SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT - LOVE

SECOND WEEK THEME: LOVE

FIRST READER: This is the second Sunday in Advent. Today, we light two purple candles. Last Sunday, we lit the candle of hope. This Sunday, we light the candle of love. One verse that many memorize and remember on this day is John 3:16, "God so loved the world..." some people may not know the love of other people. That makes it harder for them to understand God's love. During Advent, we pray that we may remember again God's gift of Jesus to the world and know that God's love for all people is the reason for this gift.

(Light the first and second candles.)


SECOND READER: When we look at the second candle, we remember God's love. When we read the words of the psalmist, we know of God's greatness and care. We remember God's love at Advent when we remember that God sent Jesus to us to help us know that God is loving and just.

FIRST READER: Read Isaiah 11:1-10

DISCUSSION: When we think of God's love, we might not always think of the words of the prophets. But when we read this picture of the peaceable kingdom, we are amazed by God's love that allows a child to lead.

Who are the people in our world who need the message of God's love?

What are our hopes for how people today can receive the message of God's love?

How do we help others know God's love?

PRAYER: Dear God: Thank you for your son, Jesus. Thank you for the words found in our Bible that help us remember your love and care. Help us see how we can bring God's message to the people we meet in our schools, at our jobs, and in our neighborhoods. Help us be messengers of God's love for everyone.

Monday, December 6, 2010: Read again Isaiah 11:1-10. Create a poster by drawing pictures of the wondrous things you see in the world around you that God has created. Create your picture of God's kingdom of peace. Give thanks for the world and all people in the world.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010: Is there someone you know who needs to hear words of God's love? Make or select a card for that person and mail it today.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010: Love is something we need in our church. Think about the people in our church. Select one person in our church. Pray for that person today.

Thursday, December 9, 2010: As we get ready to celebrate again the birth of Jesus, we sometimes get very busy. Today, take a ten-minute break. Sit quietly. If it helps you to concentrate, look at your Advent wreath. Pray, asking God's help to bring quiet and calm to a busy world.

Friday, December 10, 2010: Think about your family. Some may live with you. Others may be far away. Who in your family needs God's love? Pray for this family member today.

 Saturday, December 11, 2010: There are people in our neighborhoods, in our church, and in our community who need to know of God's love. Select someone to visit today. Visit by phone or in person. Go as a family or by yourself. It doesn't necessarily have to be a visit to a home. Maybe there is someone who waits on you at the grocery store. Stop by today and talk with that person. Tell the person you visit one way he or she brings peace to you.