Christmas Candlelight Service As we celebrate Christmas, take time to focus on Jesus. He is the reason we celebrate.

What is your favorite Christmas tradition?

• Jesus is the reason we celebrate. Christmas is a wonderful season to celebrate the gift of Jesus. In all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, remember to stop and take time to honor God and thank Him for sending Jesus to this earth to redeem us.

• Isaiah prophesied about Jesus coming. In Isaiah 9:6–7, the prophet Isaiah prophesied about the Savior, Jesus, coming as a baby. This was 700 years before His birth.

• This is a great season to welcome Jesus into your life. As we celebrate the gift God gave us when He sent His Son, Jesus, this is the perfect time to give your life to God. If you’ve never received the greatest gift of all, take time to receive the gift of salvation that comes from knowing Jesus.

*Group Dynamics Idea* Although this season is a time of celebration, there are many people who have lost loved ones or who are very lonely. This time of year can actually be very difficult for a lot of people. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you people who need to experience God’s love and encouragement during this time. Use this season as an opportunity to minister to those who are lonely or struggling.

Open

Focus

Fun

Review

1. What do you enjoy the most about Christmas?

2. Read Isaiah 9:6–7. What stands out to you about this verse? What other names for Jesus could you add to that list?

3. God gave us the greatest gift of all—His Son, Jesus. Ask if some people in your group would like to share some of the ways they appreciate having Jesus in their life.

4. Just like God was generous in giving His Son, what are some ways we can be generous and share God’s love during this season?

5. Take time to respond to God. If you have never given your life to God, there is no better time than right now. If you have already been born again, is there an area of your life or something you can give to God as a gift?

As we conclude, remember the following:

• Jesus is the reason we celebrate. • Isaiah prophesied about Jesus coming. • This is a great season to welcome Jesus into your life.

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the gift of Your son. We love celebrating Jesus during this season. As we pause to thank You for Jesus, we also want to respond by giving all of our lives to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*New Leader Tip* Stay connected during the holidays. Be intentional about keeping in touch with the relationships in your group. It may be as simple as sending a card, posting an encouraging word on social media, or making a phone call. You could even get everyone together to play games and celebrate!

Discuss

Prayer

Take Home