This time of year, we carry so much anticipation. We look forward to Christmas parties, opening gifts, and spending time with the ones we love. As we look forward to the next event, meal, or present, it’s easy for us to lose touch with ourselves. We may even be unaware of some of the ways we mishandle the holiday hustle.

So let's take a moment and check in with ourselves. It may seem counterintuitive to look inward at a time of year that focuses outward by buying gifts for others and reflecting on Jesus’ coming. However, while we remember that Jesus came into the world, we can neglect to recall that God sent him into the world because of us, his little children. The great display of Jesus “empty[ing] himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:7), came from God’s great love for we hopeless sinners.

Don’t let the idea of you being a hopeless sinner lead you to despair and further disconnect you from the Advent season. Let it resonate with your need for a Savior. God knew you would still fall into sin and had mercy on you by sending his Son. Let joy and gratitude pour out with the knowledge that he prepared Jesus as our advocate and propitiation (atoning sacrfice) for our sins.

While we prepare ourselves for the physical celebrations, we must not neglect our spiritual preparation. John encourages us with ways to be mindful in order to help keep us from sinning. He reminds us that we avoid sinning through abiding in God and keeping his commandments. When we don’t do that perfectly, we can lean into the knowledge that Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection cover our sins and that he is advocating for us, even now. Glory to the newborn King.

Respond

In what ways are you overlooking your spiritual well-being and falling into sin? Take a moment to confess your sins, remember the gospel, and ask for forgiveness. Then, praise God that Jesus was born to be our advocate.

Engage with Kids

Ask the question, “If sin is the problem, how is Christmas part of the solution?” Talk about all the things that come up: What is sin? What is Christmas? Why did Jesus need to be born as a human? How are we saved from our sin? Guide kids to draw or write their answer to the original question.