Advent derives from the Latin adventus meaning ‘arrival’ or ‘approach’. This is why Advent is a time when we wait, prepare, and look forward to celebrating the coming of Christ at Christmas. Spiritually, we long for the coming of Christ into our hearts as the Holy Spirit draws us into ever deepening relationship with Him; we also long for Christ in his Second Coming, when He will return physically to earth—as He promised—to restore all things to Himself.
Using an Advent calendar can help focus our attention on important aspects of Advent and also to count down the days until Christmas. An Advent calendar is a wonderful way to involve children in Advent traditions and to help them prepare for the coming of Baby Jesus.