Today, we hear a personal reflection from one of our missionaries, sharing how Advent can become an intentional invitation rather than just a season. 

Through a simple moment of decorating, baking, and storytelling, she reminds us how ordinary hospitality can open space for sacred conversations and quiet encounters with the story of Jesus.

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This last week my friend came to the house to help decorate for Christmas. This friend would never step foot into a Christmas service or any other church service for that matter, but who would refuse a hot chocolate and helping to hang shiny pretty things all over a tree? And honestly, I needed the help. With four children, attention spans run down the hall with tinsel and disappear after five minutes of ‘helping.’

So we baked cookies and decorated them, and we put out the manger set.

“What is this?” she asked.

Knowing this might be misinterpreted, I explained that this is one way we tell the story of Jesus’ birth to our children.

“What is the story?” she asked.

In my spirit I said, “thank you Jesus”, and began to tell her about the star, the humble birthplace, the gifts, the simple people chosen to parent and protect, the magnificent angels announcing the news to shepherds, and the unexpected visitors who came bearing gifts. All the while I watched her closely. 

Was she interested? 

Should I stop or continue? 

She was interested.

Later in the evening we took selfies and I gave her a small gift.

“It’s not my holiday and you give me a gift?” she said, clearly confused.

Yes, I explained, it is our tradition. We give gifts at Christmas to tell the people we love how thankful we are for them. 

But we also do this to remember our belief that Jesus was the only baby ever given to all mankind. Not just to Christians. Not to one people group. Not to one nation. But to all people everywhere. So ‘Merry Christmas’. 

Christmas is such a special time for those of us who worship the Lord Jesus. But for many, it is also simply a beautiful season all around the world, one that draws people in to sample the Spirit. They love the trees, the lights, the silver and gold, the activities, the food, the good feeling of it all.

So why not lean into that? 

Why not use this moment to invite our friends in? Share the joy. Share the beauty. 

The whole of Scripture, both Old and New Testaments, is one long invitation. Come and see.

 

So make room this Advent. Add intentionality for friends near and far from the Lord to encounter the real Spirit. He uses your voice and your attentiveness. 

Watch for the openings.

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For more ideas of ways to ‘add intentionality to your advent’, check the images below.