Advent: When Heaven Comes Home to Us

Yesterday was the first Sunday of Advent — the doorway into the most beautiful story ever told. And while the world around us seems to sprint toward December 25th, Advent gently invites us to slow down — to breathe — to look up — and to remember the holy journey to Bethlehem that changed everything.

And, at Epiphany Ranch — the fireplace glowing, the whole crew gathered like birds returning home for the season.

Payton scooped his sweetheart up from the airport. Alexia and Winston brought wedding photos that made us “oooh” and “aaah” like we were seeing them walk the aisle all over again. Carl and I settled into the joy of being surrounded by children, grands, and in-loves — everyone right where they belonged.

And wouldn’t you know — our own little family pilgrimage this weekend mirrored that ancient story in the sweetest, most unexpected ways.

Isn’t that what Advent is really about?
Family. Journey. Expectation. Love.

Mary and Joseph made their way to Bethlehem carrying more than supplies — they carried a Promise. And though their path was anything but easy, God met them in a stable, wrapped heaven in swaddling cloths, and placed Hope right in their arms.

And here we are, thousands of years later, still gathering, still traveling, still preparing room in our homes and in our hearts for the same Jesus who changed the world from a manger.

In the early morning with Staci — in our recliners, watching the sunrise, Aggie the cat settled into the peace in the room — felt like my own personal Advent chapel.

The hush. The warmth. The holy nearness of God whispering, “I’m here. I always come to those who make room for Me.”

And then by evening, heaven showed up in family laughter, shared meals, and Christmas photos in creams and browns that made us look like a cozy Hallmark cast.

This is Advent:
Heaven touching earth.
Holy weaving into ordinary.
Family wrapped in love.
Jesus drawing near.

So as we step into this beautiful season, let’s remember:
Advent isn’t just waiting for Christmas morning.

It’s celebrating that He still comes — to living rooms, ranch houses, jammie photo shoots, airport reunions, and quiet sunrise prayers.
The greatest love story ever told didn’t stay in Bethlehem.
It keeps unfolding — right here in our family, and in yours.

#AdventHope #heavenonearth #RoomforJesus