Advent has begun! To mark the season, LivingLutheran.org will offer a weekly prayer, Scripture and an accompanying activity. Each week’s activity can be completed with a group or as a solo project. Use it to create a space for reflection, community and celebration as you anticipate the joy of Christmas.
Prayer:
“God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, you have promised that we shall see you and weep no more. Grant us the grace to hear your words and walk in your ways” (Bread for the Day, p. 375).
Scripture:
“But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. For as the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. For as in the days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so, too, will be the coming of the Son of Man. Then two will be in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken, and one will be left. Keep awake, therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” —Matthew 24:36-44
Activity: Wreath of Hope
Materials needed:
Paper plates (or cardboard circles)
Green construction paper (or recycled paper)
Scissors, glue/tape
Markers or pens
Optional: Battery-powered tea lights or hand-drawn candles
Instructions:
- Create the base. Cut the center out of a paper plate to form a ring.
- Add greenery. Cut leaf shapes from green paper and glue them around the ring.
- Write words of hope. Take a moment to hear God’s words. Make each leaf with something that brings you joy this Advent, whether this be something you are praying for, your favorite Scripture or just a source of hope. Consider taking inspiration from this week’s prayer or Scripture, or make your wreath personal to you.
- Optional lights. Place tea lights around the wreath or use tape to attach paper candles with flames drawn on them.
- Group variation. In a church setting, have each person write one word on a leaf and add it to a communal wreath.
Reflection:
Discuss these questions in your small group or journal about them solo.
- When have you experienced God’s grace during a “weary year” or “silent tears”? How does that memory shape your anticipation of Christmas?
- The Scripture above reminds us that we do not know the hour of Christ’s return. How does uncertainty affect your faith—does it challenge you, comfort you, or both?
As we continue to celebrate Advent together, submit photos from your experience, and take inspiration from other Living Lutheran activities and seasonal content. We may repost submitted content to LivingLutheran.org or social media.
