31 Family Devotions For Christmas Day FOUR Dec. 4th

Sorry this one is late....

21 Days Until Christmas

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven"

MATTHEW 5:16

Jesus tells us that everything we do for others pleases God. Let others see Christ shining through you! Sometimes our good deeds go unnoticed by people, but don't let this stop you. Ask God to show you how you can bless another person without getting noticed today. Maybe you cold secretly shovel the driveway of an elderly neighbor or help with household chores without anyone knowing. If we're doing everything for the glory of God, it won't matter if others notice or not.

Prayer:

Father, let all that I do please You today. Let Your light shine through me so that others can see that You are real and that You are working in my heart. In Jesus' name, AMEN.

Family Activity:

Purchase mini Christmas trees and let each child decorate his or her own. Put the tree in their bedrooms, bathroom, or anywhere that could use an extra touch of Christmas. Maybe even put one in the garage or barn to brighten the day of somone working hard. Younger children can make their own garlands from construction paper or sting popcorn or cranberries. Have hot chocolate and cookies on hand, and everyone wil want to join the fun!

Stress free tip:

Make sure to have plenty of extension cords when you decorate with lights. Purchase any additional lights or decorations you might need this year. Don't worry if your home doesn't look picture perfect. Your children will have fun decorating in their own way.

Recipe:

Chocolate Drop Cookies

1/2 cup shortening

2 squares unsweetened baking chocolate

2 eggs

1 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 1/3 cups flour

Preheat over to 400 degrees. Melt shortening and chocolate together in medium saucepan. Remove from heat. Beat eggs; add sugar and whisk together well. Add melted chocolate mixture, vanilla, and flour. Mix well. Drop by heaping tablespoons on cookie sheet. Bake for 6 minutes.

Enjoy your holiday treats from us to you.