Ponder This: How can I prepare my heart to truly celebrate the coming of Christ, my Savior?
Scripture To Consider: When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. -Luke 2:17-19
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Mary Ann's Response: Honestly, my very first thought would be watching a faith-based Hallmark-style movie or listening to some Christmas music. These things definitely fill me with the Christmas spirit, but when it comes to truly preparing my heart, I’m reminded of Isaiah 9:6 - “For unto a child is born.” This scripture speaks of the promised Savior and the hope God’s people waited for.
Preparing for the coming of Christ, our Savior, is the center of the Advent season. Advent helps guide my heart and invites me to pause, reflect, and prepare for Him and the hope He promises.
I love lighting the candles on my Advent wreath each Sunday. This week, we lit the first candle symbolizing Hope, as we remember with the anticipation of Christ's coming and the hope he brings to a world in darkness. The second candle symbolizes Peace, reminding us of the peace Jesus brings to our world and hearts. On the third Sunday of Advent, we light the pink candle for Joy, symbolizing the joyful anticipation as Christmas draws near. Love is the fourth candle lit on the final Sunday before Christmas. It symbolizes God's great love in sending his Son. Jesus reminds us of John 3:16, which encourages us to show love and kindness to others.
This time of year is often rushed, and I would like to be more like Mary, who treasures all that God was doing, pondering and staying focused on the true meaning of Jesus’ birth.
Mary said yes to the angel, ultimately a yes to God. This season, I want to prepare my heart by truly listening to God. What is he asking of me? Am I quick to say His request is too hard, or maybe later, not now? My hope is that I will take the time to practice patience and respond with the same open heart that He continually shows towards me. In doing so, I prepare my heart by choosing hope, receiving peace, embracing His joy, and living out His love.
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Karen's Response: Our Father knows his children so very well. When reflecting on this question, I felt God say, "Karen, you are a busy girl, and it is all good stuff, but I have carved out the time of Advent for you, and you need these next 25 days to really prepare your heart to receive your Savior. Jesus is coming. He left the glorious throne of heaven to come and take up residence in your heart. How is your spiritual room going to look when he arrives?"
So to prepare my heart, 'my spiritual room', for the arrival of Jesus, I will clear out the clutter of the world (such as excessive media, busyness, or worries) and focus on the true meaning of the season. (as best I can).
Here is my list of activities I will use, which can be adapted to your own spiritual journey through Advent.
- Begin the day with a simple prayer such as, "Lord, prepare my heart," or "Make room in my heart for Your presence."
- Listen to Christmas worship music
- Light an Advent candle during my quiet time.
- Read an Advent Scripture each day.
- Reflect on the Nativity Story - spend time imagining how each person felt, and let their posture shape my posture.
- Journaling - write down what God shares with me through these practices to help me feel more connected and grateful for His guidance during this season.
