Tis’ the season for sales, cookies, gifts, trees, ornaments, decorations, church programs, lights, etc. Maybe a pause on Christmas day to read a passage in Luke about a baby Jesus who came, and just like that - it’s over - and you're left wondering in your gut, "What was all this about really?"
This is not a guilt trip, life happens, and it’s hard to ignore all the shiny things, all the Pinterest inspirations, all the expectations and memories you want to make for yourself or your family. But how can we be intentional this year, right now, to slow down, and focus on what’s important as a priority and the shiny things as secondary?
Let Me Encourage You To Do Advent Together This Year!
The word Advent means “coming”, so during the weeks leading up to Christmas, we look back remembering Christ’s coming in celebration, at the same time looking forward in anticipation to the coming of Christ’s kingdom when he returns. I need this (what a year!). Don’t you? And don’t you know someone else who needs it too?
Let’s link arms with our friends, roommates, spouse, kids, or small group - let’s pray for each other, memorize and meditate on scripture together, go through an Advent Study together (suggesting a few below). Won’t you join me in turning our attention and affections toward the only One who is worthy to have them?
And for some encouragement join us here, every Monday, leading up to Christmas for a Weekly devotional as we set our minds toward the truths that Christ was born. There will also be a few shiny things too ;) - in the form of recipes and Christmas activity ideas.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11
Advent Resources
Come Let Us Adore Him By Paul Trip
This one is a classic and a personal favorite of mine!
The Truth’s Table Advent Devotional
This one is online and free on The Jude Projects website
She Reads Truth- Advent 2020: Jesus Christ Is Born
This one is free to read online. They have an app option also.
Free Printable: Christmas Story Advent Story
We ordered some Advent conversation cards from She Reads Truth (pictured above -unfortunately they’re sold out). But before we ever bought any we used these and still have them. They’re simple and free. You can hang them up and maybe write activities to do together on the back. I’ve found a lot of great ideas on Pinterest - I especially like the ideas to give and do things for others.
This list is in no way exhaustive but I hope it’s helpful and starts you on your way to celebrating Advent. If you have an Advent Resource please feel free to share it by clicking the comment button.