🎁 Christmas Craft Countdown – Day 45 (December 23)

“Manger Countdown Stones” 🪨✨👶

Theme:Slowing down, one stone at a time, as we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus.

This craft is beautiful for families, prayer time, and Christmas Eve anticipation.

❤️ What You’ll Need:

• 7–10 smooth stones (river rocks or flat pebbles)

• A shallow basket, bowl, or wooden tray

• White or gold paint pen

• Black marker

• Optional:

  • Small wooden manger or straw

  • Raffia or shredded paper

  • Mini scripture cards

✨ Directions:

1. Prepare the Stones

Wash and dry the stones thoroughly.

2. Write Countdown Words

On each stone, write one word or symbol related to the Christmas story, such as:

• ⭐ Star

• 👼 Angel

• 🐑 Shepherd

• 🏠 Bethlehem

• 👑 King

• ❤️ Love

• 👶 Jesus

You may also add numbers (1–7) if using as a daily countdown.

3. Decorate (Optional)

Outline words with gold paint pen or add:

• Tiny stars

• Hearts

• Crosses

Keep the look simple and reverent.

4. Create the Manger Display

Place raffia or straw in the basket to resemble a manger.Arrange the stones gently on top.

5. How to Use

Each day (Dec 23–25):

• Remove one stone

• Read the word

• Say a short prayer

• Read a matching scripture

On Christmas morning, the final stone revealed is JESUS.

✝️ Faith Reflection:

Luke 2:12 (KJV)“And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”

These stones remind us that every part of the Christmas story leads us to Jesus.