Keys for Kids Devotional: Christmas DevotionsSample

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Addie wiggled all through the Christmas service. Sitting still was so hard, especially when you weren't interested in what the pastor was saying. Addie wanted to go home and open presents. Funny, she was more excited about her sister's present than her own. Abigail had asked for a special movie-making kit complete with video and sound effects. Addie couldn't wait to make movies with Abigail.

But the pastor kept going on and on about the best gift being the baby who was born in Bethlehem. Addie rolled her eyes. That's all they talked about at church. She figured someday she'd trust in Jesus...when she didn't have anything else to do.

"I liked what Pastor Pete said this morning," Abigail said later as they were eating cinnamon rolls. 

"Can we open presents now?" Addie asked. "I'm tired of talking about church. I'll think about that stuff when I'm older." She went and got Abigail's present from beneath the tree. "Here's yours, Abigail. I can't wait to see you open it!"

Abigail settled down on the couch. "I'm too busy to open it right now."

"Abigail!" Addie tugged at her sister's arm. "Come on."

Abigail picked up a book she was reading. "First I want to finish this chapter. I want to know what happens." She started reading.

Addie stomped her foot. "Abigail!" She looked to her parents, who shrugged and continued eating cinnamon rolls at the table. Was her family going crazy?

"I was thinking," Abigail said. "Maybe when I'm older. You know, like when I'm eighteen. Then I'll open my gift."

Addie looked around and noticed everyone looking back at her. "Oh," she said, finally understanding. "You're showing me how silly I am for not accepting God's gift of Jesus now and saying I'll think about it later."

"Right," Dad said. "God's gift of His only Son, who became human and died and rose again to save us from sin, is more important than any gift under the tree."

"I guess I have been kind of silly," Addie admitted. "I know I shouldn't wait to trust in Jesus."

"How about trusting in Him right now?" Mom asked. "That would be the best Christmas present ever." 

– Linda Weddle

HOW ABOUT YOU?

Have you heard about Jesus from family members or at church, but haven’t really thought about what His death and resurrection mean for you? Maybe you figure you’ll think about it when you’re older. Why wait? Jesus is the best gift anyone could ever get, and the best time to accept a gift is NOW. Trust in Jesus this Christmas Day! 

KEY VERSE

Truly I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life. (John 5:24, CSB)

TODAY'S KEY 

God’s gift is the greatest gift of all.