A Better Way to Prepare for Christmas // M-Note 12.3.22

Advent (the season leading up to Christmas Day) comes from a Latin word that means “to come”. It has traditionally been a time of waiting, preparations, and intentional anticipation of Jesus. Most of us are familiar with Advent from the calendars that help us count down the days until Christmas. But counting down isn’t the only way to prepare. We hang lights, decorate trees, make lists, buy gifts, and plan meals. This year, I invite you to also prepare for Christmas spiritually. If you don’t know how, there are some traditions that are worth trying. Here are 5 ways to prepare for Christmas spiritually:
 
1.     Prayer. 

Many of us intend to have a prayer habit but often drift from it. Advent is a time to try a daily prayer practice. Consider starting each day with a short devotional. The Gathering has a daily Advent devotional that makes it easy for you. It only takes a few minutes and is a powerful way to start your day. You can find the devotional on the app or sign up to receive a daily email.

2.     Fasting. 

While an old practice, biblical fasting or abstaining from food, isn’t a diet trend but a powerful way to clear our minds, simplify our lives, and focus ourselves on Christ. If you have never done this, start simple. Try picking one day during which you will eat only one full meal or skip lunch. Alternatively, you could choose hours each day during which you won’t eat.

3.     Presence. 

Christmas is less about stuff and more about relationships, less about presents and more about presence. Try connecting with someone this season that you don’t regularly make time for. Get together for a meal, connect over coffee, or even write them a letter. Finding a time to build up and invest in important relationships is a way of preparing for the Christ who wants a relationship with you.

4.     Read the Bible. 

There are some great reading plans that can guide you to scriptures that speak to the coming of Christ and the Christmas story. If you would like to find a simple plan, there are several you can look at here.

5.     Worship. 

Advent is ultimately about turning our hearts back to God, especially after a year where many of us have drifted from our faith. It has been hard for many to restart the habit of worshiping weekly. Make a commitment as a family to worship each Sunday in December. We often don’t realize what we are missing until we get back in this habit. I would love to see you at The Gathering this Sunday. All of our worship times and locations can be found here.
 
I love the weeks leading up to Christmas, especially in church. This weekend, I will be sharing a message as we continue our series Christmas: The Music and the Meaning. I will be talking about the carol Angels From the Realms of Glory. Give it a listen wherever you get your music, and I look forward to seeing you this weekend!
 
Peace,
Matt