Reflections of Immanuel

Each year society cycles back around to the all-important date of December 25. This date is bookended by Thanksgiving and New Years Day yielding a five- to six-week festive holiday period within American culture. Yet the historic church has held to a different rhythm one that begins with the season of Advent and then moves into the twelve days of Christmas. The word Advent means coming or arrival. Its a time of preparation and anticipation as we head toward the celebration of Christs birth. Some of us have previously walked through the seasons of the churchs calendar others perhaps not. But it is a story that is deeply enriching. Reflections of Immanuel invites the reader to wait for Christmas and join the churchs rhythmic story of Advent. As we patiently move through the season and then on to Christmas itself this little book offers fresh insights on familiar Scripture passages and themes.