FAMILY ADVENT - WEEK 1
HOPE
Family Devotion
What comes to your mind when you think about hope? We might say “I hope it snows!” Or “I hope I get a bike for Christmas!” In those cases, we don’t know if what we are hoping for will really happen and have no control over the outcome. But when the Bible talks about hope, there is a certainty because God always keeps His promises. The Old Testament tells us of God’s promises from prophets (special messengers). God used prophecy to share hope with His people. He wanted them to know He was in control, He had a plan, and He was with them always. Throughout all of history, God has never left His people hopeless. He promised to send Jesus to rescue His people from sin and make a way for us to be welcomed into His family forever. This is the greatest gift of all! The whole story of the Bible teaches us that we can put our hope in God and know that what He says is true. Jesus promised that He would return one day and we would be with Him forever. This is the hope of the Gospel! Today, we eagerly await Jesus’ return. Thank you God for the gift of hope through Jesus this Christmas!
“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
Matthew 1:21
Talk About It
What is something fun you hope to do with your family this Christmas season?
Who is the hope of the world?
How do we know we can put our hope in Jesus?
What are some ways you can share the hope of Jesus with others this week?
Family Activity
When did you first choose follow Jesus? Parents, share with your children about when you truly understood Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and when you asked God to forgive your sins. Were you baptized? If so, where? Who was there? Allow your children to ask questions about what it means to become a Christian and make God the leader of your life. As you go throughout the week, watch for opportunities to point them to the hope we have in Christ!
Daily Scripture Readings
Sunday: Psalm 33:20-22
Monday: 1 Timothy 4:10
Tuesday: Romans 5:1-5
Wednesday: Hebrews 6:17-20
Thursday: 1 Peter 1:3
Friday: Jeremiah 33:14
Saturday: Hebrews 10:23
Missions Challenge
Choose a name off the “Joy to the World” tree at FBC. As a family, shop for a Christmas gift for that child. Pray for him/her to understand the gift of Jesus this Christmas.
Gifts to be returned by December 11.
*This devotion adapted from LifeWay Publishing, Family Advent Guide.