Lesson Plans: Advent 1 (B)

Sunday between November 27 and December 3

Old Testament Lesson Plans: Hope in God

Scripture: Isaiah 64:1-9

Today’s Scripture comes from the book of Isaiah. At first read of the passage, this might seem like a lesson that is difficult to teach to students. However, a closer reading of the story brings forth many important and significant themes. Isaiah wrote this text at a time when the people of God were facing trouble. They were attacked and exiled, and are now allowed home. Isaiah’s words about God’s great power brought hope to God’s people at a time when they were rebuilding their lives. During Advent, we hope and wait for God to come and dwell with us, too.

New Testament Lesson Plans: Keep Alert!

Scripture: Mark 13:24-37

Ominous warnings of end times: These warnings and words of hope were heard in a community that was pretty sure the world was coming to an end. The message: Keep alert! Stay awake! Pay attention! Jesus just might come this very night. Implicit is the invitation to make some changes in our priorities and to notice what really matters.

Intergenerational Lesson Plan

Scripture: Mark 13:24-37

Today we begin Cycle B, the second year of the three-year cycle from the Revised Common Lectionary. This cycle features the Gospel of Mark. It’s succinct, no frills, and no extra data. Just the facts as Mark perceived them. Jesus will come back – no matter how long it takes. The truth Jesus came to show us will not go away. When will Jesus come back? Who knows? “When” didn’t seem to matter to Jesus – just that we be ready.