Did you plan to do many activities with your child before Christmas, but preparations for celebrations, travel, or hosting family took up all your time? Don't worry, Christmas isn't just one day; in fact, every day is an opportunity for Jesus to be born in our hearts. So this year, do things differently: continue celebrating Jesus, even after Christmas passes.

In Matthew 2:1 and 2, we read that the wise men brought their gifts to Jesus after His birth. So, let's learn from their story and continue seeking Jesus every day, even after Christmas passes.

The story of the wise men contains many interesting facts that teach us important lessons. We present seven themes and activities for you to explore with your children.

Theme 1 - The Wise Men

Read: Matthew 2:1-12

Ask: How many kings do you think visited Jesus? Why did they decide to look for Jesus? How did they know Jesus was special? Do you think they knew He was God?

Activity: Three Wise Men Handprint

Theme 2 - Following the Star

Read: Matthew 2:9-10 and Numbers 24:17

Ask: What do you think the star looked like? Have you ever seen a star that moves? What do you think the wise men talked about as they followed the star? God created the stars, so would it be difficult for Him to make a super bright star just to guide the kings?

Activity: Christmas Star, read Three Facts About Stars

Theme 3 - Seeking Jesus

Read: Matthew 2:1-2

Ask: Is Jesus the King of your life? How do you know? What can you do today to get closer to Jesus? How do you feel when you spend time with Jesus?

Activities: Camel Origami,  Fun Facts About Camels

Theme 4 - King of Kings

Read: John 18:36, Revelation 19:13, 16

Ask: What do kings do? What are they like? What characteristics of Jesus are evidence that he is the King of the Universe? Is there anyone more important than Jesus?

Activity: "Jesus Is My King" Crown,

Theme 5 - The Gifts of the Magi

Read: Matthew 2:11

Ask: If you were one of the wise men, what would you bring to Jesus as a gift? What was the most meaningful gift you have ever received? What gifts does Jesus give you?

Activity: Learn about the gifts of the Magi for Jesus. Also see What is Myrrh used for?. Grow a myrrh plant.

Theme 6: Our Gift to Jesus

Read: James 1:27, Micah 6:8, and Matthew 22:37-40

Ask: Think about things you can do this week to make Jesus happy. How are these things different from the gifts you usually ask for? What are some gifts you've received that can't be wrapped?

Activity: Read New Year's Resolutions and personalize it for your family. Learn the song What Can I Give Him in English.

Lyrics: What Can I Give Him?

What can I give Him poor as I am, If I were a shepherd I’d bring Him a Lamb. If I were a wise man, I would do my part. But what can I give Him? Give Him my heart.

Translation: What Can I Give Him?

What can I give Him, poor as I am, If I were a shepherd I'd bring Him a lamb. If I were a wise man, I would do my part. But what can I give Him? Give Him my heart.

Theme 7: Revealing the King to the World

Read: Isaiah 9:6-7, John 3:16.

Ask: Why did Jesus come into the world and was born as a baby? Why did Jesus die on a cross if He is our King? What should we tell everyone?

Special Activity: After studying these themes, it's time to share them and thus reveal the King to the world. Invite someone you've never invited before for a special meal at your home, or visit someone, share what you've learned, and give them a craft you made.

Theme Ideas: Intoxicated on Life

Photo: Freepik

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