The Expected One

Today marks the beginning of Advent, or the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.  There are so many beautiful and fun calendars out there to help countdown to December 25.  Unfortunately, the true meaning of Advent can get a little lost in the midst of celebrating the worldly "Christmas."  Don't get me wrong, I love eating that little piece of chocolate from the Trader Joe's 24 Chocolate Days Till Christmas Advent calendar just as much as the next person, but, as always, it is so important to keep things in perspective. 

In The Expected One: Anticipating All of Jesus in the Advent, Scott James "brings to light the many promises of Christ--from birth to ascension--that demonstrate His love for us during the Advent season."  The daily devotions highlight scripture that promise His coming, birth, life, death, resurrection and eternal reign.  There are also "Review & Reflect" questions that are great to consider alone or with your family.  This is an excellent guide to help us stop and think about the true meaning of the season.  As always, you can enjoy it on your lunch break at work.  Or, since it is designed with children in mind, take a little time everyday to slow down, gather as a family, and study the day's passage.  You might even consider enjoying it with the treats from the chocolate Advent calendar!