Some of the common ways people describe the Christmas season are: Busy, Hectic, Stressful, even Chaotic. We hustle through the season shopping for gifts, looking for deals, going from one Christmas party to the next, not to mention the family dinners and get-togethers. Before we know it, New Year’s Day has come and gone and we are finally able to take a breath in an entirely new year. For these reasons, the Christmas season can be a dreaded time for some. This is why Christmas needs Advent.
Advent helps us to focus on the true story and meaning of Christmas and see Christmas freed from consumerism and commercialism. Advent prepares our hearts not just to remember the first coming of Jesus, when he was born in Bethlehem according to the promises God had made, but it also prepares us for his return, when he will come again to destroy sin and death once and for all and wipe away every tear.
This Christmas, set aside some time each week to observe the Advent season.
- Choose an Advent devotional to do with your family. Many can be found online. One is offered at CCSLion.com under “Chaplain’s Blog.”
- Do your own prep for your devotion time. Read the Scripture passages and pray for God’s guidance and wisdom as you lead your family through the Advent season.
- Choose a time of the week that works the best for everyone. Pick a time that can be easily prioritized and not susceptible to distractions or other activities.
Finally it could be tempting to expect a family devotion to revolutionize your holiday season and your family life, but the truth is, getting started may be difficult. Don’t panic or give up. These times (ITALIC will be) will be very special for you and your family. With all the hustle and bustle, you will find these times spent with your family will help you with your perspective as well as your sanity.
— Drew Phillips, Chaplain
Covenant Classical Schools & Daycare
To learn more about Covenant Classical
Schools, please visit www.ccslion.com.