joy. Though the world may try to sell us a watered-down temporary version of joy on our phones or tablets, promotions at work, compliments from people we admire, etc., God invites us to partake in His uncircumstantial, unshakeable joy. This true joy that comes from God alone is available to us at all times out of God’s abundant love for us! Isn’t that something to celebrate today?
How blessed we are to be able to receive the love of the Savior, the love of Christ Jesus, the Lord of all who was born humbly in a manger, died, and resurrected for us; this is the reason for our JOY!
Verse three of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus invites us to bring our real selves to Him with our very real circumstances– good or bad, and to receive His goodness which leads to uncircumstantial joy. We may have sadness, but He came to walk through it with us. On this earth we may have little, we may face many difficulties, but His glory knows no end, He fulfills every longing in our hearts, and He provides for every need. Let’s take a look at the third verse of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus:
Come to earth to taste our sadness,
He whose glories knew no end.
By His life He brings us gladness,
Our redeemer, Shepherd, Friend.
Leaving riches without number,
Born within a cattle stall;
This the everlasting wonder,
Christ was born the Lord of all.
Because of Jesus’ coming we have the Spirit of the living God inside of us if we have come to accept Him as our Savior. The good news is that because of this, Galatians 5:22-26 reveals to us that this very Spirit produces fruit in us and once of these fruits is JOY! Joy that we can trust will not leave us in our dark times, and joy that we can carry to those around us. In moments of celebration this season, and difficult times, let’s rely on the Spirit to produce joy in us and remember that because of Jesus’ love, we can always find a reason to be joyful– even in the little things like baking with family or taking a walk in neighborhood and paying attention to the flowers.
Day 1: Read Galatians 5:22-26
The Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit helps us show love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Which of these do you see growing in our family, and which one could we ask God to help us grow in this season?
Day 2: Read Philippians 4:4-8
We are encouraged to rejoice, not worry, and think about what is good and true. What is something you need to trust God for instead of feeling anxious or stressed?
Day 3: Read Psalm 118
This Psalm reminds us to give thanks to the Lord because His love endures forever! What are some things that you are grateful for this Christmas season, and how can we show our gratitude to others?
Day 4: Read Psalm 96
This Psalm invites everyone to sing a new song to the Lord and tell of His goodness. What is your favorite Christmas song that celebrates and shares the good news of Jesus?
Day 5: Read Hebrews 12:1-3
We are encouraged to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and not give up when life gets hard. During this season, what are some ways our family can keep our focus on Jesus and remember why we can have joy?
Day 6
Family Activity: Baking “Joy” Cookies
Taste and see that the Lord is GOOD! Psalm 34:8 says “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh the joys of those who take refuge in Him!”
Enjoy a sweet treat with your family and prompt them to discuss the things that brought them joy this week. Make sure that each person gets a chance to share. Some questions you can ask are: What does joy feel like to you? What’s one thing God has done this week that made you smile? End with a short prayer thanking God for joy, even in the little things! Celebrate with God, how He has brought you personally.
Chocolate Chip Joy Cookies
A sweet way to celebrate the goodness of God together!
Ingredients:
½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg (or 1 tablespoon applesauce if avoiding eggs)
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup chocolate chips or M&Ms
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until smooth.
Add vanilla and egg (or applesauce); mix well.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
Mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
Stir in chocolate chips or M&Ms.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are golden.
Cool slightly — then enjoy warm with your family!
Week 4
Click Here To Watch Weekly Advent Video
Welcome to our final week of the Family Ministry Advent Guide! John 15:3 says, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” It can be hard to wrap our heads around the fact that Jesus chose to come to earth to be with us, to grow up just like we did, to know our earthly joys, and our earthly suffering. Yet He did! Humbly He came and humbly He died for us. Verse four of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus says,
Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child, and yet a King,
Born to reign in us for ever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By Thine all-sufficient merit
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.
What a powerful verse to reflect on! Jesus was born a child, yet a king– for the ultimate purpose of delivering us. How beautiful it is that He loved us, and still does, enough to know that He would die a brutal death on the cross for us and yet choose to do it anyway. He chose to lay His life down for His friends, for you and for me. In our Formation Journals today we read John 3:16-21 which helps us to understand this love even more clearly.
We all have people and things that we lean on when we’re struggling, when we’re happy, when we’re stressed, and when we’re angry– but these are not and never will be perfect. We all have something inside of us that desires a friend or a companion who will never leave us, who won’t judge our brokenness and our flaws, who sees it all and loves us anyway. Jesus is that friend, who knows that we could never be good enough to deserve His love and still chooses not just to love us on the surface level, but deeply cares for us and wants to be ours. This Jesus, calls us His– His beloved, His children, His brothers and sisters, His creation. Can we take some time to celebrate who Jesus is and what He has done for us today and forever!
Day 1: Read John 3:16-21
God showed His great love for the world by sending Jesus to bring light and life. How can we reflect that light and share God’s love with others during this Christmas season?
Day 2: Read Ezekiel 34:11-16
God says He will be like a shepherd who searches for His lost sheep and cares for them. How have you seen God take care of you or guide our family, even when life is hard, and we don’t understand?
Day 3: Join us for a Christmas Eve Service!
Day 4: Read Luke 2
When the angels told the shepherds that Jesus was born, they were filled with joy and went to see Him right away. How can our family share that same joy and excitement about Jesus with others this Christmas season?
Day 5: Read Isaiah 11:1-10
What does it mean to you that God can bring something new and good out of something that seems broken or finished? What is something you want God to make new that feels broken?
Day 6
Family Activity: “A Love Letter to Jesus”
Theme: Responding to Jesus’ great love with gratitude and devotion.
What you’ll need:
Paper, stationery, or index cards
Pens, crayons, or markers
Optional: envelopes, stickers, or a special box to keep the letters in
Instructions:
Read John 15:13 together (“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends”).
Talk about how Jesus showed His love by choosing to come to earth, live among us, and die for us — all because He loves us deeply.
Invite each family member to take a few quiet minutes to write (or draw, for younger kids) a letter to Jesus.
Encourage them to include things like:
Thanking Jesus for His love and what He’s done for them
Telling Him what they love most about Him
Sharing how they want to love others like He lovesOnce everyone is finished, come back together and, if they’re comfortable, let each person read part of their letter aloud.
Optional Add-ons:
Place all the letters in a special “Love Box” that you keep near your Advent candles or nativity scene.
End with a short prayer, thanking Jesus for His perfect love and asking Him to help your family love others more deeply.
Wrap-up Thought:
Remind your family that just like a friend loves to receive a heartfelt note, Jesus loves when we talk to Him honestly and openly. Our letters are reminders that His love is personal and real and that we can respond to it with love of our own.
Welcome to our final week of the Family Ministry Advent Guide! John 15:3 says, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” It can be hard to wrap our heads around the fact that Jesus chose to come to earth to be with us, to grow up just like we did, to know our earthly joys, and our earthly suffering. Yet He did! Humbly He came and humbly He died for us. Verse four of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus says,
Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child, and yet a King,
Born to reign in us for ever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By Thine all-sufficient merit
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.
What a powerful verse to reflect on! Jesus was born a child, yet a king– for the ultimate purpose of delivering us. How beautiful it is that He loved us, and still does, enough to know that He would die a brutal death on the cross for us and yet choose to do it anyway. He chose to lay His life down for His friends, for you and for me. In our Formation Journals today we read John 3:16-21 which helps us to understand this love even more clearly.
We all have people and things that we lean on when we’re struggling, when we’re happy, when we’re stressed, and when we’re angry– but these are not and never will be perfect. We all have something inside of us that desires a friend or a companion who will never leave us, who won’t judge our brokenness and our flaws, who sees it all and loves us anyway. Jesus is that friend, who knows that we could never be good enough to deserve His love and still chooses not just to love us on the surface level, but deeply cares for us and wants to be ours. This Jesus, calls us His– His beloved, His children, His brothers and sisters, His creation. Can we take some time to celebrate who Jesus is and what He has done for us today and forever!
Day 1: Read John 3:16-21
God showed His great love for the world by sending Jesus to bring light and life. How can we reflect that light and share God’s love with others during this Christmas season?
Day 2: Read Ezekiel 34:11-16
God says He will be like a shepherd who searches for His lost sheep and cares for them. How have you seen God take care of you or guide our family, even when life is hard, and we don’t understand?
Day 3: Join us for a Christmas Eve Service!
Day 4: Read Luke 2
When the angels told the shepherds that Jesus was born, they were filled with joy and went to see Him right away. How can our family share that same joy and excitement about Jesus with others this Christmas season?
Day 5: Read Isaiah 11:1-10
What does it mean to you that God can bring something new and good out of something that seems broken or finished? What is something you want God to make new that feels broken?
Day 6
Family Activity: “A Love Letter to Jesus”
Theme: Responding to Jesus’ great love with gratitude and devotion.
What you’ll need:
Paper, stationery, or index cards
Pens, crayons, or markers
Optional: envelopes, stickers, or a special box to keep the letters in
Instructions:
Read John 15:13 together (“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends”).
Talk about how Jesus showed His love by choosing to come to earth, live among us, and die for us — all because He loves us deeply.
Invite each family member to take a few quiet minutes to write (or draw, for younger kids) a letter to Jesus.
Encourage them to include things like:
Thanking Jesus for His love and what He’s done for them
Telling Him what they love most about Him
Sharing how they want to love others like He lovesOnce everyone is finished, come back together and, if they’re comfortable, let each person read part of their letter aloud.
Optional Add-ons:
Place all the letters in a special “Love Box” that you keep near your Advent candles or nativity scene.
End with a short prayer, thanking Jesus for His perfect love and asking Him to help your family love others more deeply.
Wrap-up Thought:
Remind your family that just like a friend loves to receive a heartfelt note, Jesus loves when we talk to Him honestly and openly. Our letters are reminders that His love is personal and real and that we can respond to it with love of our own.