Love Begins at Home: Mother Teresa’s Wisdom for Advent

As Advent draws near, we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, the ultimate expression of God's love for humanity. It’s a season of anticipation, reflection, and action—a time when we strive to embody love in our lives. The words of Mother Teresa resonate deeply during this sacred time:

 "Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do, but how much love we put in the doing."

This simple yet profound statement offers a lens through which we can embrace the Advent season as Catholic families: by focusing on intentional, loving acts within the domestic church—our homes.

The Heart of Advent: Love in Action
Advent often comes with a flurry of preparations: decorating, shopping, cooking, and attending events. These tasks, while meaningful, can overwhelm us and obscure the spiritual significance of the season. Mother Teresa reminds us that what truly matters is the love infused into every action, not the quantity of tasks accomplished.

Mother Teresa’s life was a testament to finding Christ in the little things. From her care for the sick and dying to her unwavering faith in God’s presence, she showed the world that holiness isn’t found in grand gestures but in simple, daily acts of love.

During Advent, families can draw closer to Christ by imitating Mother Teresa’s example. Through prayer, service, and joy-filled moments, we can make our homes a reflection of Bethlehem—a place where Jesus is welcomed with open hearts.

Love Begins at Home
In the Nativity story, love begins in the humble home of Mary and Joseph. They welcomed Jesus with tender care in a manger, showing us that holiness is often found in simplicity. Following their example, we can make our homes places of peace and love during Advent.

Mother Teresa lived her life serving the poor and forgotten, but she always emphasized that love starts in the home. Advent is the perfect time to reflect on this truth. Preparing for the coming of Christ begins with loving those closest to us: our spouses, children, and extended family.

When we fill our homes with acts of love—however small—we create a dwelling place for Jesus in our hearts and in the hearts of those around us.

Advent is a sacred season of preparation, a time when Catholic families are called to ready their hearts and homes for the coming of Christ. But amidst the busyness of shopping lists, holiday events, and to-do lists, how can we focus on what truly matters? The life and teachings of St. Mother Teresa offer a perfect guide to living Advent with love, simplicity, and service.

Mother Teresa often said, “Love begins at home.” This Advent, let’s take her words to heart by journeying together as families through small, meaningful acts of love, peace, and kindness. I’ve created an Advent Calendar Inspired by Mother Teresa to help families live out her wisdom and prepare for the birth of Christ with joy.  

This Advent calendar offers daily challenges inspired by Mother Teresa’s quotes and teachings. Each day focuses on a theme of Hope, Peace, Joy, or Love—the pillars of the Advent season. Activities are simple, family-friendly, and designed to fit into even the busiest schedules. Download your free copy! 

This Advent, let’s remember that preparing for Christ doesn’t have to be complicated. With Mother Teresa’s wisdom to guide us, we can embrace the true meaning of the season—finding Christ in our homes, our neighbors, and the little moments of love we share.