I’m so excited for everything the holiday season brings, from the tinsel to the carols. While my excitement is totally warranted, sometimes the pace and distractions mean I’m in danger of missing out on the holy, awe-inspiring miracle of Jesus’ birth.
One way I’m staying grounded in the true meaning of Christmas is with a Bible reading plan for advent. I created this just for the Cheered on Mom community.
Here’s the plan in list form, as well as in a printable you can grab right now for nada. 🙂 I’d love for you to join me!
What’s the Ignatian Method?
Don’t be put off by how fancy this sounds. The name comes from a monk who encouraged readers to study the Bible using their imaginations to place themselves in the scene.
Here’s a quick summary of the Ignatian method, taken from an article on Bible Gateway.
The Ignatian method of Scripture engagement allows us to connect with Scripture personally. The idea is to place yourself in the biblical story, becoming a person in the crowd, a disciple or the boy with the loaves and fish. Imagine the sights, sounds, smells, feels, and tastes of this ancient world. …With the Ignatian method, you are no longer just reading a book, you are living a story.
So, finally, here’s my Bible reading plan for advent!
A Simple Bible Reading Plan for Advent, 2018
Instructions for the Ignatian Method
- On the day with the scripture listed, simply read through the passage.
- On subsequent days, reread the same passage using the Ignatian method to imagine yourself as the person referenced.
- Remember to incorporate how the scene would look, smell, sound, and feel. Think about the struggles and position in society each person had.
Sunday, Dec. 2 Luke 1:26-38
Monday: Mary
Tuesday: Gabriel
Wednesday, Dec. 5 Luke 1:39-45
Thursday: Mary
Friday: Elizabeth
Saturday, Dec. 8 Luke 1:46-56
Sunday: Mary
Monday: Elizabeth
Tuesday: Zechariah (overhearing)
Wednesday, Dec. 12Â Luke 2:1-7
Thursday: Mary
Friday: Joseph
Saturday, Dec. 15 Luke 2:8-20
Sunday: shepherds
Monday: angel
Tuesday: Mary
Wednesday, Dec. 19 Luke 2: 21-35
Thursday: Simeon
Friday: Mary
Saturday: Joseph
Sunday, Dec. 23 Luke 2:36-40
Monday: Anna
Wednesday, Christmas Day, before opening presents: Luke 2:1-20
Grab the Advent Bible Reading Plan PDF
Make sure you grab the totally free Advent Bible Reading Plan PDF! Seriously, hit the button and you’ll get a free, pretty download with these verses listed to print out and tuck in your Bible or planner.
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I hope you enjoy putting Christ at the center of Christmas this year!
If you could use a little help creating a quiet time, I’d love to send my Quiet Time planner your way. Just tell me where to send it!

Just when I think I’ve heard of all the methods of Bible study – God brings along something new! Isn’t that just like Him? I can’t wait to try this. Thanks for sharing!
Alyson, it totally is! I love this Bible study method. You’ll have to let me know what you think of it. Thanks for dropping by!