16 days till Christmas
DAY 8: Faith is personal. No matter how much you share what you believe, or want others to think or respond or enjoy the same as you do, it will not happen. Each of us has our own faith in our own set of beliefs, and even if we find common ground our experiences are so personalized that it truely isn't the same between people. However, knowing that, we can also know that God is the same, and He gives the same promises to all, and we can all live with Him again. Faith is personal, but it is for everyone. And Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ know each of us, and love each of us and that is so comforting.
Symbol is the Shepherd - Lay careful watch over their flock by night. Jesus
is the good shepherd who knows His sheep and loves each one.
Scripture of the day: Luke 2:15-20 - And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
Activity: Sing "O Come All Ye Faithful" Make a list and do some shopping. Don't forget to put some thought and love into each person's gift, whether it's homemade or storebought! Watch the Charlie Brown Christmas special.
DAY 9: Enjoy the happiness of the season! It seems like the world allows a bit more happiness and family time in this time of year! Soak it up and enjoy it. Stop running about and count the blessings that are around you. Ponder in your hearts the wonder of life and really appreciate and be thankful for the joy that is yours, however large or small the increment at this time!
Symbol: Bells - Ring out to guide lost sheep back to His fold.
Scripture of the day: Psalms 66:1-2 - Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands: Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious.
A: Sing "Joy to the World" (Or "I Heard the Bells") Really bring out the Christmas music and play and enjoy! Sing it loud and have fun with it! Go to a Christmas play or concert.
Symbol is the Shepherd - Lay careful watch over their flock by night. Jesus
is the good shepherd who knows His sheep and loves each one.
Scripture of the day: Luke 2:15-20 - And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
Activity: Sing "O Come All Ye Faithful" Make a list and do some shopping. Don't forget to put some thought and love into each person's gift, whether it's homemade or storebought! Watch the Charlie Brown Christmas special.
DAY 9: Enjoy the happiness of the season! It seems like the world allows a bit more happiness and family time in this time of year! Soak it up and enjoy it. Stop running about and count the blessings that are around you. Ponder in your hearts the wonder of life and really appreciate and be thankful for the joy that is yours, however large or small the increment at this time!
Symbol: Bells - Ring out to guide lost sheep back to His fold.
Scripture of the day: Psalms 66:1-2 - Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands: Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious.
A: Sing "Joy to the World" (Or "I Heard the Bells") Really bring out the Christmas music and play and enjoy! Sing it loud and have fun with it! Go to a Christmas play or concert.