Advent is like celebrating a little bit of Christmas every day.
What I love about it is that it is less about stuff and more about the soul. Traditionally it is marked as the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. If you are an old-school type like me, Advent meant lighting a purple or pink candle in church each week for the four weeks leading up to Christmas. Now that Advent has become commercialized, it might mean 24 days of chocolate, beer, or perfume.
In truth, Advent has nothing to do with stuff. Don't get me wrong, I like 24 days of chocolate. But for me, it feels more like a season of personal faith reset. The beauty of Advent is it's your chance to take time to reflect on what the coming days mean, just for you.
Below, I'm sharing a few Advent things I have loved in the "getting your heart ready" weeks before Christmas. I'm sharing a few favorites and also new things I'm putting into the mix. However you do Advent --- chocolate, scripture, candles or simply lighting a candle, I hope you will take time to reflect on your own faith journey this season.
*Some book titles include affiliate links.
Advent Goodies I Have Loved
Everyone knows the nativity, but this book inspired a fresh take on the manger scene. I loved how this book challenged me both in head knowledge and seeing the nativity in an edgy, raw way. A little bit brainy, but inspiring.
A hilarious, short chapter book to read with your kids this holiday season. This book has been around since the 1970s, but somehow I missed it growing up. This is our family's most adored holiday read and laugh-out-loud funny.
An elegant daily Advent devotional with scripture, meditations, tips, and advice for preparing your heart for the season. A soulful book if you are looking for a short daily portion for your personal quiet time. With each daily reading, it includes a passage for families to discuss with their children.
If you are looking for a true Bible study for Advent, this is an excellent one from Proverbs 31 Ministries. Each day includes a reading guide, beautiful scripture pages, questions, and daily thoughts to dive deeper into the Advent story. I particularly enjoyed the weekend reflections and prayer section, along with their collection of Old Testament prophecies that point to Jesus.
Advent Goodies I'm Reading This Year
I've wanted to read this book for some time and this year I'm finally diving in. This book looks at the realities of Christmas from all of its consumerism, materialism, and worldly truths in light of what it's supposed to offer through the lens of the Bible. Scott includes artwork with 25 readings that invite you to consider what they inspire in you. I'm looking forward to enjoying the artwork while being challenged by the real perspectives.
This book is gorgeous. I have long been a fan of Ruth's work with her lush artwork and stunning illustrations. I can't think of a more lovely way to prepare for Advent than spending time with her creative devotional pages. This book offers daily short readings and inviting questions to pause, praise, and pray. If you are longing for a more artful Advent experience, this book is for you.
What About You? What are Your Advent Favs?
Please share your Advent favorites in the comments - I'd love to hear your family traditions or personal favorites, too. May your weeks ahead be filled with time to prepare Him room in your heart.
All the booklist suggestions can be found in the Advent Goodies 2023 link here. Bookshop.org purchases support local independent bookstores with every purchase.