Advent Practices That Form Anti-Racist Hearts

Advent invites us to slow down, look inward, and make room for a God who transforms from the inside out. This waiting is not passive—it’s training for the courageous love needed to confront racism in our communities and in ourselves. Here are simple practices to fold into your Advent rhythm, each a small spark for lasting change.

Light candles with intention: Let each candle carry a justice focus.
• Hope: Pray for communities long denied opportunity.
• Peace: Remember those harmed by racial violence.
• Joy: Honor cultural traditions and leaders who kindle joy through resistance.
• Love: Choose one concrete act of solidarity for the week.

Choose daily acts of repair: Let small decisions become a pattern of healing.
• Redirect some holiday giving to Black- or Indigenous-led nonprofits.
• Support local artists and entrepreneurs of color.
• Offer childcare, rides, or meals to someone carrying an extra load.

Learn from theologians, writers, and activists of color: Let their wisdom guide your days.
• Read a few minutes from Howard Thurman’s Meditations of the Heart.
• Listen to a podcast featuring Christian leaders of color—Holly Stanton, Esau McCaulley, or Cole Arthur Riley.
• Use an Advent devotional written by BIPOC authors.

Practice generosity that targets inequity: Let your giving reflect the world you hope for.
• Support mutual aid networks addressing housing or food insecurity.
• Buy gift cards from minority-owned businesses and share them quietly with families who could use them.
• Volunteer with groups accompanying immigrants or returning citizens.

Slow down enough to listen: Make space for the kind of attention that reshapes the heart.
• Notice each day where bias or defensiveness arises.
• Ask someone of a different background, “How can I show up better?”—and simply listen.
• Attend a gathering where you’re not in the majority and reflect on what you learn.

None of these practices alone can repair broken systems, but together they form habits of humility, courage, and compassion. As we prepare room for Christ, we also prepare room for a world where every person’s dignity shines without shadow.

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