During Advent we wait. Wait and prepare for the arrival of a King who continues to change the world.
Key points:
- When done right, Advent is a time to stop, reflect and reset, in preparation for Christmas.
- Traditions like Advent calendars help build anticipation as we approach Christmas Day.
- Getting the preparation right will help us engage whole-heartedly with what we’re celebrating at Christmas.
Are you already holding on for dear life in the approach to Christmas? Advent could be the reset you need.
If the only thing you’ve ever known of Advent was the chocolate calendar, then let’s catch you up.
What is Advent?
Advent is the four week period leading up to Christmas. Traditionally, many families use a calendar to count down the days to Christmas and it’s a time of joyful anticipation.
In Advent we look forward to the arrival of Jesus into our world.
But what are we anticipating actually? Coming from the Latin word adventus meaning coming or arrival, in Advent we look forward to the arrival of Jesus into our world. This is both looking back to the time of his birth over 2000 years ago and also looking ahead to when he will come again.
In the busy-ness of modern life this opportunity to stop and reflect has been taken over by the demands of Christmas parties, decorations, trees, presents and food prep.
Maybe it’s time to take a breath and reconnect with the heart of the season. But how?
Advent ideas to try this year
Many of the traditions we enjoy each year have their beginnings in Advent. This year, find the meaning in each one and let that reshape what you do.
Advent wreath
The circular shape is a reminder that Jesus came to bring never-ending eternal life for everyone. As you make your wreath and hang it up, consider the people who are coming into your home this season and how you can reflect God’s love through your words and actions to each one who comes through your door.
Together you’ll be recounting the story of Jesus coming into the world.
Advent calendar
There are many different styles of calendar you can use with your family. Keeping it simple will mean less stress for you and it will keep the focus on what you’re counting down to as well.
You might have one that involves adding trinkets, decorations or treats to little boxes, pockets or bags for each day of Advent. For those of us who are always running to the last minute, these are the opposite of reflective preparation.
This year, try adding excerpts from the Christmas story instead of chocolates. Opening and reading this little passage could be a part of your family dinner time during December and together you’ll be recounting the story of Jesus coming into the world.
Do things differently
The world will tell you that everything on your to-do list needs to be done before Christmas. Even more, you are required to catch up with every friend you’ve ever known before the year is out.
Put aside five or ten minutes at the start or end of your day to stop.
Take a reality check and save some of those catch-ups for January. You’ll have more time to rest and reflect, and your friends will thank you too.
Find a devotional that works for you
Put aside five or ten minutes at the start or end of your day to stop. Use a devotional guide to read, reflect and pray.
Align your heart and mind with the heart of God. Walking in step with Him will put the rest of your day in perspective and help you make decisions about what really matters.
Is it the size of your Christmas lunch, or the welcome of your home that will bring joy this Christmas?
Get ready for real
This Advent, you can do things as you’ve always done them, or you can try another way.
Keeping it real could make for the best Christmas you’ve ever had.
Feature image: CanvaPro
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