Joy to the World - Week 1
Jesus came to bring good news to the world!
What are your go-to Christmas traditions? It’s amazing how different all of our Christmas celebrations can be, especially when you take into account how Christmas is celebrated all over the world. This month, we’ll be reminded what a universal gift Jesus is, and how Jesus brought good news, joy, and peace on that very first Christmas so that the whole world could know God!
MEMORY VERSE:
"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." Luke 2:14
Toddler Twist: "Glory to God in the highest!" Luke 2:14
MV COLORING PAGE: Luke 2:14
READ: The Birth of John Foretold: Luke 1:5-20; 57-66; Malachi 3:1-4
WATCH:
Preschool- teaching video
Elementary- teaching video
SONG: Joy to the World
DISCIPLE:
Read Luke 2:!4 with your family. When Zechariah wrote down that the baby should be named "John," like the angel told him to, he could speak once again! So, he started praising God. The good news was coming true! And the best part of this good news was that John would be the one who would prepare the way for Jesus later on. That's very good news!
What are some other ways you can celebrate? Dancing? Jumping for joy? Throwing a party?
Share as a family how your family celebrate good news.
There are so many different ways to celebrate, not just one. And in December, people all over the world get ready to celebrate Christmas! Let's take a look!
Show these images to your family and share a few facts about Christmas celebrations from around the world. You could also show a video like "Christmas Celebrations in Different Countries" or images from the Giant Lantern Festival that takes place in the Philippines.
Did you know that God celebrates with us, too? God created celebration and invites us all to join in!
Pray: Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus to bring good news to the world. Thank you that no one is left out of your good news! May we always remember to share good news with people around us, especially the good news about you! Amen.
DISCUSSION:
What was the good news about John?
Why was the good news so hard for Zechariah to believe?
What happened to Zechariah after the baby was born?
Read Luke 1:58. What did her neighbors and family members do when they heard Elizabeth’s news?
What are some things you do when you hear good news?
Name one piece of good news you received this past week.
What good news about God can you share with others?