According to advent, a Christian tradition of preparation, the 1st week of December is the week of hope.
I always thought advent was about those fun children’s calendars. Remember them? The cute posters with little doors and windows that open for every day of December, and often hold little surprises behinds them.
Apparently there’s much more to advent than candies behind closed doors.
Advent invites us to slow down and reflect.
What a contrast to what we’re used to: crowded shops, cars filled with gifts, pressed time for decorating, awkward family conversations…
Instead (or perhaps in addition) what if we consciously chose to slow down and remember what’s really important right now?
Advent also suggests weekly themes for December too.
This first one is hope.
What do you hope for right now?
How is hope showing up in your life?
Is hope trying to show you something today?
A fun activity I just recently came upon is the advent wreath. It contains specific candles, all with particular symbolism. Check it out.
Here is our invitation: spend a few minutes or the rest of the week reflecting on hope. Sound fun, yes?