Scripture Verses
Read the context around these key verses when possible!
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Reflections
We need food to live. We need it every day. Much of our day involves working so we’ll have food, finding food, preparing food, eating food, and getting ready to do it all over again. Why do we spend so much time and energy on food? Because we need food to live. Just as our body needs food to live, we need spiritual food to live. And there is only one Bread of Life that can fill you up forever – Jesus!
In the town of Bethlehem, which literally means “house of bread,” was born the Bread of Life!
That’s what Jesus said about Himself in John 6. He said he is the “Bread of God who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” Wow!
The crowds of people following Jesus around during His ministry on earth saw His mighty works and heard his marvelous teaching, but they missed his life-giving message. “I am the Bread of Life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, whoever believes in me shall never thirst… Whoever comes to me I shall never cast out… Whoever believes in me shall have eternal life, I will raise Him up on the last day… Whoever believes has eternal life… I am the bread of life… I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever.”
The people couldn’t understand; their hears were darkened. Even the Jews could only see Jesus as Mary and Joseph’s boy. They didn’t believe He was God the Son. They didn’t understand that He was God in the flesh who would give His life on the cross, and that all who believe would come to Him and be satisfied forever.
But in His grace, the Father makes darkened hearts to see and draws people to come to Him and eat and live.
While the world looking on may have only seen a baby born to an ordinary Mary and Joseph, Jesus quietly entered our starving world to satisfy forever all who believe.
Going Deeper With Teens/Preteens
Listen to The Bread of Life, sermon on John 6:1-15 by Don Carson.
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Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs
When Love Came Down to Earth
From Hosanna, Loud Hosannas – Student Hymnal
- Oh Little Town of Bethlehem #11
- Joy Has Dawned upon the World #12
The following are available on Right Now Media:
God With Us (Matthew 1:18-24) – From Seeds Family Worship, Christmas Album
The Bread – From Owlegories Vol. 5
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Discussion
Why do we need to eat so often? How is Jesus different from our bread that does not last?
Do you find yourself wanting Jesus, or just wanting the things He can give you?
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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 14
- If you have been collecting things around your house to give away, look for an organization to donate it to. Children’s homes, women’s shelters, or churches often collect clothing and household items to give to people in need.
- Some of the poorer schools in your area may be needing new school supplies for the children who cannot afford them. This is a good time of year to gather some new supplies to bless their students in January.
- Give freely, cheerfully, and often.
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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.