For now, my young grandchildren understand that the Little Star of Bethlehem loves, with passion, every single part of their being. They know that they were wonderfully made, knit together before they were born (Psalms 139: 13-14) by the same one who longs now to be sheltered in their hearts, gently guiding the thoughts of their minds and the work of their hands.
When they are a little older, they will appreciate that their creator invites them to reach out to him for help in everything they do.
"Stretch out your hand," Jesus commanded the supplicant. And the withered limb was immediately restored. (Matthew 12:13). "If only I can touch his cloak," a suffering woman thought, "I shall be healed." And Jesus acknowledged her faith and cured her. (Matthew 9:20-22).
The Christmas gifts for parents we created together will be a reminder to live with the Little Star of Bethlehem safely cradled in one's trusting palm so a reach toward him will never be too far away!
The infant Jesus is constructed from paper punched shapes. Cut a 1.5" head and 2" halo from circles. The body is a 2" oval. Accent the baby with a tiny red heart and place him in a cradle printed of your child's hand. Draw eyes, then sign and date with a fine point black marking pen.
Use scrapbook paper to cut a complimenting double mat. Place inside a standard size frame.
Ah this is a very sweet post :) Perfect for the beginning of Advent! :)
ReplyDeleteThis is a lovely craft for children to do. And you framed it so beautifully. And I love how you've explained it. I can hear you saying these encouraging things to your grandchildren. They'll remember your heart for Jesus long after they forget this sweet craft. : )
ReplyDeleteHow sweet! And so very educational, too! You've taught them art, religion and history all while creating a wonderful keepsake. You're the best!
ReplyDeleteThis is wonderful! I like to do hand a feet painting with my grandchildren, and this is a very meaningful one to make! I'm visiting from Grandma's Briefs link up today. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLove this! Thanks for sharing with us at NanaHood! Teresa
ReplyDeleteHand, thumb, and feet prints are some of my favorite things. I love this one and will pin it! Thank you, Joyce. A special one, for sure!
ReplyDeleteJoyce, this is so sweet, so touching, and so meaningful. The parents are going to be thrilled. What a special activity to do with the grands. Thank you for sharing this with us at Treasure Box Tuesday- pinned! :)
ReplyDeleteOh, how I love this! I still cherish all the little handprint crafts my children made when they were little. I can't wait to be a grandma to try all of these new ideas. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteA family treasure - the handprint of a child portraying The Child. Thank you for sharing this idea with Make It Monday.
ReplyDeleteJoyce, your artistic talents are well documented on this blog and enjoyed by so many. But, this project is something special. What a wonderful thing to do and share with your grandchildren. They truly are lucky people to have you help steer them in the right direction to grow and develop into wonderful, caring adults.
ReplyDeleteThat's lovely! I adore these hand print crafts. We made a load of different ones a couple of years ago and turned them into christmas cards for family, but never thought of a manger one.
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