Scripture Verses
Read the context around these key verses when possible!
Reflections
Abraham’s son Isaac had a son Jacob, whose name God changed to Israel. Jacob had twelve sons who became the tribes of Israel. Judah was one of the twelve sons. At the end of Jacob’s life when he was blessing his sons, Judah received a great promise. He was assured the scepter would not leave his family, but one of his descendants would be king forever!
A king who would rule and reign forever? Is there any such king?
The family of Israel would indeed have several kings throughout history. Kings would come and go. Kings would obey, but then fail. Kings would triumph, but then falter. Would any king be worthy to rule and reign forever?
One king, David, showed the descendants of Abraham the closest thing they had even seen to a good king. David was chosen after God’s own heart, feared the LORD, served him, worshiped him, believed him. But even David needed a better king to rule his heart and cleans his sin and reign supremely.
Is there any such king?
Isaiah knew a good king was coming. A king to uphold righteousness and justice. A king to bring peace with no end. A glorious king forevermore!
The angel announced this king to Mary. She would give birth to this king. This king would be God’s own son. He would conquer sin and death and secure victory for His people. He would rule and reign over their hearts bringing them goodness, joy, and peace they had never known. He is Jesus, King Forever!
How is Christ your King?
“Christ rules over me; He defends me; He will establish His Kingdom on earth.”
Christ and His Work, Songs for Saplings, Vol. 3
The world waited for this king. The world needed this king. But most of the world missed this king because they were looking for the wrong kind of glory. Don’t miss King Jesus this Christmas! He offers you shelter in His Kingdom, and there’s no safer place. Let your weary soul rejoice!
Going Deeper with teens/preteens: Consider your approach to the Bible. Do you think it’s primarily about how you should be better, or is it about how Jesus is better? As you consider Jesus being the true and better king, watch this video:
Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs
Here is another version of Joy to the World with hand motions.
The following are available on Right Now Media:
Jesus Christ is Lord – From Seeds Family Worship, Jesus Album
To Us a Child is Born (Isaiah 9:6) – From Seeds Family Worship, Christmas Album
Discussion
What kind of glory does the world look for? What kind of glory does Jesus bring? Have you ever been disappointed by the emptiness of the world’s popularity/money/power? These things do not make good kings! They let us down! How does Jesus fill that emptiness proving He is a true and better king?
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 6
- I’m terrible at getting rid of “stuff” for fear that I might need it someday! I can’t actually think of a scenario where I need it anytime soon, but I just don’t want to let it go. There are people in my community that can be blessed by my extra things I’m holding on to.
- Go through your closets, bookshelves, toys, games, and storage spaces.
- Are there any items that could be more of a blessing to someone else than it is to you? Give to the glory of God and trust your King will provide you all you need.
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.