Customer Reviews

Immanuel: A Daily Guide to Reclaiming the True Meaning of Christmas

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What a great way to stay focused on the Reason for the season. I am still enjoying the book the week after Christmas. It is designed to be used during Advent (the four weeks before Christmas) and the two weeks after Christmas. I will continue to use this book for years to come.

Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (10/07)


Award-winning and best-selling author Ann Spangler has adapted selections from two of her previously written books, "Praying the Names of God" and "Praying the Names of Jesus," for this awe-inspiring devotional book, "Immanuel." The book is designed to be read during the Advent and Christmas season and is arranged for daily readings over a six-week time period during the pre-Christmas season.

Six titles or names of God have been selected that focus on Jesus, God's Son, in a way that is especially meaningful for the advent season: Yahweh or Lord, Yeshua or Jesus the Savior, Immanuel, Yeled or Child, Melek, meaning King of Kings, and Kokab, meaning Bright Morning Star. These names offer peace in an otherwise stressful season of Christmas frenzy.

Each of the six weeks is formatted for five daily readings which include either a brief overview of the "Name" being considered, key scripture passages, background information, devotional thoughts, or suggestions for prayer, and reflection. Friday's reading also provides additional ideas for continued prayer and praise to be carried into Saturday and Sunday.

I was especially moved by the promises associated with each name in the Friday readings. Confidence, salvation, rescue, deliverance, and His presence with us are just of a few of the promises to claim. I also enjoyed the guided suggestions for each scripture passage: for reflection, with ideas for a personal worship, a praise theme, and items to be considered for thanksgiving, confession, and supplication.

Whether using a Bible-study approach, with thought-provoking questions, or a contemporary story illustrating a spiritual truth, Ann Spangler captures the true and deeper wonder of celebrating the feast of Christmas.

The compact size, the hardback binding, and the beautifully designed jacket make "Immanuel: Praying the Names of God through the Christmas Season" an ideal pre-Christmas gift. This daily devotional guide is a book that will be treasured and used time and time again for advent inspiration. Praying the Names of God through the Christmas Season is a wonderful way to rediscover the gift of advent.

Received book free of charge.