In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.

Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. So the evening and the morning were the first day.

—From Genesis 1:1–10 (NKJV)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

—From John 1:1–4 (NKJV)

Reflection

Advent is a season of preparation—and not just preparing gifts and festive dinners. Much like Lent (the 40 days before Easter), when we focus our hearts on Christ’s suffering in preparation for observing his death and resurrection, Advent is a time to prepare our hearts for his birth. By using this resource you’re creating habits that will yield rich memories and a deepened faith. Take time to consider what your focus will be this Advent season. Relationships, faith, creativity, or something else? Write a letter to yourself stating your intention, and why that focus is important. Would you like help preparing for a meaningful Advent? Download our Preparing for Advent Workbook here!

Celebrate Together

Gather the family for today’s Celebration in our book, The Joy of Advent. Delve into the wonder of God pouring his goodness, beauty, and love out into the world he made, explore the Jesse Tree symbol for creation, discover the history behind today’s carol, and enjoy a family conversation (or private journaling) about your hopes for this Advent season.

Inspiration

Music

Let’s rejoice in creation’s story with Angels from the Realms of Glory. [Play Video]

O Come, O Come Emmanuel will remind us of a people’s long wait for a Savior. [Play Video]

Prayer

O Most High, all-powerful, good Lord God,
to you belong praise, glory, honor and all blessing.
Be praised, my Lord, for sun and moon,
for earth who brings forth fruits and vegetables
and flowers in every color,
all of which reflect Your beauty.
Teach us to honor You by tending all You have made.

(Adapted from The Canticle of Creation, St. Francis of Assisi)

Resources

• Is creation scientific or is the Biblical account a myth? Learn about the science behind creation here.

• Here’s a printable Creation-Themed Coloring Page.

• If you’re in need of a hands-on way to track your (or your child’s) way through Advent, the ornaments and Advent calendars in our Christmas Shop may be exactly what you need!

• Be inspired with the many ways you can display your Jesse Tree ornaments here!

• Would you like to make Jesse Tree ornaments to accompany your readings? Find tutorials and ideas from simple to advanced at our Jesse Tree Ornaments Pinterest board.

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