This year I decided for our advent weeks before Christmas we would focus as a family on the real meaning of Christmas: Love. (that's why baby Jesus is so important)
"For God so loved the world that he gave his Only Begotten Son; that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16
So each week was a focus on a part of the Nativity scene--those who were there to celebrate Christ's birth. And each character emphasizes a different way we can show our love. So I've put a list of things we can do to reinforce and celebrate each focus during the week. It starts four Sunday's before Christmas and then the fifth is Christmas (not a full week).
1. Angels
Love Language: Words (of Affirmation) --songs of inspiration
Songs: Angels We Have Heard on High
Hark the Herald Angel Sing
Books: The Littlest
Angel, The Christmas Angel, How the Grinch Stole Christmas (singing)
Activity: Sing carols together (can be a family recital), write notes or thank you cards
*Coloring Page & Ornament
2. Shepherds
Love Language: Time
Songs: While Shepherd Watched Their Flocks
Far Far Away on Judea’s Plain
The First Noel
Books: The
Crippled Lamb,
Activity: make snow flakes, watch Christmas movie, see neighborhood Christmas lights
*Coloring Page & Ornament
3. Wise Men
Love Language: Giving (service and gifts)
Songs: With Wondering Awe
We Three Kings
Books: Mr. Finnegan's Giving Chest, Three Wise Men, The Drummer Boy, Jacob's Gift
Activity: Give one toy away (and gift/goal to Jesus), Daily secret service (star with poem) and neighbor treats and caroling (make/deliver)
*Coloring Page & Ornament
4. Mary & Joseph
Love Language: Physical Affection
Songs: It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
Once in Royal David’s City
Silent Night
Books: The Nativity (story book form/coloring pages)
Activity: Family Massages, Cuddle by Fire (sing/games), Temple Square Walk (hold hands)
*Coloring Page & Ornament
5. Baby Jesus--Christmas!
Love Language: All –true Charity
Songs: Joy to the World
Away in a Manger
O Come All Ye Faithful
Books: The Nativity Story
Activity: Talk about Symbols of Christmas (types/shadows)
*Coloring Page & Ornament
------------
I will keep updating as I add more...
