Scripture Verses
Read the context around these key verses when possible!
Reflections
Joseph had already made a plan. He was going to do what seemed best to him. He was going to put Mary away quietly. After all, a noble man would not want to be mixed up in someone else’s disgrace. A good man wouldn’t want to get a bad name for something he didn’t even do. But more than that, Joseph did not want to put Mary to shame. He would act quietly, to protect her the best he knew how. So, Joseph’s mind was decided. It seemed best to leave her and have nothing more to do with her.
But that was not God’s plan. God had a plan that would be a million times better for Mary and for Joseph.
Joseph wanted to lessen Mary’s shame.
God wanted to remove Mary’s shame.
In a dream, Joseph heard the true glory that was coming through Mary’s baby. You are to name him Jesus because he will save his people from their sins. Was the angel brining news of the One promised by the prophets long ago? News of the Rescuer creation longed for? News of the Savior the world needed?
Joseph believed that Mary’s baby was God the Son and Joseph obeyed exactly as the angel of the Lord commanded. Joseph stayed by Mary and cared for her and the baby. Joseph rescued Mary from momentary shame. One day, this baby born to Mary would forgive sin and rescue His people from their shame… completely.
Going Deeper with teens/preteens:
Watch and discuss There’s a Dragon in My Nativity.
Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs
The following are available on Right Now Media:
Call His Name Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14) – From Seeds Family Worship, Christmas Album
God With Us (Matthew 1:18-24) – From Seeds Family Worship, Christmas Album
Discussion
How did Joseph take away Mary’s shame? How does Jesus take away His people’s shame?
Neighbors & Nations
We are blessed to be a blessing. Whether near or far, God’s heart is to make His name known so people from every nation will worship Him.
What can our family do today to make God’s name known?
Ideas for December 10
- Pray for your neighbors and look for ways to serve them this week. Do they need help with yard work or shoveling snow?
- Create something to take to a neighbor: a card, a drawing, cookies, or Christmas candy
- Invite a neighbor over for a meal.
If you are using the Advent Prayer Chain, pray for the next link.
If you have the Seeing Jesus stickers, add the circle to today's banner and review the previous stickers.
Seeing Jesus, Advent Wall Sticker Set is a Christmas countdown that provides a visual reminder of each day’s focus to help us see and celebrate Jesus.