Advent - the 4 Weeks Before Christmas

Advent means “coming”. It refers to Jesus’ birth, God’s gift to the world. At Christmas time many people celebrate Advent (the four weeks before Christmas) by having an Advent calendar. There are many kinds of Advent calendars. There are online versions using apps, there are build-your-own calendars, there are printable calendars, and even ones with a new candy or chocolate each day. The idea is that each day you reflect on some part of the meaning of Christmas. It could be God’s love, family, helping others, you name it. If you make your own, then you get to choose.

Advent usually happens in four themes, hope, peace, joy, and love. Each one is a part of the Christmas Story.

Hope - Mary was told in Luke 1:26-33: "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus... He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High". He was the Hope of the world.

Peace- In Luke 2:14, The angels tell the shepherds, "glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men".  

Joy - Luke 2:10: The angel says, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people".

Love - John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life"

Here are some possible ways to celebrate Advent. Note: I have not done all of these so as always, use caution while going online.)

 Online Advent Calendars

1. https://www.jacquielawson.com/advent/christmas-village The Online Christmas Village (Best on a phone. iPad, or tablet App)

2. https://kidscraftroom.com/printable-christmas-advent-calendars/

3. https://www.myadvent.net/en/

Free Printable Advent Calendars for Kids (ask your parents first!)

1. https://www.pinterest.com/pin/252975704053248076/

2. http://littlemisstlc.com/free-printable-advent-calendar-kids-families/

3. https://ahundredaffections.com/free-advent-calendar-numbers-printable-activity-cards/#advent-calendars-a-meaningful-family-tradition

4. https://treehouseschoolhouse.com/blog/advent-calendar-activity-ideas-bible-reading-plan?srsltid=AfmBOoqPhPrChGlg6uA8xHN307IedfMsiL1c9Cj-d5PM36a3FV3Uo3Wa

 

Make Your Own Advent Calendars with Treats (YouTube Videos)

  

Advent Calendars on Amazon  (You may want to look in your local stores for calendars also.)

$19.95 Calendar    Set of 10 Calendars – make great gifts $59.95   $7.99 Snowman 

 I hope you have fun celebrating Christmas this year. Remember: Jesus is the reason for the season!

 Love Papaw.