2024 SPLC Children & Families - Sunday • Third Week of Advent
Jonah 1:17-2:1-10 17 And the Lord appointed a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. Jonah's Prayer 2 Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the belly of the fish, 2 saying, “I called out to the Lord, out of my distress, and he answered me; out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and you heard my voice. 3 For you cast me into the deep, into the heart of the seas, and the flood surrounded me; all your waves and your billows passed over me. 4 Then I said, ‘I am driven away from your sight; yet I shall again look upon your holy temple.’ 5 The waters closed in over me to take my life; the deep surrounded me; weeds were wrapped about my head 6 at the roots of the mountains. I went down to the land whose bars closed upon me forever; yet you brought up my life from the pit, O Lord my God. 7 When my life was fainting away, I remembered the Lord, and my prayer came to you, into your holy temple. 8 Those who pay regard to vain idols forsake their hope of steadfast love. 9 But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. Salvation belongs to the Lord!” 10 And the Lord spoke to the fish, and it vomited Jonah out upon the dry land. Daily Video Advent Devotions for Children & Families The Jesse Tree: A Grabau Family Tradition Led by Vicar Ezekiel Grabau Edited by Laura L. Nelson St. Paul Lutheran Church 1100 SE Sharon Drive Ankeny, IA 50021 www.StPaulAnkeny.org This Advent season, we invite you to join us on a special journey using the Jesse Tree, a meaningful tradition that highlights the ancestors of Jesus and God's plan for His birth. These simple, engaging devotions will help young children understand how God was preparing the world for the coming of Jesus. Along with each devotion, watch as Vicar places a symbol that pairs with that day's reading on the Grabau Family Jesse Tree. These symbols serve as a visual reminder of each narrative, making it easier for families to connect with the rich history of God’s promises. The Jesse Tree is a beautiful way for families to share the hope and excitement of Advent, drawing closer to the true meaning of Christmas while deepening faith and family connection around God's Word.
