Joy to the World - Week 2
Jesus came to bring jOY 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 Jesus Foretold: Luke 1:26-55; (Zephaniah 3:14-20)
WATCH:
Preschool- teaching video
Elementary- teaching video
SONG: Joy to the World
DISCIPLE:
Read Luke 1:26-55. Mary was so filled with joy that she burst into a song about God, about how God has always done great things for people, about how God is full of love and mercy and will save them all! This was a really big thing to happen to Mary, but she trusted God. So instead of being scared or worried, she became filled with joy instead!
What are some different ways people expressed joy in today's Bible story?
Mary sang a song.
Elizabeth rejoiced in loud voice.
Elizabeth's baby boy, John, jumped for joy before he was even born!
What are some ways you express your joy?
Maybe you sing in the shower, wear your favorite sweater, smile super widely, or skip when you walk.
Remember, there is no single way to express joy. We're all made differently, so we all feel joy differently!
Share with someone next to you how you show your joy!
Pray: God, thank you so much for sending Jesus to bring joy to the world! Because of Jesus, we know that no matter what happens in our lives, being loved by you is the greatest joy we could ever have. Help us remember that every day is a chance to express this joy and share it with others. Amen.
DISCUSSION:
How did Mary respond to what the angel told her?
What did the angel say would be special about Mary's baby?
What happened with Elizabeth's baby when Mary greeted her?
Read Zephaniah 3:!7. What does this verse say about how God sees us?
How does Jesus bring joy to the world?
What are some things that might threaten to take away your joy?
How can we hold onto the joy God gives us? How can we share joy with others?