The season of Advent is upon us, and it’s time to prepare for the Christmas season now before we get totally caught up in all the hustle and bustle and ‘things’ that need to get done or places we need to be. Now is the time to posture our hearts before the Lord and thank Him for all He has done, is doing, and will do in our lives.
Understanding the Advent Season: A Time of Anticipation
The special season of Advent starts on the first Sunday of December and is a time of anticipation to celebrate Jesus’s birthday. The word advent (from the Latin phrase adventis) means ‘coming’ or ‘arrival’, which serves as a period of reflection, spiritual renewal, and the joyful celebration of our Lord’s birth.
The Spiritual Significance of Advent: Reflecting on Hope and Promise
Advent brings much spiritual significance as we reflect on hope and the promises of God. For example, when Isaiah spoke of the coming Messiah, saying, “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6, NLT)
Believers are to focus on God’s faithfulness throughout history, culminating in the birth of Jesus. When the angel spoke to Mary and told her she would conceive the Son of God, this not only changed her life but also the course of human history.
We are also called to reflect on the personal promises that God has given us and to pray and contemplate these things, seeking clarity about these promises and how they will manifest in our lives. This season becomes a place to talk to God about our hopes and dreams and to surrender them to His will, while seeking the courage to do what He asks of us.
Advent is a season to reflect on many of the promises in our lives.
Advent Traditions Around the World: A Global Celebration
There are Christians all around the world, and they celebrate in different ways.
● In Germany: Like us, families gather to light one candle each Sunday as they celebrate Advent. Their advent calendars have 24 doors, and each door opens to a small treat or gift each day leading up to Christmas.
● In Italy: In Italy, Advent starts with ‘La Novena’, which is a series of prayers and gatherings leading up to Christmas. Families participate in communal prayers, reflecting on the Nativity through song and devotion.
● In Mexico: People celebrate Advent with Las Posadas, which is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. For nine nights, beginning on December 16th, families go from house to house while singing traditional carols and searching for “posada” (shelter). The Advent atmosphere culminates in holiday feasts, piñatas, and vibrant celebrations.
Creating an Advent Calendar: Fun and Meaningful Ideas
Sure, you can go out and buy an Advent calendar, but it’s more fun to create your own with your kids. However, several factors should be taken into consideration.
Choose Your Calendar Style
First, you want to consider the format you want to use, like:
● Classic Paper Calendar: This is the traditional calendar with decorated doors to open every day. Your kids can customize it easily.
● Fabric Calendar: This kind of advent calendar features fabric pockets that hold the goodies and allows you to reuse it annually. A fabric calendar is also sturdier and can withstand excited little hands that want to see what’s in the pocket today.
● Wooden Calendar: This is also a sturdy option that uses drawers and is sturdy for little hands.
● Digital Calendar: If you are more tech-savvy, this may be the way to go. Apps can be used to create a digital version that unveils daily surprises.
Fillings for the Calendar
There are all kinds of things you can put in an Advent calendar, like;
● Homemade cookies (in a plastic sandwich bag)
● Small toys
● Gum or candy
● Packs of dried fruits, nuts, etc.
● A challenge to do a random act of kindness that day
● Daily scripture or inspirational quotes
● Reflection questions (prompts for discussions about love, faith, generosity, etc.)
Creating a Theme
Create a theme for your Advent calendar, such as nature, holiday celebrations around the world, Bible characters, or the nativity.
Design and Presentation
Having a fun and creative design and presentation is essential to increasing excitement.
● DIY Layout: You can incorporate things like strings of lights, colorful paper, and handmade decorations to create a vibrant display.
● Interactive Design: Use envelopes, jars, and boxes that require some activity to open. This will make the process fun and engaging.
● Family Participation: Involve everyone in the planning, treatment choosing, and display of the calendar.
Incorporating Daily Scripture Readings: A Journey Through the Gospels
Reading through the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John provides an incredible journey during Advent. I read through the book of Luke every December, starting on the first day of the month until Christmas. First, let’s talk about the books in the Gospels.
● Matthew: This book emphasizes the fulfillment of promises in the Old Testament.
● Mark: This book talks about the actions of Jesus.
● Luke: This book recounts Jesus’s life from birth to the resurrection.
● John: This book talks about the divine nature of Jesus
How to incorporate Scripture Reading This Advent Season
● Select a reading plan. You can find reading plans that are chronological, thematic, or traditional (meaning they parallel the Gospels). You can find printable plans online and through various apps. Also, don’t forget to choose a kid-friendly reading plan for your kids. This will help explain things so they can understand.
● Use a comfortable translation: Different versions of the Bible can be hard to understand. I think the King James Version of the Bible is complicated to understand, but I love the New Living Translation. Finding the correct translation is a matter of preference, so do some research before making a final decision if you don’t have a version that you enjoy.
● Engage with the Text: As you read, journal your thoughts, the things that jump out at you, feelings you have, etc. Spend a few moments in prayer before and after you read and ask God to help you hear what he has to say to you.
● Have discussions: Talk with your family about what you’ve read and discuss your thoughts and feelings.
● Use Supplementary Resources: Consider using study guides, commentaries, or devotionals that focus on the gospels.
Advent Wreaths and Candles: Lighting the Path to Christmas
The structure of Advent comprises four Sundays, each with its own distinct meaning. Traditionally, people use an Advent wreath, a circular evergreen wreath decorated with candles. These candles comprise two purple, one pink, and one white candle. Hope, peace, and love are all symbolized by the purple candles. The pink candle represents joy, and God is by the white one. These candles all light the path to Christmas.
Activities for Families: Engaging Children in the Advent Spirit
There are many activities you and your family can do to get your kids into the spirit of Advent.
● Creating an Advent calendar together.
● Advent wreath making
● Do daily acts of kindness
● Read scripture together
● Make homemade ornaments and decorations
● Write in an Advent faith journal
● Christian Christmas movie night
These are great ways to prepare for the season together.
Planning for Worship and Reflection: Making the Most of the Season
Spend some time each day in worship as a family and reflect on the meaning of the season and what the Lord has done, will do, and is doing in your lives.
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Westend61
