December 1 Advent readings

The first reading is for families with children.
The second reading is from  Good News of Great Joy at Desiring God 

Empty Stable

http://partofthemain.wordpress.com/2011/12/01/the-empty-stable-waiting-for-jesus-then-and-now/

Right now we are beginning the season of Advent. At the end of Advent is Christmas. The word “advent” means “coming.” It is the season when we remember the coming of Jesus Christ, God’s only son, into the world. Have you ever waited for something for a long time? God’s people had been waiting for a very long time for God to send a Savior to them and keep all of his promises. That Savior was Jesus–who was born long ago in a stable in Bethlehem. The baby Jesus would grow up to save all of God’s people. Yet that is not all of the good news. It was God’s plan to send Jesus to the world twice. He came long ago and he is coming back again. Like the people of Israel, we are waiting for him to come.

Jesus, thank you for coming down into our world! As we learn about your coming help us to see what you have done for us. Help us to be ready for you to come again. Amen.

Bible Readings: Psalm 130; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18

Another Advent Reading Plan is Good News of Great Joy
by John Piper

You can watch an introduction video and/or download the whole book at www.desiringgod.org/books/good-news-of-great-joy
You can also get the daily reading at solidjoys.desiringgod.org/