People around the world have observed Advent since at least 480 A.D. Advent links us with generations upon generations of Christians who have observed this very same season and focused on the promise Jesus’ birth fulfilled. It’s a powerful connection. This is an opportunity to renew our faith and devotion as we approach Christmas. Here are some ideas on how you might observe advent, either as a family or as an individual:
Gather as a family and have someone read the devotionals for each day out loud. Talk together afterwards. If you’re doing this devotional on your own, carve out some quiet time each day to read and reflect.
Journal about each day’s devotional. We’ve provided some space in this book for your thoughts and take-aways for each day. You can journal individually even if you read the devotional together as a family.
Candles are a visual reminder for us of the light that was promised throughout the Old Testament scripture and was born in the New Testament. A set of Advent candles usually includes three purple candles and one pink candle. Each week you light one more candle to illustrate how this light became closer and closer until that first Christmas night finally arrived.
Often the lighting of the Advent candles is accompanied by singing a traditional hymn, such as “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”
There is no wrong way to observe Advent. This devotional and our suggestions on how to use it are tools to help you connect with the real purpose of the season: renewing your faith in, hope in, and devotion to Jesus Christ.
