December Book of the Month

Is there anything more counter-cultural than the season of Advent? While the world around us speeds up in the frenzy of holiday preparations, Advent invites us to slow down. As we are tempted to fill our days with distractions, Advent calls us to pause and face the deeper longings within us. In a world that often tries to numb our pain, Advent beckons us to stop and confront it honestly. As followers of Jesus, living in the tension between this present world and God's Kingdom, we feel this push and pull more clearly than ever—and that’s exactly why it’s so vital to lean into what God has for us during this season.

For our December Book of the Month, I’ve selected a new gem: Rediscovering Christmas by A.J. Sherrill. AJ, a pastor in our diocese in Charleston, South Carolina, is a truly wonderful man and his writing reflects his deep heart for the season. This book is divided into two sections: Advent and Christmas. Through familiar passages, AJ helps reawaken us to the story of Jesus’ arrival and invites us to experience this season in a fresh and transformative way. I believe you’ll not only love this book, but it will become one you revisit year after year, as it guides you deeper into the joy and wonder of Christ’s birth.

Things I loved from the book:

1. The Invitation to Slow Down 
In a world where Christmas often gets overshadowed by consumerism and the rush of holiday preparations, AJ encourages readers to pause and reflect. As part of the effort to slow-down, Sherrill emphasizes creating intentional, Christ-centered traditions that help families and individuals rediscover the joy of the season. Whether it’s through reading scripture, serving others, or finding moments of stillness, his insights encourage readers to create much -needed space in this season.

2. AJ’s Vulnerability and Approachability 
The book is filled with personal anecdotes and reflections that make AJ’s writing feel approachable and authentic. His vulnerability and openness about his own Christmas experiences and struggles help readers relate on a personal level, making the book not just a theological exploration but a companion through the season.  Let’s be honest…doing Advent well can be hard!  The last thing we need is someone guilting us into doing more.  Thankfully, that’s not the case with this book.

3. Practical Applications 
Rediscovering Christmas doesn’t just offer abstract spiritual ideas—it provides practical tips and advice on how to bring its message to life. Whether it's suggestions for family activities, ways to engage with Scripture, or how to reset the holiday mindset, this book helps readers translate deep theological insights into tangible actions.

4. A Call to Hope and Joy 
The book carries an underlying message of hope—both in the birth of Jesus and in how this season can bring renewal and joy to our hearts. It’s a reminder that, no matter the struggles or challenges of the year, Christmas invites us to embrace the joy and hope that Christ's birth brings to the world.

SUMMARY:
In summary, I’m confident you’ll love Rediscovering Christmas because it provides a rich blend of spiritual depth, personal reflection, and practical insight. It offers a guide to experiencing both Advent and Christmas in a way that is deeply meaningful and Christ-centered. Through its pages, we’re reminded of the transformative power of the Advent and Christmas story, helping us approach the holiday season with a renewed sense of awe and purpose. Enjoy!

And to make this even more special, here’s a brief video that AJ created just for the Redeemer community!

Grace and peace,  
Drew