CHOSEN

DECEMBER 19
Luke 2:8-21

Personal Devotion
Thank God for His grace in choosing the despised shepherds, for being the Father to the fatherless, and the friend of sinners.

Pray for people who think they are too dirty for God to care about them. Pray they would feel God’s love. Pray about ways God wants to show His love through you.

Group Discussion
Share about the dirtiest job you have ever had to do.

Why are so many shepherds important characters in the Bible?

By Jesus’ time, shepherds were considered so dirty they were not welcome at the temple by the religious leaders. People also considered shepherds untrustworthy. Why do you think God chose shepherds to announce the birth of His Son?

How might God use you to announce the birth of Christ this Christmas?

Family Ideas for Advent this Christmas
* Open an Advent Calendar each day until Christmas.
* Praying for God to show you someone your family can bless this Christmas by helping, visiting, or showing hospitality.
* Sing Christmas songs together.
* Decorate your house for Christmas together while drinking hot chocolate and listening to Christmas music.
* Make Christmas cookies together and share some with neighbors.
* Sponsor a family in need.
* Serve at a soup kitchen or service project.