Hilfsmittel für den Gottesdienst

Ablaufplan für den Gottesdienst

Weitere Bibelstellen 

Psalm 146:5-10; James 5:7-10; Matthew 11:2-11

Vorbereitung  

Display an Advent wreath with candles.

Basteln Sie einen Adventskranz, der an den vier Adventssonntagen sowie am ersten Weihnachtsfeiertag verwendet werden kann. Stellen Sie vier Kerzen – üblicherweise violette oder drei violette und eine rosa für den Sonntag der Freude – in einen Kreis aus immergrünen Zweigen und platzieren Sie in der Mitte eine größere weiße Kerze als Christuskerze, die am ersten Weihnachtsfeiertag angezündet wird.

Die Abschnitte „Advent-Schwerpunkt“ und „Advent-Wechselgesang“ der Gottesdienste reichen bewusst über die anderen drei Adventssonntage hinaus. Nutzen Sie diese Abschnitte jede Woche, um Kontinuität zu schaffen und während der gesamten Adventszeit einen sakralen Rhythmus sowie eine prägende Wiederholung zu etablieren.

Präludium  

Welcome and Sharing of Community Joys and Concerns  

Aufruf zum Gottesdienst  

Psalm 146:5-10  

Project or print the scripture verses and ask for volunteers to read loudly and joyfully a verse from their location. To conclude, ask the whole congregation to stand as they are able and read the five verses out loud, together. Remain standing for the next hymn.  

Hymns of Praise  

Choose two  

“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” CCS 394  

“Star-Child” CCS 420  

“Louez le Seigneur!” sing several times  CCS 106  

Ermutigen Sie die Teilnehmer, in anderen Sprachen als ihrer Muttersprache zu singen.  

“Lovely Child, Holy Child” CCS 428  

“Good Christian Friends, Rejoice” CCS 433  

Anrufung  

Lighting the Advent Candle of Joy  

Erklärung

Today we light the Advent candle of joy. Joy is the sustained realization of God’s generous movement within the world. Joy refreshes, revives, and awakens life. It is the affirmation that we are loved, we have a purpose, and we are not alone. Joy bursts forth into the world like a candle lit in the dark. 

Light the candle of joy.

Responsoriales Gebet im Advent  

Vorsprecher: Gott, wir richten dieses Adventsgebet an dich: 

All: That we might wait in your joy, 

Hear our prayer, O Lord. (pause for a moment of silence) 

All: That we might find joy as our home, 

Vorsprecher: Erhöre unser Gebet, o Herr.(kurze Pause zum Gedenken) 

All: That we might nurture joy within, 

Vorsprecher: Erhöre unser Gebet, o Herr.(kurze Pause zum Gedenken) 

All: That we might bear your joy to others, 

Vorsprecher: Erhöre unser Gebet, o Herr.(kurze Pause zum Gedenken) 

All: That we may live in the light of your joy, 

Vorsprecher: Erhöre unser Gebet, o Herr.(kurze Pause zum Gedenken) 

Amen. 

Hymn of Advent Joy  

“Hark the Herald Angels Sing” CCS 423  

OR “Angels We Have Heard on High” CCS 427  

Gebet für den Frieden  

Light the Peace Candle.  

Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 161:1b  

Friedenshymne  

„Frieden unter den Völkern der Erde“CCS 448  

OR “Come, Join in Mary’s Prophet Song” CCS 308  

Gebet  

Loving God,

As we contemplate the real meaning of Christmas

And the beautiful gift that you gave us, your son Jesus

Let us meditate on the blessedness of that gift to our world and to our hearts, all those years ago.

Let that LOVE and JOY infiltrate our beings

To bring us HOPE…. Hope for a brighter tomorrow and to bring us PEACE

PEACE for our world, our countries, our communities

PEACE for our congregations, far and wide

PEACE for our families, our friends

PEACE for the poor, the refugee, the homeless, the persecuted

PEACE for ourselves…. Let PEACE begin with me…. as the words of the hymn go

We rejoice with you as we build Community,

Communities of JOY, HOPE, LOVE and PEACE, in prayer, music, scripture and our daily actions

Bring us even closer to your divine presence,

enabling us to become inspired and creative in our endeavor to serve you with JOY.

In the name of the Prince of PEACE we pray

Amen.  

—Robyn Rankin, Wingham, New South Wales, Australia  

Bibellesung  

Jesaja 35:1-10  

Musikgottesdienst oder Gemeindelied  

“No Obvious Angels”  CCS 418 

OR “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence”  CCS 405 

Nachricht  

Based on Isaiah 35:1-10  

Die Großzügigkeit der Jünger Erwiderung  

Hymn of Gratitude  

“Star-Child” CCS 420  

OR “In the Bleak Midwinter” CCS 422  

Erklärung  

Community of Christ upholds the enduring principle of Grace and Generosity. This means God’s grace, especially as revealed in Jesus Christ, is generous and unconditional. This means having received God’s generous grace, we respond generously and graciously receive the generosity of others. This means we offer all we are and have to God’s purposes as revealed in Jesus Christ. This means we generously share our witness, resources, ministries, and sacraments according to our true capacity. 

In response to the grace and generosity we have found in God we get the opportunity to joyfully respond in sharing with others, the church and the earth our own outpouring of gratitude and generosity for being found and for what the Lord has done. How can you share generously today?  

Segnung und Entgegennahme der Zehnten für die lokale und weltweite Mission  

Hymn of Sending Forth Choose one  

“Joy to the World” CCS 408  

OR “Go, Tell It on the Mountain” CCS 409  

OR “On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry” CCS 391  

Aussendung  

Now have we not reason to rejoice? …our joy is carried away for God has all power, all wisdom, and all understanding. This is our joy, and great thanksgiving. We give thanks to our God for ever. Rejoice!  

—Alma 14:123, 124, 128, adapted  

Postlude  

Heiliger Raum: Leitfaden für den Gottesdienst in kleinen Gruppen

Versammlung

Willkommen

For the Advent season it is traditional to have Advent candles (four white candles, one for each week of Advent) or anAdvent wreath (an evergreen ring, with four candles and one white candle in the center). One candle is lit each week with the center candle lit on Christmas. The lighting of the Advent candle takes place at the beginning of the spiritual practice.

Advent is a season of waiting in expectation for the coming of light into a darkened world in the form of the infant Jesus. Advent is spent anticipating and spiritually preparing for the arrival of the Christ-child. Scriptures, symbols, and hymns help make Advent a time of expectation for Christ’s birth, rather than a frenzy of holiday tasks.

Die Adventszeit beginnt vier Sonntage vor Weihnachten und wird jeden Sonntag bis Weihnachten begangen. Oft wird ein Adventskranz mit vier Kerzen und einer Christuskerze in der Mitte verwendet, um die Adventswochen zu begehen. Jede Woche wird eine Kerze angezündet, bis an Weihnachten alle hell leuchten.

Gebet für den Frieden

Läute die Glocke oder das Glockenspiel dreimal langsam.
Zünde die Friedenskerze an.

Gnädiger und liebender Gott,

We are a unique collection of your beloved children.

We come from different backgrounds, with amazing skills and individual perspectives.                                        
But we are more than that.

Around this room and in places around the world, we are your dedicated servants,                                                
united in our desire to make your vision of peace real.

On our best days, we breathe deeply of your Spirit and are knocked to our knees by the                            
unfathomable love that pours from a lowly manger. Other days we are so full of                                                  
ourselves we can’t squeeze our giant heads though the stable doors.

Thank you for this overwhelming love so freely given and forgive us for the days when                                                  
we are not at our best.

As we continue traveling through this Advent season and beyond, we trust your Spirit                                                
will go before us and travel with us, lighting the way.

Let us be illuminated by your light from the inside out, sharing joy, hope, love, and                                                    
peace with all we meet.

In the name of the One who’s birth we celebrate this season. Amen.

—Jenn Killpack

Spirituelle Praxis

Take Five

Materials: paper, pens or pencils

Zünde die dritte Adventskerze an und sage:

Today we light the third candle of Advent. This candle symbolizes joy. May we draw closer to joy in our lives.

Lies dir Folgendes durch:

Joy, like pain, is cultivated from within each of us. Joy can come from journeying with God to heal our pain and discovering the love and acceptance that has always been within us. The Christ child represents joy. Christ teaches us that we all are children of God, and that all are loved. “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people…” (Luke 2:10 NRSV).

When we “Take Five” this season to express our gratitude, it brings joy into our hearts.

Pass out papers and pens to the group and say:

Scientific studies show that gratitude journaling can be a huge part of our journey to happiness and joy. Today we will “Take Five” by spending five minutes writing things we are grateful for. When I start the timer, begin writing the things that fill you with gratitude. At the end of our five minutes we will have time for anyone who might like to share reflections.

Set the timer for five minutes. At the end, invite group members to share reflections about what they are grateful for and what feelings emerged as they spent time focused on gratitude.

Gemeinsam am Tisch essen

Isaiah 35:1–10 NRSVue

The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad,
the desert shall rejoice and blossom;
like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly,
and rejoice with joy and singing.

The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it,
the majesty of Carmel and Sharon.

They shall see the glory of the Lord,
the majesty of our God.

Strengthen the weak hands,
and make firm the feeble knees.

Say to those who are of a fearful heart,

“Be strong, do not fear!

Here is your God.

He will come with vengeance,
with terrible recompense.

He will come and save you.”

Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,
and the ears of the deaf unstopped;
then the lame shall leap like a deer,
and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy.

For waters shall break forth in the wilderness,
and streams in the desert;
the burning sand shall become a pool,
and the thirsty ground springs of water;
the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp,[a]
the grass shall become reeds and rushes.

A highway shall be there,
and it shall be called the Holy Way;
the unclean shall not travel on it,
but it shall be for God’s people;
no traveler, not even fools, shall go astray.

No lion shall be there,
nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it;
they shall not be found there,
but the redeemed shall walk there.

And the ransomed of the Lord shall return,
and come to Zion with singing;
everlasting joy shall be upon their heads;
they shall obtain joy and gladness,
and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

Those who never have hoped for something that seemed impossible really never have hoped. If things were too easy or too obvious, there would be no need for hope. During Advent, we wait in hopefulness for the birth of Jesus and the coming reign of God.

Scholars suggest this passage seems aligned with the section of Isaiah that speaks a word of hope to the Babylonian exiles…a people who were “prisoners” of war who were beaten, maimed, and sometimes even blinded…a people devoid of hope. Those to whom Isaiah spoke were more than desperate. They had been abandoned…or so they thought.

Today’s text is a promise to them and a reminder to us that the coming of God’s kingdom is accompanied by unimaginable reversals. The priorities of the world are turned on their heads. The weak find strength, and the strong become feeble. Those who are fearful find courage. The blind see, the deaf hear, and the lame “leap like a deer.” And if that’s not enough, waters “break forth in the wilderness…the burning sand [becomes] a pool…the haunt of jackals (literally the desert) [becomes] a swamp.” Nothing in all of creation is exempt from God’s new age.

Just like the Babylonian exiles, we sometimes find ourselves longing for a safe way out of our own “wilderness.” During Advent, as we await the coming of the Lord, we have reason to hope that in times when all seems lost, God offers a transformed way through the wilderness where “no traveler, not even fools, shall go astray.”

Fragen

1. How have you experienced a wilderness time in your life?
2. How might Advent be a time for you to rekindle hope in a new, life-giving way?

Senden

Erklärung zur Großzügigkeit

Faithful disciples respond to an increasing awareness of the abundant generosity of God by sharing according to the desires of their hearts; not by commandment or constraint”

—Lehre und Bündnisse 163:9

Der „ Opfergabe “-Korb steht zur Verfügung, falls Sie im Rahmen Ihrer großzügigen „ Erwiderung “-Spende die laufenden Kleingruppenarbeiten unterstützen möchten.

Das Adventsgebet „ Opfergabe “ ist eine Adaption aus „A Disciple’s Generous Erwiderung “:

Gott, der du bist: bereitwillig, sei bei uns, wenn wir unsere Ausgaben Planen . Mögen wir unsere Ressourcen nutzen, um gesunde, glückliche Beziehungen zu dir, zu anderen Menschen und zur Erde aufzubauen. Mögen wir uns an die Lehren Jesu erinnern, die uns dazu auffordern, Lebensentscheidungen zu treffen, die unserer Kultur des Anhäufens und des Überflusses entgegenstehen. Amen.

Einladung zur nächsten Sitzung

Schlusslied

CCS 400, “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus”

Schlussgebet

Optionale Ergänzungen je nach Gruppe

Sakrament des Abendmahls

Wählen Sie einen der folgenden Abschnitte aus Schriften aus: 1. Korinther 11,23–26; Matthäus 26,17–30; Markus 14,12–26; Lukas 22,7–39.

Einladung zur Kommunion

Alle sind am Tisch Christi willkommen. Das Abendmahl ist ein Sakrament, in dem wir des Lebens, des Todes, der Auferstehung und der fortwährenden Gegenwart Jesu Christi gedenken. In der Gemeinschaft Christi erleben wir das Abendmahl zudem als Gelegenheit, unseren Taufbund zu erneuern und zu Jüngern geformt zu werden, die nach dem Vorbild Christi leben Mission. Andere mögen innerhalb ihrer Glaubenstraditionen ein anderes oder ergänzendes Verständnis haben. Wir laden alle, die am Abendmahl teilnehmen, ein, dies in der Liebe und im Frieden Jesu Christi zu tun.

In dieser Adventszeit ist unser gemeinsames Erleben beim Empfang des Abendmahls ein Ausdruck von Segen, Heilung, Frieden und Gemeinschaft.

Zur Einstimmung singen wir aus„Community of Christ Sings“ Nr. 519 das Lied „In the Singing“.

Das Brot und den Wein segnen und austeilen.

Gedanken für Kinder

Wait in Joy

Materials: small objects from nature (flower, twig, leaf, dandelion) or a few flowers from a market, fruit cut into bite-sized pieces.

Invite the children to walk outside and return with an object that brings joy. It could be a flower, autumn leaf, dandelion, twig, etc. If a walk is not possible, invite the children to pick something from the items you brought from your garden or bought from a supermarket.

Invite the children to sit and hold the flower or object as you ask:

• Where did this object come from?
• How was this object made?
• Who made this object?
• How does this object make you feel?

Explain that God made many wonderful things for us to enjoy. We can have joy by noticing and appreciating the simplicity and beauty of what naturally occurs all around us.

Lead the children through a mindfulness exercise.

Say: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on the sound of your breath. Take a deep breath and let it out slowly. Feel the air going in and out of your mouth. Feel your chest expanding and contracting.

Explain: God created our amazing bodies. God also created us with an amazing capacity to experience joy.

Ask: What other amazing things can your body do? Examples: run, jump, hug, sleep, eat, say comforting words, etc.

Explain: God gave our bodies many amazing abilities. We can experience joy and bring others joy with smiles, hugs, and kind words.

Serve some fruit to the children as an example of something God made for us to enjoy.

Invite the children to return to their seats.

Hilfen für Predigten

Die Heilige Schrift erkunden

The language and content in the book of Isaiah change with the beginning of chapter 40. Many Bible scholars believe our present book of Isaiah is a combination of several ancient writings by different prophets. The original prophet Isaiah lived and prophesied during the Assyrian conquest of Judah and Israel. Many scholars identify a “Second Isaiah” (Deutero-Isaiah), who prophesied during the end of the Babylonian exile, around 539 BCE, long after the original prophet died. Chapters 34 and 35 declare hope and restoration in the face of oppression and conquest.

In God’s time, all creation will blossom like a luxuriant garden, as testimony to the majesty and power of God. The transformation extends to all who are weak, oppressed, and fearful. God will be with them in power, to save and comfort them. God will heal people who are blind, sick, lame, deaf, and speechless. Strength and confidence will return.

During this time of healing and wholeness, a clear and inviting road will point the way back home for all the exiles. The highway will be safe, holy, and easy to travel. Those who walk the Holy Way will sing with joy and will forget all sorrow in the worship of God. The exiles who longed to return to their land found this image memorable and comforting. They rejoiced to think they soon would be released from captivity to begin the journey home. They believed that once they returned home, Jerusalem would rise again, the garden would blossom, and the nation would be great.

Five hundred years later, the Gospel writers found in this passage a testimony of God’s concern and saving grace during times of oppression. During the Roman conquest, the people of Israel felt exiled within their land and waited for the promised Messiah. From antiquity, Isaiah spoke to them. All the Gospel writers pointed to John the Baptist as the one “crying in the wilderness,” who would prepare the “way of the Lord” for the coming Messiah. They used the familiar passages in Isaiah 35:1–10 and 40:3–5 to describe the Holy Way and the hope of the Messiah.

The joyous expectation of the coming Messiah shines through the weeks of Advent. Today, we look toward our celebration of the birth of Jesus. We prepare the wilderness around us to receive him. We hope for the day of healing and renewal, promised so long ago in the time of the Assyrians and Babylonians.

The time of moral and spiritual renewal is still the foundation of God’s vision for all creation. Despite conquest, oppression, injustice, sickness, and death, the people of God live with the knowledge that God cares for them. God is present with them—Emmanuel, God-with-us. There is a clear and inviting way for all those who are lost or exiled. Jesus said, “I am the way…” (John 14:6) and we are the followers of the way.

Zentrale Gedanken

1. God’s coming reign will be a time of renewal and blossoming for all creation.
2. All those who are grieving, ill, oppressed, or troubled can find comfort and peace in Christ.
3. This scripture passage promises that both humankind and nature will one day be restored to beauty and wholeness.
4. We are followers of the way, the clear and inviting path that leads toward the worship of God, joy and gladness, and healing of the spirit.

Fragen an den Redner

1. When have you experienced a “blossoming time” or a renewal? What was it like? How did you respond?
2. Where do you see God’s transformation and healing power in the injustices and oppression of the world?
3. How does following Jesus lead to transformation, healing, and new life for you and others?
4. How are you preparing spiritually for the Advent of Jesus at Christmas?

Unterrichtsstunden

Unterricht für Erwachsene

Schlüsselstelle aus der Bibel

Isaiah 35:1–10 

Schwerpunkt der Unterrichtsstunde

See through the words of Isaiah 35 the hope and joy the Gospel writers found in Jesus, the Way. 

Ziele 

Die Lernenden werden… 

• understand the joy the early exiles found in this scripture. 
• relate Isaiah 35 to the joy the Gospel writers found in Jesus. 
• discover how this traditional Advent scripture invites us to joy today. 

Verbrauchsmaterialien 

• Bibles or copy of Isaiah 35 for each participant 
• Papier und Stifte oder Bleistifte 
• Blackboard, white board, or paper to write notes 
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS) for each participant 

Hinweise für Lehrkräfte

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Isaiah 35:1–10 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year A: Old Testament, pp. 22–23, available through Herald House. 

Sammeln

Aktiviert Vorwissen, bereitet auf den Unterricht vor und weckt die Motivation (15 % der gesamten Unterrichtszeit)

Reflect on the first two Sundays of Advent. 

Invite someone to offer a prayer for the class. 

Mitmachen

Regt zum Erkunden und zur Interaktion an (35 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Isaiah 35 prophesies concerning Israel’s return from Babylon. As someone reads Isaiah 35, pausing after each verse, have each participant share or jot down words or phrases that reflect hope, peace, and joy in the passage. 

The Christmas story includes a lot of traveling. While the Roman Empire had made roads and traveling a little safer, it was still dangerous. Beginning with Mary going to see Elizabeth to the Holy Family’s return from Egypt, have the class list all the people who were traveling in this story and why they made the journey. 

• What does Isaiah 35 say to the ancient Israelites about their return from Babylonian captivity? Where is the “joy” in this journey? 
• Is there joy in each of the trips in the Christmas story? Why or why not? 
• Have each class member select one of the journeys discussed this morning. Respond to the following questions: 
• What if I was called to make this trip? 
• How would I respond? Share with the class if you wish. 

Antworten

Führt die Lernenden vom Zuhören zum praktischen Tun (35 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Community of Christ Sings (CCS) contains several hymns about pilgrimage. Refer to the Topical Index under Pilgrimage for a listing (p. 849). Share with the class which hymn is your favorite and why. 

• Why do you think the church included a section in the hymnal on pilgrimage? Is pilgrimage a theme in church history? 
• Have you ever been on a pilgrimage? Where did you go and why? What happened? 
• Would you like to plan or participate in a pilgrimage? Why? Why not? 
• One name for Jesus is “The Way.” Why do you think that is? 

Senden

Untersucht, wie die Unterrichtsstunde in die Praxis umgesetzt werden könnte (10 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Share together about journeys the class may be on in their lives. Compare these to the Christmas story. 

• How does knowing you do not travel alone give you hope, peace, and joy? 

Segne

Zeit für Gebet, Lobpreis, Segen und Hoffnung (5 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Join hands in a circle. Beginning with the teacher and moving to the right, have each person offer a one-line prayer for everyone’s journeys. When each person finishes, ask them to gently squeeze the hand of their neighbor to the right. If someone does not wish to pray or wants to offer their prayer silently, have them pause, then squeeze the hand of their neighbor to the right when they are done. End with the instructor saying, “Amen.” 

Sing together the first verse of “Joy to the World” CCS 408.

Unterricht für Jugendliche

Schlüsselstelle aus der Bibel

Isaiah 35:1–10 

Schwerpunkt der Unterrichtsstunde

God seeks to bring joy to those who are lost. 

Ziele 

Die Lernenden werden… 

• journey with the ancient Judeans receiving good news. 
• use positive words and phrases to bring joy to their community. 
• understand God’s peaceable kingdom brings new life and transformation. 

Verbrauchsmaterialien 

• Bibel 
• Joyful Message Ornament handout for each student (end of lesson) 
• Colored construction paper (optional: Christmas colors) 
• Markierungen 
• Schere 
• Glue or glue stick 
• One-hole punch 
• Yarn or string 

Hinweise für Lehrkräfte

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Isaiah 35:1–10in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: Old Testament, pp. 22–23, available through Herald House. 

Instructor Tip

Before this lesson, complete the Joyful Message Ornament activity to create an example for the class. If you don’t have construction paper available for you or your class, please print out the Joyful Message Christmas Ornament handout. 

Sammeln

Aktiviert Vorwissen, bereitet auf den Unterricht vor und weckt die Motivation (15 % der gesamten Unterrichtszeit)

The word “redeemed” is a common word used in both Christian and secular cultures. In certain parts of the Bible being redeemed meant literally to be released from physical captivity, while other examples were more spiritual or metaphorical. 

Frage: 

When you think of the concept of being redeemed what does that look like? 

• What religious or spiritual examples of redemption are there? 
• Jesus welcoming Zacchaeus, the tax collector, who changes his life 
• The conversion of Saul, the persecutor of the first Christ-followers, into Paul
• The many healings and miracles of Jesus
• The thief on the cross with Jesus who asked Jesus to “remember me”

What examples of redemption are there in history or in pop culture? 

• Star Wars character Darth Vader saving his son from the evil Emperor 
• Tim Robbins’ character, Andy Dufresne, from Shawshank Redemption 
• Jean Valjean from Les Misérables 
• Nelson Mandela 
• John Newton, author of the hymn “Amazing Grace” 

Mitmachen

Regt zum Erkunden und zur Interaktion an (35 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Today’s scripture passage is from Isaiah. Scholars believe that multiple authors helped compile this book in the Bible. The original Isaiah is credited with writing the first part of the book of Isaiah (traditionally up to chapter 39), while other writings and scrolls made up the other portions. The passage we are discussing today was most likely written towards the end of the Babylonian exile in 539 BCE (Before Common Era). 

These verses were written to a people who were lost, broken, taken from their homes—exiled. They were awaiting God’s call for them to return home, being liberated and redeemed. 

• When has there been a time in your life when you felt exiled or left out of a group? 
• How did that make you feel? 
• Did you long to be welcomed back? 

While the students consider these questions, invite them to step in the shoes of an ancient Judean who experienced a lifetime of exile. 

Read Isaiah 35:1–2. Pause briefly to allow personal reflection. 

Read Isaiah 35:3–4. Pause briefly to allow personal reflection. 

Read Isaiah 35:5–7. Pause briefly to allow personal reflection. 

Read Isaiah 35:8–10. After pausing for reflection reread all the verses together. 

Frage: 

• Did reading this passage from the perspective of an exiled Judean give you any insight? 
• How would you feel as an exile hearing these words? How would you feel called to respond? 
• What phrases, words, or images jump out at you as you reflected? 
• Would these words have brought you comfort or joy as an exile? How so? 

This passage is a message to the exiled Judeans that God is coming to liberate and bring joy. Their world as they knew it was going to be transformed. The desert will blossom, the blind will have their eyes opened, the deaf will hear, the lame shall jump as a deer, and the burning sands will become a pool of water. These poetic words symbolize the radical transformation coming. Such a change would bring joy, celebration, and gladness. 

This passage was written for Judeans recovering from an exile 500 years before Jesus; however, even as Christians we can find deep relevance. Jesus Christ came to liberate humankind from our own blindness and deafness. He also performed miraculous deeds caring for the physical needs of others. God’s reign even today incorporates both spiritual and physical well-being. Jesus challenges us to be transformed as we become his hands and feet, serving God’s creation as disciples building the peaceable kingdom. With this good news how can we not be joyful! 

Antworten

Führt die Lernenden vom Zuhören zum praktischen Tun (35 % der Unterrichtszeit)

The Advent theme “Joy!” fits with today’s scripture passage, which mentions joy four times. The passage brought joy to its first hearers who felt broken, lost, and alone. While many celebrate the Christmas season with glee, others may be suffering or feel lonely. Just as this passage gave hope and joy to its first readers, the class has an opportunity to spread joy. 

Joyful Message Ornaments Activity 

Supplies needed: 

• Sheets of colored construction paper (or printed Joyful Message Ornament handout) 
• Schere 
• Glue or glue stick 
• Markierungen 
• Yarn or string 
• One-hole punch 

Directions: 

1. Pass out construction paper Joyful Message Ornament handout. 
2. Have students cut out strips of paper matching the size of the example handout. 
3. Write positive words, encouraging phrases, or Christmas greetings on each side of each piece of paper. 
4. Glue the pieces of paper together as seen in the example. 
5. Punch a hole in the top of the ornament. 
6. Thread the string or yarn through the hole and tie a knot creating a hook. (Optional: You can also unbend a paper clip to make the hook.) 
7. You’re finished with your Joyful Message Ornament! 

If you have time, encourage your class to make more ornaments. 

Senden

Untersucht, wie die Unterrichtsstunde in die Praxis umgesetzt werden könnte (10 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Ask each student to share with whom they are going to give their ornament, if they are comfortable sharing. If they don’t want to be specific, that is okay.  

Ask: What significance does that person play in your life? 

Segne

Zeit für Gebet, Lobpreis, Segen und Hoffnung (5 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Close by singing the campfire song “I’ve Got the Joy.” 

Verses include: 

1. I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy, down in my heart. 
2. I’ve got the peace that passes understanding, down in my heart. 
3. I’ve got the love of Jesus Christ my Savior, down in my heart—OR—I’ve got the love of my savior, my blessed redeemer, down in my heart. 
4. I’ve got the hope of God, our liberator, down in my heart. 

Kindergottesdienst

Schlüsselstelle aus der Bibel

Isaiah 35:1–10 

Schwerpunkt der Unterrichtsstunde

Share God’s joy. 

Ziele 

Die Lernenden werden… 

• explain Jesus is coming to share God’s joy by singing, “Jesus Is Coming, Let’s Celebrate.” 
• create and share a tune or actions (dance) to go with Isaiah’s words. 
• make and display a “Joy Spiral” to share God’s joy with others. 
• explain how an item can be used as a reminder to share God’s joy. 

Verbrauchsmaterialien 

• „Bible orLectionary Story Bible“, Jahr A, von Ralph Milton, illustriert von Margaret Kyle (Wood Lake Publishing, 2007, ISBN 9781551455471) 
• Wrapped box of items representing joy for each student (See “Notes to teacher” below.) 
• Way to display song lyrics (chart paper or board OR computer and projector) 
• One piece of poster board 61 x 91 cm/ 22 x 28 in 
• One copy of the “Joy Spiral” per child (end of lesson) 
• Eine Schere für jedes Kind 
• Colored pencils or watercolor markers 
• Klebeband 
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS) or a favorite version of “Joy to the World” 
• Bells, maracas, tambourines, or other rhythm instruments 

Hinweise für Lehrkräfte

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Isaiah 35:1–10 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year A: Old Testament, pp. 22–23, available through Herald House. 

Ahead of Time 

1. Write on chart paper, a board, or type so it can be projected later, the modified sentence pairs Isaiah uses in Ralph Milton’s Lectionary Story Bible, Year A, pp. 27–28 listed below: 

Deserts will sing and flowers will bloom, 
 All God’s creatures will be glad. 

Those who are weak will be-come strong, 
Those who cry will no longer be sad. 

Then the eyes of the blind will be opened, 
And the deaf will hear songs. 

(Additional lines needed for the “backup plan” as explained below under the Engage section) 

Those who cannot walk will leap, 
The world will rejoice and sing with joy! 

2.  In big letters on a poster board write “Rejoice with JOY and singing!” Add the name of your class. (See example below.)

Rejoice with JOY and singing! 
Isaiah 35:2 
Made with Joy by the (add class name here) Class 

3. Gather the five sets of items below. We will open one each Sunday of Advent and on Christmas Day. If possible, find or make enough so every child may take one with them at the end of class. Find ideas listed above. Wrap each set of items in a separate box and place them in a prominent location in your space. On the first four boxes write the Advent Sunday number (First Sunday of Advent, etc.) not the Advent focus (Joy, Peace, etc.), so it can remain a mystery. On box five write “Merry Christmas!” Only open one package each Sunday to build anticipation for the following week.  

Die fünf verpackten Pakete enthalten:  

• Friedensartikel  
• Hoffnungsgegenstände  
• Joy items to open today 
• Love items  
• Jesus-Artikel  

Sammeln

Aktiviert Vorwissen, bereitet auf den Unterricht vor und weckt die Motivation (15 % der gesamten Unterrichtszeit)

Say: Happy Third Sunday of Advent! Who can remind us of what we do during Advent? (Wait for the coming of God’s son Jesus.) We are going to sing our Advent song again, but today we are adding a new verse. Listen to see if you can detect today’s Advent theme. 

Jesus Is Coming, Let’s Celebrate 

(Gesungen zur Melodie von „Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star“) 

CHORUS: Advent is a time we wait 
For something exciting we’ll celebrate! 
A mir-a-cle will be achieved. 
A gift from God we will receive. 
Advent is a time we wait.  
Jesus is coming let’s celebrate! 

On the third Advent Sunday 
Joy will show us the way. 
Joy that bubbles way down deep. 
It’s impossible for us to keep! 
On the third Advent Sunday 
Joy will show us the way. 

Say: What do you think our Advent focus word is today? (Joy) Yes, you’re right! Today we wait for the coming of Jesus, who came to bring God’s joy to the world! Does that make anyone think of a song we often sing around Christmas? (“Joy to the World“) Guess what? That song is exactly what we’re talking about today. The joy from God is more than just happiness, it’s overflowing happiness you can’t keep inside. At the end of class today we will open our third Advent gift of joy. 

Mitmachen

Regt zum Erkunden und zur Interaktion an (35 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Show the picture of Isaiah and Rebekah on p. 12 of Lectionary Story Bible, Year A, by Ralph Milton. 

Read “Isaiah’s Song” on pp. 27–29 in Lectionary Story Bible, Year A, by Ralph Milton. 

Briefly display and discuss the words Isaiah used as adapted. (See point 1 in “Ahead of Time” above.) Explain there will be two groups from which to choose. They may choose to be “Rebekah’s group” and create a tune (how it would be sung) or “Nathaniel’s group” and create actions or a dance to go with Isaiah’s words. Children who are musical, auditory, or kinesthetic learners will be eager for this opportunity. Other children may be hesitant and might need encouragement. 

If no one chooses to be in Rebekah’s group to create the tune, a “backup plan” is to sing the lines, as listed above, to the tune of “Vine and Fig Tree.” (You can find it online.) If no one is interested in creating actions (a dance), a “backup plan” is to use simple actions to mimic words such as: squat down and rise like a blooming flower, make a joyful face, point to muscles, frown to smile, or covered eyes to uncovered. Alternatively, have the entire group work together for each aspect. 

After each group has time to prepare their tune or actions (dance), invite everyone to come together. Have Rebekah’s group teach Nathaniel’s group the tune, then have Nathaniel’s group teach Rebekah’s group the actions (dance). Consider sharing the Isaiah interpretation with other classes occurring during the same time. 

Antworten

Führt die Lernenden vom Zuhören zum praktischen Tun (35 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Say: There is joy all around as we wait for the celebration of Jesus’s birthday in a few weeks. We want to make sure everyone can see and feel our joy, so we are going to make something joyful to hang where everyone can see it. 

Give everyone a “Joy Spiral” (end of lesson). Follow these steps. 

1. Have children write an idea about joy inside the spiral. Younger children could write: “Share God’s Joy,” or “Joy to the World.” Older children could write: “God’s joy is inside you. Share it wherever you go!” or part of today’s Advent song verse, “Joy that bubbles way down deep. It’s impossible for us to keep!” 
2. Start at the triangle and cut on the line until they reach the dot. 
3. Cut along the dotted line. Remove the excess paper. 
4. Hold the triangle and watch the spiral joyfully fall and bounce. 

Use tape to attach their “Joy Spirals” to the bottom of the poster board. Hang the poster over a doorway or someplace where other members of the congregation will see the children’s joy. 

Senden

Untersucht, wie die Unterrichtsstunde in die Praxis umgesetzt werden könnte (10 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Ask a child to get the “Third Sunday of Advent” gift. (Rotate who gets to help with the gift each week.) Make predictions about what might be in the box before opening it. Open it, then ask children to explain why they think that item is in the box. Give one item to every child. Explain they should place the item somewhere they will see it throughout the week to remind them Jesus is coming to bring God’s joy and they need to share that joy with others. 

Hinweis:Wenn möglich, übergeben Sie den Gegenstand bitte an eine Person, die nicht anwesend ist. 

If time, sing today’s verse of “Jesus Is Coming, Let’s Celebrate” (see “Gather” section above). 

Segne

Zeit für Gebet, Lobpreis, Segen und Hoffnung (5 % der Unterrichtszeit)

Encourage children to share God’s joy by singing, dancing, and playing rhythm instruments to a favorite version of “Joy to the World!” CCS 408. If you selected a joy item such as bells, this would be a fun opportunity for the children to try out their new gift. 

Joy Spiral

Step 1: Write an idea about joy. 

Step 2: Start cutting on the line until you reach the dot.  

Step 3: Cut the dotted line. Remove the excess paper.  

Step 4: Hold the triangle and watch!