An Audacious Advent: Setting the TableSample

An Invitation to Prepare Differently

Advent is a season of preparation—a holy invitation to slow down and make room--not just in our schedules, but in our hearts.

In a world that celebrates noise, speed, and spectacle, Advent whispers a deeper call: Come and see. Come and wait. Come and prepare a place for Jesus. But this year, what if our preparation looked different? What if preparing for Christ meant preparing a place not just for Him, but for those He came to dwell among?

Scripture tells us, “There was no room for them in the inn” (Luke 2:7). The Savior of the world arrived not to applause, but to rejection—born on the margins, wrapped in humility, welcomed by the overlooked.
And yet, He came anyway.

Jesus’ arrival was the beginning of a new kind of hospitality. One that makes room, not only in temples or palaces, but in homes, communities, and everyday tables. John 1:14 reminds us that “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” Jesus moved in close—into our mess, our margins, and our lives. He chose proximity—and in doing so, He redefined belonging. And He calls us to do the same.

This is the heart of Advent: not just anticipating His coming, but allowing His presence to reshape the way we show up for others.

This Advent, what if our hearts reflected His?
Not clenched and closed off, but expanded.
Not exclusive and guarded, but open and willing to make space.

Advent Invitation:
Ask God to expand your view of Advent—from personal anticipation to shared preparation. Invite Him to shape your heart into a place of welcome—for Christ and for those He came to love.

Not sure where to begin? Start with this simple prayer:
Jesus, You made room for me. Help me make room for others—not just in my heart, but in real, meaningful ways. Open my eyes so I don’t overlook those You’re inviting me to include.

Written by: Torrie Sorge