Sharing The Christmas Story With Children In 4 Easy Steps

by Chanda Stegall

At this time of year, children all over the world are making wish lists and hoping Santa Claus will stuff their stockings with the latest and greatest toys and gadgets. They think back to the joys of last Christmas when all them dreams came true and they're waiting with anticipation for Christmas morning to arrive.

But how many children know the story of the first Christmas - the night Jesus was born?

My own children are no exception. My oldest son has a wish list two pages long! It's obvious that he has embraced the commercialism of this season. But I want him to embrace the holiness of this season as well.

So, I grabbed my Bible and outlined four lessons I can share with my children as Christmas day draws near. We're going to cover one lesson a week.

1.The Angels Foretell Jesus' Birth: Tell about God sending the Angel Gabriel to Mary to tell her the Holy Spirit would cover her and she would bare a son and name Him Jesus. (Luke 1:26-38) Also tell how an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him about the expected birth of Jesus. (Matthew 1:18-25)

2.Jesus is Born: This is a good place to discuss why Joseph and Mary had to go to Bethlehem and why there was no room in the "hotels". Share how Mary gave birth in the stable and placed the baby Jesus in a manger. (Luke 2:1-7)

3.The Shepherds: Share how the angel appeared to the shepherds in the field and told them about the birth of the Savior. This is a beautiful passage to read directly from the Bible to your children. (Luke 2:8-20)

4.The Three Wisemen: Discuss the three Magi from the east who came baring gifts for the baby Jesus. Depending on the age of your children, you can add the details of King Herod and his plot to kill Jesus to protect his reign as King. (Matthew 2:1-12)

After completing these four lessons, my prayer is that my children (and yours!) will have a better understanding and in-depth knowledge of the true meaning of Christmas.

About the Author: Find coloring pages, bible activities, Christmas carols and crafts to accompany each lesson at http://www.teachkidsthebible.com.
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