Welcome to the Prayers of Rest podcast. I'm your host, Asherita, and this season's prayers are based on my Advent devotional unwrapping the names of Jesus.

As a busy mom, I know how hard it is to keep Jesus at the center of our Christmas celebration.

I want our kids to know that even if the lights are fun and their

presents and there's yummy cookies, really what is at the heart of the celebration is Jesus.

And so each week has a family devotional that you can do around the table. It's super simple

even for the youngest children. And my husband and I also created free coloring ornaments

that go along with the devotional that you can download, like I said, for free at unwrapping

the names.com. You'll find that linked in our show notes as well. I really hope this Advent

devotional is a blessing to you, whether you have young kids at home or not.

May it help you center your heart and your mind on Jesus.

As we begin, find a quiet place and take a deep breath as we enter into God's presence together.

Today's reading comes from John chapter 10.

I am the good shepherd.

The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

Let's begin by reciting God's goodness,

praising him for who he is and for what he has done in our lives.

Jesus, you are our good shepherd. You are the one who takes care of us. You are the one who knows each one of us. You lead us, Jesus, into green

pastures. You make us lie down beside still waters. You restore our souls.

You lead us in paths of righteousness for your name's sake, not our own.

And yet not only that, but Jesus, you are the good shepherd who lay down your life for your sheep.

You are the one who saw the threat against us, the threat of sin and death, and

you ran headlong into it, willingly laying down your life on the cross for us, your sheep.

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