Hi, Friends! If you have seen our recent posts on our website or social media – you know we are fully immersed in the Christmas season here at Forget-Me-Not. Today, we are excited to share with you some of the reasons we feel so strongly about the Advent season, and we also included some resources for you to start your own Advent traditions.
Advent studies hold both individual and family significance for several reasons, both spiritually and personally. Advent, the four-week season in the Christian liturgical calendar, is traditionally a time of preparation, reflection, and anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ. Engaging in Advent studies can deepen your faith and enrich family life in meaningful ways.
Provides Spiritual Preparation and Reflection || Advent studies encourage individuals and families to focus on the deeper spiritual meaning of the season, rather than getting caught up in commercial or secular aspects of Christmas. The studies often include scripture readings, meditations, prayers, and reflections that help individuals prepare their hearts and minds for the celebration of Christ’s birth. Advent studies foster an environment of shared reflection and devotion for your family. Families can set aside time to read scripture, discuss its meaning, pray together, and engage in activities that reflect the values of the season. This helps to build a sense of spiritual awareness, making the season more meaningful than just a time of material celebration.
Builds Family Traditions || Advent studies offer an opportunity for families to create meaningful, lasting traditions that go beyond gift-giving. For example, lighting the Advent candles, reading devotionals, and singing Advent carols can all become part of a family’s ritual, helping your children understand the true significance of the season. Advent studies provide a space for intentional teaching moments. Parents can guide their children through the stories and symbols of Advent, helping to instill a foundation of faith that goes beyond Christmas presents and decorations. This can help children understand the anticipation of Christ’s arrival and develop a sense of reverence and gratitude.
Creates Space for Connection || Advent studies also offer a chance to connect with the broader faith community. Many churches provide Advent devotionals or small groups focused on the season, giving individuals and families an opportunity to engage in communal study and fellowship. We would encourage you to join one in your local church body… or better yet, lead one for other members of your church! This would also allow your family to model a life of faith in action!
Advent studies are not just for personal growth, but for building stronger, spiritually enriched families. By participating in Advent studies, individuals and families can move beyond the hustle and bustle of the season and engage in a deeper, more meaningful celebration of Christ’s coming. It is an opportunity for reflection, growth, tradition-building, and a time to foster a greater sense of hope, generosity, and faith.
Here are a few of our personal favorite resources that will strengthen relationships and your walk with the Lord:
– Daily Grace Co. 2024 Advent Study
– Discovering Christmas
– Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus
– Tracing Glory
Our prayer is that you savor and enjoy the Christmas season, growing closer to our Savior in the process! Share your personal favorite Advent studies in the comments – we would love to hear about your favorite resources and traditions!
Stay Well,
Tricia + Alisha
forgetmenotwellness.com 