As we enter the Advent season and prepare for Christmas, let us pause to reflect on the real meaning of the season—the birth of Christ! Amid the hustle and bustle, the celebrations, and the challenges, we are called to turn our hearts toward His love and light.
This year, I’ve been blessed to lead two Advent Missions for women, both focusing on how Jesus desires to set our hearts and homes on fire with His perfect love. Despite the darkness around us, we are reminded to rejoice in the light of Christ and to let His love shape our Advent and Christmas celebrations.
Here are my top tips for keeping Christ at the center of this holy season:
1. Follow the Church’s Guidance
Let the Church’s liturgical calendar guide you through Advent and Christmas. Embrace the beauty of penance, feasting, and celebration as distinct seasons. These rhythms help align our hearts with Christ.
2. Slow Down
Take time to sit by the glow of your Christmas tree, reflect on the gift of our Lord manger scene, and read Scripture. Moments of quiet adoration help us focus on Jesus, the reason for the season. I love to read the daily readings through the USCCB site! https://www.usccb.org/subscribe/daily-readings-email-subscription-form
3. Make Christmas Meaningful for Kids
Incorporate traditions that emphasize the true meaning of Christmas. Use a child-friendly Nativity set, read faith-filled children’s books, and create a spiritual atmosphere in your home.
4. Focus on Christ’s Love
Christmas is not about perfection but about love. Jesus came to show us perfect love so we can receive and share it. Tap into the “deep wells” of faith to truly love those around you.
5. Keep the Season Simple
You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect Christmas. Choose what matters most—spending time with loved ones and celebrating the joy of Christ’s birth.
6. Create Special Family Moments
Gather around the table for a meal without distractions. Before gift-giving, pray as a family and renew your consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, reminding everyone of Christ’s place in your home.
7. Encounter Christ in the Sacraments
Advent and Christmas are perfect times to strengthen your relationship with Jesus through Reconciliation and the Eucharist. Attend Mass as a family and make Christ the center of your celebrations.
8. Embrace Forgiveness
Give the gift of a forgiving heart this Christmas. Reconcile with family members if needed, and let Christ’s peace reign in your home.
9. Share the Love of the Sacred Heart
In my book *Secrets of the Sacred Heart: 12 Ways to Claim Jesus’ Promises in Your Life*, I explore how devotion to the Sacred Heart can transform our lives. This Advent, dive into this devotion to experience His promises of peace, joy, and grace.
10. Simplify Gift-Giving
Save money and focus on meaningful gifts:
– Shop sales year-round.
– Support local Catholic bookstores.
– Opt for a family gift exchange.
– Repurpose decorations.
– Focus on experiences over materialism.
Join Me in Advent Reflection
I’m hosting a daily Advent campaign at [WelcomeHisHeart.com](http://www.welcomehisheart.com), offering Scripture and encouragement to keep Christ at the center of your season. It’s free to sign up, and I’d love for you to join!
Sign up for the daily emails for AdventThis Advent, let’s prepare our hearts and homes to welcome the King. May the love of Christ shine brightly in our lives, attracting others to the faith and making this season truly the most wonderful time of the year.
How are you preparing for Christmas? Share your ideas or ask me about saving money with seven kids—I’ve got a few thrifty tips!
