On Day 2 of our Journey to the Manger, we met King David.

David is best known for being the brave boy who stood up for God and defeated the giant Goliath. Tonight, we made slingshots and stones out of stretchy headbands and cotton balls to remember David’s boldness and love for the Lord. Jackson loved shooting his stones across the room! I was not so successful at the slingshot, though the kids thought it was a riot that my cotton balls kept shooting backwards.

David was a mighty warrior and king, but he also struggled with major mistakes in his life. Each time David sinned, he humbly called out for God’s forgiveness and restoration. David kept earnestly seeking after God. That is why God called David a man after His own heart. God chose to use David in His plan of redemption in spite of his mistakes. During our family devotion time, Jackson tallied up all the “greats” to determine that David was the 25th great-grandpa of Jesus. In fact, the Messiah would be known as the Son of David.

God kept His promises to David even after he sinned, and He does the same for us. God loves us, and He is looking for hearts willing to serve Him.

Click here to learn more about celebrating Advent with your family this Christmas, including access to a Scripture plan, free downloads and activity ideas. For more on Journey to the Manger, an advent experience from Focus on the Family, visit the Thriving Family website.