Time for Jesus! Craft Ideas for the Opening of Advent
As the Advent season begins, we look forward to Christmas joys, but even more so we eagerly await the coming of Christ! Advent is a season of waiting in happy and hopeful anticipation. As we wait, we live in the presence of God and carry out His work on Earth now. These crafts celebrate that anticipation and brainstorm ways to serve Jesus. A “Jesus is Coming Clock” features a time theme and methods of living in His care. A classic countdown paper chain includes ideas for Advent. And a “Waiting Stocking” is a decorative piece that also has thoughts for serving at Christmas time.
- See the complete 19-page Sunday School lesson Matthew 24:36-44
- See the Object lesson Children’s Sermon on Waiting for Jesus
Craft one: “Jesus is Coming Clock”
You will need:
- Paper plate
- Scissors
- Markers and/or crayons
- Construction paper or cardstock
- Glue or tape
- String or pipe cleaner
- Extra decorations as desired
Procedure:
- Cut out paper to resemble the hands of a clock. Optional: cut several star shapes out of paper, as well.
- Add verses and captions. Emphasize a timing or star theme for the clock.
- Add the clock hands, using a brad fastener if preferred for mobility, or glue/tape the clock hands in.
- Add more stickers or decorations as preferred. Attach stars if desired.
Craft Two: “Waiting Stocking”
You will need:
- Markers/crayons
- Construction paper or card stock
- Decorations (stickers, etc.)
- Scissors
- Captions/verses
- Cotton balls
- Paper bags
- Tape or glue
Procedure:
1. Decorate the paper bag to resemble a stocking, with colored crayons or markers.
2. Glue on cotton balls, if desired, to make the “stocking” effect complete.
3. Add verses, stickers, or additional decorations as desired.
4. Attach a pipe cleaner or string to hang the stocking, if preferred for hanging.
5. Cut strips of paper and write notes of things to do to pass time while “waiting” for Jesus!
Craft Three: “Countdown to Advent Chain”
You will need:
- Markers/crayons
- Construction paper or card stock
- Decorations (stickers, etc.)
- Scissors
- Captions/verses
- Stapler
Procedure:
1. Cut strips of paper, approximately 1-2 inches wide and 6-8 inches long.
2. Write notes on the paper strips, describing potential things to do to love and serve God while waiting for the return of Jesus.
3. Add verses, stickers, or additional decorations as desired.
4. Staple the strips together, forming a chain. Use the paper chain to count down to Christmas and celebrate the advent of the king!
Bible Verses or Craft Captions to Consider… (Matthew 24:36-42)
“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. -Matthew 24:36
While we wait for Jesus…
Time for Jesus…make Him your life’s STAR!
Sing a hymn!
Help someone!
Pray!
Read God’s Word!
Make a treat!