Why Christmas?
Why do we celebrate Christmas? Most children do not know the true answer to that question or why God sent Jesus to live on earth. Why Christmas? is a helpful devotional that I received in the mail this week from Shepherd Press and read through this morning. Complete with a daily Scripture reading, memory verse, Christmas carol and discussion questions, this new resource will direct our children’s hearts towards God. The readings, which begin on the first day of December, are biblical, short, and effective. Colorful illustrations illuminate the events of the incarnation. This gospel-centered book will provide parents with the assistance they desire for leading their child to the Christ of Christmas. Here’s an example of a daily reading, from Day 14.
Scripture to Read: Luke 1:46-56
Listen: What is your favorite Christmas carol? Christmas carols are songs about Jesus’ birth. Mary’s song was the first Christmas carol. She sang about how big and great God is. Have you ever looked through a magnifying class? Have you seen how things can look very big through that magnifying glass? Mary wanted her life to magnify God. She wanted people to know how great God is. She sang about God as her Savior, the Mighty One, Holy, and Merciful. He is able to keep all of His promises.
Why did Mary sing about God as her Savior? Mary knew that she was a person just like everyone else. God was not looking for someone smart, rich, or famous to be the mother of Jesus. God does not choose people because of what they will do for Him. He chooses people because of what He will do for them. Mary knew that she had a sinful nature and needed a Savior, just like all of us (Isa 53:6). God gave to Mary the gift of forgiveness of her sin. This forgiveness came through Jesus. Jesus would be Mary’s son and also her Savior.
Why did Mary sing about Abraham? A long time before Jesus was born God spoke to Abraham and promised that the Messiah would come through his family (Gen 12:2-3). God never forgot His promise. Abraham lived many years before King David, but Abraham and David were in the same family (Matt 1:2-6). The people waited a long time, but God is faithful and always keeps His promises. Everything happens just as God plans because He has the power to make His plans happen. It was finally the right time for the Messiah-King to come into the world, and God chose Mary to be Jesus’ mother.
Key Truth: God is great and keeps all His promises.
Discuss:
- Why did Mary want her song to magnify God?
- Why did Mary sing about God as her Savior?
- How does God keep His promises?
Memorize: Review the last 13 days, Luke 2:1-12
Sing: Silent Night and discuss the phrase “Jesus, Lord at Thy birth.” What does it mean that Jesus was Lord at His birth?
Why Christmas? is now available at 50% off from Shepherd Press.
