Celebrating Advent: A Journey Toward Christmas

Reflections and Meaningful Traditions for Families

As the holiday season approaches, many families begin to prepare for Christmas, but for our family, Advent is more than just a countdown—it's a special time set apart for anticipation, reflection, and heartfelt preparation for Christ’s birth. Growing up, my family’s celebrations focused on Jesus, but we didn’t officially observe Advent. Instead, our Christmas traditions revolved around the true meaning of the season, reminding us of the joy and hope found in the birth of Christ.

What is Advent?

Advent, meaning "coming" or “arrival”, is the four-week period before Christmas. It serves not only as a time to prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth, but also as a season of anticipation for His promised return. During Advent, we’re invited to slow down, reflect, and let our hearts be renewed by the hope, peace, joy, and love that Christ brings.

From Childhood Traditions to Intentional Celebration

Looking back, I cherished the intentional ways my family celebrated Christmas, but as I grew into adulthood, I became aware of the importance of slowing down to prepare my heart for the true Christmas meaning: the anticipation and celebration of Jesus' arrival. I knew that I wanted to be intentional with my kids about this season: to make it special for them in many ways, but especially by slowing down the Christmas hustle and focus on the Savior. 

As a family, we choose to read a nightly devotional from December 1st through December 24th. We conclude by reading the Biblical account of Jesus' birth on December 25th, as we eat breakfast BEFORE gifts. This helps us keep our focus on God's gift to us: Jesus, the Savior.

Practical Ways to Celebrate Advent

• Advent Wreath: Light a candle each Sunday to represent hope, peace, joy, and love. Use this time to talk about each theme and pray together.

• Advent Calendar: Countdown to Christmas with a calendar filled with Scripture, small treats, or acts of kindness. Let children open a door or complete an activity each day.

• Spiritual Preparation: Engage in acts of generosity—donate toys, help a neighbor, or write cards to those who may feel lonely. Encourage older children and teens to lead service projects, deepening their faith through action.

• Nightly Devotionals: Gather together each evening to read Scripture, pray, and share thoughts. This simple practice fosters connection and keeps Christ at the center.

• Reading the Christmas Story: Before gifts are opened on Christmas morning, read the Biblical account of Jesus’ birth as a family. Let children participate by reading aloud or sharing what the story means to them.

• Slowing Down: Advent invites us to pause. Embrace quiet moments—whether it’s singing carols, crafting, or simply reflecting on God’s promises.

Suggestions for Family Advent Devotionals

If you’re looking for family-friendly devotionals, the YouVersion Bible App offers a variety of Advent reading plans for adults, kids, and families to share together. These resources provide daily Scripture passages, prayers, and reflections suited for all ages, helping families stay focused on Christ throughout the season. This year, our family is reading the “Waiting With Joy: An Advent Activity Calendar for Kids”. The Bible App has the first 7 days available, with a link to download the complete 26 day devotional with free printable resources.

If you prefer a book in hand to read together, consider one of the following advent devotionals:

• The Biggest Story Advent: 25 Lift-the-Flap Devotions for Families

• The Way to the Manger: A Family Advent Devotional

• God’s Big Promises Advent Calendar and Family Devotions

• Let There Be Light: A Family Advent Devotional for Kids, Teens and Parents to Prepare Hearts for Christmas

• 25 Days of the Christmas Story: An Advent Family Experience

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Celebrate Advent

Advent isn’t just about marking days on a calendar—it’s about preparing our hearts for Christ and drawing closer as a family. Whether you’re lighting candles, reading Scripture together, or serving others, choose traditions that help you slow down and savor the meaning of Christmas. This year (if you don't already) I hope your family can find a special way to celebrate the advent season. Together, let’s prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus and eagerly anticipate His return.