Simple Advent Guide
family and individual devotionals for the season
“Have you ever participated in Advent?” I found myself asking two different women over the past couple weeks, my best friend listening in as she heard me give my spiel for the hundredth time. Both women were bemoaning the consumerism and overwhelm of December. They aren’t wrong. Which is why I find that making space for Advent is a saving grace in this season. More than a “countdown to Christmas,” Advent is a countercultural choice to slow down and savor, to embrace waiting and preparing. Advent has been practiced for hundreds of years by the church, a way to look forward both to the birth of Jesus and also to the day He will come once again restoring heaven to earth. We are in the waiting pains of humanity, life is beautiful but it’s also hard. When we look towards heaven with hope, our hearts are buoyed by the Spirit’s grace. That is the heart of Advent.
My friend Carolynn and I have been sharing our Advent guide for a couple of years now. This year I added four devotionals for adults to do on their own and I hope those add a bit of respite and peace for you.
The family guide is intended for weekly use, I imagine a Sunday evening with candles lit. I love these Advent candles and if you want to make a wreath, here is a simple way to do so!
You can find more resources and ideas for Advent here.
I pray you are blessed this season and know the loving presence of God.
Blessings,
Jillian