For a lot of people, the holidays are physically frenetic, emotionally overwhelming, and spiritually distracting. Few slow down long enough to ponder what’s happening in their own souls, or to give more than a passing thought to the significance of this season: God coming to earth.

That’s why Steve Carter is excited to introduce you to an incredible Advent devotional, written by his good friend Vanessa Stricker, who is the Pastor of Peacemaking and Justice at One Life City Church in Fullerton, California.

Advent Reflections earnestly reminds individuals and families that hope, love, joy, and peace come from the God who does not shrink back from lament or suffering, but willingly embraces it to bring light into darkness. With Advent just days away, this is a great resource to guide you through the coming season, so that you might experience his nearness.

EPISODE LINKS

Buy Vanessa’s Advent Reflections here.

Vanessa’s blog: onthesideofgrace.com

Church: onelifecitychurch.org

@onthesideofgrace

@steveryancarter

@craft_character

PREACHING TODAY CHRISTMAS RESOURCES

My Favorite Christmas Theme: Create Meaningful and Memorable Christmas Services, by Bri Johns

Fear and Loathing in Bethlehem: As a Christian I love Christmas; but as a Preacher I dread it, by Paul Hoffman

Preach Nothing New This Christmas ... And It Will Be Novel: Do we always have to find a new spin on the Christmas story?, by Mandy Smith

Christmas and the Minor Prophets: For Advent let the 12 Minor Prophets lead us to Christmas, by Taylor Turkington

Mary Christmas!: Exploring the lives of the 4 Marys in the Christmas story, by Scott M. Gibson

Christmas Holiday Resource Page

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