Advent Week 2: Reclaiming Simplicity and Formation
Desired Takeaway
To recognize the formative power of our Christmas traditions and choose a simpler, more Christ-centered way of celebrating that draws us into deeper attention, worship, and formation in the way of Jesus.
Icebreaker
What’s one Christmas tradition from your childhood that brings back strong memories—good or bad?
Lean In (Get everyone talking)
Look Down (Explore the Scriptures)
Philippians 2:6–8 "Though he was in the form of God, he did not consider being equal with God something to exploit. But he emptied himself by taking the form of a slave and by becoming like human beings. When he found himself in the form of a human, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."
Matthew 1:21 "…he will save his people from their sins."
Look Out (Consider the world around us)
Live It Out (Imagine the impact)
Optional Exercises for the Week
Prayer Prompt
Jesus, you came not in glory but in humility. Not with spectacle, but with simplicity. This Advent, help us slow down. Help us clear space in our hearts and homes for you. May our traditions point to your love, our attention return to your presence, and our lives reflect your generosity and grace. Form us again in your image, even as we wait and watch for your coming. Amen.
Suggested Resources for Further Study
To recognize the formative power of our Christmas traditions and choose a simpler, more Christ-centered way of celebrating that draws us into deeper attention, worship, and formation in the way of Jesus.
Icebreaker
What’s one Christmas tradition from your childhood that brings back strong memories—good or bad?
Lean In (Get everyone talking)
- During the holiday season, do you find it easier or harder to stay spiritually centered? Why do you think that is?
Look Down (Explore the Scriptures)
Philippians 2:6–8 "Though he was in the form of God, he did not consider being equal with God something to exploit. But he emptied himself by taking the form of a slave and by becoming like human beings. When he found himself in the form of a human, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."
Matthew 1:21 "…he will save his people from their sins."
- What stands out to you in these passages about the character and mission of Jesus?
- How do these verses challenge the way our culture typically presents or celebrates Christmas?
Look Out (Consider the world around us)
- How do you see cultural traditions shaping people’s expectations or experiences of Christmas?
- Can you think of examples where Christmas traditions have been deeply meaningful—or where they’ve become more about nostalgia or performance?
- What Christmas traditions or habits truly help you encounter Jesus more deeply?
- Are there any you feel may be distracting or even distorting your focus?
- What might it look like for you to give more of your attention to Jesus this season?
Live It Out (Imagine the impact)
- What would your family or community look like if your Christmas was shaped more by humility, generosity, and wonder?
- How might our witness to the world change if we reclaimed the simplicity and sacredness of Advent?
Optional Exercises for the Week
- Simplicity Audit : Make a list of your Christmas activities and traditions. Next to each one, note: “Draws me toward Jesus” or “Distracts me from Jesus.” Reflect on what to keep, remove, or reframe.
- Create a Simple Worship Moment: One night this week, light a candle, read the Christmas story (Luke 2:1–20 or Matthew 1:18–25), and sing or listen to a carol. Invite God into that quiet space.
- Generosity Shift: As a family, choose one gift to skip and instead give through a Compassion or similar giving catalog. Talk together about the joy of giving.
Prayer Prompt
Jesus, you came not in glory but in humility. Not with spectacle, but with simplicity. This Advent, help us slow down. Help us clear space in our hearts and homes for you. May our traditions point to your love, our attention return to your presence, and our lives reflect your generosity and grace. Form us again in your image, even as we wait and watch for your coming. Amen.
Suggested Resources for Further Study
- The Spirit of the Disciplines by Dallas Willard
- The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
- Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster
- Bible Reading Plan: “Advent: The Journey to Christmas” on YouVersion