As a kid I remember being given an Advent Calendar. It became a yearly event. I would open each door and it had a little picture or small devotional phrase that I didn’t fully understand but it also had a piece of chocolate that truly grasped my attention. Since then I’ve learned Advent is more than chocolate and there is meaning behind the doors that no one really explained to me. I wanted to pass the fuller meaning of Advent to my children.
Here’s a few thoughts to help our children to realize the hope, peace, love and joy this season can bring:
Preparation
Advent means arrival. When someone is coming to our homes we prepare. God prepared in advance for Christ’s coming. Join your kids to read passages of the promise of the birth of Christ. Reading together books like Marty Machouski’s book “Prepare Him Room: Celebrating the Birth of Jesus Family Devotional”, and doing some of those activities suggested is one way to help our children see the “much more” to this season.
Communication
Someone once said, “ Head knowledge produces head knowledge…”. Although knowledge has a place, God is looking for a heart for God that produces a heart for God. Matthew 22:37, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” Notice the first one is heart. It’s more than knowledge, it’s more than our own efforts. God wants our heartfelt relationship with Him first. We want to pass this to our children as we celebrate Advent. Communicate your heart for God and how He first got your attention.Tell how He CAME into your life..
Relationship
The advent season is a great time to relate to our kids. Spend time together, decorate and cook but while doing these activities tell your own stories and experiences you have had as a child. Share the reasons for your traditions. Pass along your testimony as to how you came to know Jesus, and how He has answered your prayers.
Blessings to you during this Advent season.