Today we’re embarking on a journey together to prepare for Advent!

Let’s focus on preparing physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Physically

Physically – Do you have an advent wreath and candles or some other way you celebrate? Maybe a journal and Bible? A Devotional for the kiddos?

Mentally

Mentally – Take a few minutes sometime today and think about Advent Seasons you have really enjoyed. Think of some ways you can build some new memories this year.

Emotionally

Emotionally – It’s okay to grieve the fact that this year is different. It sometimes seems we have entered and alternate universe. Life is still happening. We can enjoy aspects of it despite the circumstances.

Spiritually

Rejoice and pray.

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, take pleasure in Him]; again I will say, rejoice! ⁵ Let your gentle spirit [your graciousness, unselfishness, mercy, tolerance, and patience] be known to all people. The Lord is near. ⁶ Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. ⁷ And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours].

Phil. 4: 4-8

I know this is a long set of verses, but take the time to read them more than once! Rejoice. The Lord is near. He hears your prayers. He will guard your hearts and your minds.