STEP 1: LIGHT THE FIRST, SECOND, THIRD & FOURTH CANDLE
The fourth candle represents peace and the constant presence of the Savior with us in all things.
STEP 2: WATCH THE VIDEO
STEP 3: READ THE SCRIPTURE
“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
—Luke 2:11-19
”Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer. How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us. Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
—Psalm 4
“Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.”
—Psalm 119:165
“And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
—Luke 1:76-79
“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
—John 14:25-27
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
—Philippians 4:4-9
STEP 4: SING A CAROL
STEP 5: DO AN ACTIVITY THAT BRINGS PEACE
IDEA #1: Take a purposeful moment to find a quiet place alone without distractions. Take a deep calming breath. Tell the Lord things you are thankful about Him. Ask Him in what areas you are holding anxiousness and how you can let it go . Then sit in silence and listen for His voice of comfort and direction.
IDEA #2: Is there someone you know who is alone this Christmas? Make a date to give them a call or leave a holiday goodie on their porch.
STEP 6: DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Question #1: How does knowing that the Lord walks with us in everything and never leaves us alone make a difference in your life?
Question #2: Think of ways the LORD has been faithful to you.
STEP 7: PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Your word says in the book of Isaiah that You have written our names on the palms of Your hands. Thank You for this promise of how you will never forget us. Help us to remember Your love and nearness when we feel forgotten, and help us to bring the good news to others who may feel forgotten. Thank you for the peace that you bring.
Amen