Once upon a time, Advent was something that was only observed in congregations that follow the liturgical calendar. In recent years though, it’s become a bit of a phenomenon—there are a plethora of studies, podcasts, playlists, calendars, and activities associated with Advent now. But what is Advent? It’s the four weeks before Christmas and is designed to be a time of waiting, preparation and anticipation for the birth of Christ. Each Sunday one of four candles is lit: faith, hope, joy, and love, and on Christmas Eve the fifth candle, the Christ candle, is lit.
For me, Advent practices offer an intentional opportunity to slow down and focus on the true purpose underscoring this incredibly busy season. Some of my favorite studies & devotionals have included:
Waiting Here for You by Louie Giglio
The Advent: Pointing to the Promise study within the Proverbs 31 Ministries First Five App
The Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp
TSF Advent Series on the That Sounds Fun Podcast with Annie F. Downs
In addition to these studies, a few of my intentional practices during this season include:
from the last 60-day challenge in our Stronger Together online community: getting up an hour early to have time to read an advent devotional, practice gratitude, and get clear about to-do lists for the day to reduce overwhelm and stay on track - ultimately to create more space for really enjoying the season
scheduling holiday family activities + traditions: a Christmas light tour, cookie baking, gift shopping for the kiddos, and other holiday traditions so they can be looked forward to and enjoyed.
Actively choosing to be present and enjoy the moment. Sometimes this means letting the mess sit until later. Sometimes it means a few of today’s to-dos are postponed until tomorrow. It’s a season with a whole lot of “urgent” to it, so making a conscious effort to focus on the important helps us keep the right perspective.
Do you have advent practices or traditions that are special to your family? How do you stay focused on the real ‘reason for the season’ in the midst of the frenzy?