Joystory - Week 3
At Christmas, gifts are all around us, but we know the holiday isn't about the toys—it's about the joy of Jesus' birth. We might experience joy from opening up gifts, but God gives us even greater joy through Jesus. In this series, our families will learn all about the joy Jesus brought into the world. They'll learn that Jesus is the savior God promised, how God sent Jesus at the perfect time, that Jesus brings joy to the world, and what it means to say Jesus is God's greatest gift.
BIG IDEA: Jesus brings joy to the world.
BIBLE: Mary Visits Elizabeth: Luke 1:39–56; Zephaniah 3:14–17
MEMORY VERSE
Elementary: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior." Luke 1:46-47 (NIV)
Toddler Twist: I (point to self) will give God (point up) glory (wave hands back and forth). Luke 1:46-47
WATCH:
Preschool- teaching video
Elementary- teaching video
SONG: Celebrate & Happy Birthday Jesus
DISCIPLE:
In today's Joy Story, Mary found joy, even though her life was going to be completely different than she expected. It wasn't her idea to become the mother of God's promised savior, but she knew this was God's plan and trusted in God. Trusting God brought Mary joy. Even Elizabeth's baby jumped for joy inside her belly!
What does joy mean to you?
What are some ways you express your joy?
Can you have joy in a difficult situation? How?
How does Jesus bring you joy?
Our joy isn't from the things around us. Sure, they can make us happy for just a little bit, but it fades away. True joy remains even when things in our lives aren't perfect.
The joy Jesus brings is forever because Jesus is the savior who connects us to God and will be with us forever. Jesus brings joy to the world.
Pray: God, your love is so big that the world can't hold it all. Thank you for sending Jesus, the promised savior who came at the perfect time to bring joy to the world. Help us remember that this joy isn't just for us but for everyone around us, all over the world. Amen.