A different kind of Advent calendar

Is there an Advent calendar in your house?

Perhaps if not in your house, then consider if you had one as a child, or think of children you know who might well have an Advent calendar. 

What happens when you open the door? Chances are, you receive something – a wee gift, chocolate, or the simple pleasure of a picture. 

This Advent, I want to encourage you with a different kind of Advent calendar.

Not one in which you receive something. But a different kind of Advent calendar that prompts you each day to give something away. 

This might be a way to slow down a little each day and be more present to this season of waiting and anticipation. It might also provide that perspective shift from head-down-crazy-busy to grounded awareness of the importance of this moment, now. 

If you have young people in your house, perhaps this could be something you do together. 

This week, what could you give away each day?

Make an ornament and give it to someone with a wee Christmas message.

If you are a baker, make some Christmas biscuits and give a box to a neighbour.

Give someone a gift of time – offer to babysit, or visit someone on their own, or cook a neighbour a meal. 

Donate some money to a charity of choice. 

Give something away to charity or a clothing bank that you no longer need. 

Do some of your Christmas shopping in small local shops or independent online retailers, rather than the big giants. 

Each day, put a food item in a box, and at the end of the week, take the box to your local FareShare or supermarket to donate to a food bank. 

Give yourself a gift of kind and grace-filled words today rather than beating yourself up for something you have not done. 

It is better to give than to receive.

This is a well known saying, and the fact that it was said by Jesus seems fitting at this time of year.

So this week, lets choose each day to give something away and bless people with a different kind of Advent calendar.