What is a Christian Advent Calendar? The Names of Jesus, Explained
If you've ever stood in a Christmas aisle holding a chocolate advent calendar and thought, there has to be something better than this, you're not alone.
A Christian advent calendar does something different. Instead of counting down to Christmas with sweets or trinkets, it gives you a reason to pause each day and think about what you're celebrating.
What does Advent mean?
Advent is the four-week season before Christmas. The word comes from the Latin adventus, meaning "coming" or "arrival." For Christians, it's a time of preparation and anticipation, not just for Christmas Day itself, but for reflecting on who Jesus is and what his coming means.
Many families mark Advent with a calendar of some kind. The tradition has roots in 19th-century Germany, where Christians lit candles or marked off days in the lead-up to Christmas.
What makes a Christian advent calendar different?
A standard advent calendar counts down the days with something to open, whether that's chocolate, a small gift, or a beauty product. A Christian advent calendar uses those 24 days for reflection, Scripture, or devotion.
The best ones are designed to be used, not just opened and forgotten. They give you something to sit with, something to come back to, and something that makes Christmas feel like it means something.
What is the Names of Jesus Advent Calendar?
The Names of Jesus Advent Calendar is a 24-card set I designed to help you slow down and see who Jesus is during December.
Each card reveals a name of Jesus drawn from Scripture. Names like Immanuel, the Bread of Life, the Good Shepherd, and the Prince of Peace. These aren't just titles. They're windows into his character, his promises, and what he came to do.
Instead of doors and chocolate, you get hand-lettered cards on jute twine with wooden pegs. The cards are made to display, share, and keep year after year.
Here is how it works:
- Each day from December 1, turn a new card
- The card reveals a name of Jesus and a short reflection
- You can use it alone, as a family, or in a classroom or small group
- Daily reflection emails are available if you want to go deeper
Want practical ways to use it at home? See 7 Christian Advent calendar ideas for families.
Who is it for?
I designed this calendar with a few different people in mind.
For families, it gives you a daily conversation starter that's simple enough for children but rich enough for adults. You don't need a theology degree. You just need a few minutes and a willingness to look.
For individuals, it's a gentle structure for Advent devotion. If December tends to get away from you, this gives you an anchor.
For teachers and small group leaders, a Pack of 6 works well across a classroom or congregation without much coordination.
How is it different from other Christian advent calendars?
Most Christian advent calendars I've seen fall into one of two categories. Either they're very children-focused, with simple images and little depth, or they're very text-heavy, which is lovely but not always easy for a family on a busy morning.
The Names of Jesus Advent Calendar sits in between. The cards are visually beautiful, so they work as décor as well as devotion. The reflections are substantive without being overwhelming.
When should I order?
The 2026 calendar is available to pre-order now. Because each set is made and packed with care, order early if you want it hanging before 1 December. For US shipping, mid-November is a sensible target. Order sooner if you're gifting to someone else or want buffer for the busy post.
You can find general store help on our FAQs page, and full product details on the Advent calendar product page.
Ready to order?
Shop the Names of Jesus Advent Calendar, or browse the full Advent calendar collection. If you're choosing gifts for Advent and Christmas together, start with Christian gifts.