Rediscovering Christmas by A. J. Sherrill is an in-depth look at the Christmas story. It provides a biblical account and insights into what is perhaps one of the most beloved and well-known stories of Christianity. The book is divided into two sections. The first deals with advent, the second Christmas and includes an in-depth look at each of the characters who had a role in the story of the birth our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Each chapter ends with a reflection including scripture references and questions to help readers to delve deeper. I especially enjoyed reading this book and now have a deeper understanding of Christmas, its characters and symbolism.

A wonderful meditation on the real meaning of Christmas and the Nativity stories. A delight to read and study, adds real depth to the festive period and is wonderful to read together and discuss.

3.5 stars

This was an interesting and informative book, written in a conversational and enlightening manner, with glimmers of mild humor.

Written in two parts (Advent: The Gift of Waiting and Christmas: The Gift of Receiving), the author focuses on different biblical persons (Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, the Magi, and Herod, to name a few) and gives practical insights (as the title suggests) into the story of Christmas. Especially in the second part of the book, he shares historical and cultural background, which was interesting and informative. Others may find this depth of information fascinating, but it became slightly tedious to me, thus my 3.5 star rating instead of 4.0.

My favorite quotes:

"The primary task of a Christian in Advent is growing one's capacity to perceive the story by slowing down long enough to receive it."

"Advent is an invitation to slow, to still, and to seek solitude to hear God's whisper over you."

I loved this fresh and different study of Advent. Pastor AJ Sherrill reminds of the true meaning of season of Christmas and Advent. The busyness and overload of Christmas consumerism is removed. This book is designed reawaken and renew.

Rediscovering Christmas is divided into two sections: Advent, the time of waiting, and Christmas, the time/joy of receiving. In this book Pastor AJ walks us through the waiting and the joy by examining this story through different characters and the roles they played. Herold, the Angel of Gabriel, and Elizabeth are just of the few characters examined. We see the story on a larger scale, not just the single night of Christ's birth.

I recommend this book to relearn and reveal the complete story of Advent and Christmas. Use this book for a meaningful reflection throughout the Advent and Christmas and see the first Christmas in a new light.

I loved this deeper exploration of the story of Christmas. AJ takes us deeper into what the Bible has to say about this season, and slows us down so we can recognize what Christmas should truly reflect in our lives. Highly Recommend!!

First of all, Thank you netgalley for the ARC granted. I am a truly , deeply christmas lover, so everything around this subject always cathces my attention, including books and devotionals, like this present one. I enjoyed a lot hw the narrative and the teflections texts were accurate with the bible verses and brought up with a new angle of perspective. Recommended!

Sometimes, we feel empty during Christmas holiday because we dont understand the meaning of Christmas. This book will help us to rediscover Christmas in each truest sense. Christmas is the born of our Savior, Jesus Christ

The story of Christmas is a very famous one. It is retold each year with additional traditions: 3 wise men, a barn with a manger, an indifferent innkeeper, angels singing, and more.

When you peel back the layers of myth to the original story and its meaning for us today, you can gain a new understanding of the gift of heaven, God with us - Jesus.
Sherrill offer biblical studies, explanations, and practical exercises. Take these suggestions for entering into the true meaning of transformation by a messiah beyond the mere celebration of a baby on a Christmas card. Get a copy before the next holiday season.