In this season of Advent, we choose to live generously in Jesus’ name. Amen
Let’s pray It is time to prepare ourselves. The Light of the World is coming to us. It is time to find peace. The Light of the World is coming to us. It is time to give up our darkness. The Light of the World is coming to us. It is time to follow the light. The Light of the World is coming to us. Amen
What have you remembered from collective worship this week? What stories do you recall? What ideas have stayed with you?
We are going to reflect on an image together. We will be quiet whilst we look at it. Then we can share what we are thinking about.
What comes to you as you look at this image? What or who does it remind you of?
How do you feel when you look at the image?
This week, we have thought about waiting and preparing and how to do that well - without complaining or being lazy. We have thought about living generously and how that can bring joy to us and to others. Christians try to live generously as a response to the generosity they have been shown by God. How do you think Christians understand God’s generosity? Have a think and then share with your partner.
The Bible says God made everything and everything is his. Psalm 24:1-2
It says that God is a good God who gives good gifts - including looking after the Earth! Genesis 1:27-31
Christians believe that God gave Jesus to save and restore the world. John 3:16
This is how Christians understand God’s generosity.
Real generosity is not just giving away what you don’t want or don’t need, it is a willingness to share everything even when you do not gain anything in return. WHY should we live generously? How do you live generously? Have a look at the suggestions on the next slide. What could you and your friends commit to over the next few weeks? You light like to listen to this while you are thinking.
Let someone go ahead of you in a line. Help someone carry something. Smile at a someone who is not in your class. Donate some clothes or books you don’t need anymore. Volunteer some time to help. Organise a fundraising event. Offer to help tidy up a mess you didn’t make. What else can you think of?
Let’s think How could I show generosity that will enable myself and others to grow and flourish? Who will I share my plan with who will help me to remember my promise? Let’s pray Lord Jesus We pray that our school will be a place where everyone can grow and flourish. Please give us your joy as we follow you. Teach us to live generously as we wait for your Kingdom to come. Amen
Psalm 30 (Adapted from Good News Translation) A Prayer of Joy and Thanksgiving I praise you, Lord, because you have saved me. You have taken away my sorrow and surrounded me with joy! I cried to you for help, O Lord my God, and you healed me; You have taken away my sorrow and surrounded me with joy! I was on my way to the depths below, but you restored my life. You have taken away my sorrow and surrounded me with joy!
Sing praise to the Lord, all his faithful people! Remember what the Holy One has done and give him thanks! His anger lasts only a moment, his goodness for a lifetime. Tears may flow in the night, but joy comes in the morning. You have changed my sadness into a joyful dance; You have taken away my sorrow and surrounded me with joy! So I will not be silent; I will give you thanks forever. You have taken away my sorrow and surrounded me with joy!