top of page

Setting an Intention: Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas

Writer's picture: Stephen DilworthStephen Dilworth

As we step into Advent, we’re invited into a season of preparation—a time to ready our hearts and lives for the celebration of Christ’s birth. Advent is more than a waiting period; it’s a spiritual journey that draws us deeper into the mystery of Emmanuel: God with us. This season calls us to intentionality, a sacred attentiveness to the ways Christ is already present and the fullness that is yet to come.


A United Methodist Church discipleship resource captures this beautifully:


"Advent is not something we endure; it is something we become, something that we are. We are people who live in anticipation, who live in hope. It is the essence of our being. So, on this First Sunday of Advent, we are heeding the call to pay attention. Our life is a life of fullness and joy, but it is also a preparation for even more fullness. In our Wesleyan tradition, we call that fullness sanctification, or even riskier, we say we are moving on to perfection."


One way to embrace this call is by setting an intention.



What is an Intention?


An intention is a purposeful alignment of our inner life. It’s a declaration of how we want to be, rather than a list of tasks to accomplish. Unlike goals, which focus on achieving specific outcomes, intentions ground us in the present moment and invite us to live with a sense of direction and purpose.


In the context of Advent, setting an intention allows us to center our hearts on the spiritual significance of the season. It helps us resist the pull of distractions and embrace the transformative work of Christ within us.


Scripture offers wisdom that can guide us in this practice:


Psalm 51:10 – “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” This verse invites us to focus on inner renewal, aligning our hearts with God’s purposes.


Philippians 4:8 – “Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Paul’s words encourage us to set our minds intentionally on virtues that reflect God’s character.


Matthew 6:21 – “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This reminds us to be intentional about what we value and prioritize during this season.


Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” This verse points to the peace that comes from a steadfast, intentional focus on God.


How to Set an Intention


To set an intention, begin by creating space for reflection.

Find a quiet moment and ask yourself:


What do I most long for in this Advent season?

How might God be inviting me to grow, to rest, or to trust?

In what ways can I embody the hope, peace, joy, and love of Christ?

Once you’ve reflected, name your intention in a simple phrase. Your intention might be:


“I will seek peace in my daily interactions.”

“I will practice gratitude and notice God’s blessings.”

“I will create space for quiet and reflection.”

“I will trust God’s presence in the unknown.”

Write your intention down or hold it in your heart as a sacred guide throughout Advent. Revisit it regularly, allowing it to shape your thoughts, prayers, and actions.


For those who feel particularly brave, consider sharing your intention with someone close to you—a trusted friend, family member, or spiritual companion. Invite them to help you hold your intention with gentleness and encouragement. Sometimes, the simple act of sharing can deepen our commitment and remind us that we do not walk this journey alone. They might offer a kind word or check in with you, providing a supportive presence as you navigate the season.


An Invitation


As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, I invite you to join me in setting an intention this Advent. What is stirring within your heart? Where do you sense God’s invitation in this holy season?


Advent reminds us that we are a people of anticipation and hope. Let us live into this truth with intention, preparing room for Christ to dwell more fully in our lives and our world. Together, may we embody the light of Christ and move toward the fullness of life that God desires for us.


17 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


ABOUT US

We are part of the United Methodist Church.

ADDRESS

(253) 588-2118

6900 Steilacoom Blvd SW, Lakewood, WA 98499

 

office@umclw.org

SUBSCRIBE FOR EMAILS

Thanks for submitting!

  • Facebook
  • Youtube

© 2035 by HARMONY. Powered and secured by Wix

Terms & conditions

Privacy policy

Accessibility statement

bottom of page