Advent Bible Reading Plan for Families: 25 Days

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One of the things I’ve always wanted for my boys is for them to grow up knowing the true meaning of Christmas. Not just knowing that Christmas is Jesus’ birthday, but really understanding who He is and why God sent Him into the world.

And I think one of the best ways we can teach our children those truths is by opening our Bibles and reading God’s Word together. That’s why I love the idea of having an Advent Bible reading plan for families. It gives us a simple way to spend a little time in Scripture each day leading up to Christmas.

This 25-day reading plan starts on December 1st and takes your family through God’s promises, the birth of Jesus, and some important moments from His life and ministry. I’ve also included a few questions and simple activity ideas to help you talk about what you’re reading with your kids.

You don’t need to be a Bible expert or have everything planned out ahead of time. Just grab your Bible, gather your children, and enjoy learning more about Jesus together.

And if you’re looking for other ways to keep Christ at the center of your Christmas traditions, you might also enjoy these Christian alternatives to Elf on the Shelf.

family of five in christmas pjs sitting in their living room

What Is Advent, and Why Do We Celebrate It?

Advent is a season of waiting and preparing our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Traditionally, Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. Many Christian families mark the season by lighting Advent candles, reading Scripture, praying, and spending time reflecting on the hope we have in Christ.

One thing I love about Advent is that it gives us a reason to slow down during one of the busiest times of the year. Instead of getting so caught up in everything we need to do before December 25th, we can spend a few minutes each day remembering God’s promises and the incredible gift of His Son.

You don’t have to follow every Advent tradition to make this time meaningful for your family. Reading the Bible and praying together is a wonderful place to start.

Who Can Use This Advent Bible Reading Plan?

I created this reading plan with families in mind, but it can work for just about anyone.

Families with young children: Read the passages together and explain them in words your little ones can understand.
Families with teenagers: Take turns reading and encourage your teens to share what stood out to them.
Homeschool families: Use the daily readings as part of your morning Bible time during December.
Sunday school or church groups: Follow the readings together and add a discussion or activity.
Individuals: Use the plan during your personal quiet time as you prepare your heart for Christmas.

You don’t have to do everything perfectly. The important part is making time for God’s Word.

How to Use This 25-Day Advent Bible Reading Plan With Kids

Before we get to the readings, I want to share a few simple ways you can make this a meaningful family tradition.

1. Choose a Time That Works for Your Family

You could read together in the morning, after dinner, or right before bedtime.

Maybe you gather around the Christmas tree in your pajamas with a cup of hot cocoa. Or maybe your family reads at the kitchen table before everyone heads off to their activities. It doesn’t have to look a certain way. Find a time that works for your family and do your best to stick with it.

2. Light an Advent Candle

If your family uses an Advent wreath, you can light the candles as part of your Bible reading time. Traditionally, the four Advent candles represent themes such as hope, peace, joy, and love.

In our home, we’ve enjoyed lighting a candle while we read together. It’s such a simple way to make the moment feel special.

Just remember to keep lit candles away from little hands and never leave them unattended. And if candles aren’t your thing, that’s perfectly fine too!

3. Read the Bible Passage Together

Each day includes a Scripture passage. Some readings are just a few verses, while others are a little longer.

If you have younger children, you might read the passage aloud and give them a short explanation afterward. For little ones who have a hard time sitting still, a children’s Bible like the Jesus Storybook Bible can also be helpful. Older children and teenagers can take turns reading the verses.

4. Ask One Simple Question

You don’t need to turn your family Bible time into a big lesson. After reading, try asking one question:

What did we learn about God or Jesus today?
What was your favorite part of the story?
How can we put what we learned into practice?

Sometimes the best conversations happen when we keep things simple.

5. End With Prayer

Take a minute to thank God for sending Jesus. You can also ask your children if there’s anything they’d like to pray about. Don’t worry about having the perfect words. A simple prayer from the heart is enough.

6. Add an Activity When You Have Time

I’ve included a few easy activities throughout the reading plan. But please don’t feel like you have to do a craft every single day!

Some days you might make something together, and other days you’ll just read and pray. Both are wonderful.

25-Day Advent Bible Reading Plan for Families

This Advent Bible reading plan begins with God’s promise of a Savior, follows the events surrounding Jesus’ birth, and then looks at important moments from His life and ministry.

I chose to include more than just the Christmas story because I want my children to understand who Jesus is and why His birth matters.

On Christmas Day, we’ll return to the story of His birth and celebrate the greatest gift God has given us. You can begin on December 1st and read one passage each day through December 25th.

Day 1: The Promise of a Savior

Read: Genesis 3:15

Today we begin with God’s promise of a Savior. Even after sin entered the world, God already had a plan to rescue His people. This is a wonderful opportunity to explain to your children that Jesus’ birth wasn’t an unexpected event. God had promised to send a Savior long before that first Christmas.

Talk about it: Why do we need a Savior?

Simple activity: Make a paper chain with your children. You can even turn one end into a little paper snake as a reminder of today’s reading.

Day 2: God’s Promise to Abraham

Read: Genesis 12:1–3

God made a promise to Abraham that all the families of the earth would be blessed through him. Many years later, Jesus would come through Abraham’s family line. I love reminding my kids that God always keeps His promises, even when we have to wait a long time to see them fulfilled.

Talk about it: Can you think of a promise God has made in the Bible?

Day 3: The Prophecy of a Messiah

Read: Isaiah 7:14

Today we read about the promise of Immanuel, which means “God with us.” This is a good time to explain what a prophecy is and how the Bible points us toward Jesus.

Talk about it: What does it mean to know that God is with us?

Day 4: The Angel Visits Mary

Read: Luke 1:26–38

Imagine how surprised Mary must have been when the angel Gabriel appeared to her! Mary didn’t know exactly how everything would happen, but she trusted God. Her response is such a beautiful example of faith and obedience.

Talk about it: Is it always easy to trust God when we don’t understand His plans?

Activity idea: Listen to a Scripture memory song based on Luke 1 or draw a picture of the angel visiting Mary.

Day 5: Mary Visits Elizabeth

Read: Luke 1:39–45

Today we read about Mary’s visit to Elizabeth. I love this part of the Christmas story because we see the joy these two women shared over what God was doing.

Talk about it: Who is someone you can encourage or share good news with this Christmas?

Day 6: Joseph’s Dream

Read: Matthew 1:18–25

Joseph had some big decisions to make. But when an angel appeared to him in a dream and explained God’s plan, Joseph listened and obeyed. His story reminds us that following God sometimes means trusting Him even when things don’t turn out the way we expected.

Talk about it: What can we learn from Joseph’s obedience?

Day 7: The Birth of Jesus

Read: Luke 2:1–7

Today we finally get to the birth of Jesus! Our Savior wasn’t born in a beautiful palace surrounded by riches. He was laid in a manger. What a beautiful reminder that God’s greatest gift came into the world in such a humble way.

Talk about it: Why is Jesus the greatest Christmas gift?

Activity idea: Set up a simple Nativity scene and let your children retell the story.

Day 8: The Angels and the Shepherds

Read: Luke 2:8–20

Can you imagine being one of those shepherds when the angels appeared? They were going about their ordinary work when they received the most wonderful news. The Savior had been born!

Talk about it: What did the shepherds do after hearing the good news?

Craft idea: Make paper plate angels or cotton-ball sheep.

Day 9: Simeon and Anna Meet Jesus

Read: Luke 2:21–38

Simeon and Anna had been waiting for God’s promise to be fulfilled. When they saw Jesus, they recognized how special He was. Their story reminds us that waiting on God is never wasted.

Talk about it: Is there something you’re praying about or waiting on God for?

Day 10: The Wise Men Visit Jesus

Read: Matthew 2:1–12

The wise men traveled a long way to find Jesus. When they found Him, they worshiped Him and presented their gifts. We can remind our children that Christmas isn’t just about receiving presents. It’s about worshiping Jesus.

Talk about it: What are some ways we can honor Jesus this Christmas?

Activity idea: Make a paper star or listen to a Bible song about the wise men.

toddler looking up at the Christmas tree

Day 11: The Flight to Egypt

Read: Matthew 2:13–15

Joseph was warned in a dream that his family needed to leave for Egypt. He obeyed and took Mary and Jesus to safety. This passage shows us how God guided Joseph as he cared for his family.

Talk about it: How can we ask God for wisdom when we have an important decision to make?

Day 12: The Return to Nazareth

Read: Matthew 2:19–23

After some time in Egypt, Joseph received another message telling him it was time to return. Once again, Joseph trusted God’s direction.

Talk about it: Why is it important to listen to God and obey His Word?

Day 13: Jesus as a Child

Read: Luke 2:41–52

Did you know the Bible tells us a story about Jesus when He was twelve years old? Today we read about Jesus visiting the temple and speaking with the teachers. I think kids especially enjoy this passage because it gives them a glimpse of Jesus as a child.

Talk about it: What does this story teach us about Jesus?

Day 14: John the Baptist Prepares the Way

Read: Mark 1:1–8

John the Baptist had an important job. He helped prepare people’s hearts for Jesus. We can use this reading to talk about preparing our own hearts during Advent.

Talk about it: How can we make more room for Jesus in our Christmas celebrations?

Day 15: The Baptism of Jesus

Read: Matthew 3:13–17

Today we read about Jesus being baptized by John in the Jordan River. It’s a beautiful moment in Scripture when the Holy Spirit descends and the Father’s voice is heard.

Talk about it: What do we learn about Jesus in these verses?

Day 16: Jesus Is Tempted in the Wilderness

Read: Matthew 4:1–11

Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, but He responded with God’s Word. This is a wonderful reminder of why it’s important for our families to read the Bible and learn what it says.

Talk about it: How can knowing Scripture help us make good choices?

Day 17: Jesus Calls His Disciples

Read: Mark 1:16–20

Jesus called ordinary fishermen to follow Him. And they did!

I love that Jesus didn’t choose people because they were rich or famous. He called ordinary people to be part of His work.

Talk about it: What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Day 18: Jesus Heals the Sick

Read: Matthew 8:1–17

Today’s reading shows us Jesus’ compassion for people who were hurting. Throughout His ministry, Jesus cared for those who were sick, struggling, and in need.

Talk about it: How can we show kindness and compassion to someone who is having a hard time?

Simple activity: Make a card for someone who could use a little encouragement.

Day 19: The Good Samaritan

Read: Luke 10:25–37

This is one of my favorite stories to talk about with kids because it gives us such a practical lesson. Jesus teaches us what it looks like to love our neighbors. And our neighbors aren’t just the people who live next door.

Talk about it: Who can we show God’s love to this week?

Activity idea: Choose one small act of kindness your family can do together.

Day 20: Jesus Walks on Water

Read: Matthew 14:22–33

Peter stepped out of the boat and walked toward Jesus. But when he became afraid, he began to sink. I think this is such a relatable story because we all have moments when fear gets the best of us. The good news is that Jesus was right there to help Peter.

Talk about it: What can we do when we feel afraid?

Day 21: Peter Declares That Jesus Is the Messiah

Read: Matthew 16:13–20

Jesus asked His disciples who they believed He was. Peter answered that Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of the living God. This is a great opportunity to talk with your children about who Jesus is.

Talk about it: Who is Jesus to you?

Day 22: The Transfiguration

Read: Matthew 17:1–13

Today we read about an amazing moment when Peter, James, and John saw Jesus’ glory revealed. This passage reminds us that Jesus is so much more than a good teacher. He is the Son of God.

Talk about it: What does this passage teach us about Jesus?

Day 23: Jesus, the Good Shepherd

Read: John 10:1–18

I love the picture of Jesus as our Good Shepherd. Just as a shepherd watches over and cares for his sheep, Jesus knows and cares for His people. What a comforting truth to share with our children.

Talk about it: How does it make you feel to know that Jesus cares for you?

Activity idea: Let younger children draw a shepherd and his sheep.

Day 24: The Last Supper

Read: Luke 22:14–20

On Christmas Eve, we’re going to look ahead to something that happened near the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry.

Jesus shared a special meal with His disciples before going to the cross. Why include this passage in an Advent reading plan?

Because I want my children to understand that Jesus came into the world for a reason. His birth was the beginning of something much bigger.

Talk about it: Why is it important to remember not only Jesus’ birth but also what He came to do for us?

Day 25: Christmas Day — Celebrate the Birth of Jesus!

Read: Luke 2:1–20

Merry Christmas!

Today we’re going back to the story of Jesus’ birth.

After spending the last 24 days reading about God’s promises, Jesus’ life, and His ministry, I hope your family has a deeper understanding of why Christmas is so special.

Before opening presents or heading off to Christmas celebrations, take a few minutes to read Luke 2 together. Thank God for sending His Son. And remind your children that no matter how many gifts are waiting under the tree, Jesus is the greatest gift of all.

Talk about it: What is one thing you’ve learned about Jesus during our Advent readings?

Simple Advent Activities for Families

You don’t have to plan something special for every single day. But if you want to make your family Bible time a little more hands-on, here are a few easy ideas.

Make a paper chain: Add one link each day as you count down to Christmas.
Set up a Nativity scene: Let your younger children move the figures around as you read the Christmas story.
Listen to Christmas worship music: Choose songs that tell the story of Jesus’ birth.
Make Scripture ornaments: Write a Bible verse on a paper ornament and hang it on the tree.
Do an act of kindness: Bake cookies for a neighbor, send an encouraging card, or help someone in need.
Start a family prayer jar: Write prayer requests on small pieces of paper and pray over them throughout December.

If you’re looking for even more ways to make memories together this season, I also put together a list of 25 fun Christmas activities for families that you might enjoy.

Remember, these activities are completely optional.

Some of my favorite family memories are the simple ones, when we’re just sitting together talking, laughing, and spending time in God’s Word.

Tips for Reading the Bible With Younger Children

If you have toddlers or preschoolers, you might be wondering how you’re going to get them to sit through 25 days of Bible readings. I get it!

Little ones have short attention spans, and some days even five minutes can feel like a lot. Here are a few things that can help:

Keep it short. You don’t have to read every verse if your child is having a hard time following along. Read a shorter portion and explain the main idea.

Use a children’s Bible. Pictures and simpler wording can help younger kids understand what they’re hearing.

Let them move. They can color, play quietly with Nativity figures, or sit with a favorite stuffed animal while you read.

Repeat what matters. It’s okay if your child only remembers one simple truth, like “God loves us” or “Jesus is our Savior.”

Don’t stress over missed days. If life gets busy and you miss a reading, just pick up where you left off. The goal isn’t to finish a perfect checklist. It’s to help our children grow in their understanding of God’s Word.

Frequently Asked Questions About Advent Bible Reading Plans

When should we start this Advent Bible reading plan?

This particular plan begins on December 1st and ends on Christmas Day.

Traditional Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, so its starting date changes each year. You can follow this 25-day plan throughout December even if the traditional Advent season begins earlier.

What Bible passages should families read during Advent?

Many families read Old Testament prophecies about the coming Messiah along with the Christmas story in Matthew and Luke.

This plan includes those passages, plus stories from Jesus’ life and ministry, to help children understand who He is and why His birth matters.

How long should family Advent Bible time take?

It can be as short as five or ten minutes. Read the passage, ask a question, and pray together. If your family has more time, you can add a craft, song, or activity.

Can we use this reading plan with teenagers?

Absolutely! You can encourage teenagers to read the passages aloud, ask deeper questions, or help lead the family discussion. It’s also a great opportunity to talk about how the truths in Scripture apply to their everyday lives.

What if we miss a day of Advent readings?

Just pick up where you left off. You can combine two shorter readings, continue after Christmas, or simply skip a day if needed. Don’t let a missed day discourage you from continuing.

Do we need an Advent wreath or candles?

No. Advent candles can be a meaningful tradition, but they aren’t required. All you really need for this plan is a Bible and a little time together.

More Meaningful Christmas Traditions for Families

If you’re looking for other simple ways to keep Christ at the center of your family’s Christmas celebrations, you might also enjoy these posts:

A Final Thought on Celebrating Advent as a Family

If there’s one thing I hope you take away from this Advent Bible reading plan, it’s that you don’t have to do anything fancy to make Christmas meaningful for your children.

As moms, it’s so easy to put pressure on ourselves to make every holiday special. We want to create beautiful memories, keep up with traditions, decorate our homes, and make sure everyone has a wonderful Christmas.

But sometimes, in the middle of doing all those things, we forget to slow down and enjoy what matters most.

I hope these 25 days give your family a reason to pause, open God’s Word, and remember the incredible gift we celebrate at Christmas.

Some days your Bible time might be peaceful and sweet. Other days there might be interruptions, distractions, or a little one who just doesn’t want to sit still. And that’s okay.

Keep showing up, keep sharing God’s Word, and trust that those small moments matter.

My prayer is that this Advent season draws your family closer to Jesus and to one another.

Merry Christmas, sweet friend!

From my home to yours,