This season of Advent is a special one for preparing young hearts (and middle-aged ones) for the coming of the Christ child. In past years our family did not do much on our own besides reading the story the birth of Jesus, but this year I’m trying to be a bit more intentional.

I found this great little booklet that was given to me some time ago and decided to make it our family devotional after dinner each night. Published by Zondervan, The Christmas Story from The Family Reading Bible is divided into 20 brief meditations that lead the reader from the promise given to David in 2 Samuel, to the writing of the Prophet Isaiah, and then finally to the New Testament events of God coming to dwell with his people.

I appreciate that this book includes some talking points at the end of each reading. For example:

• “Just the Facts” asks 3 comprehension questions for your family to discuss together. Reference verses are listed to help guide you to the correct answer
• “Let’s Talk” engage you in open-ended questions that drive to the heart. For instance, the last reading asks, “How does this reading help you understand the ‘big picture’ of Jesus’ coming?”
• “Why this Matters” offers a couple of sentences to share with your kids, emphasizing the divinity of Christ or another doctrine highlighted by the reading or Scripture selection.
• “Points of Interest” underscores verses with special significance, such as when the writer quotes Old Testament prophecy, repetition of important words, or further study of a word or item within the text (i.e, fun fact).