Advent Ideas: Devotionals & Bible Reading Plans

In continuation of the theme of Advent preparation, I have gathered some daily devotional or bible reading plans that do not have crafts or activities attached to them. I have included books and plans for children, families and just adults.

In searching for these devotionals, I came upon an article that reminded me that recognizing the season of Advent forces us to step back from the busyness of daily life and the craze of materialism and consumerism that surrounds us. It is a time to stop and prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus with joyful anticipation. I pray that you are able to take some time this Advent season to prepare your heart for the celebration of the arrival of the Son of God, Jesus Christ.

The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones is a great resource for children in Preschool and Elementary School. The way the book is written “every story whispers” the name of Jesus so naturally the stories lead up to the birth of Jesus. Various bloggers have posted the list of Advent readings from The Jesus Storybook Bible and I was able to find this printable version created by Ariel Booker.

I also found this fun Bible reading plan from Crafting the Word of God that you can cut apart and tape back together for each day of Advent. There are 25 days of readings, with the birth of Jesus occurring on Day 19 so you can use it after Christmas too. It only has one or two verses listed each day, which would be better for younger children. I will distribute copies at church or you can print a copy here.

For families with children who are a little bit older, I recommend Behold the Lamb of God by Russ Ramsey. This book is a narrative that tells the story of the coming of Christ broken into 25 days. Jonathan Rogers, author of The Charlatan’s Boy says, “Ramsey brings to life the story that brings us to life.”

Written for families, West End Presbyterian Church offers the 2017 Advent Project – A Manger Scene. You can subscribe to receive the blog daily, which will offer a small ornament to decorate or color and the daily passage to read and discuss with your family. I know I said there were no crafts....but if you choose to use the ornaments, you can either hang the ornaments on your own tree or you can print The Manger Scene before Advent begins to affix the ornaments to.


For adults, the Center for Christianity, Culture and the Arts at Biola University has an Advent blog that begins on December 3rd and lasts through January 6th. The Advent Project offers scripture, devotionals, art, video and music. Click the link to subscribe to receive the daily entry.