Saintly Scribbles

When my children were little, just four and six, we had a simple tradition during Advent. Each evening at dinner, we would light the candles on our wreath and sing the Advent song together. I’ll admit, I’ve never been able to carry a tune, and for years I avoided singing in public. But something about those quiet evenings, with the glow of the candles and the anticipation of Christmas, made me want to join in. My voice may have wavered, but my heart was full.

What struck me most was watching my children sing with such joy. Their voices were clear and bright, unselfconscious and full of faith. They didn’t care if the notes were perfect; they cared about the meaning. In those moments, I saw what Jesus meant when He said, “Let the little children come to me.” Their song was a prayer. It was worship. And it was contagious. I found myself singing louder, not because I sounded better, but because I wanted to match their enthusiasm for the Lord.

Grandma Pat was there too, and she made it a big deal. She would clap her hands and cheer them on, telling them how beautiful their voices sounded. She treated those little songs like a concert for heaven, and her excitement made the tradition even more special. The kids loved having her there, and her joy reminded all of us that faith is something to celebrate. Those dinners became sacred time: not just for waiting, but for rejoicing together as a family.

Even now, years later, I can still hear my children’s little voices and Grandma Pat’s laughter in my memory. Advent will always remind me that holiness often begins in the ordinary: around a dinner table, with a flicker of candlelight, a grandmother’s encouragement, and a song sung from the heart.

Even now, years later, we still light the candles on the Advent wreath and sing the same song. Brogan’s voice is much deeper now, rich and steady, and Kathleen’s is a melody of beauty that fills the room. Our family has grown and changed, but the tradition remains: a reminder that Christ comes to us in every season, and that worship sung from the heart never grows old.

A Simple Advent Song

(to sing as you light the candles)

Verse 1 – Hope
Light the Advent candle one,
Now the waiting has begun.
Prophets told that Christ will come,
Hope will shine for everyone.

Verse 2 – Faith
Light the Advent candle two,
Faith will guide us, strong and true.
Mary, Joseph on their way,
Trust in God both night and day.

Verse 3 – Joy
Light the Advent candle three,
Joy is bright for all to see.
Shepherds heard the angels sing,
Joyful news of Christ our King.

Verse 4 – Peace
Light the Advent candle four,
Peace will open every door.
Angels call from heaven’s height,
Glory shines this holy night.

Optional Chorus (after each verse):
Come, Lord Jesus, hear our prayer,
Fill our hearts with love to share.