As December approaches, Christians worldwide prepare for Advent—a sacred season of anticipation and reflection leading to the celebration of Christ's birth. Sunday, December 1, is the first Sunday of Advent. Advent, beginning four Sundays before Christmas, is a time to pause amidst holiday busyness and focus on spiritual formation through intentional practices. Coupled with the 12 Days of Christmas, which extend from December 25 to January 6 (Epiphany), this season offers a transformative opportunity to deepen your walk with God. Release the "partridge in a pear tree" and give newfound momentum into the New Year with Epiphany's 12 days to begin a Christ-centered New Year!
1. Embrace Advent Rhythms
Advent invites us to ponder Christ's coming—past, present, and future. Light an Advent wreath and meditate on weekly themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. Spend quiet moments in Scripture, reflecting on passages like Isaiah 9:6 and Luke 1:26–38. Commit to daily prayer, asking God to shape your heart and mind to align with His will.
2. Cultivate a Rule of Life
Use this season to develop or revisit your spiritual Rule of Life—a framework for nurturing body, mind, soul, and spirit. Incorporate disciplines like fasting, journaling, or acts of service to align your daily rhythm with Christ's example.
3. Celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas
After Christmas Day, resist the urge to pack away decorations and move on. Instead, embrace the 12 Days of Christmas as a time to dwell in the mystery of the Incarnation. Reflect on the gifts of Christ in your life and share His love through meaningful connections with others. A dear friend in Chicago gave Lynda and me twelve different jams. They are titled "Epiphany Jams!" One jar a day is to be open for each day of Epiphany. Each jar has enough jam for two people. So, part of our Epiphany liturgy for the twelve days of Christmas will be to thank God, savor our jam on delicious bread and butter, and thank God for the sweet friends He has spread our lives with.
As Advent and Christmas draw close, consider how the habits formed during this season can guide your spiritual journey throughout the year. Let Christ's light, born anew in your heart, illuminate your path toward greater wholeness and purpose.
Let Advent and Christmas be more than a season this December—let it shape and sweeten your soul.
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