Temperatures and leaves are beginning to fall. Neighbors are setting out pumpkins and chrysanthemums on their front porches. Pretty soon it’ll be time to stock up on cider and hot cocoa. 

Much of how we respond to life is rooted in our annual habits, and there may be no time in American life when habit and tradition show up more clearly than during the holidays. We gather with family for turkey and football on Thanksgiving. We set up the tree, hang stockings and lights, and put on Martina McBride’s Christmas album (at least that’s the habit in our house). 

For Christians, the upcoming Christmas season also marks the beginning of Advent. It begins this year on Sunday, November 27. Throughout history, Christians have marked the days of Advent by remembering the Bible’s promises and prophecies about Christ’s first coming. 

Advent is a great season to practice habits of family discipleship. TGC’s editorial team has put together a 25-day devotional entitled The Weary World Rejoices. Each day provides a Bible reading, devotional reflection, questions for response, and a hymn. The book is one intentional way to allow the joy we have in Christ’s coming to shape your family this season. Pick it up and make discipleship a matter of habit this December.

Rejoicing in the Coming King,