Display four gift boxes in the church or stick them to the wall. Fill the boxes with surprises and for each Sunday in Advent invite one child to collect the contents from that week's box. Here are two ideas for Advent box contents:
Christmas Decorations
Place four different Christmas decorations in the four Advent boxes and discuss their meaning.
Advent 1: Bells “Jesus is Coming”
Bells get our attention! They let us know when something important is happening, from church bells to school bells to fire sirens. Bells, in advent, announce to us to get ready because:
- Jesus is coming at Christmas time
- And Jesus is coming at the end of the world.
Advent 2: Presents “A Present that Lasts”
Advent is a time where we look forward to opening up our gifts and presents. God promised his people that he would give them the best gift of all - his love in Jesus.
Jesus is the gift that will never wear out and break down. He will last forever.
Advent 3: Candles “The Light of the World”
Picture: Tracie Lee
Jesus is the light of the world. His light shines in the midst of darkness and the darkness cannot overcome it. Like a candle that continues to burn brightly even when we close our eyes and all is dark, Jesus’ light is always there.
In our dark times, God promises us that he will always be with us, no matter what happens!
Advent 4: Angels “An Angel Visits Mary”
Picture: Mary
God’s special messengers, the angels, have a big part to play in the Christmas story. Mary, Joseph, Zechariah and the shepherds all received visits from these heavenly creatures.
God’s good news needed to be told - a Saviour will soon be born. But did the Angel Gabriel announce it to the most important and famous person he could find? No, humble Mary is the first to hear about God’s special plans. In the world’s view she was no one special, but God considers all people special – even each of us!
Lolly Wrappers
Have the four Advent boxes filled with different lollies each week. Choose a bag of lollies and individually wrap them in papers with special messages and words that relate to the theme of the day. (Note: be aware of any food allergies that may be present amongst the children.) Discuss what the words and messages mean with the children while they eat their lolly!