Simple Journey Ministries Presents

I Can’t Live Simply Until…

Simple Advent Activities

Many of us strive year after year for a simpler Christmas season. We tell ourselves for months prior that we are going to scale back or simplify in numerous ways. You have been thinking this recently, haven’t you? Personally, we have a very simple Christmas season in most ways, but there are always a few things I need to hone to simplify and focus on Christ more. But then I get so wrapped up with my schedule leading up to the season that I don’t have time to simplify those areas that truly need it. Before you know it, the day comes when I walk around all day spinning in a dither with my To Do list and my hair looking like I used a food processor for styling! Have you had a few of those days, too? Now add to that kids who are clamoring for something to do and you have chaos at the helm! One way to combat this and placing Christ at the center of your celebrations is to have advent activities.

One favorite activity is to make an advent wreath. This includes lighting a candle each day, adding a lighted candle each week as you countdown to Christmas! Couple this with some great times of scripture and discussion and you have a wonderful evening activity that can set your dinners apart from any other time of the year. Need directions for making an advent wreath? CLICK HERE

Make an advent calendar. You can keep this really simple by making a paper chain countdown calendar. On each strip write a scripture to read and an activity to go with it. Use this chain as a decoration in your home or for your Christmas tree. You can also make your own Advent calendar with the little doors that you open. You can either draw a simple little picture or use pictures from the internet with a scripture verse for each day. Cut each of these out and then construct a building with windows or doors out of cardstock and tape one scripture verse behind each.

Check out the wonderful options that are available online, such as Michelle Gefken’s Artful Advent. You can read more about this Christ focused simple activity by CLICKING HERE. Whatever you choose, keep the activities simple and Christ focused. You will be in awe of how much these activities can change your entire day! Enjoy your family and remember to have FUN in a meaningful way.

These are my thoughts.