Galatians 6:9-10

Grace and peace be with you right now friend! Advent is more than a countdown to Christmas. It’s a sacred rhythm—a pause that invites us to reflect on the wonder of God’s love breaking through the silence of history. As the world decks its halls and checks off shopping lists, we, as followers of Christ, have the privilege to refocus our hearts on the greatest gift ever given: Jesus.

But what if Advent is also about mirroring that gift? About embodying the generosity of God, not just with what we give, but how we live?

beyond the wrapping paper

When we think of generosity, it’s easy to picture neatly wrapped presents or Venmo transfers to charitable causes. While those are beautiful acts, true generosity starts in the heart. It’s about showing up with your time, sharing a listening ear, forgiving when it’s hard, and loving when it costs you something.

The beauty of Advent is that it reminds us of a God who gave extravagantly. He didn’t give us leftovers or a token gesture. He gave His Son. His best. His all. And that’s the kind of generosity He calls us to reflect.

small acts, eternal impact

You don’t need to fund a mission trip or write a hefty check to practice Advent generosity. Sometimes, the smallest acts ripple the farthest:

A kind word to the barista who’s overwhelmed by holiday crowds.
An extra plate for a neighbor who might otherwise eat alone.
A handwritten note reminding someone they’re seen and loved.
A prayer whispered for someone whose name you’ll never know.

It’s these seemingly insignificant moments that echo the heart of Jesus—intimate, intentional, and sacrificial.

the gift we’re really waiting for

Advent teaches us to wait—not in anxiety or impatience, but in hope. Just as the people of Israel longed for a Messiah, we await His return. This waiting doesn’t mean standing idle; it means participating in the kind of world Jesus came to redeem.

When we give generously, we live out the truth of the Gospel: that love came down, dwelt among us, and changed everything. Our generosity becomes a reflection of the greatest gift, pointing others to the hope we have in Him.

generosity in action

This Advent season, what would it look like for you to live generously? Maybe it’s offering grace in a tense family dynamic or volunteering at a local shelter. Perhaps it’s as simple as letting someone else have the parking spot closest to the mall entrance.

Let’s remember: generosity isn’t about perfection; it’s about the posture of our hearts.

advent prayer

Father, as we prepare our hearts for Christmas, teach us to reflect Your generous love. Help us to give freely, live humbly, and love deeply, just as You have loved us. May our lives point others to the greatest gift of all—Your Son, Jesus. Amen.

This Advent, let’s choose to wait well. Not with rushed hearts or empty hands, but with hearts full of gratitude and lives poured out for His glory. After all, generosity isn’t just what we do; it’s who we are in Him. Amen!

in harmony,

nancy

Pulse Check:

Create a “Reverse Advent Calendar” - Instead of receiving something daily, give something every day of Advent. It could be donating an item to a food bank, writing a heartfelt note, or sending a surprise Venmo blessing to someone in need. By Christmas, reflect on how this practice reshaped your view of giving and gratitude.

await