Advent Devotions: First Day of Advent

Sunday, November 27th, 2011

Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Isaiah 11:1-10

In the 1 Samuel lesson, God has directed Samuel to find the new King of Israel. After looking over Jesse’s seven sons, God finally directs Samuel to find the new King in a young shepherd boy named David. After generations, a new King – Jesus – will be one of David’s descendants. He also is of humble origin and Jesus rises to the greatest of power, power over death. He is the bringer of peace.

God chooses and judges by the heart and spirit rather than as the world would choose or judge. God uses the lowly and humble to lead the world and to show his glory.

Prayer:
Lord, we are thankful that you see past our surface into our hearts and that you can use our weaknesses to show your power. We pray that your peace and glory are shown to the world as we await the birthday of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Family Moments:
First Sunday: Introduction of the Jesse Tree, The Tree

The Jesse tree has its base as a stump. The lineage of Christ – the Savior of the world – comes from an ordinary family! Go outside and collect sticks, representing the stump, for all of the members of your family. Share with each other how God is using each member of your family for good in the world. Color the ornament and add it to your Jesse Tree.