Sofia's Christmas Ideas

Tell Me the Stories of Jesus

2010-11-13T23:10:00.000-08:00

Gospel Art Book Image

In May of 2010, Elder Neil L. Andersen gave a talk that I've been contemplating ever since!

"The stories of Jesus can be like a rushing wind across the embers of faith in the hearts of our children. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." The stories of Jesus shared over and over bring faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and strength to the foundation of testimony. Can you think of a more valuable gift for our children?"

He then goes on to ask about 20 different questions. As I tried to answer them honestly and thoughtfully, I realized I have a lot of work to do with my children. This Christmas, 2010... we will have short family devotionals based on the questions he asks.

I will fold some paper plates in half and decorate very simply. I will put the question Elder Andersen asks for the devotional in the paper plate and staple around the edges, I might even include a small picture or materials for the devotional. Each night I'll hide the plate under the pillow of one of my children to answer Elder Andersen's first question, "Are the life and teachings of Jesus Christ embedded in the minds and souls of our children?"

Yes. And maybe even their dreams too!

** Update: When I introduced what we were doing for the month of December to my girls, they decided to call it "Hot Cocoa Chats". So I'm adding a couple small Ziploc bags of marshmallows (to be used at devotional, pardon- "Hot Cocoa Chat") in the plates too. Who am I to deny genius?**

Looking to the Example of the Savior in Our Own Lives

2010-11-13T13:00:00.000-08:00

Image from Mormon.org

I hope this isn't blasphemous to take what he has asked and change the pronouns. If it is, then kindly ignore the words in parenthesis and you can write me a scathing comment. I possibly deserve it.

Elder Andersen asks, "Do they (we) think about the Savior's life when they (we) wonder what to do in their (our) own lives?"

Start with opening prayer always! How do we expect the spirit to teach us if we don't invite him there!

Make a simple spinner. You can even get them at the dollar store or make a temporary one from one of your board games. Divide your spinner into categories to spin on, "Home, School, Out and About, Church". Have different scenarios for the children to think about what they would do and any examples from the Savior's life on how He taught us to act. Have a piece of paper you can add hearts to as you answer questions. See how many hearts you can get as a family.

For example, scenarios to read when they spin on that category:
Home
1. It's Family Home Evening and the lesson is horribly boring. My sister is bothering me and I really feel like kicking her, after all, she is poking me! What should I do? When people hurt Christ what did He do or say?
2. Mom asked me to clean up the toy room. It's crazy in there and I think a mouse may even be living under a stack of old magazines. What should I do? How did Jesus help His mother?
3. Dad was getting me ready for bed. He told me to hop in and tucked me in snug. I am so tired, but I realize we forgot to say prayer. What should I do? When did Jesus pray?
School
1. My teacher is wonderful. She is kind and thoughtful, she is really just super! What can I do to show her how much I love her? What did Jesus do to show me love?
2. Tom is such a bully. He is always bossing around other kids and even gets violent sometimes. Ugh. He drives me nuts! What could I do to help Tom be nice? How did Jesus teach by example?
3. A friend of mine forgot to do their homework. They usually do it, but this one time it just slipped their mind. They really want to copy. What should I do? How was the Savior honest?
Out and About
1. I am in a movie theater watching an excellent movie. Except, a small part of the movie isn't excellent. They keep on taking the Lord's name in vain. It's rated PG but I feel uncomfortable. What should I do? What did the Savior do when he was tempted?
2. Suzie is having a slumber party and they are going to be painting toe nails. They'll be playing games until midnight and even decorating their own cakes! It sounds really fun but Suzie listens to music that isn't appropriate. She even said they'll have a dance competition to those songs. What should I do? Was there music in the Savior's life? (Matt. 26:30, Luke 2:13)
3. Walking home from school one day, I notice the street is filled with trash. I even see some birds picking at an old napkin. Poor mother earth. What should I do? Jesus helped organize the earth, how did He show love for that which He organized?
Church
1. Everyone is being really noisy in Primary. I can't even hear what is being said. What should I do? How did Jesus show reverence?
2. Sunday morning breakfast is over. I want to make today special and keep the Sabbath day holy. What should I do? How did our Savior keep the Sabbath holy?
3. Fast and testimony meeting has arrived. We had a family home evening about bearing our testimony but I feel very nervous. What should I do? How did Jesus tell others about truth?

Wow! What great teamwork as a family! Bear testimony and end with I Feel My Savior's Love (Children's Songbook pg.74)

Visualizing the Premortal Council

2010-11-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Star Cluster R136 image courtesy NASA

2

Elder Andersen asks, "Have our children visualized the premortal council, where Jesus- the greatest of all- declared, "Here am I, send me"? Do they see their own willingness to serve as following His example?"

Start with an opening prayer.

Scripture: “In a premortal council at which we were all present, [the Savior] led the forces of good against those of Satan and his followers in a battle for the souls of men that began before this world was formed. That conflict continues today. We were all on the side of Jesus then. We are on the side of Jesus today” ( Elder Joseph B.Wirthlin “Christians in Belief and Action,” Ensign, Nov. 1996, 71).

Sing We are All Enlisted (Hymns # 250)

Time to whip out the play dough!!

(An easy recipe:

2 cups of water

4 teaspoons of cream of tartar

couple drops food coloring

1 cup salt

Heat together all of the above in a pan until the salt is as disolved as it's going to get, then put in 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil and then 2 cups of plain/all purpose flour. Stir it until it forms a ball that doesn't stick to the sides of the pan. Knead a little while it cools. Store in an airtight container like you would with any other playdough.)

Using a small table or box- create, visualize and make concrete with your hands and play dough the premortal council. Create what you think it looked like, create those who were there, create the earth to the side... the play dough should cover everything! Work as a family to build the whole scene. You can use small gem stones, cotton balls, whatever you have on hand to add details. You could even make play dough people of your family as you sat in the grand council! Have fun and enjoy! Leave up for a while to enjoy the fruit of your labors.

Discuss the story and scriptures of the Premortal Council as you create. Abraham 3:22-28
Another great reference with lots of scriptures Russell M. Nelson, “How Firm Our Foundation,” Ensign, May 2002, 75

Lastly, make a play dough path. For each step you make, name something we do to follow Jesus' example of obedience. Just as Jesus said, "Here I am, send me." (Abraham 3:27) we can say- Here we are, we'll follow!

Bear Testimony.
Closing Song: I Lived in Heaven (Children's Songbook pg. 4)

His Humble Birth

2010-11-12T22:24:00.000-08:00

The Birth of Jesus Gospel Art Book

Elder Andersen asks, "Do they think about His humble birth, the Savior of the world lying in a manger? Do His circumstances help them better understand the proper place of material possessions?"

Start with opening prayer.

Song: Once Within A Lowly Stable (Children's Songbook pg. 41)

Have a texture box. A small shoe box filled with straw and hay. Hide different pictures having to do with the birth of Christ in the hay, humility as the focus. (Pictures could include: manger, swaddling clothes, animals, no room at inn, shepherds, Bethlehem) Use tweezers and take turns sifting through the hay until you catch a picture.

Read one of the following per each picture:
1. Matthew 19:24, "And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God."

2. Alma 22:15 "And it came to pass that after Aaron had expounded these things unto him, the king said: What shall I do that I may have this eternal life of which thou hast spoken? Yea, what shall I do that I may be born of God, having this wicked spirit rooted out of my breast, and receive his Spirit, that I may be filled with joy, that I may not be cast off at the last day? Behold, said he, I will give up all that I possess, yea, I will forsake my kingdom, that I may receive this great joy."

3. If there were a fire in our home, what really matters to us? What would we save if we could grab 3 things? What would we do if we couldn't save anything but our family?

4. Search the house and find 2 things you're willing to donate to a family in need. Then do it when you have the chance!

5. D&C 67:10 "And again, verily I say unto you that it is your privilege, and a promise I give unto you that have been ordained unto this ministry, that inasmuch as you strip yourselves from jealousies and fears, and humble yourselves before me, for ye are not sufficiently humble, the veil shall be rent and you shall see me and know that I am—not with the carnal neither natural mind, but with the spiritual." What would we give to know our Savior?

6. Name 3 things you have. Where did they come from? (For example: Our car. Came from metals, which came from the earth that Jesus helped organize.) Trace all the things back to Jesus and Heavenly Father.
"To be humble is to recognize gratefully our dependence on the Lord—to understand that we have constant need for His support. Humility is an acknowledgment that our talents and abilities are gifts from God. It is not a sign of weakness, timidity, or fear; it is an indication that we know where our true strength lies. We can be both humble and fearless. We can be both humble and courageous." (Gospel Library)

Bear Testimony.

Closing Song: Away in a Manger (Children's Songbook pg. 42)

Ask, and Ye Shall Recieve- Using the example of our Savior's prayers

2010-11-09T20:35:00.000-08:00

All the above images are from the Gospel Art Book and depict instances of the Savior Praying

Elder Andersen asks, "Do they know that Jesus often taught, "Ask, and ye shall receive?" Do His prayers of thankfulness and His pleadings to His Father flow through our children's minds as they kneel in prayer with their own concerns?

Please read the following, as personal study, before you present this lesson. John W. Welch, “The Lord’s Prayers,” Ensign, Jan 1976, 15 It's a compilation and explanation of the examples in scripture in the which Jesus prays.

Start with an opening prayer.

Sing: A Child's Prayer (Children's Songbook pg. 12)

Attention Activity: Have a jar and 30 little puff balls (or beans, whatever you have). As a family, take turns putting the puff balls into the jar and counting to 30. Is that a lot? If someone said something 30 times, would that be a lot? Try saying I love you 30 times together. Hold up the scriptures. Jesus and Heavenly Father have told us in 30 different scriptures, "Ask and ye shall receive".
(FYI- I did a scripture search on LDS.org, there were 33 results but 3 of the scriptures didn't apply)

Display all the pictures of Jesus Praying, however cut out a large chunk from each picture. On each missing piece write numbers 1 through 5, and read correspondingly from Keith B. McMullin, “Words of Jesus: Prayer,” Ensign, Jan 2003, 48 then have a family member match it to the right picture.

Jesus taught us to pray with complete faith and trust in God. To His disciple’s request that Jesus teach them to pray, the Savior responded: “When ye pray, say, … Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth” (Luke 11:2)
Jesus taught us to watch and pray always. Our natural inclination is to pray only at particular times or on special occasions. By admonishing us to “watch … and pray always,” the Lord warns us to be ever vigilant and spiritually alert to the evil around us. (Alma 34:39)
Jesus taught us to be divinely guided or inspired as we pray. Jesus said, “Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him” (Matt. 6:8) Obtaining revelation requires faith and pondering.
Jesus taught us to pray with sincerity of heart. He said: “When thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites … [for they pray] that they may be seen of men. … When ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking” (Matt. 6:5, 7; see also Eccl. 5:2)
Jesus taught us to attend to all things in prayer. Jesus’ instruction and example bear witness that we are to remember God and pray over all that we do (2 Ne. 32:9)

Have a picture of your family. Cut out a large chunk. On the back of it, write things that may concern each member of the family- worries, troubles, questions or thoughts. As we remember Jesus and how He prayed, we can pray like Him too. He's told us over and over again, (hold up the jar!!!) "Ask and ye shall receive."

Bear testimony. Close with the song I love to Pray (Children's Songbook pg. 25)

Jesus LOVES children!!!

2010-11-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

Image from “Our Savior, Jesus Christ,” Friend, Sep 2010, 49

Elder Andersen asks, "Have we told them of the love Jesus has for children, how He held them in His arms, prayed for them, and wept? Do our children know that Jesus stands ready "with open arms to receive them"?

Start with opening prayer.

Sing Jesus Loved the Little Children (Children's Songbook pg.59)

Show GAK picture 216

Read Mark 10:13-16

Show GAK picture 322

Read 3 Nephi 17:11-15

Lastly show the following picture of a Hen and Chicks

Read D&C 29:1-2 "Listen to the voice of Jesus Christ, your Redeemer, the Great I Am, whose arm of mercy hath atoned for your sins; Who will gather his people even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, even as many as will hearken to my voice and humble themselves before me, and call upon me in mighty prayer."

Just as chicks are the babies of hens, so are we the children of Heavenly Father. Heavenly Father cherishes His children and has sent Jesus to gather us with OPEN ARMS as a hen would gather her chicks with big open wings. They love us VERY MUCH!!

Time for art!!! HERE are instructions on how to do a Hen and Chick (as pictured above) art lesson courtesy Art Projects For Kids by Kathy Barbro. Crayola Oil Pastels can be bought at Michael's for $3 with 40% off coupons, well worth the investment!

Bear Testimony. Closing Song My Heavenly Father Loves Me (Children's Songbook pg.228)

Strength in Fasting

2010-11-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

Elder Andersen asks, "Do they take strength in the stories of Jesus fasting- as we teach them the law of fast?"

Start with Opening Prayer. Sing A Smile is Like the Sunshine (Children's Songbook pg. 267)

Print out THIS and read the story of Jesus fasting and then being tempted by Satan. (New Testament Stories Chapter 11)

In the story, how did Jesus stay strong and avoid falling into Satan's temptations? What are things we can do to exercise our spirit and be strong like our Savior? Let's learn about fasting by going to different exercise stations.

Have 5 different places in your home to do the following as a familiy, counting together too!:

Push Ups- Do 3 push ups. Matt. 6: 16, 18 "Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. " In our opening song, what was like sunshine?
Sit Ups- Do 10 sit ups. What is fasting and how do I do it? More info HERE.
Jumping Jacks- Do 15 jumping jacks. Share the following from Gospel Library/Gospel Topics "On one occasion, the Savior cast a devil out from a child and used this experience to teach His disciples about the power of prayer and fasting. His disciples asked Him, "Why could not we cast him out?" Jesus answered: "Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting." (See Matthew 17:14–21.)
This account teaches that prayer and fasting can give added strength to those giving and receiving priesthood blessings. The account can also be applied to our personal efforts to live the gospel. If we have a weakness or sin that we have struggled to overcome, we may need to fast and pray in order to receive the help or forgiveness we desire. Like the demon that Christ cast out, our difficulty may be the kind that will go out only through prayer and fasting. "
Squats- Do 10 squats. Share a personal experience of a time fasting has helped you.
Strike a Muscle Pose!! Again from the Gospel Library/ Gospel Topics "Isaiah also testified of the blessings that come when we obey the law of the fast: "Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. . . . If thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not" (Isaiah 58:8–11)."

We can be strong by following the example of Jesus and fast!! Bear Testimony.

Our loneliness, The Savior's loneliness

2010-11-07T14:00:00.000-08:00

Footprints in the Sand Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by Elliot Moore Sept. 2005

Elder Andersen asks, "In their own loneliness, do our children know the loneliness the Savior felt as His friends deserted Him and as He asked His Apostles, "Will ye also go away?"

Start with Opening prayer.

Watch THIS. Have pictures ready to show depicting the events he talks about. It is the May 2009 Conference Talk by Jeffrey R. Holland's None Were With Him. You may have to click on the left hand side on "watch". Let the spirit guide your conversation with family members.

Bear Testimony.

Miracle of Miracles- The Life of Jesus

2010-11-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

The Marriage at Cana, by Carl Heinrich Bloch. (Used by permission of the National Historic Museum at Frederiksborg in Hillerød, Denmark. "Christ’s Ministry and Miracles,” Ensign, Jan 2007, 40–45)

Elder Andersen asks, "Have our children felt the power of the Savior's miracles? Jesus healed the leper, gave sight to the blind. He fed the 5,000, calmed the sea, and raised Lazarus from the dead. Do our children believe that "it is by faith that miracles are wrought," and do they pray for miracles in their own life?"

Start with opening prayer. Sing The Miracle found in “Christmas Carols,” Ensign, Dec. 1973, 10.

Almost every part of Jesus' life was a miracle, including His earthly beginning we are currently celebrating!
Review some of the miracles of His life by playing miracle charades. Some stories to act out could include:
healing the leper
giving sight to the blind
feeding 5,000
calming the sea
withers a barren fig tree
raising Lazarus from the dead
casting out devils
walking on water
turning water into wine

Memorize the following scripture, Moroni 7:37 "...For it is by faith that miracles are wrought..." Make a family sign to put on the refrigerator of this scripture -everyone can decorate with pictures of Jesus' miracles!

Bear Testimony. Closing Song I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus (Children's Songbook pg.78)

"Be Not Afraid, Only Believe" Mark 5:36

2010-11-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

GAK picture 215

Elder Andersen asks, " Have our children taken courage from the Savior's words to the ruler of the synagogue: "Be not afraid, only believe."?

Start with opening Prayer. Sing 3rd verse How Firm a Foundation (Hymns pg. 85)

Act out the story of Jesus raising Jarius's daughter with simple costumes and props. The following is from the back of GAK picture 215 and could be read while family members act out.

"While Jesus was teaching the people, a ruler named Jairus came and knelt before Him. Jairus asked Jesus to come to his home because his only daughter, who was about 12 years old, was dying. Jairus had faith that his daughter could be healed if Jesus would lay His hands upon her. (See Matthew 9:18-19; Mark 5:22-23; Luke 8:41-42.)

Jesus started to go home with Jairus, but other people crowded around Him. While Jesus was helping a sick woman, a man came and told Jairus that his daughter had died. (See Matthew 9:19; Mark 5:24, Mark 5:35; Luke 8:49.) When Jesus heard this He said, "Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole" (Luke 8:50; see also Mark 5:36).

When Jesus arrived at Jairus's home, He told the mourners not to cry because the girl was not dead. The mourners laughed at Jesus and made fun of Him because they knew she was dead. (See Matthew 9:2324; Mark 5:3840; Luke 8:5253.)

Jesus sent the mourners away and went into the house with Peter, James, John, Jairus, and Jairus's wife (see Mark 5:40; Luke 8:51). Then He took the girl by the hand and said, "I say unto thee, arise" (Mark 5:41; see also Luke 8:54). The girl's spirit returned to her body, and she arose from her bed (see Matthew 9:25; Mark 5:42; Luke 8:55).

"And her parents were astonished" (Luke 8:56; see also Mark 5:42). Jesus told them to give her something to eat and asked them not to tell anyone what had happened (see Mark 5:42-43; Luke 8:55-56).

As a family, take a white pillow case, perhaps like the one where Jairus's daughter laid her head and write quotes, scriptures, thoughts, draw pictures on being courageous. We never have to be afraid, only believe just as Jesus said. (This is especially helpful for our little girls who sometimes have bad dreams... even though they sleep right next to us!!! :) )

Bear testimony.

Some Things Are Just Plain AWESOME

2010-11-05T09:59:00.000-07:00

Mentos Science Experiment Image Courtesy UK Mail Online

Elder Andersen asks, "Do our children know about His perfect life, His selfless ministry, His betrayal and cruel Crucifixion? Have we testified to them of the certainty of His Resurrection, of His visit to the Nephites in the Americas, of His appearance to the Prophet Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove?"

Start with opening prayer. Sing How Great Thou Art (Hymn #86)... but pick up the tempo a little for the children.

Proceed to do this experiment outside: AWESOME EXPERIMENT

Was that pretty awesome and wonderful and super? What is something that is even more awesome and wonderful and super?

Scripture:

Dan. 4: 3 "How great are his signs! and how mighty are his wonders! his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and his dominion is from generation to generation."

Jesus Christ and His perfect life and Resurrection!!!

As a family we'll do the experiment again, but to earn mentos we need to answer questions, read scriptures and sing songs having to do with His awesome life!

Have a paper bag with the following on separate little pieces of paper inside for family members to take turns drawing out.

1. How was Jesus perfect? Name 3 things in His life He did that we can do.

2. Read the following quote and show a picture of President Hinckley. "I want to give you my testimony. I know that God our Eternal Father lives, that He is the great Governor of the universe, and that we are His children, and that somehow He hears and answers the prayers of His children. I want you to know that I know that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, that He left His royal home on high and came down among men—hated and abused of men—and that He went about doing good [see Acts 10:38]. He was crucified out of the hatred of the people; He rose the third day—'the firstfruits of them that slept' (1 Corinthians 15:20). I want you to know that the Father and the Son appeared to the boy Joseph Smith and ushered in this marvelous dispensation—the greatest dispensation in the history of the entire world." Gordon B. Hinckley, "Inspirational Thoughts," Ensign, Feb. 2007, 4

3. Sing Tell Me the Stories of Jesus (CS pg. 57)

4. What feelings do you have when you think about the betrayal and Crucifixion of Jesus? (Show GAK pictures 228 and 230)

5. What is your favorite story from the life of Christ? Tell it.

6. Name 3 ways Jesus was "selfless". Name 3 ways we can be "selfless" too.

7. Sing I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus (CS pg. 78)

8. Find 2 scriptures having to do with Jesus' Resurrection.

9. Pretend you are an ancient Nephite witnessing the visit of Christ to America. Describe how you feel, what you see and some things you hear.

10. Tell the story of Heavenly Father and Jesus appearing to Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove. Why is this important to you?

Bear testimony of the Divinity and reality of Jesus Christ. Then go take the mentos you earned and explode away! There are many awesome things in life, but the greatest is knowing that Jesus Christ lives!

Majestic Return

2010-11-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

(Christus Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by midiman Jan. 2006)

Elder Andersen asks, "Do they anticipate His majestic return, when all will be made right and every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ?"

Start with an opening prayer.

Sing When He Comes Again (CS pg. 82)

Make a "Majestic Return" bingo game. Have about 9 squares on each sheet. Draw small pictures or depending on ages, you can include scriptures, in each square. You can also include hymns or GAK images too. Use small crowns (google crown clip art and make plenty for each family member) as some simple paper markers.

Some ideas taken from the Primary 7 manual include :
Only Heavenly Father knows the exact time when Jesus will come (JS—M 1:40).

Jesus will be dressed in red clothes (D&C 133:48).

False Christs will deceive many (JS—M 1:22).

Jesus will come down from the sky (Acts 1:11).

The Second Coming will be a glorious day for the righteous (D&C 2:1).

The wicked will be destroyed (D&C 29:9).

When Jesus comes, he will look brighter than the sun (D&C 133:49).

Missionaries will preach the gospel everywhere in the world (JS—M 1:31).

Desolations are wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes (JS—M 1:28–29).

The sun will be darkened (D&C 45:42).

For me personally, and it's probably because I'll be burned alive, I don't really anticipate the 2nd coming. I know I need a better attitude. I don't want my girls to ever be scared. I'm hoping a fun game like this will lighten my tension and worry on the subject.

End with this scripture:
Rom. 14: 11 "For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God."

Bear testimony.

Presents of Peace

2009-12-09T08:38:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by kevinthoule 10/15/05

My Christmas budget has been spent and now it's time to get creative! I wanted a few gifts that will help our souls grow and be spiritually meaningful... so dear hubby if you're reading this, time to click off and not spoil some surprises!

All these gifts are based on scriptures.

* 1 Nephi 19:23 "And I did read many things unto them which were written in the books of Moses; but that I might more fully persuade them to believe in the Lord their Redeemer I did read unto them that which was written by the prophet Isaiah; for I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning."

Take a small brown paper bag and put a nice bow. Fill it with papers with scriptures on one side and then moments that this scripture has reminded you of the person on the other.

For example: 1 Nephi 3:7 "And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them" Then on the next side, "My dad setting up hundreds of chairs as Elder's Quorum president week after week all by himself. It seemed impossible but you always did it without complaining."

* Mosiah 2: 17 "When ye are in the service of others, ye are only in the service of your God."

Make a list of community volunteer opportunities. You can search newspapers, craigslist, the yellow pages, go to the library or schools and ask... google is always great. :) Print out this wonderful talk given at the last general conference. (What have I Done for Someone Today? President Monson) Attach both together and roll up like a scroll. Put a nice ribbon. Take about 10 index cards and make them a little fancier... whether it be stickers or whatever. On the top of the index cards put What Have I Done for Someone Today?

This gift is different. It encourages one to have wonderful experiences, then record it on the index cards to put in a journal or just reflect on. I know I love to help out but don't always have the knowledge of what needs to be done or how to help... maybe others think the same way and this could be a meaningful gift!

* D&C 59:5 "Wherefore, I give unto them a commandment, saying thus: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy might, mind, and strength; and in the name of Jesus Christ thou shalt serve him."

How many of us take the time to review and ponder what we did good that day? Take this scripture and write it on a white board in permanent marker. Underneath (again, in permanent marker) write the question: What did I do today to fulfill this commandment? Boards and dry erase markers can be found at the dollar store or target dollar section.

* Mosiah 4:27 "And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order."

Spray paint an old shoe gold. Fill the shoe with your favorite quotes on hope, perseverance, and endurance. Give a little note card explaining:

When you're feeling tired
Worn out from the day,
When the race seems heavy
Don't fear or dismay!
Reach inside this shoe,
Golden truth will restore
A smile to your face
and love forever more!
poem by Sofia

* Ether 12: 27 "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weaknesses. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."

Teach a talent or one of your strengths to someone you love. For example, my hubby doesn't know how to play the piano or read music, so I'm going to plan on teaching him this upcoming year. And to my Hubster, if you happen to be spoiling your surprise and reading this I would like you to please teach me how to play all those Bob Marley songs on the guitar. It will be music dates.

* Alma 34:32 "For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors."

Buy or make a 2010 year calendar. For each day write a scripture for the person to look up or a service challenge. Have a theme for each month... for example Hope. Use the topical guide and plan away precious time.

2009 LDS Christmas Family Devotional Ideas

2009-11-17T22:57:00.000-08:00

This year we will have the letters CHRISTMAS hanging on a small Christmas tree. For each letter is a Christ centered quality and attribute we can learn about and follow. Once a devotional is done, I will let the girls replace the letter with the picture from the devotional on the tree. (Pictures to come soon!)

I just want to take the opportunity to bear testimony that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the World. Because He was born, because He lived His life perfectly and then atoned for you and I... we can have happiness! We can have peace and return to Him again after doing our very best. I love Christmas time. I love everyday of life.

I pray that my daughters can learn early through the teaching of the Holy Ghost who Christ is. I pray that my son can be proud of his mommy who adores him and does everything she can to return to him and make sure our family is eternal. I pray that Heavenly Father may know that I consider it a privilege to be able to bow before Him and confess Him as my God and His Son, Jesus Christ, as my Savior and Redeemer.

I hope these can help you and your beautiful families in any way shape or form! Merry Merry Christmas!!

"C" For Charity

2009-11-17T22:56:00.005-08:00

Gospel Art Book Jesus Carrying a Lost Lamb

Scripture: Moroni 7:45-47 "And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—

But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever ; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him."

Scripture: John 10:11-15 "I am the good shepherd : the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep."

Activity: Find, then be kind! Hide a bunch of stuffed animals around the house. These are like our Father's lost sheep. We must find, then be kind to them! Name something kind you can do for people as you find the stuffed animals.

Song: Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd (Hymns pg. 221)

Bear Testimony

Additional Activity: From what the children have come up with, as far as kindness ideas, choose one idea and then go do!
**Although, I'm kind of tempted to go as a family to a busy intersection with signs like "Have a nice day" and big smiley faces**

"H" For Happiness

2009-11-17T22:56:00.003-08:00

Gospel Art Book Jesus Blesses the Nephite Children

Question: What do you think makes our Savior happy?

Scripture: 3 Nephi 17:5-25 (Jesus heals and blesses Nephite children)
Emphasize verse 20 "And they arose from the earth, and he said unto them: Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now behold, my joy is full."

Song: (Adaptation from Donovan Leitch that we used to sing at girl's camp)
Happiness runs in a circular motion
Life is like a little boat upon the sea
Everybody is a part of everyone, anyways
You can be happy if you let yourself be.

Activity: Your boat is your couch. Dump a bunch of balloons on the ground and have fun! While you are playing, write things you are happy about on the balloons with marker.

Scripture: Mosiah 2:41 "And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it."

Bear Testimony

"R" For Reverence

2009-11-17T22:56:00.001-08:00

Christus, by Bertel Thorvaldsen Replicas found in Temple Visitor Centers

Song: I Love to See the Temple (CS pg. 95)

Activity: I SPY Temple game. Get out 4 or 5 different temple pictures. Take turns saying phrases like "I spy a temple with Jesus and the 12 apostle carved on the front". What temple is that? The Oakland, CA temple!! or "I spy a temple with 6 very tall spires." What temple is that? The Las Vegas, NV temple!!

Question: What is it like at the temple?
What are some feelings you would have if people were NOT being reverent at the temple?

Scripture: John 2:13-16 "And the Jews’ passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise."

Activity: I SPY Reverence game. Everyone shows how to be reverent and take turn saying things you spy. For example, "I spy Maria folding her arms." or "I spy Christina being a really good listener." or "I spy daddy kneeling for prayer."

Bear Testimony

"I" for Intelligence

2009-11-17T22:55:00.002-08:00

Gospel Art Book Boy Jesus in the Temple

We will do this activity at the local library aka heaven on earth.

Scripture: Luke 2:40-52 The story of Jesus teaching in the temple.

Question: How do we increase in wisdom?

Scripture: D&C 93:36 "The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth."

Activity: Blissfully roam around the library and gather a few books. Sit down at a table (in the children's section for us) and open up your books. Read. Look at pictures. Share and learn. Enjoy knowledge and grow in intelligence!! Hold up a copy of the scriptures to end with. What was Christ doing in the temple? Teaching His Father's word. So of all things we should study, what is most important? Our scriptures!!

Bear Testimony

"S" For Service

2009-11-17T22:55:00.001-08:00

Christ Reasoning with Peter, by Giotto di Bondone (Italian Painter from the late Middle Ages)

Song: I'm Trying to Be like Jesus (CS pg. 78-79)

Activity: Have some footprints making a path around the house to the picture of Christ washing His disciples feet. Have the picture covered so it will be a surprise. To get to the picture, a family member will have to say something related to service, whether it be a scripture, a way to serve or song they can think of on each footprint.

Scripture: John 13:4-15 (Story of Christ washing His disciples feet)
Emphasize verse 15 "For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you."

Activity: Further explore the concept of service by having a special desert. Everyone will work together to help out. Have strips of paper with things like "Please put on table cloth.", "Please put plates on the table.", "Please light the candle." etc. in a can and let each family member draw one strip to see what they can do. This is what our family is going to indulge in! I wonder who will pull the "Please put on whip cream."... Hopefully it's my 2 year old!!

Bear Testimony

"T" for "Thirst no More"

2009-11-17T22:54:00.002-08:00

For legal purposes (and personal integrity) I attribute this image to Living Water International www.water.cc I do not endorse them, I only put the web address because those are the conditions to be able to use this beautiful photo. Woah. Mouthful. :)

Scripture: D&C 63:23 "But unto him that keepeth my commandments I will give the mysteries of my kingdom, and the same shall be in him a well of living water, springing up unto everlasting life.

Story: “The Woman at the Well,” Friend, Mar 2001, 8 found here.

Activity: Construct our own mini-well, instructions found here. Gather supplies for an additional well to give to a family with young children in your ward.

Questions: Our bodies thirst for water, what do our spirits thirst for?
What do we do to get the water Christ spoke of to the woman at the well in our lives?

Bear Testimony

Activity: Go as a family to give the well materials to another family of your choice. Print out instructions for them as "well" as this poem (by yours truly):

Our Heavenly King and Father
Sent down His precious Son
The source of all joy and truth
Eternal life begun.

Each and every day
Christmas time or not
The living water flows
And is not to be forgot.

Our well is filled and topped
with love up to the brim.
Happy Holidays and memories!
All glory to be to Him!

"M" for Miracles

2009-11-17T22:54:00.001-08:00

Scripture: We will read “Christ’s Ministry and Miracles,” Ensign, Jan 2007, 40–45 found here as a family.

Activity: Make a large block letter M on a piece of paper. As a family come up with as many miracles you can think of that have happened to your family. Write them down on the M. Say a prayer of thanks for all the many miracles in our lives. Hang the M up somewhere to be seen often.

Question: What was the greatest miracle of all times?

Song: Did Jesus Really Live Again? (CS pg.64)

Bear Testimony

"A" for Atonement

2009-11-17T22:15:00.000-08:00

"This window in St Michael's Cornhill in London depicts Christ agony in the garden of Gethsemane, and the soldiers, led by Judas the betrayer, coming to arrest Him." Image Courtesy Creative Commons license on flickr.com by Lawrence OP April 9, 2009

Scripture: Isaiah 49:16 "Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me."

Song: God Loved Us, So He Sent His Son (Hymns pg. 187 Verses 1-3)

Quote: "Jesus Christ was appointed to be our Redeemer before the world was formed. With His divine Sonship, His sinless life, the shedding of His blood in the Garden of Gethsemane, His [painful] death on the cross and Resurrection from the grave, He became the author of our salvation and made a perfect Atonement for all mankind.

Some years ago, President Gordon B. Hinckley told “something of a parable” about “a one-room schoolhouse in the mountains of Virginia where the boys were so rough no teacher had been able to handle them.

“Then one day an inexperienced young teacher applied. He was told that every teacher had received an awful beating, but the teacher accepted the risk. The first day of school, the teacher asked the boys to establish their own rules and the penalty for breaking the rules. The class came up with ten rules, which were written on the blackboard. Then the teacher asked, ‘What shall we do with one who breaks the rules?’

“ ‘Beat him across the back ten times without his coat on,’ came the response.

“A day or so later, the lunch of a big student, named Tom, was stolen. The thief was located—a little hungry fellow, about ten years old.

“As little Jim came up to take his licking, he pleaded to keep his coat on. ‘Take your coat off,’ the teacher said. ‘You helped make the rules!’

“The boy took off the coat. He had no shirt and revealed a bony little crippled body. As the teacher hesitated with the rod, big Tom jumped to his feet and volunteered to take the boy’s licking.

“ ‘Very well, there is a certain law that one can become a substitute for another. Are you all agreed?’ the teacher asked.

“After five strokes across Tom’s back, the rod broke. The class was sobbing. Little Jim had reached up and caught Tom with both arms around his neck. ‘Tom, I’m sorry that I stole your lunch, but I was awful hungry. Tom, I will love you till I die for taking my licking for me! Yes, I will love you forever!’ ”

President Hinckley then quoted Isaiah:

“ ‘Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows. …

“ ‘He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our [sins].’ ” (Isa. 53:4–5.)

No man knows the full weight of what our Savior bore. His [deep] suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He took upon Himself all the sins of all other mortals, caused Him “to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit” (D&C 19:18).

**(See below) The Atonement and the Resurrection accomplish many things. The Atonement cleanses us of sin on condition of our repentance. Christ’s resurrection gave us the assurance of life after death.

Our Redeemer took upon Himself all the sins, pains, and sicknesses of all who have ever lived and will ever live (see Alma 7:11–12). He knows our trials by firsthand experience.

Because the Savior has suffered anything and everything that we could ever feel or experience, He can help the weak to become stronger. He understands our pain and will walk with us even in our darkest hours.

We long for the ultimate blessing of the Atonement—to become one with Him, to be in His divine presence, to be called individually by name as He warmly welcomes us home with a radiant smile, beckoning us with open arms to be enfolded in His boundless love (see Alma 26:15; Morm. 5:11; Morm. 6:17; Moses 7:63)." (James E. Faust, “Come Listen to a Prophet’s Voice: The Savior’s Atonement,” Friend, Mar 2002, 2)

** Display GAK pictures 227, 230, 239

Activity: Trace each family members hands. We know what Christ did with His hands for us. Now what can we use our hands to do for our Savior. Write down ideas or draw a picture inside the handprint. Cut it out, then glue on a nice square of Christmas scrapbook paper. Add a bow on top.

Bear Testimony

"S" for Sacrifice

2009-11-17T21:34:00.000-08:00

GAK 244 Christ and the Rich Young Ruler

(You will need to spend some time with your family making some cookies beforehand... and don't eat any!!)

Song: I Stand All Amazed (Hymns pg. 193)

Scripture Story: "A rich young ruler came to Jesus and asked what he should do to have eternal life. Jesus told the man that he must obey the commandments. When the rich young man said that he had been obedient to the laws of God, Jesus said the man needed to do one more thing. He needed to sell all he had, give to the poor, and follow Jesus. The rich young man was very sad. He did not want to do what Jesus told him to do. He loved his riches more than he loved God." (Summary GAK 244 Matthew 19:16-24; Mark 10:17-25; Luke 18:18-25)

Question: How was this young man different from Christ? What did Jesus sacrifice for us?

Scripture: Alma 34:13-14 ''Therefore, it is expedient that there should be a great and last sacrifice, and then shall there be, or it is expedient there should be, a stop to the shedding of blood; then shall the law of Moses be fulfilled; yea, it shall be all fulfilled, every jot and tittle, and none shall have passed away. And behold, this is the whole meaning of the law, every whit pointing to that great and last sacrifice; and that great and last sacrifice will be the Son of God, yea, infinite and eternal."

Demonstration: "To sacrifice is to give up something valuable or precious, often with the intent of accomplishing a greater purpose or goal." (Gospel Topics) Set out the plate of cookies you baked. Offer your family the choice to eat the cookies or sacrifice their portion to a neighbor. Will this make your neighbors happy?

Quote: " Sacrifice is a demonstration of pure love. The degree of our love for the Lord, for the gospel, and for our fellowman can be measured by what we are willing to sacrifice for them. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ manifested the supreme example of this love. His life and ministry established a pattern for us to follow. His divine mission was culminated in a supreme act of love as He allowed His life to be sacrificed for us. Having power over life and death, He chose to submit himself to pain, ridicule, and suffering, and offered His life as a ransom for our sins. Because of His love, He suffered both body and spirit to a degree beyond our comprehension and took upon Himself our sins if we repent. Through His personal sacrifice, He provided a way for us to have our sins forgiven and, through Him, to find our way back into the presence of our Heavenly Father.

The sacrifice he requires of us is “a broken heart and a contrite spirit” (3 Ne. 9:20) that can lead us to repentance. When we consider His example, the demands made upon our time or means are slight in comparison. We should, therefore, give gladly and count it as a blessing and an opportunity." (M. Russell Ballard, “The Blessings of Sacrifice,” Ensign, May 1992, 75)

Bear Testimony

Christmas should not be a time, but a state of mind.

2008-11-30T20:41:00.000-08:00

GAK 239 The Resurrected Christ

Read the following quotes:

"To the American People: Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. If we think on these things, there will be born in us a Savior and over us will shine a star sending its gleam of hope to the world." ~ Calvin Coolidge (1872-1933), American president. Presidential message (December 25, 1927)

"I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year." ~ Charles Dickens (1812-1870), English author. From 'A Christmas Carol'.

"My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?" ~ Bob Hope, American film actor and comedian.

Sing your favorite hymns. Take the time to bear testimonies as a family of the divinity of Christ. There is no better place to bear testimony than in the walls of your own home to those with whom you’ll spend eternity!!

Christmas is a time for all the senses.

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Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by mulacmail 12/2007

Sing Do you Hear what I hear?

Go on a Christmas "senses hunt". Collect in a basket things that have to do with Christmas and your senses throughout your home (e.g. bright wrapping paper to see, pine cones for smell, peppermint for taste… etc.). Then compare to another basket having to do with Christmas senses at the time of Jesus’ birth. In that basket you can have hay for touch, some sort of perfume for the gifts from the Wiseman for smell, a beautiful star for sight, warm milk for taste (perhaps from the stable animals??), angelic music for hearing and anything else you can think of!

Christmas is a time to reflect on the atonement.

2008-11-30T20:07:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by spacepotato 10/24/2007

Sing He Sent His Son Children’s Songbook pg. 34-35

Look at a CANDY CANE, what do you see? Stripes that are RED like the BLOOD shed for me! WHITE for my Savior, Who's sinless and pure! "J" is for JESUS, My Lord that's for sure! Turn it around And a staff you will see --- Jesus, my SHEPHERD, Is coming for me! (this poem was found on dltk-kids.com and had no author quoted)

Display a picture of Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane. Review what happened pertaining to the atonement, crucifixion and resurrection. Enjoy some candy canes while you read the following:

"During His brief ministry, He healed the sick, caused the blind to see, raised the dead, and rebuked the scribes and Pharisees. He was the only perfect man ever to walk the earth. All of this was part of His Father’s plan. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He suffered so greatly that he sweat drops of blood as He pleaded with His Father. But this was all a part of His great atoning sacrifice. He was taken by the mob, appeared before Pilate with the mob crying for His death. He carried the cross, the instrument of His death. On Golgotha He gave His life, crying out, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).

His body was tenderly laid in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathaea. But three days later, on that first Easter morning, the tomb was emptied. Mary of Magdala spoke to Him, and He spoke to her. He appeared to His Apostles. He walked with two disciples on the road to Emmaus. And, we are told, He was seen by some 500 others (see 1 Corinthians 15:6).
He had said, “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd” (John 10:16). Accordingly, He appeared to those assembled in the land Bountiful in the Western Hemisphere.

Here, He taught the people as He had taught them in the Old World. This is all recorded in detail in the Book of Mormon, which stands as a second witness of the divinity of our Lord.
And to repeat, both He and His Father appeared to the boy Joseph, the Father introducing the Son, saying: “This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!” (Joseph Smith—History 1:17).
Now, the next thing of which I am certain, and of which I bear witness, is the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ. Without it life is meaningless. It is the keystone in the arch of our existence. It affirms that we lived before we were born in mortality. Mortality is but a stepping-stone to a more glorious existence in the future. The sorrow of death is softened with the promise of the Resurrection. There would be no Christmas if there were no Easter. "

Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Things of Which I Know,” Ensign, May 2007, 83–85

Christmas is a time to SING SING SING!!!!!!!

2008-11-30T19:49:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by Irish Typepad 1/2008

Read: “I learned too what power there can be in music. When music is reverently presented, it can be akin to revelation. At times, I think, it cannot be separated from the voice of the Lord, the quiet, still voice of the Spirit. Worthy music of all kinds has its place. And there are endless numbers of places where it can be heard.”
- Boyd K. Packer, “The Spirit of the Tabernacle,” Ensign, May 2007, 26–29

Record your family singing your favorite Christmas songs or songs about Jesus on cassette tapes or video. Then send it to one of the missionaries serving from your ward or branch. Try to involve things the children can hold like nativity figurines or pictures.

Christmas is a time of good cheer.

2008-11-30T19:40:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by carrie 12/2007

Sing Smiles Children’s Songbook page 267 (at the top)

Have a row of 5 stuffed animals and tape on frowny faces to them. Tell your children the animals are stressed out about Christmas. They want to get just the right expensive gift, go to fancy parties and eat wine and cheese! Eeeww! Wine! No thank you, that’s against the word of wisdom! They are such bah-humbugs, they need to learn that Christmas is a time of good cheer (happiness) because of our Lord Jesus Christ. Have 5 smiley faces nearby, let the children choose one. For each back of the smiley faces you can have the following references:

John 16: 33 “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

D&C 68: 6 “Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you; and ye shall bear record of me, even Jesus Christ, that I am the Son of the living God, that I was, that I am, and that I am to come. “

D&C 61: 36 “And now, verily I say unto you, and what I say unto one I say unto all, be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you;”

D&C 78: 18 “And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours."

2 Cor. 9: 7 “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”

As you read the scripture let them change out the frowny faces for smiley faces.

Christmas is a time of thanksgiving and gratitude.

2008-11-25T22:21:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by gare and kitty 12/2006

Read the following by President Hinckley:

" Merry Christmas! my beloved friends. I greet you wherever you may be as members of the Church family. We are met tonight to pay homage to our Lord and Master, Jesus Christ, whose life and death mean so very much to each one of us. This is a gathering for prayer and song and speech, in tribute to the Master of all, the Lord Omnipotent, who condescended to come to earth, to be born in a stable, in a conquered nation, under the humblest of circumstances.

He was the Prince Almighty who left the royal courts on high and came among us to teach us and to lead us in His quiet and wonderful way.
As we now embark on the third millennium since His birth, we think of His tremendous influence upon the world. We feel profoundly grateful to have been born in this wonderful season of His glorious work.

How grateful we of this Church should feel. We live in the fullness of times. Mark that phrase. Mark the word fullness. It denotes all of good that has been gathered together in the past and restored to earth in this final dispensation.

My heart tonight is filled with thanksgiving unto the Almighty God. Through the gift of His Son, who is the God of this world, we have been so magnificently blessed. My heart rings with the words of our hymn, “Count your blessings; name them one by one. Count your many blessings; see what God hath done” (Hymns, no. 241)."

Gordon B. Hinckley, “First Presidency Christmas Devotional: ‘My Redeemer Lives’,” Ensign, Feb 2001, 70–73

String some popcorn as a family, and for each popcorn to go on, name something you are grateful to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ for. OR Make a gratitude jar by putting in a piece of candy each time you say something you are grateful to Heavenly Father and Jesus for. Give it away to a neighbor with a note of things you came up with as a family and your testimony of Christ.

Christmas is a time to bring forth good fruit.

2008-11-25T22:18:00.001-08:00

Read Matthew 7: 16-20
" Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good bruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."

Display GAK 213 (Jesus Healing the Blind Man) 234 (Jesus shows His wounds) and any other favorite pictures of Christ.

Free Clip Art image found on google.com

Make a picture of a tree and say This is Jesus’ tree. Come up with as many ideas as you can to label the fruit- that is things that Jesus did in His life that were “good fruit”.

Add a couple apples of things you have noticed about each other in your family. E.g. Mom wants to put up an apple of Christina giving her sister a hug when she was hurt. We can bring forth good fruit just like our Savior.

Christmas is a time to give “the best” gifts.

2008-11-25T22:05:00.000-08:00

Read 3 Nephi 14:9-12
"Or what man is there of you, who, if his son ask bread, will give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father who is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? Therefore, all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them, for this is the law and the prophets."

Wrap a few “yucky” gifts like a dirty sock, a chewed up apple or a crumpled newspaper. Have the children open them. How would they feel if these were their real Christmas gifts? Take a large piece of poster board and divide it in half Label the columns good gifts and best gifts. Brainstorm gifts for each categories, for younger children try to draw pictures of what they say. Good gifts could include a Barbie or toy truck. Best gifts should include things like service, a humble heart, kind words, love, thankful prayers to Heavenly Father, the life of Jesus Christ, etc.

Sing I Feel My Saviors Love Children’s Songbook pg.74 Focus on learning Vs.4
"I’ll share my Savior’s love, By serving others freely, In serving I am blessed, In giving I receive."

“ Our opportunities to give of ourselves are indeed limitless, but they are also perishable. There are hearts to gladden. There are kind words to say. There are gifts to be given. There are deeds to be done. There are souls to be saved. There is no better time than now, this very Christmas season, for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the principles taught by Jesus the Christ. It is the time to love the Lord our God with all our heart and our neighbors as ourselves. It is well to remember that he who gives money gives much, he who gives time gives more, but he who gives of himself gives all.Someone has appropriately said, “We make a living by what we get, but we build a life by what we give.” It is through giving, rather than getting, that the Spirit of Christ enters our lives.”
Thomas S. Monson “First Presidency Christmas Devotional: ‘My Redeemer Lives’,” Ensign, Feb 2001, 70–73

Christmas is a time to be celebrated by all nations and people of the world.

2008-11-25T21:54:00.000-08:00

Have a Mexico, France and Italy flag. Also have a map they can point to and a picture of Christ.

In Mexico children decorate their homes for Christmas with colored paper lanterns and flowers. Children in Mexico often celebrate with a presebra which is a replica of the manger scene with Jesus was born nearly 2000 years ago!
In Mexico children have a great deal of fun when they participate in a parade called a posada. These parades represent Mary and Joseph searching for a place to stay on the night Jesus was born. Some of the people in the parade dress as Mary and Joseph and some dress as angels. The parade goes from door to door searching for shelter just as Mary and Joseph did the night Jesus was born. Just as Mary and Joseph could find no room in the inn, neither can the participants of the parade. Sometimes the people in the parade will say a prayer in front of the manger scene and then they will have a party!
(Have them hold the Mexican flag.Pretend to have a parade around the living room)

Almost all the homes in France display a Nativity scene or creche which reminds everyone of the true meaning of Christmas. (Have them hold the French flag. Do we have a nativity in our home??)
On Christmas Eve restaurants and cafes in France stay open all night! The restaurants are serving a special meal that is called "le reveillon." The word reveillon means to wake up! Reveillon symbolically represents the spiritual awakening to meaning of the birth of Jesus!
Children of France are busy munching away on sausages, oysters, ham and pastries while you are putting away roast turkey! French children also eat a cake which is called a "Christ Cake." A Christ cake is coated with sugar and is decorated to look like the Christ child. (Pretend to make a Christ cake.) One very interesting custom in France is to leave a candle burning in case the Virgin Mary passes by! Something else that you might find very interesting is that the children in France receive their gifts on December 6th!

Children in Italy celebrate Christmas with a big focus on Jesus! They start celebrating Christmas 8 days before Christmas and continue until after the Feast of Ephiphany. On December 23rd, children dress up like shepherds and they go from house to house playing shepherds songs. People give the children money for the children to buy treats!
In Italy families kneel before the presepio which means manger. The manger figures are hand-carved and are usually very detailed. The manger scene is set out in the shape of a triangle. This pyramid structure is called a ceppo. The ceppo is built out of wood and is several feet high. It is decorated with colored paper and cones! The shelves in the ceppo is filled with small gifts and candy. (Have them hold the Italian flag. Pretend to put candy in the ceppo.)
The children in Italy are not looking for Santa Claus but are looking for Befana. Befana is a witch-like character and she rides on a broom. The story about Befana says that on the night that baby Jesus was born, she was asked by the Three Wise Men for directions to Bethlehem and she said she was too busy! Later on that night Befana saw a light in the sky and decided to go to Bethlehem. She looked and looked but could not find the stable. Legend says that each and every year she continues to look for the Christ Child. Since she was not able to give the Christ Child a gift, legend also says that she gives gifts to good boys and girls.

Info found on : http://www.homeschooled-kids.com/cmasworld.html
Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by Bella Beita B&B 1/2008

Now hold up a flag of where you are from and talk about ways you celebrate Christ during Christmas.

Christmas is a time for humility.

2008-11-25T21:46:00.000-08:00

Sing Be thou Humble Hymns pg.130
What does it mean to be humble?
Where were we born? Where was Christ born? What are differences between those 2 places?

Enjoy the following (and remember to make together as a family!):
Baby Jesus Haystacks

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by bunchofpants 12/3/2007
Ingredients:
• 1 package choc chips,
• ½ cup peanut butter,
• 4 cups chow mein noodles,
• mini marshmallows.

Directions: 1. Melt choc chips and peanut butter together for 1 min in microwave, stir and microwave for additional 1 ½ min until melted. Add chow mein noodles and stir with 2 spoons/forks as tossing a salad.
2. Drop onto waxed paper.
3. Add a marshmallow to represent baby Jesus.

Recipe found off dltk-kids.com

Christmas is a time to serve our Master Jesus Christ.

2008-11-25T21:38:00.000-08:00

Have a pitcher of water and 2 glasses. Put them 12 inches apart Ask a child to fill up the glasses with the water at the same time (without moving the glasses). It’s impossible, they have to choose a glass.
Now have 2 chairs a couple feet apart. Have a child place 1 book on both of the chairs at the same time without moving the chairs. It’s impossible, they have to choose a chair.

Read 3 Nephi 13: 24,
"No man can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and Mammon."

Read Joshua 24:15
"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by Darren Hester 11/2007

Make a picture of a really expensive Christmas gift with lots of dollar signs. Set it next to a picture of Jesus. At Christmas time and always, who is our master? How can we serve Him? Have the children decide which picture we keep. Take the picture of $$$ and throw it in the garbage. Remind the children that Christmas isn't about expensive or fancy gifts, it's about remembering Jesus and doing things He did.

Christmas is a time to shout Hosanna to the Most High.

2008-11-25T21:33:00.000-08:00

GAK 223

Display the picture of Christ’s triumphal entry GAK 223. In Hebrew the word Hosanna means “pray, save us!” Hosanna is used as a cry of adoration. It is a word of respect and yet a word of pleading.

Read Mark 11:7-9
" And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him; and he sat upon him. And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way. And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord"

Make little paper palm branches for your children. Sing some excerpts from hymns and when they hear the word hosanna, they can hold up their branch.

Excerpts of songs could include:
The Spirit of God - Hymns pg.2 chorus
The Nativity Song - Children’s Songbook pg. 52–53 verse 2
Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus - Children’s Songbook pg. 36
All Glory, Laud and Honor - Hymns pg.69 verse 1
With Wondering Awe - Hymns pg.210 verse 3 and chorus

Christmas is a time for our souls to be still.

2008-11-25T21:04:00.000-08:00

If it happens to be snowing, watch the snow or go outside to feel your surroundings.
If you have a delicious smelling candle, sit in the dark and watch it burn for a few seconds. If you have a fireplace, light a fire and take a moment to be still.

Watch the following together as a family.

(Found on youtube.com by snotface7)

How does Jesus help those that suffer? How does Jesus bring our hearts calm and happiness?

Read 4 Nephi 1:16-18 " And surely there could not be a happier people among all the people who had been created by the hand of God. There were no robbers, nor murderers, neither were there Lamanites, nor any manner of -ites; but they were in one, the children of Christ, and heirs to the kingdom of God. And how blessed were they! For the Lord did bless them in all their doings;"

Christmas is a time to do the will of the Father.

2008-11-25T20:54:00.000-08:00

Have a set of tasks for everyone to do. (about 2 or 3 per person depending on the size of your family) They must do exactly what is said. E.g. (Walk 5 steps, hop 3 times and then smile for 20 seconds really really big! Click your heels 12 times while humming a Christmas carol.) Let your children choose something for you to do that they say.

When we listen, follow and do exactly what is said we show obedience.

Read 3 Nephi 27:13-14
" Behold I have given unto you my gospel, and this is the gospel which I have given unto you—that I came into the world to do the will of my Father, because my Father sent me.
And my Father sent me that I might be lifted up upon the cross; and after that I had been lifted up upon the cross, that I might draw all men unto me, that as I have been lifted up by men even so should men be lifted up by the Father, to stand before me, to be judged of their works, whether they be good or whether they be evil"

GAK 230

Show a favorite picture of Jesus. Jesus Christ showed the greatest example of obedience. What are some things we can do to show obedience, like Jesus, to Heavenly Father?

Christ came to earth at Christmas time, dwelling in a tabernacle of clay.

2008-11-25T20:45:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com Katherine Donaldson 3/2006

“For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, causing the lame to walk, the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear, and curing all manner of diseases.

And he shall cast out devils, or the evil spirits which dwell in the hearts of the children of men.

And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people.

And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary.” Mosiah 3:5–8

Grab a few tubs of play dough and mold something that has to do with this scripture and/or Christ’s Nativity story. Sometimes clay is used for modeling, what did Christ model or show us in life?

Christmas is a time for bloom.

2008-11-25T20:20:00.000-08:00

Ask your children, can flowers grow and bloom in the snow? If flowers can't bloom in the winter, what can?

Image courtesy creative commons license Flickr.com by Trueclearlight February 26, 2008

President Monson said, "Giving, not getting, brings to full bloom the Christmas."
President Monson The Best Christmas Ever Ensign 12/2008 p.5

Get out some construction paper, paint, markers, pipe cleaners... whatever you have on hand. Taking egg cartons and cutting out each groove can make a nice shape for little flowers. Make a Christmas floral bouquet (with a tag with President Monson's quote) and doorbell ditch it on someone's porch.

Without Christ there would be no Christmas.

2008-11-22T19:23:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by midiman 1/23/06

Go through your home and label things minus the word "Christ". That is go to the Christmas tree and put a sign that says Mas Tree. Take away baby Jesus from the mangers, put a sign on gifts as Mas Gifts, Mas Cards, Mas Decorations, Mas ornaments, Mas lights… etc. Try to block out anything with a picture of Christ. Make a sign that says Christmas so your children can see the difference in the words and spelling.

Then ask your children what is going on? What word is missing? This is terrible!! Does this feel wrong to anyone? Does it feel like something is missing in our home?
Read them the quote by President Ezra Taft Benson:
“Keeping Christ in Christmas,” Ensign, Dec 1993, 2

“Without Christ there would be no Christmas, and without Christ there can be no fullness of joy.”

Fix all your signs by adding the word Christ. Say the letters together. Fix all the mangers and pictures. Stress again that without Christ, there is no fullness of joy or happiness!! We need our Savior!!!

Christmas is a time of Kindness.

2008-11-22T19:13:00.000-08:00

Jesus taught His disciples that when you are kind to others, you are being kind to Him. He said, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me” Matthew 25:40

Ann Jamison, “Sharing Time: Christmas All Year,” Friend, Dec 2000, 11

"A mosaic is a picture made of small pieces of colored materials such as stone, glass, or tile. You can make one using pieces of colored paper or cloth. Cut the scraps of paper or cloth into many small pieces...arrange your pieces on the drawing. Use different colors of paper or cloth to make the picture, just as you might use crayons or paints (see illustration).

When you have the pieces positioned the way you want them, glue each one in place. You can make many more Christmas mosaics by drawing your own pictures and gluing the colored scraps in place. Just as a mosaic is made of many little pieces, you can show that you remember Jesus’ birthday all year by doing many little acts of kindness and love."

Image by Thomas S. Child

As an added suggestion, as you glue little pieces to the paper talk about all the different things you can think of that Jesus did for others. See if you can come up with as many acts of kindness He showed as scraps of paper. Also, we are going to be making one mosaic as an entire family.

Christmas is a time of peace.

2008-11-22T16:27:00.000-08:00

Sing as a family, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (Hymns pg. 209) Glue a paper angel on a popsicle stick. As you sing, have the children hold up the angel when they hear the word “peace”.

Angel Clip Art Image found on google.com

Read Luke 2: 11-14
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling
clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God,
and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Peace means harmony, togetherness. Work together to put the “pieces” of a puzzle
together. Emphasize how the peace of Christ brings unity.

Puzzle: From friend 12/2008 By Mike Eagle

Christmas is a time to give meditation.

2008-11-22T16:10:00.001-08:00

Photo Courtesy Creative-Commons License by Strange Librarian 1/6/08 Flickr.com

Have your family sit in a circle sitting Indian style. As you read, do some deep breathing. Perhaps even touching the middle finger to the thumb. Suggest that your children picture in their minds what hugging Jesus would be like. After you read the quote, set a timer for 30 seconds to see if we can meditate on “the wonder and the majesty of this, the Son of God”. Ask the children what they think about Jesus.

Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Glorious Season,” NewEra, Dec 2007, 2–5

"Christmas is more than trees and twinkling lights, more than toys and gifts and baubles of a hundred varieties. It is love. It is the love of the Son of God for all mankind. It reaches out beyond our power to comprehend. It is magnificent and beautiful.

It is peace. It is the peace which comforts, which sustains, which blesses all who accept it.
It is faith. It is faith in God and His Eternal Son. It is faith in His wondrous ways and message. It is faith in Him as our Redeemer and our Lord.

We testify of His living reality. We testify of the divinity of His nature. In our times of grateful meditation, we acknowledge His priceless gift to us and pledge our love and faith. This is what Christmas is really about.

For each of you may this be a merry Christmas. But more importantly, I wish for each of you a time, perhaps only an hour, spent in silent meditation and quiet reflection on the wonder and the majesty of this, the Son of God. Our joy at this season is because He came into the world. The peace that comes from Him, His infinite love which each of us may feel, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for that which He freely gave us at so great a cost to Himself—these are of the true essence of Christmas.”

Christmas is a time of Increased Love

2008-11-22T15:59:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy Creative-Commens License by Monkey Junkie 2/23/2006 Flickr.com

Get out mixing bowl, wooden spoon, apron, spatula, measuring cup and baking pan. Have word strips with simple pictures for the following words: (To go in the bowl) kindness, respect, love, concern, (to go out of the bowl) happiness in the home, kinder feelings, love, spread the gospel of peace. And of course, have displayed one of your favorite pictures of Christ.

Read the following as a family. Put aprons on everyone. Stress the highlighted words as you read and have the children hold up the proper cooking utensil it relates too. Mix in words as they are read, then pour out the words into the baking pan

Gordon B. Hinckley, “A Glorious Season,” NewEra, Dec 2007, 2–5
"And so at this Christmas season, we sing His praises and speak our words of faith and gratitude and love. It is His influence in our lives that stirs within us more kindness, more respect, more love, more concern. It is because of Him and His teachings that we reach out to those in trouble, distress, and need wherever they may be.
What a glorious season is this time of Christmas. Hearts are softened. Voices are raised in worship. Kindness and mercy are reenthroned as elements in our lives. There is an accelerated (stir faster) reaching out to those in distress. There is an aura of peace that comes into our homes. (pretend to smell the air) There is a measure (measuring cup) of love that is not felt to the same extent at any other time of the year.
Said Jesus: “Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” (Matthew 7:12.) (point to picture)
May I remind us at this Christmas season that if only each of us would reflect occasionally on that Christ-given mandate and make an effort to observe it, this would be a different world. (Pour from bowl into pan)There would be greater happiness in our homes; there would be kinder feelings among our associates; there would be much less of litigation and a greater effort to compose differences. There would be a new measure (measuring cup) of love and appreciation and respect.
There would be more generous hearts, more thoughtful consideration and concern, and a greater desire to spread the gospel of peace and to advance the work of salvation among the children of men."