Advent means “coming” and as we prepare for Jesus’ coming at Christmas, there is much we do. So also, we should give our attention to the things that we do, think, and talk about as we prepare our hearts for Jesus’ second coming. It’s easy to lose sight of the fact that that’s what this season is all about. It’s easy for us to fumble our way into January and not realize how or where December even went. So as you go about the busy tasks of the season, consider also how God is at work. Talk about the things of Him as you go along the way this Advent.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the way, when you lie down and when you get up.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7   

Preparations

There are so many ways that we prepare for things during Advent. We prepare our homes for celebrations, we prepare our cards to send to loved ones, we prepare our outfits for special occasions, we prepare our gifts for others, we prepare special treats and the list could go on and on. As you prepare for the things of the season, talk about how we also prepare for Jesus. What does it mean to ready our hearts for Jesus to come?--Repent, read the Word, share the Gospel, worship, pray, praise, give thanks, help others, advance the kingdom. 

• Hope-Some people refer to this as the “season of hope.” Some might be referring to hope for gifts, hope for restored relationships, or delivering hope through a helping hand to someone else. Talk about what hope really means. It’s more than simply “wanting something.” True hope is trust and faith. Where do we place our hope? Why? How is hoping in this different than in the things of the world?
• Joy-What brings you joy this time of year? What fills your heart in a way that it feels like its spilling over the brim?
• Jesus-Sometimes Jesus gets overshadowed by elves, gifts, and Santa. So, this year, make a point to talk with your family about Jesus each day. Talk about him, how Mary prepared for Him, wonder at how God can work such a wonder in a tiny baby, etc.

I enjoy looking for opportunities to see how we might talk about and think about God throughout each day and each season. It’s the challenge and responsibility that God has placed on us. Let’s point to him together!

Looking for a way to explore Scripture this Advent? Check our our downloadable Advent Scripture Chain.