Countdown to Christmas with Zach - An Advent Podcast for Kids

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers Living Christmas “I don’t know what I’m going to do, Seth,” Jaden told his big brother. They were playing one of their favorite video games while waiting for Mom’s homemade pizza to finish cooking. “You could start by actually playing!” Seth paused a moment, then said, “No, really, what’s up?” “Well, you know Brenden, that really awkward new kid in my grade I was telling you about?” asked Jaden. “Yeah, it reminds me of how I felt when we first moved here and I was just starting middle school. That was not fun!” “I know, that’s why I’ve been trying to help him out and sit with him at lunch, but now I almost wish I hadn’t. His birthday is coming up, and his mom told him he’s only allowed to invite one person over for his party to stay overnight at his house. Guess who that lucky person is?” Jaden said sarcastically. “Me!” “That’s not so bad,” Seth said. Jaden looked back at him with a very unconvinced frown. “It just happens to be on Friday–the Friday we have our last kid’s club at church before Christmas break, the Friday when everyone gets to take a big prize home instead of just hoping they win the prize drawing! If I ride the bus home with Brenden, I’ll miss kid’s club! I asked him if he could come, but his mom doesn’t know anything about it, so he’s not allowed to. I’d have to miss it, and miss my chance to get a prize!” When Mom called the boys to dinner, she told them she had overheard them talking about Jaden’s problem. “It reminded me of what we read in the Bible this morning about Jesus giving up the glory of heaven to come into this world as a baby to save us,” Mom said. “Remember how we talked about looking for ways to show that same kind of love to others this Christmas?” “Yeah.” Jaden sighed. “Okay, I’ll tell Brenden I’m in. Maybe I can tell his mom more about kid’s club and she’ll let him come with me. Then neither one of us will miss out on the fun–and Brenden can learn more about Jesus!” –Alicia Albert How about you? Have you heard the Christmas story many times, but never let it really sink in? Think about what Jesus gave up by coming into this world to save us. He left heaven to become a helpless baby so He could one day die for our sins on the cross. When you think about what He gave up for you, you may find it’s a little easier to give something up so that you can help change another person’s life in an awesome way! Key Verse "I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another." John 13:34 CSB Key Thought Live the Christian message Further Reading Isaiah 53:4-6; Matthew 1:21-23; Philippians 2:5-8

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers Training Time As Sarah wound Santa-shaped lights around the Christmas tree, her stepsister, Laura, came in carrying a wreath. “Oh,” said Laura. “Aren’t we using white lights?” Smiling, Sarah shook her head. “My family used these every Christmas, and I’d like to share them with you since it’s our first holiday together.” Laura touched the lights. “Well…my family doesn’t decorate with Santa stuff. We believe Jesus should be the focus of Christmas.” “He still is,” Sarah said, pointing to a manger scene nearby. “I just feel uncomfortable,” said Laura. “Maybe we could use white lights instead.” “Maybe,” said Sarah, taking down the Santa lights. “Um, I’ll be back.” Sarah walked to the garage, where her dad was organizing. She sat on a box and sighed. “Decorating with Laura is impossible. All I did was put up Santa lights, and she freaked out.” Dad glanced at Sarah. “Laura and her mom haven’t been Christians long. They might think it’s wrong to include Santa in their Christmas decorations.” “That’s silly! Santa’s just a fun tradition. Laura needs to get over it.” Dad looked around and then slapped his forehead. “I’m out of tape! Can you drive out and buy some?” Sarah laughed. “I can’t drive!” “There’s nothing to it. Hop in!” Dad opened the truck door, and Sarah climbed into the driver’s seat. Dad pointed down the steep driveway. “Careful on that ice. If you skid, you’ll end up in the ditch.” Sarah swallowed hard. “I don’t think I can do this. I haven’t been to driver’s ed!” Dad leaned on the frame of the truck window. “You’re a lot like Laura. You need training. If I urge you to drive before you’re ready, you might hurt yourself. Laura needs training too—Bible training. Along with freedom from sin, Jesus gives us freedom to enjoy many things, but Laura doesn’t fully understand that. If you push her to do something she believes is wrong, you’ll cause her to sin—and you’ll be sinning too. We need to be patient as she gains more experience and understanding as a Christian.” “I hadn’t thought of that!” said Sarah. “I’ll use white lights on the tree this year. I’ll go ask Laura to help me put them up!” How about you? Do you know someone who’s uncomfortable doing something that you think is harmless? Perhaps you disagree on how God feels about certain books, clothes, or TV shows. Base your choices on God’s Word, and enjoy the liberty Jesus gives you. But never push others to read, wear, or watch something when they believe it would be wrong. Be patient and trust God to help them understand the freedom they have in Jesus. Key Verse "Yes, we know that 'we all have knowledge' about this issue. But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church." 1 Corinthians 8:1 NKJV Key Thought Be patient as others learn. Further Reading 1 Corinthians 8:4-13

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers Be the Gift Sarah looked longingly at the fluffy stuffed kitty on the shelf. It was just what she wanted for Christmas, right down to the glittery collar around its neck. Slowly, she placed it in the cart. Mom bent down to check the price. “Sarah, this one doesn’t fit our budget. We have to pick out something else for our little girl.” Every year, Sarah’s family participated in a program that sent shoeboxes with gifts to children around the world who would otherwise not receive any Christmas presents. More importantly, the kids were also told about Jesus and His love for them. “I know, Mom.” Sarah’s lip trembled a little. “This girl needs the kitty more than I do, so you can get it for her instead of me for Christmas.” Mom smiled. “Then we will get it for her. I can see Jesus shining out of your heart right now. You are being the gift by sacrificing what you really want so someone else can have something special.” Sarah nodded at Mom. “Just like Jesus is the gift to us! He didn’t have to come to earth as a baby in a manger. He didn’t have to give His life up and die on the cross for us…but He wanted us to have forgiveness for our sins and eternal life with God.” “Now, that is the ultimate gift!” Mom said with a smile. They continued walking down the aisles of the store. “Toothbrush, bar of soap, socks…” Mom checked items off her list. “Looks like our girl has everything she needs!” “And some things she might want too.” Sarah winked. Mom paused, looking thoughtful. “When we trust Jesus to be our Savior, He not only gives us eternal life; He also gives us everything we need for this life.” “Like toothpaste?” Sarah asked. Mom laughed. “Toothpaste too, but I was thinking of His spiritual blessings—like the ability to love others, say no to sin, and persevere in hard times. He gives us everything we need for a life of godliness.” Sarah grinned. “I’m so glad Jesus was the gift to us so we can follow His example and be a gift to others!” Mom nodded. “Me too, sweetie!” How about you? Have you received the gift God freely offers? The Bible tells us God loves us so much He sent His one and only Son, Jesus, to save us. When we trust in Him, He gives us eternal life with Him forever. He also gives us a new life here on this earth with everything we need to live for Him. If you are God’s child, you have every spiritual blessing in Christ. How can you follow His example and be a gift to someone today? Key Verse You will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 2 Corinthians 9:11 NLT Key Thought Be a gift to others. Further Reading 2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Ephesians 1:3-8; 2 Peter 1:3-8

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers Santa Pause “All right, boys. Turn off that video game and help set the table.” Ethan hit the pause button. “We should be able to beat that level after dinner,” he told Levi as they scooted into the kitchen. Mom was balancing the baby on her hip and stirring a bubbling pot of spaghetti sauce. “Don’t forget to put out napkins,” she told the boys. “And don’t forget we’re heading out to do some Christmas shopping after dinner.” “We’re in the middle of a video game, Mom,” Levi said. “You’ve been playing that game for over an hour. It’s time to take a break. We need to get presents for your cousins, pick up ingredients for Christmas cookies, and buy some extra Christmas tree lights.” “Can’t we go shopping tomorrow?” Ethan asked. Mom shook her head. “We have rehearsal for the Christmas play tomorrow.” Dad walked into the kitchen and pulled a strand of spaghetti from the pot. Mom turned and handed him the baby. “You seem really stressed out,” Dad told her. He turned to the boys. “I’ve got an idea.” “Does it involve video games?” Levi asked. “It does not involve video games, but it does involve hot chocolate. I’m going to make a batch of hot chocolate, and we’re going to sit down as a family and watch a Christmas movie.” Dad already knew what Mom was thinking. “Don’t worry, honey. I’ll get up early and take care of all the shopping. It sounds like everyone needs a little break from the craziness of the Christmas holiday. Think of it as a Santa pause.” Everyone laughed, even Mom. “I guess you’re right,” she said. “Even Jesus and His disciples needed some time to rest. If I remember the Bible story correctly, Jesus told his disciples to come with Him to a quiet place and rest because so many people were coming and going that they didn’t even have time to eat.” “No time to eat!” Ethan said. “There’s not a crowd big enough or even a video game that could keep me from your spaghetti, Mom!” “I’m glad to hear it,” Mom said. “But we still need to take time to rest and remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas—Jesus coming to save us.” • Jared Hottenstein How about you? Do you need some time to rest? Sometimes life can get very busy, especially around the holidays. We’re busy doing a lot of really good things, but there’s nothing wrong with hitting the pause button and taking a break. Jesus knew what it was like to be tired. If He took some time to rest, so should we. Take a breather and spend some time with Him. After all, He’s the real reason we celebrate Christmas. Key Verse "[Jesus] said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.'" Mark 6:31 NIV Key Thought Take time to rest. Further Reading Matthew 11:28-30; Mark 6:30-32

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers The Real Thing “What do you think about this one?” Mom asked. “It’s too skinny. We need something fatter.” Dad was pretty particular about finding the perfect Christmas tree. It was a family tradition. The entire family would hop into the van and drive an hour to a Christmas tree farm in the middle of nowhere. Next came a long hike through drifting snow until the perfect Christmas tree was found. “Can’t we just get a fake tree, Dad? I can’t feel my feet.” “Just a little bit longer, Noah. We have a thermos of hot chocolate waiting in the van. Where’s your Christmas spirit?” “I think I left it back in the van with my gloves.” “Very funny.” Dad pointed down the row of trees. “I think your mom and sister just found the perfect tree. Let’s go help them cut it down.” Noah trudged through the snow, trying to warm his hands by tucking them into the sleeves of his jacket. “That’s the perfect tree! Nice job, ladies!” Dad crawled under the tree and started sawing. It didn’t take long for the tree to topple over onto its side and the rich scent of pine to fill the air. “Seriously, Dad. Why do we go through all this trouble just for a Christmas tree?” Noah asked as he took the saw and folded it up. “I go through all this trouble because it reminds me what Christmas is all about,” said Dad. “Think about it. This tree is the real thing. We couldn’t bring it home without cutting it down—it had to die. And just like this tree, Jesus is the real thing. The Bible says He’s the way, the truth, and the life. And just like this tree, God sent Him to earth to die for us. I go through all of this trouble because I don’t want to forget what Christmas is all about.” Noah smiled. “That’s pretty good, Dad. Maybe I’ll continue this tradition when I get older. Just don’t forget to put some gifts under this tree. That’s also why we celebrate Christmas—Jesus was God’s gift to the world.” Dad smiled. “I already know the perfect gift for you, Noah. A pair of gloves!” • Jared Hottenstein How about you? Are you remembering what Christmas is all about? It’s easy to think only about the piles of presents and bright shining lights. But the most perfect present of all is God’s gift to us—His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the real thing; there’s nothing fake about Him. He really lived, He really died, and He defeated death and rose from the dead. He’s alive! Key Verse Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 NLT Key Thought Jesus is the real thing. Further Reading John 3:16; 14:6

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers Decorating the Tree Ezra, Clark, and Genevieve sat in the living room with their parents, holding small boxes in their hands. It was their family’s yearly tradition to go to a special Christmas ornament store where each person would pick out one ornament to put on their family Christmas tree. Ezra, the youngest, had chosen a blue ornament with his name on it. Clark, who was interested in all things at sea, had picked out an ornament that looked like a ship. Genevieve had chosen one that looked like a nativity scene and was made with wood from Bethlehem, the city where Jesus was born. Mom had found an ornament that was in the shape of a giraffe, her favorite animal. And since Dad played the saxophone, he had brought home an ornament featuring a picture of the instrument. After they had all placed their new ornaments on the branches, the family stood back to admire their tree. Mom smiled. “You know, I can’t help but see the way our unique personalities—the way God made each of us—come through in what we picked to decorate the tree.” Dad spoke softly. “’That they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.’” “What?” asked Ezra. “It’s our memory verse right now,” explained Genevieve. “Adorn means decorate, right?” “Exactly,” said Mom. “We’re told to decorate God’s doctrine—the truth of the good news of Jesus—with all we do. That’s a lot like us decorating the Christmas tree. Just like each of our ornaments is different but decorates the same tree, each Christian has different talents, interests, and life circumstances, but we all represent the same truth—that Jesus loves us and died to save us from our sin.” Dad nodded. “The Christmas tree, like God’s truth, is beautiful on its own, but God calls us to decorate His truth to help others see just how beautiful it is. In fact, just like ornaments, God uses us as part of the beauty of His good news. When we share what Jesus has done for us and use our gifts, personalities, and actions to express our love for Him and for others, we bring out the beauty of His love and grace.” How about you? Did you know that your life is an ornament that decorates God’s message of hope in Jesus? In today’s passage, Paul speaks about all kinds of Christians—each with unique circumstances and abilities. God has also given you these things. If you know Jesus, you can show others you love Him by using those gifts in godly ways. When you look at your Christmas tree, think about how you can point others to the beauty of Jesus. Key Verse "That they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things." Titus 2:10 NKJV Key Thought Decorate the good news of Jesus Further Reading Titus 2:10-14; John 14:6

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers A Light to the World “You’ll never capture me!” Ava yelled to her friend Jack. They were in Ava’s backyard pretending to be medieval knights. “On my noble steed, you’ll never outlast me!” cried a galloping Jack. As Jack caught up to Ava, they both drew foam swords and shields. “On my honor as a knight, you’ll never get your hands on the king’s treasure!” Ava stood with her hands square on her hips, proudly showing off her knight’s tunic over her pink leggings. The door to Ava’s house opened. “Ava, it’s time to come in!” Mom called. Ava lowered her sword and shield. “This was fun!” she said. “Yeah! Let’s meet here again tomorrow to play some more!” Jack said, shivering. “We don’t have much time before it’ll be too cold to play outside.” When Ava entered her house, the warm smells of oregano and garlic bread greeted her. She had forgotten Dad said it was spaghetti night! Ava found her mom sorting through a box of candles. “What are you doing?” Ava asked. “Putting a candle in each window of our home,” said Mom. “Candles are often used during Advent to help prepare our hearts for Christmas. I thought it would be a good tradition to start.” “To prepare for the presents we’re gonna get?” Ava asked with a grin. “No, goofball, to prepare for the gift of Jesus!” Dad said, giving Ava a silly eye-roll from where he stood stirring the tomato sauce. “Let me put it another way. I know you love history, so I’ll tell you how people think the custom of candles in windows at Christmastime may have started. In the Middle Ages, the light of a single, large candle was used to represent the Star of Bethlehem, which is what led the wise men to seek and find Jesus. Shining out from a window at the coldest time of year, it reminded people to seek the King who came to earth as a baby so we could have His warmth and light in our lives.” “And that’s not something we remember only at Christmas,” Mom said, holding out a candle for Ava to put in the window. “Jesus became human and sacrificed Himself so we could be saved. That’s something to celebrate all year long.” • Lauren N. Simmons How about you? How does your family prepare for Christmas? Do you put up a tree? String lights up outside? Those are great things to do, but you can also prepare by thanking Jesus for the sacrifice He made when He came to earth as a baby so He could one day die for our sins. When the world was dark and cold, He came and shined His light on us. How can you share His warmth with others this Christmas—and every other time of year? Key Verse "Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, 'I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.'" John 8:12 NKJV Key Thought Jesus is the light of the world Further Reading Psalm 27:1

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers Christmas in Color Summer carefully placed the last glittering ornament on the Christmas tree and grinned. “Cameron, it’s ready!” Summer’s older brother started the countdown, then plugged in the lights. “It looks awesome!” Cameron exclaimed. “I like how we pick a color theme every year. Red and gold is the best theme yet!” “Mom, I’ve been wondering—why do we decorate with certain colors at Christmas? You see some colors way more than others, like red, green, and gold,” Summer mused. “That’s a great question, sweetie! Let’s look it up.” Mom took out her phone. “What do you think red stands for?” “The blood of Jesus?” Summer guessed. “You got it!” Mom said. “He became human and then died on the cross for our sins.” “That probably means the color white stands for purity,” Cameron stated. “Yes, and for peace as well,” Mom said. “We use green for evergreen trees, which symbolize the eternal life Jesus gives us when we trust in Him alone to save us from our sin. The color gold represents one of the gifts that the wise men brought to Jesus, which reminds us that He is King. And blue was worn by royalty back in Jesus’ time, so it’s traditionally used at Christmas in honor of Jesus’ mother, Mary, to show her importance.” “Mom, I’m wearing blue! I must be royal!” Cameron said. “You wish!” Summer threw some tinsel on her brother’s head. Mom laughed. “Actually, you are royal, Cameron—and you too, Summer. Blue also represents the sky and reminds us of heaven and how Jesus will return one day and reign over the whole earth—and Christians will reign with Him.” Summer glanced at the manger scene. “I’m so thankful that God sent Jesus as a little baby in a manger to grow up and save us.” “And I’m thankful that I’m royal!” Cameron shaped the tinsel on his head into a crown. “Now, please bring me some cookies, royal subjects!” Savannah Coleman How about you? Do you enjoy decorating for Christmas? Did you know that many of the colors and objects we use have meaning? They remind us of the true meaning of Christmas—that Jesus became human, died and rose again to save us from sin, and will one day make everything new. This Christmas, celebrate the birth of our Savior and all He’s done for us. Key Thought Celebrate Jesus at Christmas Key Verse "A Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord." Luke 2:11 NIV Further Reading Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 2:1-20

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers An Early Christmas Wish “Dad, Christmas is coming!” said Marisol with a grin. “Christmas? It’s pretty early for that. You’re not giving me your wish list already, are you?” “I haven’t even thought about that yet,” Marisol said. “This will be our first winter since we moved here, so I have an idea for making Christmas special this year.”  “I’m listening,” said Dad. “Remember when we went shopping and I asked if I could get those red leather boots I saw in the store window?” Marisol asked.   “I remember.” “You said that, living here, I’d need waterproof snow boots, so if I also wanted fancy boots I’d have to save up and buy those myself,” Marisol said. “So last week while I was visiting the leather boots—” “Wait,” Dad interrupted. “You visited the leather boots?” “Sometimes I go admire them at the store. But this time I saw something else in the window. There was a poster about a toy drive for families that don’t have much money. The police department collects toys and passes them out to kids at a Christmas party. Isn’t that cool?” “Absolutely. I’ve heard about that. They ask the public to donate new toys. So, did you want to donate a toy?” “No,” Marisol said. “I want to donate six toys. They have three age groups for boys and three for girls, so six total.” “That’s a lot of money, Marisol.” Marisol nodded. “I’ve been saving boot money for months. And I still have my birthday money from Grandma and all the money Mrs. Sadler pays me to walk her dogs.” Dad smiled. “I love this idea, Marisol, and I’m so glad to see you focused on caring for people, just like Jesus calls us to do. But I’m curious—what made you decide to give up all your boot money like this?” “Well, I can’t stop thinking about that poster,” said Marisol. “I already have a lot, and some kids have almost nothing. And moving to a new place helped me realize how much Jesus gave up for us—He left heaven and came to earth that first Christmas as a baby. I want to be like that.” Dad nodded. “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate our Savior’s birth.” How about you? How can you celebrate the birth of Jesus this year? Even though Christmas is still a couple months away, it’s not too early to start thinking about how you could show others the love of Jesus this holiday season. Celebrate His birth by blessing someone else who could use a small gift, a kind word, or a helping hand.  Key Thought Give to those in need. Key Verse "If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?" 1 John 3:17 NIV F...

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the discussion guide, and send us a voice message with your answers! Send In Your Answers Timeless Traditions Noel reached up high on her tiptoes and placed a sparkling silver bell on an empty tree branch. “Look, Gi-Gi! Just a few more branches and we’re finished!” Noel’s great-grandmother smiled at her excitement. “Noel, I enjoy this tradition of decorating with you every year. It’s amazing how high you can reach now!” Gi-Gi chuckled. “I remember when you could hardly hang that bell on the lowest branch.” Grandpapa waltzed in with the angel tree topper. “Are we ready for the final touch?” “Wait!” said Gi-Gi. “I have one more ornament to add!” Grandpapa winked at Noel and whispered, “Gi-Gi always has something new up her sleeve.” His eyes bulged in surprise as Gi-Gi pulled an ornament out of her actual sleeve. “Guess it’s not just an expression!” Noel giggled. She carefully took the ornament from Gi-Gi’s hand. “It says ‘Wonderful Counselor’—oh, like the verse about Jesus from Isaiah that we learned last Christmas!” Gi-Gi nodded. “Every year we have special traditions—decorating the tree on the first day of December, receiving a new ornament that represents something you enjoy, baking a birthday cake in honor of Jesus—those are just a few of my favorites. This year, I wanted to add one more. Do you remember what advent is, Noel?” “Yep! It’s preparing our hearts for the coming of Jesus. Even though He already came, we take the month before Christmas to remember why He was born and to celebrate Him.” “Absolutely! There are many different ways to celebrate, but I wanted to start a new tradition. I want us to reflect on some of the names of Jesus—twenty-five, to be exact. Every day, we will add a new ornament with a name for Jesus to our tree.” Noel ran her finger over the gold lettering of the ornament. “‘Wonderful Counselor’—that describes how Jesus is here anytime I need to talk to Him. Whenever I’m upset, scared, or happy, I know He will always be there to listen and help me through hard times.” “He sure is the best counselor,” Grandpapa agreed thoughtfully. “I suppose tomorrow’s ornament will be ‘Mighty God’?” Gi-Gi tossed a fake snowball at Grandpapa. “Let’s focus on one name per day, mister!” Grandpapa winked at Noel. “Yes, ma’am!” How about you? What Christmas traditions does your family have? Do you set up a nativity scene in your house? Or buy gifts for children in need? Traditions can help remind us of what Christmas is truly about—celebrating Jesus coming to earth as a baby to save us. What can you and your family do each year as a reminder of who Jesus is and what He did for us? Key Thought Use traditions to celebrate Jesus. Key Verse "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 NIV Further Reading John 14:6-18

Hey! Welcome back! I'm Zach, your host on the Countdown to Christmas with...well, me! I'm glad to be in your family's podcast feed again, and I hope you'll join me for a great Christmas season of stories to help your kids get to know God and love Him more. Grab the new printable discussion guide with the questions for each day's story here. And that link ^ is also where your kids can go to send in their own voice messages, answering each day's question. On that page you'll also find all the different Christmas activities and radio shows your family can listen to on Keys for Kids Radio! I hope you listen to each day's story as we count down to Christmas Day, and take the time to talk with your kids about the key verse, key thought, and question. And we all pray here at Keys for Kids Radio that it will help your family stay focused on Jesus!

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers End of Vacation When Jack sat down for lunch, his mom noticed his glum mood. “What’s wrong, Jack?” she asked. Jack just shrugged. Mom placed sandwiches and chips on the table. “It’s a beautiful day,” she said after they thanked God for their food. “You have several Christmas gifts to keep you busy, and school is out for a few more days. But you don’t look very happy.” “It’s just that…Christmas vacation is almost over,” Jack replied. “School starts next week, and I haven’t gotten anything done.” “What do you mean?” asked Mom. “What didn’t you get done?” “I was going to read the book Tommy lent me and learn how to ski during vacation,” said Jack. “And I was going to surprise Dad by cleaning the garage and vacuuming the car. I was even planning to shovel Mrs. Patten’s walks and driveway for free, but I never got around to it. She ended up hiring someone.” He sighed loudly. “I wasted my whole vacation.” “I understand how you feel,” Mom said. “I often feel that way myself when I don’t get to everything on my to-do list. But, Jack, you didn’t waste your vacation.” Jack looked up from his sandwich. “I didn’t?” Mom shook her head. “You spent time with friends and family, and you also got a much-needed break from a busy school year. Rest and relationships are important too. Instead of fretting over everything we want to get done, we need to trust Jesus to help us do the things He wants us to do. We can rest and enjoy time with others because Jesus did what we could never do ourselves—He died and rose again so we could have eternal life with Him!” “So, it’s okay I didn’t do all that stuff?” asked Jack. “Would it even be possible to do all that in two weeks?” Mom asked, grinning. Jack smiled. “I guess not.” “But it’s good you want to use your time well and help others,” said Mom. “Maybe you can set aside time to work on things that are really important to you. And you still have a couple days of vacation left.” Jack nodded and began wolfing down his sandwich. “I should have time to clean the garage before Dad gets home!” So how about you? How have you been spending your Christmas vacation? Did you have fun? It’s important to relax and enjoy spending time with others. Maybe you had things you hoped to accomplish too—did you do  them? It’s good to set goals and get things done, but remember that Jesus has already accomplished  the most important thing of all. Trust Him to help you use your time well as you balance work, fun, and  rest. Key Verse 1 Peter 3:18 NLT "Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but He died for sinners to bring you safely home to God." Key Thought Use your time well. Further Reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-14; John 19:28-30

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers Unexpected Answer Christmas was over. Colorful wrapping paper and bright ribbons had been cleared away, and the opened presents were sitting under the tree. Because Dad had been out of work for several months, most of the gifts were very practical—useful things like socks, sweaters, mittens, and boots. “God is good,” Dad said. “My best Christmas present is that He has provided a job for me. It’s an answer to prayer!” Grandma noticed her grandson’s frown as he got up and walked to the kitchen. She followed him. “Is something bothering you, Marcus?” she asked. “God may have answered Dad’s prayers, but He sure didn’t answer mine! I prayed and prayed for a scooter, but did I get it? No! I hardly got any fun stuff at all!” “Could it be that you missed God’s answer?” Grandma asked. “Is there another present somewhere?” Marcus asked in surprise. He started back to the living room to look, but Grandma stopped him. “That’s not what I mean. What would you think if your dad had turned down his job offer and then declared God wasn’t providing for his family?” “Why would he do that?” asked Marcus. “That would be silly.” “Yes, it would,” agreed Grandma, “yet your mother told me Mrs. Brown offered you the job of shoveling her walkways this winter, but you weren’t willing to do it.” She paused for a moment. “You asked God for a scooter, and He gave you a chance to earn it. But now you’re blaming God because you don’t have it. Isn’t that silly too?” Marcus sat down at the table. “I guess it is,” he admitted. Grandma sat down next to him. “I know it’s been a tough year for your family, and you just wanted to get something fun for Christmas. God understands that too. He loves you and promises to do what’s best for you. Sometimes that means His answer to your prayers is no, but in this case, I think it may be a yes, but you need to take action. Perhaps He knows you’ll appreciate your scooter more if you work to pay for it yourself.” Marcus nodded. “I’ll see if Mrs. Brown still needs help. Maybe it’s not too late to earn money for a scooter.” So how about you? When you pray for something, are you prepared to be part of God’s answer by taking action? For example, do you pray for good grades and then study hard? Sometimes God answers prayer by providing you with the next step to take. In today’s Bible reading, God answered Cornelius’s prayer by instructing him to ask Peter for help. So pray, and then be ready to follow God’s action plan. Key Verse Matthew 7:7 NIV "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." Key Thought Pray and be ready to act! Further Reading Acts 10:1-2, 30-33

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers Gabe and Asaph Gabe crossed his arms and scrunched his face in disgust. “Hunter’s parents let him do anything he wants,” he told his dad, “and it seems like everything always turns out right for him. He just got a brand-new skateboard for Christmas!” Gabe started to feel bitter as he thought of all the things Hunter had. “I thought God would treat people who love Him better than those who don’t. Hunter isn’t a Christian, but he’s got better things than me! How come?” Dad smiled. “You sound a lot like Asaph.” “Like who?” Gabe peered quizzically at his father. “Asaph. He was a man who wrote some of the psalms in the Bible. Come over here—I’ll show you.” Gabe and Dad sat down on the sofa, and Dad brought up Psalm 73 on his phone. “Look here, Gabe,” he said. “At the beginning of the psalm, Asaph is complaining to the Lord because evil people are prospering and having lots of success while terrible things are happening to him.” Dad read several verses. “Wow! I know just what he means,” said Gabe. “I thought you might,” said Dad. “Later verses show that Asaph changed his mind. He was reminded that people who don’t know the Lord can only look forward to destruction in the end. Those who are saved will have it good when life on earth ends.” Gabe thought about that. “I guess I don’t have it so bad after all,” he said. “Hunter will get what’s coming to him someday.” “Whoa!” said Dad. “Not so fast. We can be thankful that God has shown us mercy. It’s only because we trust in Jesus, who took the punishment for our sins by dying on the cross, that we won’t get what we deserve. It’s not up to us to judge Hunter. Instead, let’s pray for him. Ask God to use you to show Hunter His mercy and love so he will put his trust in Jesus and all will be well for him in the end. Okay?” Gabe nodded. “Okay,” he said. “I know Jesus loves Hunter too, and I want both of us to spend eternity with Him.” So how about you? Do you know unsaved people who seem to have it better than you? Unless they trust Jesus as their Savior, they don’t have a future with Him in heaven. Thank Jesus for saving you from sin, and pray for those who don’t know Him. Tell others what He’s done for you so they might know they can be saved from sin and have eternal life with Him too. Key Verse Psalm 73:28 NLT "How good it is to be near God! I have made the sovereign Lord my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do." Key Thought Jesus saves us from destruction. Further Reading Psalm 73:3-7, 12-18, 25-28

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers The Hidden Gift Christmas was over, and Henry and Nevaeh helped their parents remove the ornaments, lights, and strands of garland from the Christmas  tree branches. Soon the shimmering and festive tree looked bare except for the colorful tree skirt surrounding the tree stand. “Hey,” Henry called out. “Look at that!” He pointed to a small box wrapped in green and red paper peeking out from under a fold in the tree skirt. “Where did that come from?” Mom asked as she bent down to pick up the box. “We must have missed this when we opened our gifts.” She held the box in her hands and looked for a name. “It’s for me! From Aunt Martha,” she said in surprise. “I didn’t think she had sent anything this year, and here it was under the tree the whole time.” Mom opened the gift and found a necklace and matching earrings. “They’re so pretty!” Nevaeh said as Mom held them up for everybody to see. “Just think—Aunt Martha’s gift was here all this time, but Mom couldn’t receive it because she didn’t know it was there,” Dad said. “It reminds me of another gift—God’s gift of salvation. It’s available to everyone, but many people don’t even know it’s there. It stays hidden until someone shows it to them—like you showed the package to us, Henry.” Nevaeh and Henry thought about that. “So we need to show people God’s gift by telling them about Jesus,” Nevaeh said. “And tell them that if they accept it, Jesus will save them from sin and give them eternal life,” added Henry. “That’s right,” said Dad. “It’s an amazing gift! But they can’t accept it if they don’t know it’s there. That’s why we need to share it with others.” Dad motioned to the boxes of decorations. “Let’s see if we can all come up with a person we can tell about God’s amazing gift by the time we finish puttingthis stuff away.” So how about you? Have you received the gift of salvation? (See “Have You Heard the Good News?”) It’s wonderful to know you have eternal life through Jesus. But many people don’t know this amazing gift exists. Think of someone you know who may not know about Jesus and the eternal life He offers—then tell them about it! God may use you to help someone receive Jesus, the best gift of all. Key Verse Romans 5:18 NKJV "Through one man's righteous act the free gift came to all men." Key Thought Tell others about God's gift. Further Reading Romans 5:8-15

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers Christmas Every Day “Visit our store and enjoy Christmas every day of the year!” Anissa read the billboard out loud as she and her family traveled home from a week-long vacation. “Cool! That’s in the town at the next exit, isn’t it? Can we stop at that store?” Dad shrugged. “Why not? It will be a good break for us. Watch for signs so we’ll know where to turn.” They found the store, and everyone smiled when they heard “Jingle Bells” playing over the loudspeaker as they walked in. The store was filled with all kinds of Christmas decorations–ornaments, trees, twinkling lights, and wreaths. In one corner, a woman was handing out fruit punch and decorated Christmas cookies. “All these things are nice,” said Dad, “but while we eat our cookies, let’s go over there and think about the real meaning of Christmas.” He led the way to a manger scene that looked so real, Anissa could almost imagine she was in Bethlehem. As she thought about the events of that night long ago, she imagined Mary putting baby Jesus in a manger, and the angels singing and the shepherds and wise men arriving at the stable to worship Him. “Come on, kids,” said Dad, interrupting Anissa’s daydreams. “Time to be on our way.” Anissa continued thinking about the manger scene as they continued toward home. “I wish we could celebrate Christmas all year long like they do at that store,” she said. “We can,” said Dad. “What is Christmas, Anissa?” “It’s the time when we remember the night Jesus was born,” replied Anissa. “Exactly!” said Dad. “The night God sent His Son to earth as one of us so He could save us from sin. Don’t you think that’s something we should celebrate all year long? “Well, sure,” said Anissa. “We should thank God every day for sending Jesus, shouldn’t we?” She grinned. “So can we put the Christmas tree back up when we get home?” Mom laughed and shook her head. “We’ll save that for next December,” she said. “We can remember the real meaning of Christmas without the tree.” So how about you? Are you thankful every day for God’s amazing gift? He sent His Son, Jesus, to earth to take the punishment for your sin so you could have eternal life. There is no better gift than that! Don’t wait until next December to thank God for His great gift—Jesus is the reason to celebrate Christmas all year long! Key Verse 2 Corinthians 9:15 “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” Key Thought Think of God’s gift all year long. Further Reading Luke 2:1-7

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers After-Christmas Sale "Look at my new sweater!” said Brianne, holding it up for her dad to see. “You should see all the stuff Mom and I got on sale today.” Mom sighed. “Yes, but it was such a hassle getting through the crowds at the mall and pawing through the racks of clothes that I wondered at times if it was really worth it. But we did get some really good deals.” “Yeah!” said Brianne. “It makes you wonder how the stores can afford to sell things at those prices.” “They know what they’re doing,” Dad assured her. “They’re clearing out things that are no longer profitable and making room to restock their shelves with new things people want—things that will make them more money. Right now, they’re selling off winter stuff to make room for spring merchandise.” He paused for a moment. “I think we could take a lesson from them.” “Like what?” asked Brianne curiously. “There are things in our lives that we need to clear out from time to time,” Dad explained as he reached for his Bible. “Let’s read about them for our devotions tonight.” He opened his Bible and read a passage from the book of Colossians. “Hearing those verses makes me regret getting angry and impatient with some people in the store today,” Mom confessed. “I need to get rid of anger and selfishness from the shelves of my life and make room for patience and humility.” “How much do you suppose we can sell our bad qualities for?” asked Brianne with a mischievous grin. Dad laughed. “Forget having a sale and just trash them. Those unprofitable traits don’t fit who we are now because Jesus has saved us from sin. Instead of wasting space on them, we can restock our shelves with good things like compassion, kindness, and patience—qualities that fit the new life Jesus gave us when we trusted in Him.” “And how much of a profit can we get with our new qualities?” asked Brianne. “That’s the best part,” said Dad. “We can give them away for free, and they’ll still be profitable. When we are kind, gentle, and forgiving with others, we show them God’s love and help them see who Jesus is, and He can use those good qualities in our lives to draw more people to Him.” So how about you? What traits are found on the shelves of your life? Do others see qualities that reflect Jesus and fit the new person He’s made you to be? Or do you still have outdated habits from your old life taking up space—things like lying, a hot temper, or a desire to get even with someone? Trust God to help you replace old, sinful attitudes with loving qualities that fit your new life with Jesus. Key Verse Colossians 3:12 "As God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Key Thought Put on traits that reflect Jesus. Further Reading Colossians 3:8-15

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers A Gingerbread House "Mom! Tell Ella to stop dipping her finger in the icing!” “Karis, you know she’s only five. You can’t expect her to make a gingerbread house without eating any of it.” “But I want it to be perfect!” It was a Christmas tradition for Karis and Ella to make a gingerbread house. Karis lined up the red and green gumdrops like little army men. The containers of colored sprinkles stood at attention like soldiers. “Mom, I think there’s more icing in Ella’s hair than on our gingerbread house.” “Don’t worry about it, honey,” said Mom. “I’ll give her a bath when you’re finished.”  Karis smiled at her sister. “If you get any more icing on your face, you’ll look like a snowman.” Ella giggled and handed her sister a broken piece of graham cracker.  “That’s a great idea, Ella,” said Karis. “We can use little pieces of graham cracker to make shingles for our roof. We’ll stick them on with icing.”  An hour later, Karis plopped the last gumdrop on the roof of the gingerbread house to make a chimney. Mom picked up a leftover graham cracker and used it to scrape the bottom of the icing bowl. “That’s one of the most beautiful gingerbread houses I’ve ever seen, girls. I’m so proud of you.” She popped the graham cracker into her mouth. “You know, this gingerbread house reminds me of a Bible verse. Jesus said He was going to heaven to prepare a place for us to be with Him forever. It took you girls a whole hour to make your house. Can you imagine how awesome the place is that Jesus is preparing for us? If we trust in Jesus, He’s already made a home in our hearts, and one day we’ll get to be with Him in heaven forever.”  Karis smiled. “I’m pretty sure the place Jesus is preparing for us in heaven isn’t made out of gingerbread.” Mom smiled and licked a bit of icing off her finger. “You’re right. I don’t think it will be made of gingerbread. But it will be just as sweet!” So how about you? Have you ever built a gingerbread house? Then you know how much time and preparation it takes to make it look good. Right now Jesus is preparing a place for those who trust in Him, and it will be better than any mansion on earth! But there’s only one way to get there. Trust in Jesus, and He will make a home in your heart—and prepare one for you in heaven too. (See “Have You Heard the Good News?”) Key Verse John 14:2 ERV "There are many rooms in my Father's house...I am going there to prepare a place for you." Key Thought Christians have a home with Jesus. Further Reading John 14:2-4, 23; Romans 10:9

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers Temporary Connections Julie sighed in satisfaction as she looked at the Christmas decorations she had hung in her room. She had tried to tie a string from her closet door to her curtain, but the string wasn’t long enough, so she’d stretched her curtain into the middle of her room and managed to tie the string tightly around it. Bells and Christmas ornaments were meticulously strung along the string. It had taken her the better part of an hour to get it all set up the way she wanted. A few minutes later, Mom walked in to close Julie’s blinds and noticed the string contraption and the curtain suspended parallel to the floor. “Julie?” Mom asked. “Will you please cut this string so we can close your blinds? It’s getting dark outside.” Julie stomped her feet and wailed, “But it took me forever to tie that string!” “I’m sorry, honey, but it can’t stay this way. Next time, make sure you’re connecting it to something that won’t have to move if you want it to last a long time.” Julie burst into tears and flung herself on her bed. Mom sighed. “I understand you’re upset. When you’ve had a chance to process, we’ll talk about it.” Mom walked out to the living room where Julie’s older brother, Dan, was working on building a ramp for his car and connecting it to the couch. “Just so you’re aware, you’ll have to take your ramp down before bedtime,” Mom told him. “Okay, Mom. Why is Julie so upset?” “I asked her to cut a string she tied to the curtain.” Dan nodded. He had seen Julie stringing up her decorations earlier. “She spent a long time doing that.” “I know. I explained if she wanted it to last a long time, she’d have to be wiser about how she set it up.” Mom sat on the couch to watch Dan build. “It’s a good reminder for how we should live our lives. The things of this world are temporary, but the truth and salvation of Jesus lasts forever! We need to build our lives wisely by trusting and obeying Him.”  So how about you? Are you building your life in a way that will last? The only way to do that is to trust in Jesus. (See “Have You Heard the Good News?”) Then live out His truth in your daily life. In today’s Bible reading, Jesus tells a story about a man who built his house on rock and another who built his house on sand. When the rain came, the house on sand washed away, but the one on the rock stood firm. Jesus is the Rock—build your life on Him. Key Verse John 6:27 NIV "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Song of Man [Jesus] will give you." Key Thought Build your life on Jesus. Further Reading Matthew 7:24-29; John 6:27-29

Thank you for joining Keys for Kids Radio's Countdown to Christmas Advent Activity! Read the story below, answer the questions on the cards, and send us a voice message with your answers! Then you could hear yourself on Keys for Kids Radio as we talk through each day's story! Send In Your Answers Mary's Part Speaking parts were being assigned for the church Christmas program, and Kaylee eagerly waited for her name to be called. She was sure she was the perfect one to take the part of Mary, the mother of Jesus. No one can memorize lines as well as me, she thought.  “Braelyn.” Mrs. Roberts’ voice interrupted Kaylee’s thoughts. “I think you would be a good choice to play the part of Mary.” Kaylee gasped. Braelyn! She stutters sometimes, Kaylee thought. What kind of Mary would she be? Kaylee scowled. Well, that’s just fine with me. Who wants to be in this dumb play anyway? When Mrs. Roberts offered her another part, Kaylee made excuses and refused to be in the production at all. On the night of the program, Kaylee sat in the front row. She had come to laugh at Braelyn’s mistakes. Mrs. Roberts will be embarrassed for making such a dumb choice! she thought in disgust as Braelyn walked up front. That drab outfit looks like it was made from a feed sack. Mom would have made me a much better costume than that! She snickered to herself and rolled her eyes.  Hesitantly, Braelyn began reciting from Luke chapter one: “My soul magnifies the Lord…because…because…” She paused briefly. “Because he has looked with favor on the humble condition of his servant.” Humble condition, thought Kaylee. That sure fits Braelyn! Suddenly another thought struck her, causing her mouth to drop open in surprise. It fits Mary too! Kaylee tried to push that thought away, but she couldn’t. More unwanted thoughts persisted as she watched the rest of the Christmas performance. Mary was willing to obey God and carry out His commands, and Braelyn’s like that too, Kaylee realized. She’s a good Mary! In her heart, Kaylee knew that if she had gotten the part, she would be saying Mary’s words only to make herself look good and be the star performer. But Braelyn was humble like the real Mary was—and like how Jesus was too. They were both willing to obey God and make sacrifices for the good of others. Feeling ashamed, Kaylee prayed silently, asking God to forgive her proud spirit and to help her be humble like Mary—and Jesus. So how about you? Are you humble like Mary? Or do you think you should be the one chosen to sing the solo, answer the questions, or lead the group because you do it best? Jesus wants humble servants who are willing to serve His purpose instead of their own so that He will be honored. Even though He is God, Jesus was willing to die for our sins so we could be saved. Mary was His humble servant. Does that description fit you? Key Verse Matthew 20:27 NLV "Whoever wants to be first among you, let him be your servant." Key Thought Be a humble servant. Further Reading Luke 1:26-33, 46-49