Advent is a season of remembrance and celebration of Jesus coming to earth. But as Christmas comes, we often find it challenging to be mindful of its miracle and meaning.
In this daily devotional, Brandon Anthony Shuman offers twenty-six meditations that will prepare your heart for Advent. Comprised of scriptural interludes, contemplations from saints, past and present, and fifteen original compositions seasoned over the course of twelve Decembers, Beneath Bethlehem Skies: 26 Advent Meditations Upon the Miracle and Meaning of Jesus's Birth is a modern liturgy that awakens the soul to wonderful reality of Christmas.
Lyrical and liturgical; simple, yet profound; rooted in scripture and rich in thought, these devotions linger, like Advent itself. Each meditation uniquely explores a paradoxical theme of Advent (exile, silence, justice, love, etc.) while exalting biblical truth with beautiful language. They wait in the aching tension of "already, but not yet" hope of redemption in a broken world. They recall what God has done. They anticipate the fulfillment of His promises. And they provoke our hearts to celebrate what Jesus is doing.
This hardcover edition, of Beneath Bethlehem Skies is beautifully adorned with breathtaking watercolors by Rachel Long. Ms. Long's vision for this project infuses rich colors and multiple layers of connotation. Her artwork is filled with iconic symbols and scenes from scripture that harken contemporary meaning within Advent's Hebraic roots. Each piece invites the viewer to "lean in" and see what God is doing. These traditional watercolors are both a delight to the eyes and an invitation to commune with the Messiah.
For the paperback edition, the devotions of Beneath Bethlehem Skies are introduced by inspiring words from great saints - both ancient and modern - of the Christian faith. Their wisdom foreshadows the themes, lamentations, and joys to follow. Each meditation is complimented by the texts of classic Hymns of the Christmas season, allowing the reader to appreciate the rich and beautiful poetry expressed in their familiar refrains. The eBook incorporates both the watercolors and hymns with the meditations.
Beneath Bethlehem Skies is more than a series quick words and pretty pictures wrapped with Bible verses. It is an invitation to be renewed by the miracle of Christmas and receive the gift of Jesus. Rediscover the wonder of Advent this season, Beneath Bethlehem Skies.
