LakewayChurch 2023 Advent Guide - Flipbook - Page 8
Second Week of Advent - Wednesday
Reading: Matthew 1:18-25
13
Second Week of Advent - Thursday
Reading: Luke 2:1-5
DEC
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said
through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and
give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). When Joseph
woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had
commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.
(Matthew 1:22-24)
Just as God chose Mary to be Jesus’ mother, God also
chose Joseph to be the earthly father of Jesus. Can you
imagine the weight of that responsibility?
What qualities do you think Joseph had that caused
God to choose him? What do you think Joseph’s
greatest concern was?
Prayer: Creator of Families, help us to make joy-filled
memories during this Advent season.
Second Week of Advent - Friday
Reading: Luke 2:1-7
15
DEC
While they were there, the time came for the baby
to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a
son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a
manger, because there was no guest room available
for them. (Luke 2:6-7)
When unexpected things happen, we can trust that
God is still with us. Certainly, Mary had not intended
to deliver baby Jesus in a stable, but that is where she
found herself—and God still came down to dwell
among us!
When have you experienced something unexpected
and God brought you joy or comfort?
Prayer: God of Comfort, help me search for your joy
in difficult times.
14
DEC
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth...
to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there
to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. (Luke 2:4-5)
God is with us all the time—even when we’re
traveling. What are some fun travel stories from your
past Christmases? Mary and Joseph’s travels may not
have been “fun,” but they were purposeful.
Will you be traveling this Advent season? What is
one way you can purposefully include Jesus in your
travels?
Prayer: O God, help me to trust that you are present
with me all the time.
Second Week of Advent - Saturday
Reading: Luke 2:8-11
16
DEC
An angel of the Lord appeared to [the shepherds],
and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and
they were terrified. But the angel said to them,
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will
cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town
of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the
Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:9-11)
The good news of Jesus’ birth is still causing great
joy! To build anticipation for the coming Christ child,
some families wait till Christmas morning to place
baby Jesus in the manger of the creche.
What other ways do your family traditions build
anticipation?
Prayer: Savior and Lord, we want to keep sharing your
good news with our friends and neighbors.