The Advent season is upon us. A time of reflection, anticipation of what is to come, renewed hope, revived faith and commemorative celebration of the arrival of Jesus Christ into the earthly world as we know it. This devotional is designed to help you live out the Advent season with gratitude, joy and optimism.

Advent is defined as a coming into place or being; arrival. 2019 has been a year of stringent activity, changes and fulfillment. Reflecting over the last eleven months,consider how the year has prepared you for this Advent season. Try this journal exercise over the next week to find out.

1. Make a list of the top five events that occurred in your life this year.

2. For each event, reflect on where you were during each event physically, spiritually and psychologically.

3. For each event answer these three questions. How did you show up in this event? How did this event change you? Where are you now physically, spiritually and psychologically as a result of this event?

4. Now that you have assessed how you got here, what are you most thankful for as the year comes to a close?

5. What excited you about this Advent season? What does it mean to you? How has the blessings of this year prepared you for the blessings starting to show on the dawn of a new decade?

To fully appreciate the Advent season, reflection is critical. Celebration of Christ's arrival prompts us to be mindful of the grace that carried us this far. Tune in next week for part two of our Advent Devotional series.