Lectionary Year B, Unit 01: Advent 1-4

Lesson 1: Rescued--This lesson's theme is "Depending on God in Times of Trouble." It focuses on how our dependence on God to get us out of trouble often varies depending on what kind of trouble we're in. Students will be asked to answer the questions: How often do we find ourselves in trouble? Are we willing to call on God and face our problems regardless of what they are? (Isaiah 64:1-9; Ps. 80:1-7, 17-19; 1 Corinthians 1:3-9; Mark 13:24-37)

Lesson 2: Worth Waiting For--This lesson's theme is "Patience and Hope." It focuses on how these passages announce God's coming, either as a child or a returning King. But God has not "yet" arrived. Each passage is filled with hope. That is what faith is all about; can we stand faithful, believing God is coming? (Isaiah 40:1-11; Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13; 2 Peter 3:8-15a; Mark 1:1-8)

Lesson 3: Got Joy?--This lesson's theme is "Authentic Joy." It focuses on how joy is an incredible experience when associated with salvation. In a world where happiness is often derived from material desires, redemption provides appropriate focus. Advent announces true joy that emerges in salvation and results in the total transformation of persons. Such joy awaits anyone willing to place their lives in God's redemptive presence, now and in the future. (Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11; Psalm; 1 Thess. 5:16-24; John 1:6-8, 19-28)

Lesson 4: Celebrate the King!--This lesson's theme is "A New Song for the Coming King." It focuses on how something wonderful is coming! Yet the song has yet to find its fullest expression until the day when heaven and earth join in the song. For now the question remains, "Do we have ears to hear the music?" (2 Sam. 7:1-11, 16; Luke 1:46-55 or Ps. 89:1-4, 19-26; Romans 16: 25-27; Luke 1:26-38)