Worship Tools #
Worship Outline #
Additional Scriptures
Psalm 146:5-10; James 5:7-10; Matthew 11:2-11
Preparation
Display an Advent wreath with candles.
Use the same Narrator for The Christmas Play throughout Advent and Christmas.
Prelude
Welcome and Sharing of Community Joys and Concerns
Call to Worship
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
Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.
“Lovely Child, Holy Child” CCS 428
“Good Christian Friends, Rejoice” CCS 433
Invocation
Advent Candles
“Hope is a Light” stanzas 2, 1, and 3 CCS 398
Light the candle of peace during the first verse, during the second verse light the candle of hope, and during the third verse, light the candle of joy.
Statement
Advent is a season in the Christian calendar that marks the four Sundays before Christmas. In Latin, Advent means ‘coming’ and it is a time to prepare and remember the real meaning of Christmas, the coming of Jesus into the world.
Today we light the candle of Joy.
Joy is a song for all to sing. It challenges us to share with others the joy we have found in and with God. A God that strengthens the weak hands and knocking kneed, who steadies the faithful heart that all might sing for joy at what God has done and shared with all, through Jesus Christ.
Hymn of Advent Joy
“Hark the Herald Angels Sing” CCS 423
OR “Angels We Have Heard on High” CCS 427
A Christmas Play – Part 3
See script below.
Prayer for Peace
Light the Peace Candle.
Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 161:1b
Hymn of Peace
“Peace among Earth’s Peoples” CCS 448
OR “Come, Join in Mary’s Prophet Song” CCS 308
Prayer
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
Scripture Reading
Isaiah 35:1-10
Ministry of Music or Congregational Hymn
“No Obvious Angels” CCS 418
OR “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence” CCS 405
Message
Based on Isaiah 35:1-10
Disciples’ Generous Response
Hymn of Gratitude
“Star-Child” CCS 420
OR “In the Bleak Midwinter” CCS 422
Statement
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?
Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes
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
Sending Forth
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
A Christmas Play
Directions
- Assign all characters and props before the Narrator starts the script.
- Have a manger set up upstage and a baby Jesus behind the manger, out of site.
- The narrator needs to read all the text and ad lib, prompting the actors to copy the words or follow the directions.
- Feel free to repeat lines for emphasis.
- The Narrator may need to give additional directions depending on engagement of the participants. For example, if Mary doesn’t look scared, “Come on Mary, you need to look a little more scared then that.”
Characters
*Narrator-recruited ahead of time to prepare; does all the reading and a lot of the stage directing
*Mary-no lines; recruited on the spur of the moment
*Gabriel (angel)-no lines; recruited on the spur of the moment
*Angels-no lines; recruited on the spur of the moment
*Joseph-no lines; recruited on the spur of the moment
*Baby Jesus-figure or doll in the manger
*Shepherds-no lines; recruited on the spur of the moment
*Sheep-no lines; these could be people recruited on the spur of the moment or stuffed toys
Props
*Something to symbolize each character e.g., wings for an angel, staff for a shepherd
*Manger with baby Jesus
Scene 4
Narrator: Can anyone remember where we are up to in our story?
If someone wants to provide an update let them.
Excellent to hear you have been paying attention.
If not So Mary and Joseph had both heard from the angel Gabriel informing them of God’s plan for Mary to carry a baby, who would be God amongst us. They went on a long journey to Bethlehem, where the baby, which they named Jesus, was a heathy 7 pounds 4 ounces. That last part I may have made up as there is no actual record.
Now as we continue with Scene 4, our focus isn’t really on our main characters story however we do still need them as ultimately, they are the focus of our whole story. So, we will need those playing our Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus. You can take a seat and get comfy upstage there with the baby Jesus because we will be calling on you again soon.
I think we are ready to start today. Are you ready?
Narrator: Scene 4 features some sleepy shepherds and a lot of sheep. We might need to imagine all the sheep; we have supplied a couple to help your imagination but there would have been a whole flock. Shepherds and sheep take your position right in the middle please.
Enter shepherds and sheep
Narrator: You see, there were shepherds looking after their sheep not too far from where Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus were. They were just doing their shepherd thing, laying around, chatting, napping, making sure no wolves were sneaking in to steal a lamb or two when suddenly and angel of the lord stood before them. Gabriel, we need you again.
Enter Gabriel
Narrator: There was a bright heavenly light. The shepherds were terrified. But the angel said…
point to audience and motion for them to fill in the answer “Do not be afraid.”
Coax the angel to say “Do not be afraid” after everyone.
And, by golly, it worked again. The shepherds were no longer afraid. The angel continued, “I am bringing you great news” “for a baby is born.” The angel then continued to share exactly how great this was and that this special baby was the Messiah. They then gave very specific directions on how the shepherds could find the baby. But they weren’t quite ready to leave.
We need any of our extra angels up the front.
Enter other angels
Because suddenly the heavens were filled with a host of angels, again you might need to use a little of your imagination here too, to multiply the angels into a great chorus. There were so many of them. They were all dancing and singing praising God. The sang or shouted “Halleluiah.” And then the angels left. Thank you, Angels you can go.
Exit angels
Narrator: The shepherds said to each other “We must go see this special baby.” So, they got up and with haste followed all the directions given by the angel and found Mary and Joseph and the baby in the manger. The shepherds were so excited to see what they had heard about, and they shared with Mary and Joseph, with lots of excited hand movements. They shared everything that the angels had said to them and what they had experienced.
Mary treasured these words.
Once they were done visiting, the shepherds returned to their fields dancing and praising God for all they had heard and seen.
Thank you shepherds we are finished with you too for now.
Exit shepherds
Sacred Space: Small-Group Worship Outline #
Gathering
Welcome
For the Advent season it is traditional to have Advent candles (four white candles, one for each week of Advent) or an Advent 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.
The Advent season begins four Sundays before Christmas and is observed each Sunday until Christmas. An Advent wreath with four candles and one Christ candle in the center often is used to observe the weeks of Advent. One candle is lit each week until all are burning brightly on Christmas.
Prayer for Peace
Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.
Light the peace candle.
Gracious and loving God,
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
Spiritual Practice
Take Five
Materials: paper, pens or pencils
Light the third candle of Advent and say:
Today we light the third candle of Advent. This candle symbolizes joy. May we draw closer to joy in our lives.
Read the following:
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.
Sharing Around the Table
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.”
Questions
- How have you experienced a wilderness time in your life?
- How might Advent be a time for you to rekindle hope in a new, life-giving way?
Sending
Generosity Statement
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”
—Doctrine and Covenants 163:9
The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing small-group ministries as part of your generous response.
The offering prayer for Advent is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:
God who is faithful, Be present with us as we plan our spending. May we use our resources to build healthy, happy relationships with you, others, and the Earth. May we remember the teachings of Jesus that challenge us to make lifestyle choices that are counter to our culture of accumulation and excess. Amen.
Invitation to Next Meeting
Closing Hymn
CCS 400, “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus”
Closing Prayer
Optional Additions Depending on Group
Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper
Choose one scripture to read from this selection: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26; Matthew 26:17–30; Mark 14:12–26; Luke 22:7–39.
Invitation to Communion
All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.
This Advent season, our experience of being together as we share in Communion is an expression of blessing, healing, peace, and community.
In preparation let’s sing from Community of Christ Sings 519, “In the Singing.”
Blessing and serving bread and wine.
Thoughts for Children
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.
Sermon Helps #
Exploring the Scripture
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.
Central Ideas
- God’s coming reign will be a time of renewal and blossoming for all creation.
- All those who are grieving, ill, oppressed, or troubled can find comfort and peace in Christ.
- This scripture passage promises that both humankind and nature will one day be restored to beauty and wholeness.
- 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.
Questions for the Speaker
- When have you experienced a “blossoming time” or a renewal? What was it like? How did you respond?
- Where do you see God’s transformation and healing power in the injustices and oppression of the world?
- How does following Jesus lead to transformation, healing, and new life for you and others?
- How are you preparing spiritually for the Advent of Jesus at Christmas?
Lessons #
Adult Lesson #
Focus Scripture Passage
Isaiah 35:1–10
Lesson Focus
See through the words of Isaiah 35 the hope and joy the Gospel writers found in Jesus, the Way.
Objectives
The learners will…
- 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.
Supplies
- Bibles or copy of Isaiah 35 for each participant
- Paper and pens or pencils
- Blackboard, white board, or paper to write notes
- Community of Christ Sings (CCS) for each participant
Notes to Teacher
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.
Gather
Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)
Reflect on the first two Sundays of Advent.
Invite someone to offer a prayer for the class.
Engage
Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)
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.
Respond
Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)
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?
Send
Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)
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?
Bless
Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)
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.
Youth Lesson #
Focus Scripture Passage
Isaiah 35:1–10
Lesson Focus
God seeks to bring joy to those who are lost.
Objectives
The learners will…
- 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.
Supplies
- Bible
- Joyful Message Ornament handout for each student (end of lesson)
- Colored construction paper (optional: Christmas colors)
- Markers
- Scissors
- Glue or glue stick
- One-hole punch
- Yarn or string
Notes to Teacher
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.
Gather
Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)
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.
Ask:
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”
Engage
Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)
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.
Ask:
- 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!
Respond
Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)
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)
- Scissors
- Glue or glue stick
- Markers
- Yarn or string
- One-hole punch
Directions:
- Pass out construction paper Joyful Message Ornament handout.
- Have students cut out strips of paper matching the size of the example handout.
- Write positive words, encouraging phrases, or Christmas greetings on each side of each piece of paper.
- Glue the pieces of paper together as seen in the example.
- Punch a hole in the top of the ornament.
- 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.)
- You’re finished with your Joyful Message Ornament!
If you have time, encourage your class to make more ornaments.
Send
Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)
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?
Bless
Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)
Close by singing the campfire song “I’ve Got the Joy.”
Verses include:
- I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy, down in my heart.
- I’ve got the peace that passes understanding, down in my heart.
- 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.
- I’ve got the hope of God, our liberator, down in my heart.
Children’s Lesson #
Focus Scripture Passage
Isaiah 35:1–10
Lesson Focus
Share God’s joy.
Objectives
The learners will…
- 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.
Supplies
- Bible or Lectionary Story Bible, Year A, by Ralph Milton, illustrated by 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)
- Scissors for each child
- Colored pencils or watercolor markers
- Tape
- Community of Christ Sings (CCS) or a favorite version of “Joy to the World”
- Bells, maracas, tambourines, or other rhythm instruments
Notes to Teacher
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
- 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.
The five wrapped packages will include:
- Peace items
- Hope items
- Joy items to open today
- Love items
- Jesus items
Gather
Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)
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
(Sung to the tune of 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.
Engage
Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)
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.
Respond
Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)
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.
- 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!”
- Start at the triangle and cut on the line until they reach the dot.
- Cut along the dotted line. Remove the excess paper.
- 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.
Send
Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)
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.
Note: If possible, deliver the item to anyone not in attendance.
If time, sing today’s verse of “Jesus Is Coming, Let’s Celebrate” (see “Gather” section above).
Bless
Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)
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!