Advent

Waiting is uncomfortable. At best, it can be painfully boring, and at worst it can be full of uncertainty and fear. But this year, we invite you to think about waiting in a new way. The season of Advent is a season when we wait, not just for Christmas, but for Christ Himself, and as we wait for Christ, we are invited to participate in God’s work. 

The Gift of Waiting

This three-day Christmas reading plan invites you to shift focus from earthly to eternal treasures. Reflecting on Biblical teachings about generosity, the plan encourages giving with a Kingdom mindset, reminding us that true rewards lie in heaven. Each day explores how aligning our hearts with God’s purpose brings lasting joy, peace, and impact—revealing the deeper meaning of Christmas beyond material gifts.

Christmas Treasures

Weariness can steal the joy from our Christmas journey! Let the Nativity refresh your heart as you walk with Zechariah, Elizabeth, Joseph, Mary and the shepherds in preparation to experience Emmanuel this holiday season.  

A Weary World Rejoices - Five Days of Preparing Your Heart for Christmas

When you think about Christmas, the words hope, peace, love, and joy probably come to mind. But you might wonder, "What is the heart of these themes, and where are they in the Bible?" Join us as we discover what those themes mean for you this Advent season through daily Lectio Divina Scripture readings and weekly reflections to take you through the four weeks of Advent.

Advent: Exploring Hope, Peace, Love, and Joy

The word "Advent" means "arrival" or "coming." On the church calendar, Advent is the beginning of the Christian year. It is a season of Great Expectation and a time not only to look back but to look forward.

Great Expectations: Rediscovering the Hope of Advent

Christmas is a busy time for all, but moms see things differently, don't they? It's when their hearts are full of love and contentment at the sight of their family's joy. Here are six meditations from some Mom's hearts to yours. The way they love Jesus and Christmas. We hope the plan speaks to you and encourages you to find your joy this season.

Mom Diaries: Christmas! 

In this 12-day plan for kids, you’ll get to read all about the gift of peace that comes through Jesus and how we can have that peace in our hearts every single day!

Christmas for Kids: 12 Days of Peace

Waiting for Christmas is hard! We want to make the month of December more joyful for you and your family. This plan features the first seven days of a 26-day Advent Activity Calendar from Words of Hope. Each day gives a Bible reading and short activity to fill your month with the joy of our Savior. You can find the full version, along with a printable calendar and crafts, online.

Waiting With Joy: An Advent Activity Calendar for Kids

We invite you to join us in preparing room in our hearts for Christ. It’s the cry of our hearts to which God responds with His Son, “Emmanuel” - God is with us. Giving time and attention to the coming Light of the world can spark a tiny hope, ignite a thrill of joy and give us a glimpse of love in a time that otherwise may be exhausting, overwhelming and stressful.