December 1st marked the beginning of the Advent season. Celebrated the four Sundays prior to Christmas, that first Sunday is the beginning of the Christian Year. Similar to Lent, it is a time of preparation for the coming of the Christ Child on Christmas Day. Therefore, those who celebrate Advent often observe it with special prayers, devotions, or service to others. The Advent wreath used in many churches reminds us of our spiritual preparation for Christ. Watch this video from Chuck Knows Church to learn more about the wreath:

At my house, we have an Advent Wreath. I use special Advent prayers and Scriptures for my personal prayer time. Along with many others, I will be helping at Gift of Hope, which provides everything for a special Christmas meal and toys for children to those who cannot provide these for themselves. And, on Christmas Day, the people of The Well will be serving Christmas dinner at our sponsoring church, First United Methodist of Brandon. Let me know how you are observing Advent this year.