Advent: Nativity & Love Languages

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

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I will keep updating as I add more...