No matter how you choose to celebrate Christ this season, let the Messiah–not the mayhem–reign in your quiet Christ-focused heart.

Read: Luke 1:42—45

42 In a loud voice she [Elizabeth] exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

Reflect: The word blessed means “happy.” The Bible is filled with encouraging and inspiring promises to you, and when you choose to believe them, happiness leaps forth. This doesn’t refer to the “happiness” we’re accustomed to hearing about that (supposedly) comes through possessions, money, and fancy cars. No, this is a deep-seated peace and grounding, a joy that only Christ can offer through knowing Him as Savior and Lord (the Supreme One). If you haven’t made the choice to wholeheartedly follow Christ, delay it no longer! You don’t need to repeat an eloquent prayer or wait until Sunday morning–simply confess to God that you believe in His Son, the gift of salvation He offers, and what His Word declares. Then, go forward with joy, knowing you are blessed.

Respond: Father, You are the Supreme One, and I want to live my life for You. I believe You sent Your only Son, Jesus, to die the death I should’ve experienced. Thank You for Your gift of grace. I did not earn this eternal gift, and I am not worthy to receive it; but, You give out of pure love, and I’m overwhelmingly grateful. I choose to follow You from this day forward.

Tot Time: Revisit what the world blessed means and have the kiddos talk or write out what makes them happy. Then, encourage them to share the gift of happiness with others this next week.