Expecting the Unexpected: An Advent Devotional Guide
by By Meeks, Blair Gilmer
Category: Religion , Devotional

HAVE AN UNEXPECTED ADVENTEngage your members with an Advent devotional resource different from any other they have seen. Expecting the Unexpected offers far more than a typical re-telling of the Nativity story. Instead, this daily devotional guide presents snapshots from throughout Jesus’ life in which he persistently does the unexpected.His arrival came at an unexpected time for Mary & Joseph, and it began a lifetime pattern in which Jesus confounded his family, perplexed the religious leaders of his day, and baffled his own disciples. His followers did not expect his death & resurrection…and, his second coming will occur at an unexpected time.For each day of Advent, this book offers reflections on: ___ Instances when Jesus did the unexpected___ Instances when we personally encounter        the unexpected in our own livesThese daily devotions are presented in five chapters, for the 4 weeks of Advent, plus the week after Christmas. In addition to the author’s comments, these brief devotions include –ScripturesAppropriate lyrics from Charles Wesley hymnsImages for meditationReflective questionsPrayersThis private devotional resource can also serve as the basis of a group study during Advent.Going beyond the basic Advent story, Blair Meeks creatively uncovers the historical and theological meaning of Christ’s birth, life, death, and reign of glory. This is an Advent journey viewed through a new set of lenses.Fear of terrorism, rumors of epidemic, the pressures of consumerism…. Are today’s anxieties shrinking your Christmas spirit, your sense of joy, your purpose, your song? This Advent, expect the unexpected. Reconnect with the Christmas story, the arrival of Christ’s biblical message of hope and healing for this world.  Expecting the Unexpected is a spiritual feast for mind and imagination. From Expecting the Unexpected -- "I often wonder how we can decorate our tree, haul out the nativity set, sing 'Away in a Manger' once or twice, pack it all away again, and think we have celebrated Christmas adequately," writes Meeks. "The season holds so much more for us. …God's work through Jesus Christ only begins in the manger. Our joy in God's gift of Jesus to us should be part of our lives every day."                                                                          -- Blair MeeksWith Meeks as your companion and guide, reclaim excitement and refreshment.  Expect Christ’s reign in your life — today. Offer an unexpected Advent this year.