This has been a difficult year, filled with tension and waiting. When will this pandemic end? When will we get a vaccine? When will my kids be able to travel and see their grandparents? When can I stop worrying about my loved ones? If you’re like me, you could use a break!
The events of the past year have invaded our comfortable, predictable lives and put us in a position where we lack control. We long for peace, stability, and hope. This winter, we have a unique opportunity to engage with the themes and traditions of Advent in a meaningful way as our grief and restlessness peak during the holidays.
The Advent season of the church calendar is a time of anticipation and waiting that emphasizes the ancient Israelites’ historical longing for the Messiah and the Christian’s continued longing for Christ’s return to “make all things new” (Revelation 21:5). Christmas is the culmination of this season as we celebrate Jesus’ arrival on earth to save us from sin and death. I don’t know about you, but I really need to remember this good news right now.
If you are looking for ways to participate in Advent, feel free to peruse the list of resources below:
Biola University’s Center for Christianity, Culture, and the Arts compiles a fantastic Advent devotional every year. Each day’s entry offers visual art, music, poetry, scripture, and a short commentary on the events and themes of Advent. I always appreciate the diversity of voices and mediums represented in these posts. You can view it or subscribe here.
I love Keith and Kristyn Getty’s hymn albums for children. They help my kids learn traditional hymns and aren’t repetitive or simple, like some children’s music. You can stream their Christmas album on Amazon Prime or Spotify.
Finally, I invite you to check out my own Advent mixes for adults/teens and kids on Spotify.
May God bless you and your family throughout this Advent season!