December 10: Two Advent Reading

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

The Dove

http://partofthemain.wordpress.com/2011/12/10/day-10-the-dove-god-sends-jesus-by-the-holy-spirit/

During Advent we are not celebrating Jesus alone. We are worshipping our one God in three persons: God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a part of Christmas, too. Every baby that is born has a human daddy and a human mommy. But Jesus was a very special baby. He came from God. Before he was born God put Jesus into Mary’s belly by the Holy Spirit. This meant that Jesus was holy. When he was born he had no sin. It also meant that, even though he was born as a human baby, he was also the Son of God. God’s Holy Spirit that came to Mary was with Jesus all of his life on earth. The Holy Spirit is also with us–we who believe in Jesus. The dove is a symbol of God’s Holy Spirit.

Dear God, Thank you for sending Jesus down to us, to become a human baby. Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who works in amazing ways. Amen. 

Bible Readings: Matthew 3:13-17; John 1:9-18

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/