Prepare Him Room: An Advent Reflection

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“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” – Luke 2:11 (NIV)

I don’t know about you, but I’ve often struggled with the concept of Advent. Why? I love everything about Christmas—from Jesus’ birth to the twinkling lights and holiday celebrations. But one thing I don’t like about the holiday is how quickly it seems to pass. It seems like no matter what I do, I can never get ahead and end up falling behind instead. A time meant for deep rest, reflection, and admiration, quickly turns into one of stress, chaos, and madness.

Advent is a season of waiting with expectation. It invites us to slow down, soak in the scene, and reflect on Christ’s coming—past, present, and future. It’s a time of invitation for our hearts and souls to pause and focus on what matters most, and perhaps that’s why I struggle. Because it requires me to turn down my speed long enough that I make room to savor the moment.

Immediately after receiving word that she would be impregnated with Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit, Mary said these words: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” (Luke 1:46-55, NIV)

Luke 2:19 records that Mary pondered all these mysteries in her heart. She made space to focus on the birth of one who would forever change her world. Let’s be clear: Accepting this call would be no easy task. She would be judged and marginalized by many around her. And yet, Mary chose to trust God’s promise. She exhaled anxiety of the unknown and inhaled the powerful prophecy to come. Today, we’re encouraged to do the same.

Every day, we have a choice to match the hustle and bustle of the season, or intentionally choose to slow down and savor the sacred moments. It might seem countercultural, and it often is, but it’s a gift that I believe can help us truly see what the Advent season is supposed to be about.

Question for Reflection:

Do you struggle to celebrate Advent? Do you get so lost in the hustle and bustle of the season that you forget to focus on what really matters: the birth of Jesus and his humble entrance into the world? If so, you’re not alone. I’m right there with you, and so are many others. But it’s okay. If you’re able to acknowledge this struggle, that means that you can confess it to the Lord and ask for His help. This Advent, I invite you to make room for the one who matters most. It will take time. It will be a sacrifice. But it will be worth it.