Scripture
Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
—Matthew 11:11
Reflection
When I was young, one of my favorite parts of Christmas was setting up the crèche under our tree. In fact, my parents’ figures of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus are all chipped because my sisters and I used to have them kiss each other and Jesus—you know, like a family does. A shepherd lost his hand when we had him hug Joseph. But my parents never scolded us for playing with the figures. In many ways, their “yes” brought the Christmas story to life for me.
Talk Together
Can you think of a time when you were unsure, but said “yes” to something and it led to a wonderful experience?
Prayer
Dear Lord, let us be open to saying “yes” to new experiences in our lives, knowing you are always by our side.
Activity
Does your family have a nativity scene? If it is not already out, unpack it and set it up together. If it is already out, take some time to decorate it. Make it worthy of Jesus’s birth. Add some greenery or small potted plants—either real or fake. Make the stable comfortable for Jesus’s arrival. You might even add some more animals or people from other playsets to help welcome Jesus.
