Christmas Advent… the time when we are so excited to decorate and focus on the birth of Jesus with special advent readings. Yet, the time comes so quickly, I am almost always caught halfway through the advent season without a plan and we’re late. We always read the story of Jesus’ birth on Christmas eve as THE integral tradition in our family even if we don’t get to a full advent reading series. Whichever type of reading we choose, the reason for the celebration is always front and center each year.
What is an advent reading? Advent reading is a series of Bible scriptures that highlight the events that lead up to the birth of Jesus. These readings are usually read one snippet per day starting at the beginning of December and culminating at Christmas. Readings are picked to highlight the journey of Mary and Joseph travelling from Nazareth to Jerusalem for a census then on to lodging in an animal shelter, the birth of the Saviour, angels visiting shephards and these same shepherds searching out where the new baby Messiah is born. Many reading lists will include the visiting Magi following the star that leads them to Jesus and the gifts they bring Him.
As I gather these advent reading list resources for you, the summer is starting to shift subtly in it’s lighting in the morning as I write. Yes, it is summer and I am thinking of Christmas already. I’m not sure that I’m ready to say goodbye to summer quite yet. The heat, yes but not the beautiful evenings when we are outside for walks. School is underway and autumn is coming with it’s beautiful colors. The stores are already getting Christmas decorations in and I am wearing shorts. Oh well, each season we slowly become excited for the next season. I am getting my ducks in a row so to speak and planning ahead this year.
If you’re like me and need a little help in what scriptures to put together for your Christmas reading, here are a number of great ideas for you:
Advent Reading Lists
Christmas Advent Books
If you are looking for more in-depth reading or a full story, here are a few of many options.
An Advent book series to build on year to year if you choose:
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Jotham’s Journey is a wonderful family series imagining side characters in the events that play out in the birth of Jesus. As Jotham is struggling to get back to his parents he encounters adventure and danger that will lead him to events in the Bible. The story that builds over the course of advent with a final epic conclusion. Your family will love it. Note: can be a little intense for very small children.
Need something more hands-on for Advent?
From ornaments to snacks, check out 50 Advent Activities for Toddlers to highlight the birth of Jesus.
Not into Elf on the Shelf? Shephard on the Search is an alternative with an interactive calendar, book, figurines.
Looking for advent ornaments? These simple names of Jesus ornaments are classy and meaningful.
Need something shorter? The Christmas Candy Cane Story and printable is a shorter gospel story reading.
Want some inspiration for art journaling? A list of scripture verses to help you get started.
Have you heard of a Jesse Tree? Anna Voskamp has a wonderful Christmas Advent Jesse Tree with mini-ornaments.
Following Handel’s Messiah, this Scripture writing challenge is a great way to listen to the classic.
These resources should get you ready for the Christmas season. Many blessings to you and your family.
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