Luke 2:8-20
Devotion by Tina Miller
Sermon by Ian Ferguson
December 7, 2025
Gather
Materials to make a memory verse banner.
Pray
God of all peace, teach us today what it means for us to know the Lord Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Background
Ask: What does “Advent” mean
We are thinking about the first arrival of the Lord Jesus Christ when he came as a baby to live among us and save us, but we also are looking forward to his next arrival when he comes as King to reign in his everlasting kingdom where there will be no more sin and no more pain or death.
Introduction
Play the opposite game. Create your own list of words/ideas for the kids to say their opposites. Let the kids add their own ideas. Make the last word “fear.”
What is the opposite of fear?
Looking into the scripture passage
This week’s theme is Peace. Peace is the opposite of fear isn’t it? As we read the scripture passage today listen for the words “fear” and “peace.”
Read: Luke 2:8-14
Ask: Who was afraid? What were they afraid of? Why would God’s glory be frightening?
God’s glory exposes our sinfulness. Let’s look at how other people in the Bible felt when they saw God’s glory.
[Parents choose the passages you find most appropriate for your children’s age.]
Exodus 19:16-19 Isaiah 6:1-5
Matthew 17:1-6 Revelation 1:12-17
The Bible says that we have all sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. We would all be afraid in his bright light.
BUT that is not the message to the shepherds.
Ask: What did the angel say to them? What are the parts of his message
- Don’t be afraid
- I bring you good news.
- It’s a great joy for ALL the people.
- A Savior is born to YOU!
Ask: What did all the other heavenly beings say this message of great joy would bring to God’s people on earth?
Ask: How does the coming of Jesus mean peace for us?
Read: Romans 5:1-2
Because Jesus came to be the Savior his death paid for our sin so that we can now be right with holy God. Jesus took away our sin so that we have been “justified” (made just as if we have never sinned). We do not have to be afraid anymore. Jesus turned our relationship to God to its opposite.
Apply the passage
Activity 1 Because God has made peace with us through Jesus, he wants us to live in peace with each other. Is there someone you are struggling to get along with?
Read: Romans 12:18.
How can you change your attitude and actions toward this person to live peaceably with them?
Think of some practical steps and pray, asking the Lord to help you obey his word in this area.
Memorize
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
Luke 2: 14
Practice the verse Create a banner with the verse. Hang it where you can see it and be reminded of the peace Jesus has brought between us and Holy God.
Extra Stuff
Songs to sing
“It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” (traditional carol)
