Luke 2:3-6
(Common English Bible)
Everyone went to their own cities to be enrolled. Since Joseph
belonged to David’s house and family line, he went up from the city of Nazareth in Galilee to David’s city, called Bethlehem, in Judea.
He went to be enrolled together with Mary, who was promised to him in marriage and who was pregnant. While they were there,
the time came for Mary to have her baby.
Mary and Joseph
Light a candle and remember the presence of God is with you.
Cut out the pieces to help you build this story.
More pieces will be added with each story.
Advent is the church season of getting ready for when Jesus will be born. Advent leads to the 12 days of Christmas. Christmas leads to Epiphany at the beginning of January.
Come close to this story that leads us through a special journey during this time of year.
There are many stories and people that prepare us to meet Jesus.
I wonder who we get to meet in today’s story?
These two people are Mary and Joseph. They were Jesus’ parents on Earth. An angel came to them at different times to help prepare them for Jesus’ birth. The angel kept reminding them to “Do not be afraid, but be joyful.” The angel had told them they were going to have a special son.
Mary, Joseph, and a donkey had to travel to Bethlehem when Mary was almost ready to give birth to her special son, Jesus.
The third candle of Advent represents JOY. We will place this candle on our wreath and remember the JOY of expecting God’s special son, Jesus. (This candle is pink/rose because this is the color that represents “joy”.)
The second candle of Advent represents PEACE. We will place this candle on our wreath and remember the PEACE Elizabeth felt when she comforted Mary as they both prepared for special sons.
The first candle of Advent represents HOPE. We will place this candle on our wreath and remember the HOPE Isaiah provided for the people in his time, in Jesus’ time, and in our time.
I wonder…
... how this story helps us love?
... how this story gives us joy?
… how Mary felt?
… how Joseph felt?
… how the angel felt?
… if you have ever been on a journey?