There is an abundance of posts out there on what Advent is, it’s true meaning etc. I am not going to duplicate any of that, but just want to share what it means to me personally.
For me it is all about preparation, as I prepare the house there is a sense of intentionally making room for Jesus. I clear the ordinary, everyday ornaments away to make room for Christmas decorations. As I place the figures of my nativity scene I am struck afresh with wonder at the Shepherds going about their daily/nightly business of protecting the sheep, unaware of what was going to burst into their ordinary. The yet unknown events which were to lead the Wise Men on an incredible journey to meet the King of Kings. And I am filled with awe at God’s plan of salvation.
It is not just about lighting up the house at a dark time of year, or making it pretty, it is about making room for Jesus, reminding me to make room for Him in my heart, that He is central and not just an added on at Christmas.
As I prepare food I am thankful to God for my loved ones who will gather (yes even this year!) and I pray for them and a blessing on our time.
As I write cards and notes to people I haven’t seen or maybe even heard from this year, I think of them, I wonder how they are doing, how they have coped with this year and I send them a message and a prayer.
And as I do all these things, I intentionally prepare my heart for Jesus, make room for Him to come in a new way, yes even to burst into the ordinary.
What do you do for Advent? How do you prepare? Do let me know in the comments.
Finding God in the Everyday 