Advent Rhythms for Real Families
Search for “advent” on Pinterest, and the overwhelm is immediate. Endless calendars, crafts, projects, daily practices, weekly practices and charity ideas. It’s all good and worthwhile content. And I applaud anyone who can go to those lengths to bring intentionality to the holidays.
But what about advent rhythms for real families?
Busy families with kids in sports, two working parents, holiday travel plans, and year end work deadlines? Or what about ministry families for whom this time of year is one of the busiest with pageants, community service, Christmas Eve services and endless rehearsals for all-the-things.
When we had kids we knew we wanted to find ways to engaged in the rhythms of Advent. What we didn’t know (because really what do you know before you have kids 😂) is how 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒖𝒍𝒕 that would be for our “real” family.
Over the years we’ve found some ways to celebrate this time of year in simple yet meaningful ways. If you are looking for ways to be more intentional about reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas with your family, I hope you’ll find the resources below helpful!
The Greatest Gift - Ann Voskamp
This one is for you mama. We can’t lead our kids through the Advent season if we aren’t first leading ourselves. Ann Voskamp’s daily devotional is an Advent classic and will prepare your heart and soul well.
My First Read and Learn Countdown to Christmas
This Advent book is great for your preschool and early elementary kids. It is full of simple stories and activities to teach younger kids about the season in age appropriate ways. A great addition to your bedtime reading routine.
Does Advent Matter When the World is On Fire?
New to Advent? Wondering why it matters? Walking into a difficult holiday season personally?
This essay by Sarah Bessey is a must read for everyone but especially those who may have doubts or big questions.
A couple of years ago we were gifted an Advent candle. Not like the 4 candles in the wreath Advent candles. But a single candle with dates marked on it that we lit (almost) every night when we sat down for family dinners. It quickly became a favorite family tradition. And with a house full of boys, adding fire to any tradition goes a long way. This year we bought this candle from Alison Gardiner and it. is. so. cute.
This organization’s mission is to help families and churches celebrate Christmas humble, beautifully and generously. The have a large library of FREE resources for families including free coloring pages, scavenger hunts, talk sheets for parents and more. Their blog has a free daily advent devotional that is updated daily throughout the season by pastors and leaders globally. Registration is required for access but there is no cost to registering.
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