I am grateful to the various sites from where I picked up ideas for the write-ups, images and videos that happened to touch my heart while preparing myself and my children on this Advent journey in faith .. I have tried giving credits where I could.. I have tailored the materials accordingly to suit my needs. My sincere apologies if I have not given due credit in all places. - Sabrina D'Mello
The Countdown to Christmas ...
(Credits : https://www.timeanddate.com/clocks/freecountdown.html)
(Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhJEwx9blHk&t=57s)
REFLECTION
REFLECTION
The Angel called him by his name and bid him not to be afraid. You can imagine that besides being terrified, he was thrilled to be called out by name by an angel. We all would be too.
Your prayer is heard. He must be wondering what prayer is the Angel referring to. Soon after he got married to Elizabeth, they had fervently prayed for so many decades for a child, but then he eventually gave up - but not God.
On the very first day when Zechariah prayed, God had marked that prayer in His memory. He remembered each and every word of their prayer, the urgency and the plea of that couple to God. Now when the incense began to rise as a symbol of God's acceptance of His people's prayers, the Angel came to bring the news to Zechariah that God had answered his prayer which he had long forgotten. And the boy was given the name John before he was even conceived.
Have you gone through this dilemma too, of praying and praying heartfelt prayers to God for so many years without any answers. Prayers for employment, good health, finances, family conflicts and yet no answer. Do you feel that God just does not care? Here is your answer. The first moment we offer a prayer to God in faith, He in his wisdom will choose the most effectual way and the apt time to answer that prayer. Sometimes like Zechariah we have to wait for many long years for its fulfillment. So keep the faith and God will answer you at the right time.
CHRISTMAS SYMBOL : SANTACLAUS
Your prayer is heard. He must be wondering what prayer is the Angel referring to. Soon after he got married to Elizabeth, they had fervently prayed for so many decades for a child, but then he eventually gave up - but not God.
On the very first day when Zechariah prayed, God had marked that prayer in His memory. He remembered each and every word of their prayer, the urgency and the plea of that couple to God. Now when the incense began to rise as a symbol of God's acceptance of His people's prayers, the Angel came to bring the news to Zechariah that God had answered his prayer which he had long forgotten. And the boy was given the name John before he was even conceived.
Have you gone through this dilemma too, of praying and praying heartfelt prayers to God for so many years without any answers. Prayers for employment, good health, finances, family conflicts and yet no answer. Do you feel that God just does not care? Here is your answer. The first moment we offer a prayer to God in faith, He in his wisdom will choose the most effectual way and the apt time to answer that prayer. Sometimes like Zechariah we have to wait for many long years for its fulfillment. So keep the faith and God will answer you at the right time.
CHRISTMAS SYMBOL : SANTACLAUS
Saint Nicholas or St. Nick as he was sometimes called, was a Bishop who lived around 325 AD and was known for his generosity to the poor and mostly anonymously.
What started with one man's generosity many years ago has now become a rage and has grown beyond imagination, as people from all over the world share gifts with one another during Christmas time under the code name of Santa Claus,
Today think of one person you can be Santa Claus to, and show kindness to them before the day is out in a way that leaves your identity anonymous.
PRAYER
What started with one man's generosity many years ago has now become a rage and has grown beyond imagination, as people from all over the world share gifts with one another during Christmas time under the code name of Santa Claus,
Today think of one person you can be Santa Claus to, and show kindness to them before the day is out in a way that leaves your identity anonymous.
PRAYER
Lord, instil in me the spirit of generosity like Saint Nicholas. Help me to do good in secret, without any desire for recognition and repayment. May I trust in You for any reward. Amen.
Lets sing along with this carol -
Jolly Old St. Nicholas
(Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gmSsS1rquI)
Lets sing along with this carol -
Jolly Old St. Nicholas
(Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gmSsS1rquI)
QUIZ TIME
Why is Christmas just like a day at the office?
You do all the work and the fat guy with the suit gets all the credit.
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