My favorite Christmas traditions are the ones that are focused on Jesus. Maybe that sounds simple, but this world is so loud and the main message often gets lost. I love Abel in the Stable because this simple tradition helps young children discover the truth that Jesus is the reason for the season.
Abel in the Stable was created several years by my friends Shelley Crowell and Abbey Kelly who are the kids and preschool directors at my church. They revamped it this year and I was fortunate enough to offer some editing and brainstorming about the project.
The Abel in the Stable set includes a guidebook for parents, a storybook for kids, a do-it-yourself stable, and a stuffed donkey. While the devotions and activities incorporate Christmas elements beyond the Bible, such as Christmas music, marshmallows, and canned goods, the point is the earthly birth of our lord and savior. The 25 devotions are brief and activities simple so this would be a meaningful addition to an already busy season. It works well to start on Dec. 1 and finish on Christmas morning.
Yes, this tradition is geared toward elementary-aged kids helping Abel discover the true meaning of Christmas, but it’s a great way to have the whole family involved. It’s likely to prompt conversations and create memories.
The Abel in the Stable kits are $20 and can be shipped for an additional $10. Local purchases can be picked up at Hardin Baptist Church. All proceeds go to the church’s outreach ministries. You can order it online at abelinthestable.com. The kit I have doesn’t include the new stuffed Abel, which has been delayed shipping for distribution, but Abbey and Shelley are doing everything they can to make sure families have the new and improved Abel in their hands as soon as they can.
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Nobody asked me to review this product. I’m just excited to share it with y’all. I did get a free kit for helping edit the books. These opinions are 100 percent my own and not compensated.
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