Thursday: Compassion
Pray: Begin by making the sign of the cross and calling upon God’s name.
From God to us, from death to life, from me to you …in the name of the Father, and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Dear God, no matter where we are, you are there. Thank you for being with us now and for working with us as we learn more about our Bible story. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
Listen: Pay close attention as the Bible story is read in the form of a rhyme.
A grand decree went out one day
And this is what it had to say:
“The Caesar’s census has begun.
It’s time to number everyone!”
Young Joseph said to Mary, then,
“We’ll travel back to Bethlehem.”
And though her baby soon was due,
They had to make the trip, they knew.
But after they arrived, they found
There were no rooms to rent in town.
So out among the cows and sheep
She rocked her baby fast asleep.
Engage: Talk about the Bible by having parents respond to children’s questions.
Child: What is a “census?” Do governments take a census in our day?
Child: Mary gave birth to Jesus outside, near the animals. Have you ever slept outside? What was your most (and least) favorite part about that?
Affirm: Pray for God to put his Word into action in your daily life.
Holy God, be with those who must sleep outside tonight, and who have no roof over their heads. Keep them safe and warm. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Have each person in the family bless one another with these words.
May you show kindness to travelers! Amen.