In this Uncommon Purpose Advent kickoff, Mandy and Stephanie reframe December from “do it all” to intentional celebration. They unpack what Advent means (“coming”)—both the first coming of Jesus and His promised return—and why the season is a spiritual preparation that helps us practice presence in a hurry-prone month. You’ll hear honest reflections on waiting (trusting God’s timing), simple ways to build anticipation (lighting candles, short daily readings, breath prayers), and how to choose traditions that point to Christ rather than “more stuff.” The hosts outline a four-week mini-series on Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love, and invite listeners to use the extra time from these shorter episodes to actually practice Advent.

Scripture referenced / alluded to

• Revelation 22:20 — “Come, Lord Jesus.”
• Isaiah 9:2,6–7 — Light in the darkness; Prince of Peace (Advent prophecy)
• Matthew 1:18–25; Luke 1–2 — Nativity accounts (hope/obedience in waiting)
• John 8:12 — Jesus, Light of the World (fits the candle imagery)

Names of God mentioned

• Emmanuel — “God with us”
• Alpha and Omega — beginning and end
• Messiah — the Anointed One
• Light of the World

Practices & resources discussed

• Advent candles (weekly or daily lighting; colors optional—use what you have)
• Short daily devotion + breath prayer (presence over perfection)
• Traditions that build anticipation (versus “just more presents”)
• Jenny Keller — Love Comes Near (family-friendly Advent devotional)
• Optional: Advent spiral/wreath tools for daily counting (Mandy mentions a movable spiral; add a generic link to an Advent spiral product or note “pictured on socials”)

Helpful clarifications for your listeners

• Advent = “coming” (both first coming of Jesus and His return)
• 12 Days of Christmas run Dec 25–Jan 5, concluding with Epiphany (Jan 6)
• Many put magi in nativity sets, but historically their visit is associated with Epiphany (a fun “did you know?” you raise in the episode)

Practical prompts to add

• “Name what you’re waiting for this Advent. Write it on a card and place it beside your candle.”
• “Trade one December task for ten minutes of quiet with Scripture (YouVersion plan, one psalm, or Luke 1–2).”
• “Breathe: 4 in / 4 hold / 6 out while praying, ‘Come, Lord Jesus.’”

Cultural references worth noting

• Advent calendars (Lego/socks/chocolate) as means of anticipation—great if they point to Christ

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation advent-calendar gag (lighthearted nod)