The Kid: An Advent Devotional for Middle SchoolersNäide

Would you ever take the punishment for someone who committed a crime? Of course, if we’re honest, most of us would say a loud, “No way!” Well, Jesus, the perfect Son of God, did what everyone else considers to be crazy and irrational. As humans, we needed help. We needed a way to be close to God again. And because God wanted that too, God sent Jesus to the world that first Christmas.

While we celebrate His birth this season, His death and resurrection ultimately made our closeness with God possible again. Jesus died willingly for us. On the cross, He carried our sins, past, present, and future, on His broken shoulders. And He did it with a heart full of love for us—so full that it overflows and pours into all who accept His love.

This week, thank God for the gift of Jesus. Although you may know this verse well, take time to reflect on its everlasting truth and what it means for your life today.

Written by Andrea, age 17, Rochester Hills, MI, USA