“Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.” Luke 10:23–24
I am blessed to have two young children, ages 8 and 10. Each year as Advent begins, I find myself in awe of how they experience the season. Yes, they are excited for gifts under the tree, but their joy goes far deeper. To them, everything during Advent seems touched with meaning—lights, music, family traditions, even the anticipation itself. They see the season with eyes of wonder.
Earlier in the reading for today, Jesus reminds us that God reveals truth to the “childlike.” Watching my children, I understand this more fully. Their openness, trust, and joy allow them to glimpse the heart of Advent: love. Love of friends and family, and above all, the immeasurable love of God, who gives us His only Son on Christmas Day.
As adults, we can become distracted or burdened, missing what is right before us. However, Jesus invites us to see as children do—to let ourselves be surprised, to approach the manger with awe, and to recognize God’s love woven through the season.
This Advent, may we reclaim a bit of that childlike spirit. If we slow down, open our hearts, and see with wonder, perhaps we too will recognize what others have longed for: the beauty of God made visible in our midst.
Lord, open our eyes and hearts to see this Advent season with the wonder of a child. Help us to recognize Your love in the simple joys around us and to welcome Your Son with awe and gratitude on Christmas Day.
Jason Ader
Thank you Jason for sharing your two children’s joy with us.