“A voice cries: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.’”
— Isaiah 40:3-5 (ESV)
Even as Christians, it can be easy to forget why we really celebrate Christmas. We go from event to event, enjoy time with friends and family, and attend Christmas Eve services, but we never take the time to slow down.
The focus shifts to ourselves and away from Christ, the One Christmas is truly centered upon.
That’s why being intentional about observing Advent is so important. It reminds us to slow down during the busy holiday season and focus our hearts on Jesus and His birth.
So, what is Advent, and how do you practically observe it?
Advent is a season that traditionally begins four Sundays before Christmas, when Christ-followers prepare their hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus. It is a time of hope, expectation, and joy where we can reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, knowing the Savior of the world has come!
How will you celebrate the birth of Christ this Advent season?
You can observe Advent by spending extra time in God’s Word, resting in His presence through prayer, or even lighting candles on an Advent wreath every Sunday if you have one. Any activity that draws you nearer to Him during this special time of year counts.
And while Advent is never specifically referenced in Scripture, the idea is founded in God’s Word. Before Jesus was born, God’s people spent years anticipating their promised Savior, who would redeem them. The prophet Isaiah foretold the coming Messiah, saying, “…prepare the way of the Lord…” (Isaiah 40:3a).
When Christ was born, God’s promise was fulfilled.
But today, many people around the world are waiting for a different kind of help. They don’t know where their next meal is coming from. They can’t afford essentials like medical care, clothing, or their own copies of God’s Word. They have nowhere to turn, and they are losing hope.
You can be the hands and feet of Jesus around the world
That is where we can step in. As Christians, we should be using this Advent season to align our hearts with His — and a natural outpouring of that is looking for ways to help and serve His children.
This Christmas season, challenge yourself to spend time preparing your heart for Christ and reflecting on the incredible gift God gave us through His Son. Allow yourselves to be held by the Savior and allow Him to lead you to serve and to love others well. To give of yourself, even when it does not seem like much, is to glorify God in your giving.
And if you’re looking for a practical way to help others this holiday season, World Help’s Christmas Giving Catalogue is full of life-changing gifts. Click the button below to learn about all the exciting ways you can transform a life this Christmas!