By Leigh DeLozier (Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Goodreads)
Today is Christmas Eve and the last day of Advent for this year, the season when we count down to — and prepare for — our celebration of Christmas and Christ’s birth. If you’re looking for a way to make the season more meaningful, an Advent devotional book might be just what you need.
Yes, it’s late to be ordering a book to read this year. But if you order during the next few days while Christmas things are on your mind, you’ll be ready for next year. 😉
At any rate, here are two Advent devotional books worth reading. I can recommend both because I’ve been reading them myself.
25 Symbols of Christmas: Finding Jesus by Annie Yorty
Back cover copy: Our culture seems to increasingly commercialize Christmas and its symbols. If we are not careful, the emphasis on lights, bells, wreaths, stars, and other trimmings of the season may cause us to miss the wonder, joy, warmth, and love of the true meaning of Christmas.
Annie Yorty finds Jesus in 25 Christmas symbols by tracing their meaning and history. She demonstrates how each one points to a spiritual truth readers can apply to their hearts and lives to refocus on Christ at Christmas.
“While there are many Advent-themed devotionals on the market, Annie Yorty’s 25 Symbols of Christmas—Finding Jesus fulfills the promise of its title in a unique way. As readers unwrap the gift of each of the 25 stories, they will discover the spiritual connection of common Christmas symbols and traditions to the Christ of Christmas. This lovely resource will serve as a faith-filled guide for believers as well as a unique gift for those seeking the true reason behind the season.” (Maggie Wallem Rowe, author of This Life We Share)
What I liked about it: I love to find things in everyday life that remind me of God, and I enjoy when other people help me make those connections. From explaining the origins behind many of the symbols we associate with Christmas to sharing personal stories associated with each, Annie helped me see many familiar things in new ways. The “Think about it” questions at the end of each day were simple enough to remember and keep pondering through the weeks.
Tracing His Promise: Understanding the Bigger Story of Jesus and What That Means for Us by Donna Amidon
Back cover copy: While the stories of Jesus in the New Testament may feel like familiar friends, the ancient tales of the Old Testament can seem daunting and distant. But fear not, for within these sacred pages lies a treasure trove waiting to be discovered — a promise that echoes from the beginning of time to the humble cradle in Bethlehem.
In Tracing His Promise, Donna Amidon invites you on a transformative journey through twenty-five key stories, unraveling the intricate tapestry of God’s redemptive plan. Through her gentle guidance, you’ll witness how Jesus is not confined to the Gospels alone but weaves his presence throughout the entire Bible, even in the most unexpected corners of the Old Testament.
Amidon blends rich theology, heartwarming anecdotes, and practical wisdom that will not only deepen your faith but also illuminate the interconnectedness of Scripture. With each turn of the page, you’ll find yourself drawn closer to the heart of God’s story, finding renewed peace and hope for today. But the journey doesn’t end there. With engaging discussion questions, captivating artwork, and printable ornaments for an enriching Advent activity known as the Jesse Tree, you’ll be equipped to foster meaningful family traditions, ensuring that the story of Jesus is passed down from generation to generation–a precious heirloom of faith.
“A powerful, biblically grounded study that reveals profound connections between Old Testament Scripture and the coming Messiah, . . . this book is unique and impactful! Don’t miss it!” (Doris Swift, host of the Fierce Calling Podcast and author of Surrender the Joy Stealers: Rediscover the Jesus Joy in You)
What I liked about it: Sometimes it can be easy to fall into a trap of thinking that the New Testament is about Jesus and the Old Testament is about a lot of other people whose lives and stories we learned about as kids in Sunday school or Vacation Bible School. But the truth is, the entire Bible is about Jesus. From understanding more about Christ from the time of Creation through His birth in Bethlehem, Donna doesn’t simply explain the stories she shares. She connects them with Jesus and with God’s faithfulness through everything.
A gift for you:
I can see myself reading both of these books again and learning new things each time. I want you to do the same! I’ll be giving one copy of each book to someone who leaves a comment. Share one way this Christmas season has been special to you, and you’ll be entered in the drawings.
Merry Christmas!
It might be late to order an Advent devotional book for this year, but get one now to be ready for next year. These by @AnnieYorty & @donna_amidon are well worth reading!
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Thanks for sharing these beautiful gifts with us, Leigh. I have read Annie’s book and find the devotions are inspiring and Christ centered. Tracing His Promise does sound captivating and would make a great addition to a reading list. Merry Christmas, my friend!