On our Journey to the Manger today, we met Elizabeth.

After waiting so many years, God poured out His richest blessings upon Elizabeth, when He miraculously allowed her to conceive a son in her old age. Though her husband had suddenly lost his voice, she could hardly keep quiet with the praise overflowing her heart!

Elizabeth’s joy was a source of encouragement to her younger cousin, Mary. When the Angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and revealed God’s miraculous plan, the angel encouraged her with news of Elizabeth’s pregnancy. Nothing is impossible for God!

Mary’s belief in the Angel’s message spurred an impromptu visit to her cousin Elizabeth. And, when Elizabeth heard her young relative’s voice, the Holy Spirit spoke through her:

Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.

– Luke 1:42b-45

Elizabeth’s joy was contagious! Her praises rang through the house, as she thanked her Lord God for the amazing grace extended to her and to her cousin. Elizabeth’s greeting gave Mary the opportunity to sing of God’s greatness and power, to rejoice in her Father and express her trust in His plan.

Today we played a game called Christmas Joy (printable can be found here). As those who have been transformed by Jesus, our joy should be evident, just as Elizabeth’s was! This Christmas, let’s spread the joy that our God has come to give us new life.

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.