Last year, I got to share a little bit about epiphany around the world during our children’s time. This year, Epiphany is on Thursday, January 6. If you’d like a starting point to talk about Epiphany traditions, check it at at 6:30.
Children’s time: Why did the magi bring Jesus gifts?
Have you ever visited a baby and their family? What presents did you bring? What do the presents that the magi bring Jesus tell us about them and about Jesus?
There is even more Christmas ahead!
Christmas was last week–but it’s also every day until January 6! Here is how some people we love have been celebrating it!
What was Jesus’ birth like? (8:02)
This children’s time teaching shares information about childbirth in first century Palestine. Learn about what Mary might have experienced, how she was supported, and how baby Jesus was cared for when he was just born.
Where as Jesus born? (8:32)
Jesus probably wasn’t born in a barn, far away from his family. So why is that part of our Christmas story? Find out more in this children’s teaching.
Where is Bethlehem? (7:28)
What makes Bethlehem such a special city? Learn a little bit more about the place where Jesus was said to be born in this children’s teaching.
Children’s time: “A Little Peace” by Barbara Kerley
Today is Peace Sunday in the Mennonite Church. I hope you enjoy this book of photos of people promoting peace!
Which of the ways that people share a little peace can you do today? What other actions can you do that aren’t included in this book?
Children’s time: “How I Learned Geography” by Uri Shulevitz
Today is World Refugee Sunday. As we seek to support refugees, this story about the author’s own experience as a refugee from Poland living in Kazakhstan reminds of us how our imaginations can bring us comfort even when we are far away from our familiar lives.
Children’s Time: “How Smudge Came” by Nan Gregory and Ron Lightburn
The gentle illustrations in this children’s book soften the story a bit, which may invoke complex emotions. Cindy’s friends are inspired by how much she loves and cares for her puppy. As you listen, pay attention to your feelings. When do you feel sad? worried? angry? What actions in the story make people feel safe and loved and respected?
In When Smudge Came, we see that Cindy’s friends at hospice show her love because she showed love to Smudge, which reminds me of this week’s lectionary reading: 1 John 4:7-21. Can you think of times when you were inspired to love others because someone loved you?
Children’s Time: “A Cool Drink of Water”
As we celebrate Earth Day, we hope you enjoy seeing photos from how people enjoy a drink of water around the world!
Family Foxhole 