Favorite Gospel-Centered Advent Ideas

Advent season is here! Why not keep the gospel the center of Christmas by talking about it a little each day? It’s never too late to start. We usually start a few days into the month of December and then play catch up. Here are three of my favorite gospel-centered advent activities. (I only pick one each year!)

1. The Jesus Storybook Bible has a great schedule of Old Testament readings for advent. Sally Lloyd-Jones shows how each story points to a coming Redeemer. This link shows you the scripture references so you can use these readings straight from the Bible if you don’t have this book. I made a set of ornaments to go with the stories and we hang one each night on our mini-tree.

2. Advent Readings for the Very Young uses a nativity set to illustrate passages specifically dealing with Christ’s birth. Kids love it! You can easily use a nativity set you already have. This list is especially helpful if you are including toddlers in your advent readings.  

3. Another option is studying the different Names of Jesus. Read a passage of scripture each day that focuses on a name for Christ. Every name will add a paper strip to your growing advent chain (this is a growing chain rather than a shrinking chain). This link includes an awesome free printable. 

I would love to grow this list! What are your favorite gospel-centered advent ideas?

Don’t forget the moms on your shopping list! Books by Sara Wallace:

For the Love of Discipline: When the Gospel Meets Tantrums and Time-Outs  “The culmination of 30 years of evangelical thinking about parenting. Clear guidelines, great illustrations, and very practical.” – Pastor Steve, Atlanta

The Gospel-Centered Mom  “By far the best parenting book I have ever read. Wallace writes as a relatable mom and offers helpful tips while always bringing everything back to the Gospel. This is a short, easy-to-read devotional, with life-changing nuggets in every chapter.” – Amazon reviewer