A season of great expectation

Advent is more than a countdown to Christmas; it is a season that invites us to prepare our hearts for Jesus’ arrival as a newborn baby. We wait in the figurative
(and literal) darkness of the world, calling for God to bring justice, peace, and life. We light candles each week to celebrate the gifts that Jesus brings into the world: peace, hope, joy, and love.

Parents, use your own discretion when it comes to your kids. If content is rated for certain ages then we will indicate that. Enjoy!

Pause, light a candle, & take 15 minutes for caring conversation and prayer.

Share: What were your high and low points today?
Read: Jeremiah 33:14. The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah.
Reflect: Tell a story about a time when you were so excited you had a hard time waiting for something.
Pray: “Dear God, as we wait for Christmas and the celebration of your coming to us, help us to grow in peace, joy, hope, and love. Amen.”
Bless: Trace a cross on each other’s shoulder, hand, or head and say “[Name], you are a beloved child of God.”

For more conversation starters, try Daring Deep Discussions.
For more Bible texts, go to Suggested Scripture Readings.

Going Deeper

  • Create Advent Ornaments for your Christmas Tree. Reflect on the themes of Advent (Peace, Hope, Joy, and Love) as you color and assemble 3D ornaments (from Illustrated Youth Ministry).
  • Make an Advent Banner. Print, decorate, and hang this festive banner; use the discussion prompts for family conversation or personal reflection.
  • Volunteer in Worship. “Advent Families” light candles and read short paragraphs about the week’s theme. Families needed in every weekend worship service November 27/28 – December 18/19. Sign up here.
  • Develop your own Advent Music Playlist. Explore the many wonderful hymns and songs mentioned in this article, and discover music that draws you into a state of “preparing and waiting in hope for Christ’s coming.”

Watch this 2-minute explanation of the season of Advent.

Listen to The Piano Guys’ “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

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