Advent gives us an opportunity to slow down and remember what we’re actually waiting for. But practicing Advent as a family doesn’t have to mean adding more to an already-full December calendar. Some of the most meaningful rhythms are also the simplest.
Here are five ways to help your family make room for Jesus in the weeks leading up to Christmas. You don’t need to try to do them all. Choose one that fits your family, and start there.
1. Count Down With Purpose
Kids love a countdown. Advent gives us a chance to turn all that anticipation toward Jesus.
This year, pick up a Gracekids Advent Calendar at the Family Resource Wall and use the stickers to mark the days together. As Christmas gets closer, remind your kids what we’re counting down to: the celebration of Jesus coming to be with us.
2. Light a Candle
You don’t need an elaborate family devotional to create a meaningful rhythm at home. Choose one night each week to light an Advent candle together. Read a few verses of Scripture, ask your kids what they notice, and pray together.
Not sure where to start? Try these four simple Advent readings:
- Week 1 — Hope: Isaiah 9:2, 6–7
- Week 2 — Prepare: Isaiah 40:3–5
- Week 3 — Joy: Luke 2:8–14
- Week 4 — Jesus Comes: John 1:1–5, 14
It may only take five minutes. That’s okay. Small, consistent practices can help faith become part of the everyday rhythm of your home.
3. Let the Christmas Story Take Its Time
We hear the Christmas story every year, but Advent gives us permission not to rush through it.
Instead of saving Luke 2 for Christmas Eve, spend the weeks leading up to Christmas exploring the story together. Wonder with your kids about Mary and Joseph. Talk about the shepherds. Follow the wise men. Ask questions. Let your kids ask theirs.
Younger kids? Grab a picture Bible and let the pictures help tell the story. The goal isn’t to finish a lesson. It’s to help your family know the story—and the God at the center of it.
4. Practice Generosity Together
Christmas gives us plenty of opportunities to receive. Advent is a great time to practice giving, too.
Choose someone your family can bless. Buy a gift for someone in need. Leave something anonymously for a neighbor. Let your kids contribute some of their own money or help decide how your family will give.
When we invite our kids into generosity, we’re teaching them that what God has given us isn’t only for us.
5. Make Room for Someone
Jesus consistently made room for people, and our homes can be places where people experience that same kind of welcome.
Look around your world. Is there a neighbor who lives alone? A friend going through a difficult season? A family who could use community? Invite them into something you’re already doing—dinner, cookies, a Christmas movie, or simply an evening around the table.
It doesn’t have to be impressive to be meaningful. Sometimes making room simply means noticing someone and saying, there’s a place for you here.
