This swap series will help us to finish out the year with an attitude of worship! Jesus is the Reason for the Holiday Season, so let’s keep our hearts and minds in Him this Christmas! Read the recommended Bible passages and the Christmasy blurb below. Send your partner a letter or notecard answering the questions at the end of this post.

Bible passages to read and reflect on this week: John 1:9-14

There are certain signals that reveal Christmas is on its way. Coffee shops add peppermint mochas to their seasonal menus. We start making lists of gifts to buy, and retailers set up elaborate displays to entice us to buy even more. With so much clamoring for our attention, sometimes it’s a challenge to remember the true reason for the season of Advent. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin word “adventus”, which means “coming” or “arrival”. It’s the season of preparation, not for extra expenses or family gatherings, but to remember the Christ child who came to live among us to secure our redemption. It is a time to pause and cherish god’s most precious gift to us. Advent is also the anticipation of Christ’s return at the Second Coming. When we celebrate the birth of our savior, we’re honoring the sacrifice He made for us too. Gathering around the manger is only part of it. We also need to journey to the foot of the cross. So, while we might still get swept up in all the hurried activity of the Christmas season, be intentional this year to take time during Advent to prepare your heart. Remember that God laid aside His glory to become human because of His great love for you, and He will also return one day to restore glory to His people. There are few truths in this world that can be more wonderful, more exciting than this!

What kind of things mark the start of the Christmas season for you?

Is celebrating Advent part of your traditions? If not, how can you make it a special part this year?

Do you tend to feel overwhelmed this time of year? If so, how can you carve out some time for reflection to prepare your heart?