The Heart of Advent

November has only just begun and already I find myself looking at recipes for Christmas treats, thinking about what gifts to give my loved ones, wondering when I should have my husband get decorations down from the attic, and contemplating inviting friends over for a special meal. While there is much joy in this season, let’s be honest: it can also be a bit stressful. In the midst of the hustle, it’s easy to forget why we’re preparing in the first place.

I didn’t grow up in a church that observed Advent. In fact, it wasn’t until I was well into adulthood that I discovered this beautiful tradition—a four-week season in the Christian calendar meant to help us prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus and to look forward to His promised return.

Each Sunday during Advent we are invited to reflect on a different theme: hope, peace, joy, and love. It’s a gentle rhythm that encourages us to slow down. We quiet our hearts, read Scripture, sing songs of worship, and pray—not out of obligation, but in expectant celebration.

This year, Advent begins on November 30 and continues through December 24. Whether this tradition is new to you or deeply familiar, it offers a meaningful way to reconnect with the spiritual heartbeat of the season.

But observing Advent is not about adding more to your plate. It’s about reorienting your heart. It’s about making room—not just in your schedule, but in your soul—for the coming King.

Practical Ideas for Observing Advent

If you’re wondering how to observe Advent beyond the church walls, here are some meaningful activities you can do to bring Advent home:

1. Daily Scripture Readings

Choose an Advent devotional or follow a reading plan. Let the Word shape your anticipation.

2. Advent Wreath or Candles

Light a candle each Sunday leading up to Christmas. Use the traditional themes—Hope, Peace, Joy, Love—as prompts for prayer and reflection.

3. Prayer and Fasting

Set aside intentional time for prayer. Consider fasting from distractions—social media, excessive shopping, holiday parties, or entertainment—to create space for spiritual attentiveness.

4. Hospitality and Service

Open your home for simple meals and gospel-centered conversations. Serve those in need—neighbors, church members, or local ministries—as a reflection of Christ’s love and generosity.

5. Creative Worship

Sing hymns that highlight Christ’s coming, like “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” Write Advent-themed prayers or poems. Use your gifts to worship in ways that stir your soul and bless others.

A Word of Encouragement

Remember, Advent is not about perfection—it’s about preparation. It’s not about doing more—it’s about being present. We have the privilege of anchoring our hope in the promises of God and pointing others to the One who came and will come again.

So as you prepare your home, your table, and your gift list, I invite you to also prepare your heart. Let’s embrace the quiet. Let’s lean into the longing. Let’s prepare Him room.

Now, it’s your turn …

In what ways can you embody Christ’s love this Advent season?

How will you carry the light of Christ into the new year?