Advent is a time of waiting for the arrival of Christmas. The story of Christ's birth is a story of promise, hope, and a revolutionary love. So, what happened? What was once a time to celebrate the birth of a savior has somehow turned into a season of stress, traffic jams, and shopping lists. When it's all over, many of us are left with presents to return, looming debt that will take months to pay off, and this empty feeling of missed purpose. Is this what we really want out of Christmas? What if Christmas became a world-changing event again? We created the Advent calendar below, and we really hope you can find a way to slow down the faced-paced hustle that has become Christmas and capture each day with your family. This is not a check list or a to do list, that would defeat the purpose! If some of the ideas won't work for you or your family come up with creative ideas of your own making. Many activities are just plain old fashioned fun that will help you spend quality time together. We hope some of the other events will remind you and/or children of the true meaning of Christmas. We also think it's important this time of year to focus on others: those we love and those that may need a little extra help. What you will need 4 Candles of your choice to light each Sunday. If you want to get more detailed there are color significance of each candle, you could also make an advent wreath. You can find instructions for these online. However, remember this should not cause you stress!

~MERRY CHRISTMAS~

11/26 (Sunday)

Read Isaiah 60:2-3. Pray something like this: Lord God, we light this candle to thank you for your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who is the light of the world. We who have sat in darkness have seen a great light, the light of Jesus Christ, our salvation. We give you thanks and praise in Jesus' name, because he lives and reigns with you in your glory, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen. REMEMBER: BRING THOSE UNDERWEAR AND SOCKS TO CHURCH WITH YOU TODAY! These will be donated to the Hope 4 Christmas Store!

11/27 (Monday)

It’s our time as Christ’s hands and feet! Take some time today and discuss as a family what you can sacrifice this year at Christmas in order to use that extra to provide for someone in need. Today, read I John 4:10

11/28 (Tuesday)

Play a family board game.

11/29 (Wednesday)

Turn off the TV and read a Christmas book to yourself or with your family.

11/30 (Thursday)

Take a walk or a drive around your neighborhood. Ask God to show you one thing you can do for your neighbor.

12/1 (Friday)

Make hot chocolate with lots of marshmallows. Ask each person in your family to share their favorite Christmas memory.

12/2 (Saturday)

Leave something special for your mail carrier and trash man.

12/3 (Sunday)

Take time today and Read Mark 1:4. Pray something like this: Lord God, we light this candle to thank you for your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who is the way. We who like sheep have gone astray have found the way to you through Jesus Christ. We give you thanks and praise in Jesus' name, because he lives and reigns with you in your glory, and in the unity of the Holy Spirit, Amen.