The season of Advent is approaching. Now is the time to get ready for the Christmas season before you get completely caught up in the hustle and bustle, the things you have to do, and the places you have to be. Now is the time to prepare our hearts before the Lord and thank Him for all that He has done, is doing, and will do in our lives.
Understanding Advent: A time of anticipation
The special season of Advent begins on the first Sunday in December and is a time of anticipation as we celebrate the birthday of Jesus. The word Advent (from the Latin phrase adventis) means “coming” or “arrival” and serves as a period of reflection, spiritual renewal, and joyful celebration of the birth of the Lord.
The Spiritual Meaning of Advent: Reflecting on Hope and Promise
Advent brings many spiritual meanings as we think about God’s hopes and promises. For example, Isaiah said of the coming Messiah, “For a child is born to us, a son will be given to us; governments will be upon his shoulders; and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, NIV).
Believers should focus on God’s faithfulness throughout history, culminating in the birth of Jesus. When the angel spoke to Mary and told her that she would conceive the Son of God, this not only changed her life, but also the course of human history.
We are also asked to reflect on the personal promises God has given us, to pray and reflect on these things, and to be clear about these promises and how they manifest in our lives. This season is a place where we talk to God about our hopes and dreams and submit them to His will as we seek the courage to do what He is asking of us.
Advent is a season where we reflect on the many promises in our lives.
Advent traditions around the world: global celebrations
There are Christians all over the world who celebrate in different ways.
● In Germany: Just like us, families gather every Sunday to celebrate Advent and light a candle. Their advent calendar has 24 doors, and each door opens to reveal a small treat or gift each day until Christmas.
● Italy: In Italy, Advent begins with La Novena, a series of prayers and gatherings leading up to Christmas. Families participate in communal prayer and remember the Nativity through song and devotions.
● In Mexico: People celebrate Advent with Las Posadas, a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for refuge. For nine nights starting on December 16, families move from house to house singing traditional carols, searching for a “posada” (shelter). The Advent atmosphere culminates with holiday feasts, piñatas, and lively celebrations.
Creating an Advent Calendar: Fun and Meaningful Ideas
Of course, you can go buy an advent calendar, but it’s more fun to create your own advent calendar with your kids. However, you need to consider several factors.
Choose a calendar style
First, consider the format you want to use, such as:
● Classic paper calendar: This is a traditional calendar with a decorated door that opens each day. Even kids can easily customize it.
● Fabric Calendar: This type of advent calendar comes with fabric pockets for goodies and can be reused year after year. Cloth calendars are durable so they can withstand excited little hands wanting to see what’s in their pockets today.
● Wooden Calendar: This is another durable option with drawers, making it durable for little hands.
● Digital calendar: If you’re tech-savvy, this might be the way to go. You can use the app to create a digital version that reveals your daily surprises.
Calendar entries
You can put a variety of things into your advent calendar.
●Homemade cookies (in a sandwich plastic bag)
●Small toys
●Gum and candy
●Pack of dried fruits and nuts.
● Challenge yourself to perform a random act of kindness that day.
● Daily scriptures and inspirational quotes
● Reflection questions (prompting discussions about love, faith, generosity, etc.)
Creating a theme
Create an Advent calendar theme like nature, holiday celebrations from around the world, Biblical characters, or the Nativity.
design and presentation
Fun and creative design and presentation are essential to increase excitement.
●DIY Layout: Create vibrant displays by incorporating strings of lights, colorful paper, handmade decorations, and more.
● Interactive design: Use envelopes, jars, and boxes that require some interaction to open. This will make the process fun and engaging.
● Family involvement: Everyone participates in planning, choosing treatments, and viewing the calendar.
Incorporating Daily Bible Reading: A Journey Through the Gospels
Reading through the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John will take you on a wonderful journey during Advent. Every December I read through the book of Luke from the first of the month until Christmas. First, let’s talk about the books in the Gospels.
●Matthew: This book emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament promises.
●Mark: This book talks about the actions of Jesus.
● Luke: This book details the life of Jesus from his birth to his resurrection.
● John: This book talks about the divinity of Jesus.
How to incorporate Bible reading this Advent season
● Select a reading plan. You can find reading plans that are chronological, thematic, or traditional (i.e. parallel to the Gospels). Printable plans can be found online and through various apps. Also, don’t forget to choose a reading plan for your child. This helps explain things in a way that they can understand.
● Use a translation you are comfortable with: Different versions of the Bible can be difficult to understand. I find the King James Bible difficult to understand, but I love the New Living Translation. Finding the right translation is a matter of taste, so if you don’t see a version you like, do some research before making your final decision.
● Engage with the text: While reading, write your thoughts, thoughts, and feelings in your journal. Spend a few minutes in prayer before and after reading and ask God to help you hear what he has to say to you.
● Discuss: Talk with your family about what you read and discuss your thoughts and feelings.
● Use supplemental resources: Consider using a gospel-focused study guide, commentary, or devotional.
Advent wreaths and candles: lighting the way to Christmas
The structure of Advent consists of four Sundays, each with its own meaning. Traditionally, people use Advent wreaths, circular evergreen wreaths decorated with candles. These candles consist of two purple candles, one pink candle, and one white candle. Hope, peace, and love are all symbolized by purple candles. Pink candles represent joy, and white candles have God by their side. All these candles light the way to Christmas.
Family-friendly activities: Get kids involved in the spirit of Advent
There are many activities you and your family can do to get your children into the spirit of Advent.
●Make an advent calendar together.
●Advent wreath making
● Do an act of kindness every day.
● Read the scriptures together.
● Make handmade ornaments and decorations.
● Write in your Advent faith journal.
● Christian Christmas Movie Night
These are a great way to prepare for the season together.
Worship and Reflection Planning: Making the Most of the Season
Spend time each day in worship as a family and reflect on the meaning of this season and what the Lord has done, will do, and will do in your life.
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Westend61
Carrie Laurence is a freelance writer and author. Her work has been featured in Crosswalk, iBelieve, Huffington Post, and The Penny Hoarder. She is also the author of three children’s books, three pretty romance books, one romance novel, three poetry collections, and one nonfiction book. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, baking, reading, and spending time with her husband and cute cat, Cupcake. For more information about Carrie and her writing, please visit www.carrielowrance.com.
