chell’sea campbell
MISSION STATEMENT FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL 4REAL
MAGAZINE FOR JUNIORS
Transformational 4Real Magazine for Juniors is committed to inspiring, educating, and empowering children, ages 9 to 15 to grow in wisdom, character, and faith. Grounded in biblical principles, our mission is to nurture young minds with content that encourages confidence, creativity, leadership, and a heart for service. Through uplifting stories, engaging activities, and faith-based teachings, we aim to instill values of kindness, perseverance, and integrity. With God at the center of transformation, we encourage children to embrace their unique gifts, walk in purpose, and make a real difference in their communities and the world."
VISION STATEMENT FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL 4REAL MAGAZINE FOR JUNIORS
"Our vision is to raise a generation of young leaders who are rooted in faith, guided by wisdom, and empowered to fulfill their God-given purpose. Transformational 4Real Magazine for Juniors seeks to inspire children to grow spiritually, mentally, and emotionally, equipping them with the knowledge, values, and confidence to impact the world for God’s glory. Through engaging, faith-filled content, we envision a future where children walk in integrity, embrace their unique talents, and shine as beacons of hope, love, and transformation in their communities and beyond."
interview with chell’sea campbell
T4RMJ: This month, Transformational 4Real Magazine for Juniors is excited to spotlight 16-year-old Chell’Sea Campbell, a bright and motivated student whose curiosity, discipline, and joyful spirit shine through everything she does. As an only child Chell’Sea enjoys baking, cooking, traveling with her mom, and embracing new experiences that help her grow. A proud student at New Albany, she loves the unique opportunities her school offers along with teachers who are supportive, approachable, and truly invested in their students’ success. From her passion for government and Spanish to her dedication in track, church, and hobbies, Chell’Sea embodies what it means to be focused, balanced, and ready to take on the world.
T4RMJ: Chell'sea, can you tell us a little about yourself and what you enjoy most about being a junior at New Albany High School?
CJC: A little about myself is that I’m an only child, and I have a dog named Oreo. I enjoy baking, cooking, traveling with my mom, and enjoying new things. What I enjoy most about being a student at New Albany is all the opportunities that come with being a student there. We have the opportunity to learn a lot of things that you might not get at any other school. I also enjoy how several of the teachers are easy to talk to, and they also make it easy to get help when I need it.
T4RMJ: What motivates you as a student, especially in your favorite subjects like government and Spanish?
CJC: What motivates me the most is wanting to learn a new language and striving to be fluent in the language. Also, I’ve always had an enjoyment to learn about the government, and I love the class because my teacher makes it fun to learn and listen to him.
T4RMJ: How do you balance academics, track, church involvement, and your personal hobbies?
CJC: I balance it well; track is usually after school from 3 to around 4:30, so after track, I go and complete my homework, do my chores, and spend time with my mom. On the weekend, is when I’m able to enjoy my personal hobbies with friends or with my mom, and I pursue anything church related on my schedule, which usually works out well.
T4RMJ: What got you interested in running track, and how long have you been competing?
CJC: She’carri Richardson was an inspiration for me to begin running track after I saw her first track video. And I became interested in running, and I’ve been running ever since. I’ve been doing track since my freshman year of high school.
T4RMJ: You run both indoor and outdoor track what are the biggest differences for you?
CJC: I don't really think that there is a big difference between the two. Indoor track helps prepare and train you for outdoor track, and that’s why I enjoy it.
T4RMJ: Do you have a favorite event or distance on the track?
CJC: My favorite event to do is the 4x1 relay race. It goes by so fast that if you’re not paying attention, you will miss it, and it’s fun running with my teammates.
T4RMJ: What’s one of your proudest moments or accomplishments as a track athlete?
CJC: My proudest moment is when I got first place in the 200m dash. I was so proud of myself because that was my first time getting first in a race.
T4RMJ: How do you stay motivated on tough days, especially during long practices or intense meets?
CJC: I just try to remind myself that nothing comes easy, and if I really want it, I have to work for it.
T4RMJ: What role does fitness and training play in your daily routine outside of track season?
CJC: It plays a semi-huge role in routine outside of track season. My mom and I try to go to the gym 3-4 times a week, and I walk my dog daily to make sure I’m exercising regularly throughout the week.
T4RMJ: You’re interested in becoming an anesthesiologist what inspired you to choose that career path?
CJC: Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been interested in becoming a doctor, but as I got older, I realized that there are specific types of doctors, so I did my research, and an anesthesiologist stuck out to me the most, and I’ve been interested ever since.
T4RMJ: Do you have a mentor, teacher, or role model who encouraged you to explore the medical field?
CJC: As of right now, no, but I’m looking to get one in the future.
T4RM: What excites you most about working in medicine one day?
CJC: I love helping people, so knowing that one day I’ll be helping people live and get back to their regular lives really excites me.
T4RM: How do you plan to prepare for college and medical school?
CJC: I’m starting now in high school by making good study habits and plans for how to balance school and my personal life.
T4RM: What skills do you think you’re developing now that will help you as a future anesthesiologist?
CJC: I have great social skills, and I’m always there to help, which I feel will help me in the future as an anesthesiologist.
T4RM: You serve on the AV team at church—what do you enjoy most about that role?
CJC: I like being able to move the camera and do online social media because that is also another interest of mine.
T4RMJ: What are some of the biggest things you’ve learned from serving in the media/AV ministry?
CJC: Everything may not always go to plan. Being on the av team there’s always something changing from a scripture that may have been given wrong or a mic changing in the choir.
T4RMJ: How has hanging out with your peers at church helped shape you spiritually or socially?
CJC: Hanging out with people from church has helped to shape me socially because one of my closest friends, whom I met at church, and I am super close to, and we can read the Word and pray together when we need it.
T4RMJ: How do programs like Delta Gems and Epic impact your growth as a young woman?
CJC: In these 2 programs, I’m able to learn information that I will use in the future, and both programs are helping me to be set up for when I’m away at college or even when I’m getting prepared for a job.
T4RMJ: You have lots of hobbies working out, shopping, running track, and baking. What do you enjoy the most about each one?
CJC: I love how all of these are ways that I can spend time with my friends and my family. My mom and I spend a lot of our time shopping together or in the kitchen, and she’s teaching me a new recipe. It keeps us close and makes sure we’re spending time together.
T4RMJ: What is your favorite thing to bake right now, and what new baking skill are you hoping to learn next?
CJC: I love to bake cakes, cookies, and cupcakes. Next, I want to learn how to make cheesecake.
T4RMJ: What’s something fun or unique about you that people may not know?
CJC: I have a passion for working with people with disabilities, and I’m in a club at my school called Club-Us, where I’m able to work with my peers and their challenges.
T4RMJ: Who inspires you the most right now, and why?
CJC: My mom inspires me the most because she's such a hard worker, and she never gives up when things get tough.
T4RMJ: What keeps you grounded when life feels busy or stressful?
CJC: Listening to music or podcasts is a way for me to calm myself down when I feel overwhelmed and stressed with life.
T4RM: If you could plan the perfect “day off,” what would it include?
CJC: My perfect day off would be my mom and I going to Easton to shop, stopping for lunch, and getting a sweet treat before we head home.
T4RMJ: What’s one lesson you’ve learned in high school that you will carry with you into adulthood?
CJC: People can change instantly, and not everyone is meant to be in your life forever.
T4RMJ: What advice would you give to other teens who want to balance school, sports, church, and their dreams?
CJC: If you really want it, you can do it. It may seem like a lot when you first start, but over time, you will be able to complete it.
T4RMJ: When you think about your future college, track, and medicine what excites you the most?
CJC: College is the most exciting thing I’m looking forward to right now because it’s the next big step in my life, and I’ve always been excited for college, so I’m happy that it’s near.
T4RMJ: Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
CJC: Hopefully finishing up undergrad in college and starting grad school or medical school.
T4RMJ: What’s one big goal you hope to accomplish before you graduate high school?
CJC: I hope to get at least one college offer for track.
T4RMJ: What message would you like to share with other young people working hard toward their dreams?
CJC: If you really want something, work at it every day until you get good, and always keep God first.
T4RMJ: As our conversation with Chell’Sea Campbell comes to a close, one thing is unmistakably clear: her life is a testament to courage, intentionality, and the transforming power of God’s grace. She walks with a boldness that reminds us all that true transformation begins within—and flows outward to touch the world. Whether she is serving, leading, or simply encouraging others one heart at a time, Chell’Sea embodies the message of this magazine: transformation 4Real is possible, purposeful, and always connected to God’s plan. We celebrate her journey, her impact, and the chapters she has yet to write.
7-Day Transformational Challenge
Theme: “Joyful Giving & Shining for Jesus”
December is a month to celebrate Jesus by sharing love, giving joy, and being a light everywhere we go!
✅ DAY 1 SHINE WITH KINDNESS
Challenge: Say something kind to at least 3 people today.
Verse: “Be kind and compassionate to one another.” — Ephesians 4:32
JOURNAL: TODAY I SHOWED KINDNESS BY…
✅ DAY 2 GIVE JOY
Challenge: Do a secret act of kindness for someone.
Verse: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” — Acts 20:35
JOURNAL: MY SECRET BLESSING TODAY WAS…
✅ DAY 3 PRAY FOR OTHERS
Challenge: Pray for children and families around the world.
Verse: “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful.” James 5:16
JOURNAL: TODAY I PRAYED FOR…
✅ DAY 4 SHARE WHAT YOU HAVE
Challenge: Give away a toy, book, or snack to someone.
Verse: “Freely you have received; freely give.” Matthew 10:8
JOURNAL: TODAY I SHARED…
✅ DAY 5 HELP AT HOME
Challenge: Help with something around the house without being asked.
Verse: “Serve one another in love.” — Galatians 5:13
JOURNAL: TODAY I SERVED BY…
✅ DAY 6 ENCOURAGE SOMEONE
Challenge: Write a note, card, or message to encourage someone.
Verse: “Encourage one another and build each other up.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11
JOURNAL: I ENCOURAGED…
✅ DAY 7 CELEBRATE JESUS
Challenge: Spend time thanking Jesus for who He is and why He came. You can sing a Christmas worship song, read a verse, or pray.
Verse: “For unto us a child is born.” — Isaiah 9:6
JOURNAL: TODAY I THANKED JESUS FOR…
DECLARATION:
“I share joy, I give with love, and I shine for Jesus!”
MEMORY VERSE
The Story of Jesus' Birth by Kyle Alleyne
Hi boys and girls, it's the last month of the year, and it's the month we celebrate Christmas! We have family gatherings, exchange gifts, and many go to see Santa Claus, but Christmas is not about Santa Claus; it's about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It's a mass to celebrate Christ, and that's how we get the name "Christmas"! That's who we're celebrating!
You see, seven hundred years before Jesus was born, it was prophesied that He would be born, and so we will take our memory from that Scripture.
Isaiah 9:6, “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
So, in a town called Nazareth, there lived a kind and loving young woman named Mary. One day, an angel appeared to Mary and told her that she would have a special baby named Jesus.
Mary was very surprised and asked, "How can this be?" The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and you will have a baby boy."
Mary's cousin Elizabeth was also expecting a baby, and Mary went to visit her. When Elizabeth saw Mary, she said, "You are blessed, and the baby you are carrying is special."
Kyle Lamar Alleyne
Monthly Contributor
Meanwhile, Mary and her husband Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem to register for a census. When they arrived, they couldn't find a place to stay, so they went to a stable where animals were kept.
It was there that Jesus was born. Mary wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger. That night, shepherds were out in the fields, taking care of their sheep. Suddenly, a bright light shone around them, and an angel appeared.
The angel said, "Don't be afraid! I've come to tell you about the birth of Jesus, the Savior." The shepherds hurried to the stable and found Jesus lying in the manger.
They were amazed and told everyone about the angel's message. From that day on, many people believed in Jesus and the love, peace, and joy He brought to the world.
(Matthew 1:18-25) Luke 2: 1-7)
Trust you had a great year and enjoyed all we learn together.
Have A Blessed and Wonderful Christmas!
https://youtu.be/FrOBJo6LNfw?feature=shared
BIG FEELINGS, LITTLE STEPS
PEACE IN MY HEART THIS CHRISTMAS
BIG FEELINGS, LITTLE STEPS
December is a joyful month full of lights, songs, celebrations, and excitement. It’s a time when we remember the greatest gift ever Jesus. But even in a happy season, sometimes we still have big feelings. And guess what? That’s okay.
Sometimes we feel excited and can’t wait for Christmas morning.
Sometimes we feel disappointed if things don’t go the way we hoped.
Sometimes we feel left out, or nervous about school events, or sad when we miss someone.
Sometimes we feel happy one moment and overwhelmed the next.
Feelings can be big — especially around holidays! But God is with us in every feeling we have.
When Jesus was born, the angels said, “Peace on earth” (Luke 2:14).
That means Jesus came to bring peace to the world and peace to your heart. So what do we do when our feelings get big, even in a season of joy? We don’t need to hide them. We don’t need to pretend. We can take little steps to find peace with God’s help.
LITTLE STEPS LIKE…
Taking a deep breath and saying, “Jesus, be my peace.”
Finding a quiet moment to talk to God about what we feel.
Saying “thank You, God” for one thing, even on a hard day.
Telling a parent or trusted adult how we feel.
Remembering, “I am loved. I am safe. God is with me.”
Every little step brings calm. Every little prayer brings comfort.
And every time we turn to Jesus, His peace meets us right where we are.
This month, let your heart rest in Him.
Whether your feelings are joyful, excited, unsure, or tired — Jesus cares. His love is steady. His presence is strong. And with Him, you can take little steps to feel peace and hope again.
You don’t have to handle big feelings alone. Jesus came to bring peace and that peace lives inside you. You are growing. You are learning. And God is holding your heart, every step of the way.
t4rMJ HALL OF FAME
Biblical Quiz – Trusting God!
theme: ““For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” [Isaiah 9:6]
1. WHO TRUSTED GOD WHEN HE WAS THROWN INTO A DEN OF LIONS?
A. David
B. Daniel
C. Moses
D. Paul
2. WHAT DID GOD TELL ABRAHAM TO DO THAT REQUIRED GREAT TRUST?
A. Build an ark
B. Leave his home and go to a new land
C. Fight Goliath
D. Write the Psalms
3. WHEN PETER WALKED ON WATER, WHAT HAPPENED WHEN HE STOPPED TRUSTING JESUS?
A. He flew
B. He sank
C. He disappeared
D. He ran across the water
4. WHAT DOES PROVERBS 3:5 TELL US TO TRUST?
A. Our feelings
B. Our friends
C. The Lord with all our heart
D. Our own understanding
5. WHO DID GOD PROTECT IN THE FIERY FURNACE BECAUSE THEY TRUSTED HIM?
A. Elijah, Elisha, and Samuel
B. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
C. Peter, James, and John
D. Mary, Martha, and Lazarus
6. IN PSALM 56:3, WHAT DOES THE WRITER SAY HE WILL DO WHEN HE IS AFRAID?
A. Hide
B. Run
C. Trust in God
D. Call a friend
7. WHAT DID JESUS TELL JAIRUS WHEN HIS DAUGHTER WAS SICK?
A. “Run fast!”
B. “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
C. “Everything is ruined.”
D. “Go get more food.”
8. WHAT DID GOD PROVIDE FOR THE ISRAELITES IN THE WILDERNESS TO TEACH THEM TO TRUST HIM DAILY?
A. Cheeseburgers
B. Manna from heaven
C. Ice cream
D. Apples
9. ACCORDING TO ISAIAH 26:3, GOD GIVES PERFECT PEACE TO THOSE WHO…
A. Sleep all day
B. Ignore problems
C. Keep their minds on Him
D. Eat healthy
10. WHEN JESUS CALMED THE STORM, WHAT DID HE ASK HIS DISCIPLES?
A. “Why are you so afraid?”
B. “Where is the food?”
C. “Who took my sandals?”
D. “What time is it?”
ANSWER KEY
1.✅ B — DANIEL
2.✅ B — LEAVE HIS HOME AND GO TO A NEW LAND
3.✅ B — HE SANK
4.✅ C — THE LORD WITH ALL OUR HEART
5.✅ B — SHADRACH, MESHACH, AND ABEDNEGO
6.✅ C — TRUST IN GOD
7.✅ B — “DON’T BE AFRAID; JUST BELIEVE.”
8.✅ B — MANNA FROM HEAVEN
9.✅ C — KEEP THEIR MINDS ON HIM
10.✅ A — “WHY ARE YOU SO AFRAID?”
abraham: a Superstar of the Old Testament
(FAITH, OBEDIENCE & BIG-TIME TRUST IN GOD!)
When you hear the word superstar, you probably think of athletes, musicians, or famous influencers. But long before social media, God had His own lineup of incredible heroes—people whose faith and courage made them legends. And right at the top of that list is Abraham, a true superstar of the Old Testament whose story still inspires us today.
Abraham’s life wasn’t flashy, but it was full of big faith moves that changed history. God didn’t choose him because he was perfect—He chose Abraham because he was willing to trust, follow, and believe God even when things didn’t make sense. That’s what made Abraham great. And guess what? That same type of faith can live in you too.
1. GOD CALLED ABRAHAM… AND HE SAID YES!
Imagine hearing God tell you to leave everything you know—your home, your friends, your country and travel to a place you’ve never seen. No GPS. No travel photos. No map.
JUST ONE INSTRUCTION:
“Go… and I will show you the way.” That’s exactly what God told Abraham. And you know what he did? He packed up and went.
Abraham trusted that if God said it, then God would guide him. It didn’t matter how far or how unfamiliar the journey was Abraham believed God was leading him somewhere good.
2. GOD PROMISED ABRAHAM SOMETHING BIG
Abraham and his wife Sarah didn’t have any children, and they were getting older way older. But God made Abraham an unbelievable promise: “You will be the father of many nations.” It sounded impossible at first… but Abraham believed anyway. And what did God do?
He kept His promise. Abraham became the father of Isaac, and from his family came a huge nation God’s chosen people.
3. ABRAHAM TRUSTED GOD ALL THE WAY
One of the hardest moments in Abraham’s life was when God tested his faith with Isaac. Abraham didn’t understand, but he told God “yes” again. And in the end, God provided a different sacrifice and blessed Abraham for his obedience.
This moment shows just how deeply Abraham trusted God—even with the things he loved most.
4. WHY ABRAHAM MATTERS TODAY
You might wonder, “What does Abraham have to do with me?”
Actually—a lot!
The Bible calls Abraham the father of faith. That means he set the example for what it means to believe God without holding back. His story shows that:
God can use anyone who is willing Obedience opens doors to blessings Faith makes us strong Trusting God leads to amazing outcomes
5. YOU’RE PART OF ABRAHAM’S PROMISE
Here’s something cool: the Bible says that those who believe in Jesus are part of Abraham’s family of faith. That means…
Abraham’s story is connected to your story.
God’s promises to Abraham flow into your life too.
You are blessed because of the faith he had thousands of years ago.
HOW AMAZING IS THAT?
Final Takeaway: Abraham’s Big Faith = Big Impact
Abraham didn’t become a superstar because he had superpowers. He became a superstar because he had super faith. He trusted God. He obeyed God. He followed God’s voice—even when the path wasn’t clear. And you can do the same.
I Can Be Thankful All Year Round — because jesus was born to die for my sins.
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11 (KJV)
Christmas isn’t just about gifts, lights, or fun traditions.
Christmas is a fun time of year lights, decorations, music, yummy food, and time with family. But there’s something way bigger to celebrate:
Jesus was born!
And because He came to earth, we have so many reasons to be thankful not just at Christmas, but all year long.
Here are some powerful reasons to thank God for the birth of Jesus:
1. JESUS’ BIRTH SHOWS THAT GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES
Long before Jesus was born, prophets said a Savior would come. God kept that promise on the first Christmas! Because God kept His promise then, I can trust Him to keep His promises now.
2. JESUS CAME TO SAVE US FROM OUR SINS
Jesus didn’t just come to be a cute baby in a manger. He came with a mission—to die on the cross and take the punishment for our sins.
Because Jesus was born, I can be forgiven, free, and close to God forever.
3. JESUS’ BIRTH BRINGS PEACE AND HOPE
The angels said, “Peace on earth!”
That wasn’t just a Christmas greeting it was a message for us today.
Because Jesus was born, I can have peace even when life feels hard.
4. JESUS CAME TO SHOW US WHAT GOD IS REALLY LIKE
When we look at Jesus, we see God’s love, kindness, and compassion. He healed the sick, cared for the hurting, and welcomed everyone.
Because Jesus was born, I know God understands me and cares about everything I go through.
5. JESUS’ BIRTH MEANS I AM NEVER ALONE
Jesus came to be “Emmanuel,” which means God with us. He is with us at school, at home, during tough times, and during fun times too.
Because Jesus was born, I always have Someone who loves me and walks with me.
6. JESUS’ BIRTH GIVES ME A PURPOSE
Jesus didn’t just save us He invites us to follow Him, love others, and make a difference.
Because Jesus was born, my life has meaning and purpose.
T4RMJ DECEMBER AFFIRMATION
“I AM THANKFUL ALL YEAR ROUND BECAUSE JESUS WAS BORN TO SAVE ME, LOVE ME, AND GIVE ME A FUTURE.”
Zeke Shares A Story: The Little Light!
“In
Him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” [John 1:4-5
ZEKE TALKS ABOUT THE STORY:
A young girl in a small village was brave enough to share her lantern with a small light. As she walked down the street, others followed her. It was cold, very cold, but everyone became warm. “Let me tell you what happened…”
Late one cold winter night, a small town lost its power. All the houses went dark and chilly, and people worried about how long it would last. But at the edge of town lived a young girl named Lila. She noticed a tiny glow outside her window. It came from a lantern left on her family’s porch. The lantern was small, nothing fancy-but it’s warm light shone far into the cold night. Lila picked up the lantern and walked through the town. As she passed each house, people stepped outside, drawn by the gentle glow. Families gathered, following Lila’s light. Even though the lantern wasn’t very bright, it was enough to help everyone see it. Soon they all met in the town square. Neighbors who hardly spoke before were now smiling, sharing blankets, and helping each other. The whole town felt warmer-not because the power came back on, but because one small light brought everyone together. Lila held up the lantern and said, “Even the smallest light can brighten the darkest night.” And in that moment, they all understood: Sometimes hope arrives in simple, surprising places just like Jesus did.
UNDERSTANDING THE STORY:
* Why was the town in darkness at the beginning of the story?
* What did Lila find on her porch, and how did she use it?
* Why did the neighbors decide to follow Lila and her lantern?
* How did the people feel once they gathered in the town square?
* What did the lantern symbolize in the story?
PRAYER:
Dear God, Thank You for sending Jesus, the Light of the World. Help us to shine Your love like Lila’s little lantern. Guide us to bring hope, kindness, and peace wherever we go. Amen.
ZEKE’S ROAR AND REFLECT: ROAR STANDS FOR:
R – Remember God’s Word.
O – Own Your Choices.
A – Ask for Help from God.
R – Reflect on How You can Grow.
THIS WEEK’S FOCUS: Let Your light shine!
MEMORY VERSE: John 1:9 (KJV)
“That was the true Light, which lighted every man that cometh into the world.”
COMBINED REFLECTION QUESTIONS (BOTH stories):
** What do both stories teach us about light?
** How does Jesus’ birth inspire us to help others like Lila did?
** What does it mean to be a “light” in your classroom or home?
EXTENDERS:
*Imagine you are one of the neighbors following the light.
Describe how you felt and what you saw.
*If you could add one more character to the story, who would it be and what would they do?
*SHADOW SCRIPTURE HUNT:
Materials - Prints of scriptures, tape, flashlights.
Activity: *Hide scripture cards around the room. *Students search with flashlights. *Each student reads their verse aloud.
Goal: Engage with verses about Jesus being the light.
Message: “God’s Word gives light to our path.”
PRAYER:
“Dear God, Thank You for sending Jesus, the light of the world. Just like the star guided the wise men, and Lila’s little lantern helped her neighbors, let Your light guide us every day. Also, Lord, let Your light shine in our lives and in everything that we do and speak. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
ZEKE’S DEVOTIONAL PAGE THE BIRTH OF JESUS
MEMORY VERSE: Luke 2:11
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”
ZEKE’S OPENING:
ZEKE’S OPENING: A young woman named Mary was chosen to be the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ. God sent angels to tell Mary, Joseph (her fiancé), and her cousin that a miracle would soon happen. “Let me tell you what happened...”
A long time ago, in the town of Nazareth lived a young woman named Mary. “An angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for you have found favor with God. You will bring forth a son and will call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God will give unto Him the throne of his father David: And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of His Kingdom there will be no end.” Luke 1:30-33. Mary was surprised, but she trusted God. Joseph was the man Mary was soon to marry. He was puzzled by the news that she would give birth to a child before marriage. “But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto you Mary for your wife: for this is of the Holy Ghost. And she will bring forth a Son, and you will call His name Jesus: for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:20-21. Months later, when baby Jesus was due to be born, Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem for a census, but it was crowded, and there were no rooms to rent for a stay. Finally, a kind person allowed them to stay in his humble stable, where the animals sheltered. Jesus was born there, wrapped in cloths and laid in a manger. Nearby shepherds saw angels who announced the good news. They hurried to see the baby and praised God. Wise men followed a bright star and brought gifts for baby Jesus.
LESSON:
*Why did Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem?
*Where was Jesus born, and why there?
*Who were the first people to hear about Jesus’ birth?
*What guided the wise men on their journey?
PRAYER:
Dear God, thank You for sending Jesus to be our Savior. Thank You for the love You showed through His birth in Bethlehem. Help us to be humble like Mary and Joseph, faithful like the shepherds, and generous like the wise men. Fill our hearts with Your love, peace, and joy. Help us to share Your love with others every day, and not just during this season. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Money Matters FOR JUNIORS
How to Be Wise, Thankful, and Generous This Holiday Season
KEY VERSE: LUKE 6:38 (NIV)
“Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Christmas is an exciting time bright lights, fun gifts, family gatherings, and lots of surprises! But it’s also a season where money can feel like a big deal. Kids and teens see ads everywhere, friends talking about presents, and family members shopping for the holidays. That’s why it’s important to learn something powerful:
Money matters… but it’s not the most important thing.
When you learn to handle money God’s way, you can enjoy Christmas with peace, wisdom, and joy!
1. CHRISTMAS ISN’T ABOUT STUFF IT’S ABOUT JESUS
Before we even talk about money, here’s the biggest truth:
Jesus is the greatest gift ever.
No toy, no gadget, and no gift can compare to Him.
When you remember this, you don’t feel pressured to have everything you see.
2. MAKE A SIMPLE CHRISTMAS BUDGET
Even kids and teens can practice budgeting!
A budget is just a plan for your money.
Here’s an easy idea:
If you have $20, $40, or even $5, decide: How much to give
How much to save
How much to spend
When you plan ahead, you won’t feel stressed later.
3. BE CREATIVE WHEN GIVING GIFTS
You don’t need a lot of money to give something meaningful. You can give:
A handmade card
A small gift created with your talents
A thoughtful note
A chore coupon for siblings
A hand-painted ornament
Prayer and encouragement
Thoughtful gifts matter more than expensive ones.
4. DON’T COMPARE YOUR GIFTS WITH OTHERS
Comparison steals joy especially at Christmas. Everyone’s family is different, and that’s okay.
Remember:
What you receive does not change your worth.
God already calls you valuable.
5. BE GENEROUS LIKE JESUS
Christmas is the perfect time to show God’s love.
You can be generous by:
Giving to someone who has less
Donating a toy
Sharing a snack or treat
Helping a friend who’s sad
Volunteering with your family
Giving an offering at church
Generosity makes your heart grow stronger!
