Dear Friend,

I’m so excited to introduce a new Advent resource for you just in time for the Christmas season: “Prepare the Way of the Lord”! 

This Christmas, what if you and I encountered Jesus? 

Christmas is on its way, and you and I have a sweet opportunity to know Jesus better this season. 

(Yes, I know it’s not even Thanksgiving yet, but bear with me!) 

Do you associate December more with busyness than with peace? Ironically, the season when we celebrate Christ’s birth is often so overpacked that we spend less time communing with Christ at Christmas than we do the rest of the year. But it doesn’t have to be this way. We don’t have to succumb to the world’s rival rhythms. 

Welcome to Advent. 

For centuries, Christians have prepared their hearts for Christmas by observing Advent. This period leading up to Christmas day is a time to reflect on Jesus’ incarnation, look forward to His second coming, and prepare our hearts to celebrate the Savior with greater joy, thankfulness, and devotion.  

There are endless options on the internet for celebrating Advent. It can be overwhelming. To help you observe Advent in a meaningful and doable way, I’ve put together a curated collection of Advent recommendations. These are designed to help you prepare your heart for the Lord this season. “Prepare the Way of the Lord – Advent 2023” includes recommendations for Advent reading, music, art, learning, books and activities for kids, and more. Whether you’re new to Advent or have observed it for years, these lists are designed to cut through the fluff and excess and help you tune your heart to Jesus. 

I hope you’ll join me in choosing intentionality and waiting with hope for our Savior this Christmas. 

Advent starts on Sunday, December 3, 2023. You can access your free copy of “Prepare the Way of the Lord” by clicking below. 

Waiting with joy,  

Sarah Stonestreet 

P.S. Pop over to our Strong Women Podcast Community on Facebook to talk all things Advent and find encouragement from others who are pursuing Jesus.