Parenting Points
In a world that moves at lightning speed, waiting is rarely celebrated. Yet, for Christians, waiting is at the heart of Advent — the sacred season that leads us toward Christmas. Advent invites us to slow down, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Teaching your children to “wait well” during this time can help them understand that Christmas is more than gifts under the tree — it’s about the gift of Jesus Himself.
The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming.” It’s a time to remember how God’s people once waited for the Messiah, and how we, too, wait expectantly for Christ’s return. In a culture that prizes instant gratification, Advent helps families practice the holy discipline of anticipation — not just for what’s coming, but for Who is coming.
Parents can make this season meaningful by creating simple, faith-filled traditions that point their children toward Jesus. Lighting Advent candles together each week is a powerful visual reminder of Christ as the Light of the World. As each candle is lit — representing hope, peace, joy, and love — families can read a corresponding Scripture and pray together. These small moments create space for faith to grow and hearts to focus on God’s promises.
Another way to help children “wait well” is through acts of kindness and service. Advent is not only about waiting but about preparing. Encourage children to share Christ’s love in practical ways — writing cards to neighbors, donating toys, or helping with an outreach project at your church. As your kids serve, they learn that waiting for Jesus means living out His love right now.
It’s also helpful to create moments of quiet reflection amid the holiday rush. Turn off screens, read the story of Jesus’ birth, and talk about what it means that God came to dwell among us. Remind children that the most wonderful gift we receive at Christmas is not found in wrapping paper but in a manger. As your family journeys through Advent, may you rediscover the beauty of waiting. Waiting well doesn’t mean doing nothing — it means preparing our hearts, living with hope, and keeping our eyes on Jesus, the One who has come and will come again.
-Dr. Ben Birdsong
Director of European Expansion for First Priority Global Ministries
