Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 1

Hope begins Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 1 In the beginning God gave man the gift of Hope. The promised seed was given in Genesis 3:15. This prophecy, warning, and promise is the foundation of many promises that will develop in the progress of God s revelation to us in the gift of Hope which Jesus brings to all mankind. And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head, and you shall bruise him on the heel. Genesis 3:15 Aunt Marilyn Hot Chocolate Recipe Mix 1lb hot chocolate mix 1-8 qt size nonfat dry milk 1lb powdered sugar 1 small jar dry coffee creamer Remember the word to Your servant, upon which You have caused me to hope. this is my comfort in my affliction, for Your word has given me life. Psalm 119:49-50 Sift together the hot chocolate mix, nonfat dry milk, powdered sugar and dry coffee creamer together. Makes 1 gallon of hot chocolate mix Use 1/3 cup in a mug of hot water Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel (which means God with us ). Matthew 1:23

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 2 The journey of Hope continues with more amazing and miraculous road signs that will present us with who the Deliverer (Jesus) is, when, where, and how He will be born. The Godly seed we see will begin in the line of Seth. Eve named her son Seth illustrating her faith that the child to come will be the appointed one. Adam made love to his wife again, and she gave birth to a son and named him Seth, saying, God has granted me another child in place of Abel, since Cain killed him. Genesis 4:25-26 Christmas Tree Ornament Ribbon & Scrabble Letters Ribbon Scrabble Letters Glue Dots or Glue Gun Bell Embellishments (optional) Place the scrabble letters on the ribbon and use the glue dots or glue gun to attach the letters to the ribbon. Have Fun! Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. Genesis 12:3 And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed. When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways. Acts 3:25-26

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 3 The hope and deliverer would come from the blessings of Noah s son, Shem. The verse here represents praise to the Lord, the God of Shem which represents Shem s good fortune, and is the product of Shem s relationship to the Lord as his God. He also said, Praise be to the Lord, the God of Shem! May Canaan be the slave of Shem. May God extend Japheth s territory; may Japheth live in the tents of Shem, and may Canaan be the slave of Japheth. Genesis 9:26-27 String/Rope Mason Jar Lid Felt Embellishment Glue Mason Jar Lid Ornament The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. Jeremiah 31:3 Glue the felt to mason jar lid add string/rope and embellishment. Then God said, Yes, but your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him. Genesis 17:19 Nor because they are his descendants are they all Abraham s children. On the contrary, It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned. Romans 9:7

DAY 4 Hope continues The fulfillment of God s promises and purposes now come in the call of Abram and the covenant. The scripture tells us that Abram is in the line of Shem which is where the seed of hope would come. The blessings that are promised to the nations in the deliverer and promised seed will come from Abram s descendants. The Lord had said to Abram, Go from your country, your people and your father s household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. Genesis 12:1-3 Christmas Tree Ornament Gift Tag Ribbon Paper Embellishment Glue And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 Glue Paper to the gift tag, add the embellishment and add ribbon to the top. Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring Genesis 28:14 the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, Luke 3:34

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 5 The journey continues in scripture to the covenant God makes with Abram that he will be a father of many nations. God would change his name to Abraham meaning father of a multitude. The everlasting covenant between God and Abraham will pave the way for the Deliverer to come from the descendants of Abraham. As for me, this is my covenant with you: You will be the father of many nations. No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations. I will make you very fruitful; I will make nations of you, and kings will come from you. I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you. Genesis 17:4-7 Matchbox Christmas paper Bow Present of Choice Christmas Matchbox Gift Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 Cover the matchbox with the Christmas paper, add the bow and place a present of choice inside the box. Enjoy The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his. Genesis 49:10 the son of Amminadab, the son of Ram, the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah, Luke 3:33

DAY 6 Hope continues The nations will be blessed through Abraham in a son. God tells Abraham and Sarah they will have a son and they will call him Isaac. This covenant with Abraham is an everlasting covenant for all his descendants. Then God said, Yes, but your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him. Genesis 17:19 But God said to him, Do not be so distressed about the boy and your slave woman. Listen to whatever Sarah tells you, because it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned. Genesis 21:12 Christmas Bookmark With Embellishments Gift Tag Christmas paper Ribbon Glue Embellishments Take gift tag, glue Christmas paper of choice onto tag, add embellishments and ribbon. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 2 Samuel 7:12-13 This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: Matthew 1:1

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 7 As we look for the Deliverer in the descendants of Isaac we find that Isaac has two sons and will produce two nations. The son which the deliverer will come from will be Jacob. Jacob has 12 sons (Genesis 35:22-27). Which son do we find that will bring forth the one who will be the source of blessings to the nations? The babies jostled each other within her, and she said, Why is this happening to me? So she went to inquire of the Lord. The Lord said to her, Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger. Genesis 25:22-23 Magnetic Fridge Sticky Notes Magnetic Photo Holder Christmas Paper Sticky Notes Embellishments Ribbon Glue Cover the magnetic photo holder with the Christmas paper. Glue on the sticky notes, ribbon, and embellishments. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. Hosea 11:1 So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: Out of Egypt I called my son. Matthew 2:14-15

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 8 Jacob, Isaac s son pronounces a blessing on each of his sons and his son Judah will be the source of blessings to the nations. We find in Judah the royal line and the right to rule would remain in Judah. Judah means praise, the scepter shows the royalty, and Shiloh means the peacemaker of the one to come. The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his. Genesis 49:10 Candy Cane Marshmallows Candy Sprinkles Black M&M s Stack the Marshmallows on the candy cane and decorate with the candy sprinkles and M&M s. Have fun!! Snowmen can be a little messy and melting in hot chocolate can be the best part Marshmallow Snowman but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. Micah 5:2 In Bethlehem in Judea, they replied, for this is what the prophet has written: But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel. Matthew 2:4-6

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 9 The tribe of Judah grew into the thousands and the next family to be part of the journey is the family of Jesse. The family of Jesse will bring the next in the line of the one to come. The journey to the birth of Jesus comes through the family of Jesse. The Lord said to Samuel, How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king. 1 Samuel 16:1 Christmas Stovetop Potpopurri ½ cup of fresh cranberries 2-4 cinnamon sticks ¼ cup whole cloves ½ teaspoon nutmeg 3 bay leaves Add a sliced small orange (optional) Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 Fill your home with a great holiday scent. Add all ingredients in a small pot cover with water and simmer on low adding more water as needed. Add all ingredients to a small jar or bag and give for gifts. And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel. Genesis 3:15 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil s work. 1 John 3:8

DAY 10 Hope continues The Lord speaks to the prophet Samuel to anoint David. Isaiah tells how the child to come will be from the throne of David. So, he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, Rise and anoint him; this is the one. So, Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah. 1 Samuel 16:12-13 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. Isaiah 9:5-7 Soft Dish (soap of choice) Sugar Sugar Scrub Recipe Fresh and Clean Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 Combine sugar and dish soap of choice to make a consistency that makes your hands feel soft, smooth, fresh, and clean. Place in a small jar and add material to the lid and cover. Makes a great gift. The animals you choose must be year-old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. Exodus 12:5 How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! Hebrews 9:14

DAY 11 Hope continues Now we know that the child to come will come through the line of David. The lineage and birth of the Savior is a miracle and absolutely incredible. God s covenant with David is where God assures David that the royal line will pass through his son Solomon. When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by men, with floggings inflicted by human hands. But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever. Nathan reported to David all the words of this entire revelation. 2 Samuel 7:12-17 Christmas Clothes Pen Fridge Magnet Christmas Clothes Pen Photo Magnet Pocket Christmas Paper Post it notes Remember the word to Your servant, upon which You have caused me to hope. this is my comfort in my affliction, for Your word has given me life. Numbers 6:24-26 Cover the Photo Magnet Pocket with the Christmas Paper. Add the Christmas Clothes Pen and Post it notes. Also, add other embellishments of choice. You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet: Psalm 8:5-6 What is mankind that you are mindful of them, a son of man that you care for him? You made them a little lower than the angels; you crowned them with glory and honor and put everything under their feet. Hebrews 2:6-8

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 12 The covenant between God and David is also known as the Davidic Covenant. God promises David that David s house, throne, and kingdom would be forever and one day established through the coming of the Messiah. Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever. 2 Samuel 7:16 Dog Treat Christmas Bag Present Plastic bag (Christmas Bag Optional) Dog Treats of choice Christmas paper Embellishments Add the dog treats to the plastic bag. Add Christmas paper at the top, staple to the bag adding embellishments. On that day they will say to Jerusalem, Do not fear, Zion; do not let your hands hang limp. The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:16-17 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire but my ears you have opened burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. Then I said, Here I am, I have come it is written about me in the scroll. I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart. Psalm 40:6-8 Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. Then I said, Here I am it is written about me in the scroll I have come to do your will, my God. Hebrews 10:5-10

DAY 13 Hope continues It is predicted there would be someone come before the Messiah who would prepare the way. The one to prepare the way is fulfilled in John the Baptist. John is the one who would prepare the hearts of the people for the coming Messiah. A voice of one calling: In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Isaiah 40:3 I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come, says the Lord Almighty. Malachi 3:1 Clear Glass or Plastic Cub Ornament Clear Glass or Plastic Cub Ornament Small Foam Pebbles Ribbon for hanger Ribbon for Top of Ornament Embellishments The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1 Using a Clear Glass or Plastic Cub Ornament add small foam pebbles and ribbon for the hanger. Add embellishments and ribbon of choice. I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, Lord, as you know. Psalm 40:9 From that time on Jesus began to preach, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near. Matthew 4:17

DAY 14 Hope continues Isaiah announces that the birth of a child through a virgin will be the sign for the birth of Jesus. The angel that came to Joseph in a dream and quoted this passage in order to explain the fulfillment of what had been spoken by the prophet. Then Isaiah said, Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. Isaiah 7:13-14 Wooden tags Glue Christmas paper Embellishments Christmas Gift Tags The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10 Glue Christmas paper to the wooden tags and add the Christmas embellishments of choice. He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Isaiah 53:3 All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him off the cliff. Luke 4:28-29

DAY 15 Hope continues The genealogy of Jesus, the Messiah can be seen sometimes as long and boring. But what is interesting is all of the promises that were fulfilled all along the way from Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, and on to the miracle birth of Jesus. This shows the path for the generations from Abraham to David, and to the Messiah. Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah. Matthew 1:17 Mason Jar or Small Jar Christmas Dog Treats When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:2 Mason jar Dog treats of choice Gift tag Christmas paper Embellishments Glue Twine of Rope Material Add dog treats to mason jar and place material between the ring and closing the jar. Cover the gift tag with Christmas paper and add embellishments, twine, tie to the top of the mason jar, and make a bow. The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord s favor. Luke 4:18-19

DAY 16 Hope continues The announcement of Jesus is given by God in John 3:16. So, listen, hear, watch and see as hope continues to bring Jesus for Christmas. Jesus is the greatest gift to the world and will bring joy and peace to all mankind. The gift of eternal life, for unto you a child is born, a son is given. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 Christmas Jar Red & Green M&M s Red and Green M&M s Plain and Peanut Mason Jar Ribbon Bow Small Material for LId Add Red and Green M&M s to each Jar. Plain M&M s in one jar and Peanut M&M s in the other jar. Add Ribbon, bow and small material for lid. Make sure you check for peanut allergies for anyone you give the peanut M&M s to. One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. Psalm 27:4-5 For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one s life. Leviticus 17:11 The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel (which means God with us ). Matthew 26:28

DAY 17 Hope continues Mary was so brave when the angel Gabriel came to her and told her that the Holy Ghost was going to come upon her and that she would be giving birth to the Savior of the world. Mary was blessed and highly favored by the Lord. The angel answered, The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail. I am the Lord s servant, Mary answered. May your word to me be fulfilled. Then the angel left her. Luke 1:35-38 Popsicle Stick Pen & Pencil Holder So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 Can (soup can works great) Popsicle sticks Paint the popsicle sticks and glue to the side of the can. Add embellishments to the front of the can. Paint Glue Embellishments They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment. Psalm 22:18 Let s not tear it, they said to one another. Let s decide by lot who will get it. This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled that said, They divided my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment. So this is what the soldiers did. John 19:24

DAY 18 Hope continues Mary went to visit her relative Elizabeth and at the sound of Mary s greeting Elizabeth s own child leaped in her womb. Mary shared with her what the angel had said, Elizabeth shouted a blessing to Mary and blessed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her. At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her! Luke 1:39-44 Clear Glass or Plastic Ornament Clear Glass or Plastic Ornament Red shinny balls Ribbon for hanger Embellishments But he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 Using a Clear Glass or Plastic Ornament add red shinny balls and a ribbon for the hanger. Also, add any embellishments of choice. He trusts in the Lord, they say, let the Lord rescue him. Let him deliver him, since he delights in him. Psalm 22:8 He saved others, they said, but he can t save himself! He s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, I am the Son of God. Matthew 27:42-43

DAY 19 Hope continues Joseph is the earthly father who was faithful to follow the instructions from the angel God sent to let him know that Mary was to be his wife and the mother of Jesus. This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:18-20 Greeting Card Embellishments Christmas Greeting Cards I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. Psalm 27:13-14 Use a plain greeting card and add embellishments. Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet. Psalm 22:16 These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: Not one of his bones will be broken, and, as another scripture says, They will look on the one they have pierced. John 19:36-37

DAY 20 Hope continues Everyone in Bethlehem was busy getting registered for the census and it was during this time the child would be born. When Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem there was no room in the Inn so they found a stable near by and laid Jesus in a manger when he arrived. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. Luke 2:4-7 Mason Jar Red & Green Star Candy Mason Jar Red Star Candy Green Star Candy Small Material for Lid Ribbon Bow Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. Psalm 31:24 Add Red and Green star candy to each jar. Add small material for lid and including ribbon and bow to top off the gift. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me so far from my cries of anguish? Psalm 22:1 About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani? (which means My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? ). Matthew 27:46

DAY 21 Hope continues Out in the fields taking care of their flock, Shepherds were suddenly overwhelmed by a bright light and angels appeared unto them announcing the joy of hope had been born and given to all people. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, Let s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. Luke 2:8-12,15 Christmas Tree Jar Foam Pebbles or Glitter Small jar Small Christmas tree Foam pebbles Glue Embellishments Glue small Christmas tree to the lid of the jar, add foam pebbles to the inside of the jar, and turn the lid upside down with the tree on the inside of the jar. I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33 Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God. Psalm 31:5 Jesus called out with a loud voice, Father, into your hands I commit my spirit. When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:46

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 22 There were animals in the stable. A donkey plays a role throughout the scriptures in many ways such as how Mary and Joseph rode to Bethlehem. The donkey represents patience, courage, gentleness, peace and humility. Even though the scriptures do not state that Mary rode a donkey it would have been too far to walk from Nazareth to Bethlehem about 90 miles in her condition. Since Mary and Joseph were not wealthy they would have had a donkey for travels. Jesus triumphal entry later in life was upon a donkey. "Say to Daughter Zion, 'See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Matthew 21:5 Candy Cane Hershey Bars Kit Kat Bar Ribbon Bow Candy Cane Sleigh You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid, and many will court your favor. Job 11:18-19 Stack Hershey Bars and glue on top of Kit Kat Bar. Glue or tape Candy Canes to the bottom of the Kit Kat Bar. Add Ribbon around the candy canes and candy bars. Place bow on top to make a nice Christmas gift. I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done. The Lord has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death. Psalm 118:17-18 Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again. Luke 24:5-7

DAY 23 Hope continues Another animal found in the stable would have been a cow. The cow represents provision and unconditional love. The cow provides milk, meat, and mainly eats the grass provided by the ground of the earth. Cattle require little care, give unconditionally, and live an unhurried life. Sometimes we need to stop the hurried pace of life and reflect on the provisions and unconditional love God brings. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 Wood Photo Frame Embellishments Wood Frame Christmas Photo The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love. Psalm 147:11 Using a Wood Photo Frame add embellishments of choice and a Christmas picture or leave empty for the receiver of the gift to add their Christmas picture. For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. Isaiah 44:3 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. John 16:7

Hope continues Hope the Gift of Christmas DAY 24 Wisemen saw a star and came to worship Jesus bearing gifts. After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him. When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. In Bethlehem in Judea, they replied, for this is what the prophet has written: But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel. Matthew 2:1-6 Round Wood Ornament Embellishments Christmas Paper Round Wood Ornament My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26 Use a Round Wood Ornament adding Embellishments and Christmas Paper. "A voice of one calling: 'In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain Isaiah 40:3-4 "John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, 'I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, "Make straight the way for the Lord John 1:23

DAY 25 Hope Has Arrived Hope, the Gift of Christmas, is God giving His most precious gift, the way of salvation and eternal life abundant with Him. Jesus is the Hope of Glory brought to earth to bring everlasting life to all mankind. God wants you to accept His gift and to share His gift with everyone. The birth of Jesus is the greatest gift of love. Share the Hope of Christmas with others because everyone needs Jesus the Gift of Christmas. Joy to the World, the Lord is come, the Savior is born. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 Clear Bell Ornament Green Glitter Red Glitter Ribbon for hanger Clear Bell Ornament With Glitter To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27 Using the Clear Bell Ornament add the green glitter and the red glitter alternating each glitter parts. Add ribbon for the hanger. The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. Jeremiah 31:31 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Matthew 26:28

Jesus the Hope of Christmas The Birth of Jesus In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, Let s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. The Magi Visit the Messiah After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him. When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. In Bethlehem in Judea, they replied, for this is what the prophet has written: But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel. After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. Joy to the World

Oh, Holy Night Oh, holy night The stars are brightly shining It is the night of our dear Savior's birth Long lay the world in sin and error pining Till He appeared and the soul felt His worth A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn Fall on your knees Oh, hear the Angel voices Oh, night divine, oh, night When Christ was born Oh, night divine, oh, night Oh, night divine Away in a Manger Away in a manger, no crib for a bed The little Lord Jesus lay down His sweet head The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Hark! the herald angels sing, Glory to the new born King, peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled! Joyful, all ye nations rise, join the triumph of the skies; with th angelic host proclaim, Christ is born in Bethlehem! Hark! the herald angels sing, Glory to the new born King! O Cme All Ye Faithful O come all ye faithful joyful and triumphant Oh come ye O come ye to Bethlehem; come and behold him born the King of angels; O come let us adore him, O come let us adore him, O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord. Silent Night! Holy Night! Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright round yon Virgin Mother and Child, Holy infant so tender and mild, sleep in Heavenly peace! sleep in Heavenly peace! Silent night! Holy night! Son of God, Love s pure light radiant, beams from Thy Holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord at Thy birth, Jesus, Lord at Thy birth. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed Attention: Permissions Requests, at the address below. Distributed by: www.givingjesus.com Email: givingjesus@gmail.com www.givingjesus.com Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Bible text from the New King James Version is not to be reproduced in copies or otherwise by any means except as permitted in writing by Thomas Nelson, Inc., Attn: Bible Rights and Permissions, P.O. Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214-1000 Printed in the United States of America Copyright 2018 Lana Scroggins Joy to the World