Advent on my Mind

Amanda Lawrence shares a few tips to get you in the mood for Advent. What can you do now to get ready for this season of anticipation?

The liturgical season of Advent is fast approaching! As we look toward this season of waiting, penance, and preparation, we fervently anticipate the Nativity of the Lord. The glorious birth of Jesus aside, Advent also ushers in the first season of the 2024 liturgical year (when Mass shifts to cycle B and focuses on the Gospel of Mark).

And while it may seem super early to start thinking about all this, I’m a big believer in planning ahead to maximize seasonal joy! So, to help make life a little less overwhelming, let’s talk prep time.

Step one: Prayer!

First and foremost, pray. Ask God to guide you closer to Him during this liturgical season. The more we desire Christ in Advent, the closer we get to the real meaning of Christmas. Before anything else, invite God to help prepare your heart for His coming. In return, He’ll assist you in having a peaceful and holy Advent.

Step two: Assemble your supply list.

The Advent wreath is a centuries-old Christian tradition symbolizing God’s infinite love for us. Its circular shape reminds us that His friendship is endless and evergreen, like the leaves comprising it.

Some folks celebrate with a faux wreath, while others prefer traditional pine garland.

Some purchase inexpensive wreaths. Others find it more fun to make their own! Pick the option that best helps your family prepare for Jesus, the Light of the World.

Then select your candles!

Whether you opt for wax or LED candles, you’ll need four. The four candles on your Advent wreath represent the four Sundays of Advent—they symbolize hope, peace, joy, and love. Candles sell fast during Christmastime, so picking up a pack in advance isn’t a bad idea. Thinking ahead now ensures we have the right supplies when needed later.

First Sunday, 12/3/2023, Hope: Prophecy Candle (purple)
Second Sunday, 12/10/2023, Peace: Bethlehem Candle (purple) 
Third Sunday, 12/17/2023, Joy: Shepherd’s Candle (rosy pink)
Fourth Sunday, 12/24/2023, Love: Angel’s Candle (purple)

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops also suggests reading Scripture from the Book of Isaiah and praying a blessing over your wreath the night before or on the first Sunday of Advent.

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Step three: Plan a family trip to the confessional.

Advent is a time of preparation, and confession is one of the best ways to prepare!

What better way to approach Christmas than with a clean heart?

God is omniscient. He knows when we’ve fallen into sin. There’s no need to be embarrassed. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is His gift to us. It’s where He helps us overcome irreverence and accept the grace of forgiveness.

Whether confessing for the first time or the millionth, acknowledging our transgressions isn’t easy. Examine your conscience, make a few notes, and remember, we all fall short sometimes. After all, if we don’t repent and recognize that we’re sinners in desperate need of a Savior, what are we even longing for during Advent? 

Click to tweet:
This November, just a bit of prep work allows us to get our hearts in the right place and kick off the season with great joy and longing for our Lord. #CatholicMom

Advent is one of my favorite seasons. It’s a time for prayer, reflection, and profound grace. It’s about preparing to celebrate Christ and doesn’t require intense decorations or spending a ton of money.

This November, just a bit of prep work allows us to get our hearts in the right place and kick off the season with great joy and longing for our Lord. Have a blessed Thanksgiving, future saints! I’m praying for you! 

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