Choose one of the following activities as a way to further reflect on the Sunday readings:

• A Christian tradition for this time of year is the Jesse Tree. Find a bare branch from a tree and put the branch in a planter using sand to help it stand up. Listed below are the names of members of Jesus’ family tree, along with a Scripture reading for each. As a family, read the Scripture and make symbols using construction paper and markers to represent these prominent characters. Hang the symbols on the branch.
  • Adam and Eve — Genesis 3:1-24
  • Abraham and Sarah — Genesis 12:1-13:18
  • Moses — Exodus 20:1-21
  • David — 1 Samuel 16:1-16
  • Mary — Luke 1:26-38
  • Joseph — Matthew 1:18-25
  • Jesus — Luke 2:1-20
• Take time to read together the Christmas story from Scripture or a children’s Bible. After the story, set out the family nativity, or draw a picture of the nativity scene. Discuss each character as you draw them or place them in the scene.
• Purchase material and supplies for a Christmas banner. As a family create a banner showing the true meaning of Christmas. When completed, hang the banner in a special place as a reminder during this busy week that the Messiah is truly among us.
• Go for an evening drive as a family and look at the Christmas lights in your community. Ask each family member to reflect on a time when he or she has known the light of God’s presence in his or her life.