It's not just for kids anymore

Choose a set of questions for deeper reflection on the the angel's visit to the shepherds.

Questions for Grown-Ups

The shepherds were having a normal evening outside with their sheep when the angel surprised them with news from God. When has God surprised you? Whether it felt like a miracle, a coincidence, or something else, how did you respond? How can you be more open to God's surprises?
Jesus' mother Mary thought she was insignificant. The shepherds would be considered somewhat unimportant in society. Yet God sent angels and gave each of them important tasks. God calls upon all sorts of people to do important things. What might God be calling you to do?

Questions for Young Disciples

The shepherds were hanging out like any regular night when the angel appeared. Has there been a time in your life that you were surprised? It could be a time that you found out you were receiving a class award or maybe a surprise for your birthday. God has ways of surprising us too. This can look like an offer to try something new or being lead down a certain path to discovering a talent. God's surprises can also look like people or situations being put into your life. Can you think of any times that this has happened?

Questions for Younger Disciples

Have you ever felt ordinary? Have you ever felt like you weren't good enough? The shepherds thought this way sometimes too. The cool thing about God is that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things! God see each of our gifts and talents. God also puts us to the challenge to try new things and do things better. What is something that you weren't good at when you first started but then with some practice you got better at? What is something that you have wanted to try but haven't yet? This could be things like learning to ride a bike without training wheels, learning to play an instrument, or learning how to cook.

Option 1:

When have you noticed that someone is good at something, and may be called to do it more? Tell them. People may not know to what they are called until someone else says it. Be their "angel."

Option 2:

Sing Christmas carols at a senior living facility. Call ahead to make sure that people will be able to hear you from balconies and windows if you are not allowed inside.

Activity for Families:

Act out the Bible Story. Be creative! Take a photo or film the entire story, and then send it to someone who needs to hear the story or post it on social media. Don’t forget to sing a Christmas carol as part of your skit!