Mary's Voice: Advent Reflections to Contemplate the Coming of Christ

by Amy Orr-Ewing

Find guidance through the advent season with the mother of Jesus and central figure in the story of Christmas, Mary. At Christmastime we remember that an ordinary, young, poor, oppressed woman was chosen to play a significant and breakthrough role in the redemption of the world. It is no mistake that a woman gets to be a part of all this, and that her voice, her questions, her fears, and her actions matter.
 
Mary’s faith and her wisdom form an astonishing aspect of the story of how God became a person for the love of this world. And in our weary world that is waiting and longing for light, meaning, peace, and love, we can do as Mary did when she “ treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

Genres: Christmas, Christian, Nonfiction, Devotional, Religion, Christian Non Fiction, Christianity

198 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 23, 2023

About the author

Dr Amy Orr-Ewing is the Co-Director of The Oxford Centre of Christian Apologetics, and speaks around the world on how the Christian faith answers the deepest questions of life.

Reviews

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great perspective about Mary and the Birth of Jesus.

In-depth and great points for thought.

Will probably read this every Christmas.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Advent devotional is special. Orr-Ewing beautifully weaves together Mary's direct testimony through the gospel of Luke with moving liturgical prayers and striking historic artistic renderings of Jesus' life. I've heard the Christmas story my whole life, but it truly came alive to me through this text. This book focuses on Mary's words and praises, but it's a book about Jesus. What a beautiful God who chose to come to us not through power and social standing but through a marginalized but faithful girl. I've already recommended this book over and over, and it's one I know I will come back to because Mary's voice tells us so much about Jesus.

I've received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review through Worthy Publishing.

[Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary, the Mother Of God's life changed in a big way. She was told by Angel Gabriel that she would bare God while she was a virgin. It is hard for some to believe that miraculous moment took place. At the same time her cousin Elizabeth was experiencing a faith building moment too. The birth of her baby and his purpose were told to her as well.

The book is beautiful . It is one you will wish to slowly go through because there are beautiful vellum pages to rejoice in during Advent or any season of the year. Most of all I enjoyed learning about Mary's world at that time. It is a chance to ponder her feelings. Just think, her faith had to remain strong through nine months and beyond.

[Mary Reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Advent devotional. One I will read again in other Advents

[Jeanne Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amy Orr-Ewing's Advent devotional is outstanding. It covers the 25 days of December through Christmas day. The devotional is written from the viewpoint of Mary. Each day starts with a Scripture from the Annunciation through the birth of Jesus and just beyond to Jesus,' dedication at the Temple in Jerusalem. Scripture is followed by a thoughtful and insightful devotional that explores the meaning of the passage from the perspective of Mary. Each day is accompanied by a prayer and a picture of magnificent art work and an explanation of who was the artist, where it is hanging, and some background on the art. Mary isn't just for Catholics. She is a model for all of us, men and women, who are disciples of Mary's son.

[Markie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Mary's Voice: Advent Reflections to Contemplate the Coming of Christ" by Amy Orr-Ewing is a captivating and insightful guide that invites readers to journey through the Advent season alongside Mary, the central figure in the story of Christmas. The book offers profound reflections and guidance, drawing inspiration from Mary's role in the story of the birth of Jesus and her significance in the redemption of the world.

The Advent season is a time of anticipation and reflection, and the book provides a lens through which readers can explore the depth of Mary's faith, wisdom, and contributions to the story of God becoming human. Amy Orr-Ewing beautifully highlights the extraordinary nature of Mary's involvement in the divine plan, emphasizing her ordinary background and her pivotal role in the unfolding of God's redemptive purposes.

The book acknowledges the importance of Mary's voice, her questions, her fears, and her actions within the Christmas narrative. It underscores the significance of a woman being chosen to play a crucial and transformative part in the story of the world's salvation. In a world that often hungers for light, meaning, peace, and love, the author suggests that Mary's faith and pondering can serve as a source of inspiration and contemplation.

Through the lens of Mary's experiences, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own faith journey and engage in a deeper contemplation of the coming of Christ. The book provides an opportunity to meditate on the parallels between Mary's responses and our own as we navigate the complexities of our world and our longing for spiritual fulfillment.

Amy Orr-Ewing's writing offers a blend of spiritual insight and accessible prose, making "Mary's Voice" an ideal companion for the Advent season. The book is not only a celebration of Mary's role in the Christmas story but also a means of inviting readers to consider their own role in embracing the hope and significance of Christ's coming.

In conclusion, "Mary's Voice: Advent Reflections to Contemplate the Coming of Christ" is a thought-provoking and spiritually enriching resource that invites readers to journey alongside Mary and engage in a deeper understanding of the Advent season. Amy Orr-Ewing's reflections offer a unique perspective on the story of Christmas and encourage readers to embrace the themes of faith, hope, and contemplation during this special time of year. This review only scratches the surface of the wisdom and inspiration that the book provides, making it a recommended read for individuals seeking to connect more deeply with the true meaning of Christmas.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Mary’s Voice, Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing explored Mary’s voice and how important it is to realize that we have to pay attention to her viewpoint of Jesus’s birth. Women are often seen as part of the domestic and emotional labor force. Mary was ordinary, poor, and oppressed woman who God chose to bare Jesus and bring Him into the world. Mary was an unwed teenager who was portrayed as having no voice. Often in Christmas plays, she doesn’t have any speaking lines. Later on, Mary is described in Luke as someone who had a choice and a voice. Throughout this book, she will walk readers through Advent, which means arrival by looking at how Mary had her own voice and how we can eagerly awake Christ’s return. Each day had a verse, a short story and teaching, a prayer, and a teaching and background on a painting/visual reflection.




One of my favorite days discussed how God will lift up the humble. Christ is referred to as being gentle in spirit and humble in His heart. We can find true rest in our souls. She explained how Christ wouldn’t break the bruised reed instead He would redeem the lives of the people are broken. She shared how in the Grerco-Roman world would choose to honor themselves and was seen as a negative attribute if you were humble. It changed when Christ chose to humble himself and was crucified for our sins. He was the ultimate example of humility and it can be seen now as a virtue.




I would recommend this awesome book that contained 25 devotionals that is perfect to read during the month of December leading up to Christ’s birth. I liked how this book was all geared towards Mary’s voice and her viewpoint of Christ’s birth. It was interesting to read about Mary and how she did in fact have a voice that is often overlooked. I loved how the devotionals were short story style and how the illustrations were beautiful and thought provoking. Readers will witness the many different character qualities of Christ and how He is faithful to provide for us.





"I received this book free from the publisher, Hachette Book Group/Faithwords/ Worthy Publishing for my honest review.”

[Becky B · Rating 3 out of 5]

A collection of 25 devotionals for Advent that look at things Mary testified about Jesus and what his coming meant in her eyewitness reports to Luke. Each devotional also includes a classic prayer from sources like The Book of Common Prayer and a piece of classic artwork depicting parts of the Nativity or things related to the life of Jesus.

I appreciated the amount of Biblical history, cultural, and theological richness Amy Orr-Ewing points out in each of these devotionals. For some reason I didn't really find these as gripping as I expected. Maybe it was the "high church"/liturgical feel to the devotionals thanks to the very old prayers and artwork? And I liked the prayers for the most part. However, I could have done without the artwork. I didn't feel like it added anything to each devotional. I know some friends who would absolutely LOVE this though, and really love classic Christian artwork, so I think this is a me thing more than the book thing. I wasn't the right audience, but I'm glad to have more Advent readings available in our library.

Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: 2 pieces of artwork have naked people in them.
Violence: Herod killing boys under 2 is mentioned. Refugees fleeing violence in their countries is mentioned. Jesus being circumcised is mentioned.
Ethnic diversity: Historical Jewish and Roman figures, as well as the Magi and where they most likely come from. Amy shares some personal stories about herself (a white British woman) and friends of many backgrounds.
LGBTQ+ content: None
Other: Childbirth, the stigma of being an unmarried pregnant woman is contemplated, Zachariah's mutism until John's birth, widowhood and implications in the 1st century comes up, hunger and poverty come up in some stories.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book which is marked as an Advent devotional but can be read at any time. Orr-Ewing presents a picture of Mary that isn't the one we're often presented in the church. This is a teen, who having being blessed with the honour ( a scary one at that) of giving birth to Jesus, steps into her role with courage and surrender.

Orr-Ewing shares 25 devotions, most using the words of Luke's message and especially each line of Mary's Magnificat, to highlight traits of Mary's faith, reflections on the Advent story and wisdom for us to adopt to both better experience Advent and grow in our faith. It's excellent and I learnt much about Mary.

As evidenced by Mary encouraging Jesus to step into his ministry at the wedding in Cana and being the only one present at both His birth and death, she has a rare insight into the incarnate God which we can learn from. She is also clearly a humble leader who is able to encourage and guide others.

Each devotion ends with a prayer, many of which are taken from the Common Book of Prayer.

Attached to each devotion is a photo of a different painting that relates to that day's message. Most of the paintings are hanging in major art galleries around the world. Orr-Ewing explains the inspiration for the painting and its relevance. This is a lovely added extra to the devotions as I was unfamiliar with many of the paintings.

I can see myself reading this again as I enjoyed it immensely.

I was fortunate to receive an early ebook copy of the book from the publisher via Net Galley but this has had no influence on my review.

[Monica H (TeaandBooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary's Voice: Advent Reflections to Contemplate the Coming of Christ by Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing is a beautiful devotional book to read throughout Advent that focuses on Mary's thoughts about Jesus birth and life.

Mary's Voice is unique because, as the author writes in the introduction, in our Christmas programs, Mary is often seen as a quiet woman with no voice. In the programs, she is usually seen as a passive bystander. However, as the Gospels unfold, Mary was anything but passive. Especially in the Gospel of Luke, Mary is at the heart of the Gospel passage as she is the Mother of Jesus, God's chosen son. She is a woman who pondered much, as the Scriptures said, and watched the life of Jesus unfold.

I think Mary's Voice is a unique book in looking at Advent from her perspective. There are 25 readings. Each begins with Scripture, lasts 3 or 4 pages, and ends with a prayer. This book also has beautiful antique painting/artwork photos throughout the book that are beautiful and mostly classic in nature. The book is made of heavyweight glossy paper that has that artwork shining richly and beautifully. This is a lovely book to read throughout the Advent season for that perspective of Mary--and seeing Christmas through her eyes giving the reader a new perspective. This beautiful book could also make a nice gift for the right person.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.

[Ginger Hudock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary's Voice consists of 25 chapters, plus and introduction and conclusion. These are designed to be read one per day from December 1 through 25. Each chapter consists of a Bible passage (mainly from Luke), a devotional reflection by the author, a traditional prayer, as well as a photo of an artwork and short explanation of the work. As the title implies, the author looks at the nativity mainly through the eyes of Mary, the mother of Jesus. As a mother myself, I really enjoyed contemplating this view. Orr-Ewing takes time to have us see incarnation as the real historical event that it was. "Mary is the only person to be present with Jesus at his birth and at his death." Since this is the case, Advent is an ideal time to consider what we can learn about Mary, and through Mary, about Jesus. As the conclusion of the book says, "in the Advent season we find ourselves marveling not at her, but at Jesus Christ her beloved son."
This book is a worthy addition to anyone who, like me, enjoys reading a devotional each Advent. I received an complementary advanced copy from the publisher.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mary’s Voice is an engaging 25-day devotional that begins on December 1st. It incorporates thoughtful elements such as scripture passages at the beginning of each devotion, which adds depth to the text. While reading, I found myself considering certain aspects and pondering their significance. One suggestion for improvement would be the inclusion of more scripture verses to address any concerns that may arise. Additionally, there were a few visual elements, such as a full-color portrait of Adam and Eve, that I personally found unexpected and would classify as adult content. However, it’s important to note that not all of the full-color inserts were offensive, and there were some that I appreciated. Potential readers of Mary’s Voice by author Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing should approach it with caution and be mindful of these aspects. Taking everything into account, I would rate Mary’s Voice 3 out of 5 stars.

Disclaimer: I received a copy from the publisher. This in no way affects my review. All thoughts are my own

[Karly Noelle Abreu White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mary’s Voice presents a beautiful perspective on the Advent story. As we focus on the coming of God with us, we are invited in this devotional to consider what it meant to a young girl to carry God with us. With ancient prayers and artwork to guide us, this devotional invites us to consider the voices of the marginalized throughout the Biblical story, and how God empowers them. It would be so easy to forget about this young woman from the ancient near east, and yet, the Bible refuses to allow us to do so. In giving voice to her story, both her words to the Angels, and of course her powerful Magnificat, Mary becomes one of the most empowered women in the Bible, and a figure through whom all of us can learn a great deal. This devotional lays out her story, while relating it to us in the present, and what we can ultimately learn about Christ’s redeeming love through her obedience, sacrifice, and exercise of free-will to do the impossible. 


[Hannah Overton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an inspiration with its fresh angle on the Christmas story. It is gutsy and compelling, a far cry from the 'cutsie' take on the nativity we might be more familiar with. And because of that, Amy speaks right into this cultural moment, enabling us to see how profound this story is for our times. And she does so with such hope, I found myself being regularly moved by what I was reading. It's beautifully presented and has got me thinking of people I want to give a copy to, or a group I want to read it with who I think would find it valuable, even those not familiar with faith or church. I especially loved Charlie Mackesey's image of Mary, capturing her ordinariness. Each daily section is just the right length, offering real depth while working alongside a hectic schedule!

[Ashley Hoss · Rating 4 out of 5]

This took me way too long to read, but it is a unique and well written book. Mary’s Voice takes on the perspective of women (particularly Mary, the mother of Jesus) in the story of Jesus (with looks at Eve and Mary’s cousin, Elizabeth). The devotions are short and can be done with a group Bible study, your family, or on your own. They each contain a work of art and a prayer at the end.

I appreciated Amy Orr-Ewing’s passion for apologetics and her exegesis shines through Mary’s Voice. There’s a couple points where it could have gone deeper, but all in all, I appreciated it.

One thing to note, if you prefer not to have books with images of Jesus in them, you may want to skip this one or just quickly move past the pages with art on them.

[Sharon Hazel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each day in this Advent devotional included a Scripture reading, a reflection, a prayer, and a print of a famous work of art illustrating the day's theme. Most of the prayers were from the C of E Book of Common Prayer, which I was not familiar with, but enjoyed the richness of the words.
The author brought fresh insight into some of the familiar Advent readings through the perspective of Mary's voice. This was mainly from 'The Magnificat' Mary's song. But that only took us to day sixteen, the remaining reflections were taken from other scenes recorded in Scripture that included Mary. Day 17 and 18 focused on the birth of Christ and then the events that followed leading us up to the final reading on the 25th day...

[Traci Rhoades · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a gorgeous book combining exquisite images of artwork depicting Mary, the mother of Jesus, throughout the centuries, prayers from various theologians (primarily taken from the Book of Common Prayer), and 25 days of advent reflections from Mary's perspective. The author, Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing holds a doctorate in Theology from the University of Oxford, and serves as Honorary Lecturer in Divinity at the University Aberdeen. She lives outside of Oxford, and you get a sense she's used many of the prayers and art for personal reflection herself. I also appreciated her extensive research on this project. Highly recommend.

[Susan Shipe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully constructed, contemplative devotional for the Season of Advent. Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing combines beautiful illustrations with deep, thought-provoking dissertations on the Mother of Jesus, Mary. The treatises are well-constructed and contemplative.
The pieces are directed by Dr. Luke, the author of the third gospel bearing his name. Stunning perspective surrounding the birth of the Son of God, Jesus Christ.
What a lovely display of emotion and truth, as seen through the lens of a woman. Much can be gleaned in this short and thoughtful Christmas devotional.
I highly recommend for both the female or male reader desiring to go deeper into the heart of Mary.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to thank the author and publisher for gifting me the ebook. I am not really sure which way the author leans but it felt to me (just my opinion) this book leaned more on the catholic side instead of protesant side. There was some interesting suggestions the author makes throughout the book and it made me really sit down and think. I can't wait to do more reseach on the matter. We don't really know much about Mary and just her side etc. So whichever side you lean towards more you might want to try this Christmas devotional about. This book was an interesting read. I am going to do more research on the author also to get a feel of what her Christian beliefs are etc.
It is a great read for Christmas time, which is right around the corner. I really love reading a Christmas (christian) daily christmas devotionals for December and started it about 3 years ago.

[Keli Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This advent book thoughtfully merges biblical, ancient and art history sweetly with modern day thoughts from Dr. Amy Orr-Ewing.

I enjoyed the daily readings. Beginning with scripture, historical perspective juxtaposed with today's issues and ending each day with a prayer and religious art. Every entry included footnotes so you can research more on your own.

Overall, this Christmas time book was intellectually and spiritually stimulating. As an art lover, I also enjoyed the historical pieces included each day that symbolized the daily scripture bringing it to life. This would be a nice pre-Christmas gift for historians, art lovers or anyone desiring to draw near to the meaning of Christmas.

Thank you Hachette book group for the complimentary copy of Mary's Voice.

[Megan Kortze · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a devotional that dives deeper into the Advent story from a different perspective, this is one I recommend.
This devotional is a 25 day one, starting December 1st and ending on Christmas Day. Not only do we dive deeper into Luke’s gospel, but we truly get to see the Christmas story through Mary’s eye and heart. Have you ever stopped to wonder how Mary’s faith was so secure in her calling? Or how she felt knowing God’s plan?
I love how each day ends with a prayer, as well as a piece of artwork that correlates to each day’s devotion.
Definitely going to reread for my advent study this year!

[Jesslyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional was absolutely beautiful! I love how the author took us on a historical and theological journey through the voice of Mary. She intricately breaks down the scriptures; verse by verse, of Mary’s song (the Magnificat) found in the book of Luke.

Coupled with beautiful illustrations and classical artwork that depict this extraordinary supernatural moment in history, each day you read, you will find encouragement for your faith as you observe the significance of the one who brings us Hope for tomorrow.

Through the voice of Mary, I am challenged to keep my eyes on Jesus, stay humble, and keep him first through the Holiday season.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The devotionals improve the closer one gets to 12/25. Noted some errors: Amy states that Golgotha and Mt. Moriah are the same locale. I poked around the internet and it seems these 2 places are close but not one and the same. Mt. Moriah became the temple mount but that is w/i the walls of Jerusalem. Golgotha is outside Jerusalem's walls as it is a place of execution. In another spot Amy says David was the first King of Israel, who was actually the 2d king. Saul being the first. Book needs a better editor imo. I did enjoy the art work and editorials on them for each day. The accompanying art really makes the work stand out.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful new devotional for one of my favorite seasons: Advent. I love the focus on Mary - her thoughts, words, and experiences - in this book. The writing is beautiful, and I appreciate the cultural and historical contexts Amy Orr-Ewing points out in the daily readings. I also benefited from the included prayers at the end of the daily reading. The art at the end of each reading was a lovely surprise and welcome addition; it added a new layer of reflection for me. I can't wait to read through this again during Advent this year!

Thanks to the publishers for an advance copy.

[Haley Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is becoming more common to finally hear Mary’s story told in context with Advent, and this book was an excellent voice in elevating what it must have been like for Mary. In the introduction, Dr. Orr-Ewing writes: “It is no mistake that a woman gets to be a part of all this, and that her voice, her questions, her fears, her actions, and her obedience matter.”

How beautiful to be able to rest, be challenged by, rejoice, and lament in Mary’s story in this season of Advent. This book was really a gift.

[Lee Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite Advent books. very thought, expertly tying in the biblical background and some very good interpretations of Scripture.

The historical artwork was one of my favorite parts of the book, and the explanations were helpful.

Very well written , balanced between a feminist viewpoint and an expanded , more biblical vision of women, I found the book refreshing. I’ll probably read it again during Advent.

Very highly recommended

[Charis Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Mary’s Voice Dr Amy Orr-Ewing provides an insight into the birth of Christ from the perspective of a woman who had significant impact on the history of the world despite living in a time when her voice was suppressed. The book has a thoughtful devotional and beautiful prayer for each day of advent and is illustrated with some stunning artwork throughout. I would highly recommend as your advent devotional or as a Christmas gift to another woman!

[Rosa M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really methodical and passionate look at Mary and how essential she is to the Nativity story and even the Gospel. Breaks down every instance of her actions and voice recorded in the Gospels and why it was so important and necessary. I really appreciated this approach to an advent devotional and wish I'd found it in December and not January so I could have read it as intended. Also the inclusion of art, prayers, quotes, and Bible passages along with the chapters is really cool.

[Amber Ginter Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

MARY’S VOICE by Amy Orr-Ewing was a book that I didn't anticipate reading or checking out, yet found fascinating, nevertheless. In this tale of Advent reflections, I learned a lot and was encouraged for the upcoming Christmas season. Through the story of Mary, individuals can find guidance for the Advent season with the mother of Jesus, with comfort and hope along the way.

[K.G. Carey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Orr-Ewing had me from the first sentences of her introduction. Having Mary’s perspective take a central role in an Advent devotional makes so much sense, and I loved the research, thought, and care put into this devotional. The several pieces on the Magnificat are especially memorable. A great addition to my Advent reading.