While We Wait: Living the Questions of Advent

by Mary Lou Redding

Sometimes we struggle to believe we'll experience anything new as Advent comes around. What could we possibly learn that we haven't seen or heard before?


If you're looking for an Advent study of a different slant, While We Living the Questions of Advent offers new ways of connecting the story with your own questions of faith and approaches an all-too-familiar narrative from perspectives we may have missed.


You'll read about biblical figures mentioned in passing in the "original" Advent. Somewhat surprisingly, Tamar, Ruth, Mary, Zechariah, Elizabeth, and the Magi asked questions that resonate with contemporary Christians.


Designed as a complete Advent study, this book offers readers or groups




unique perspectives on the events of Christmas
complete plans for small-group sessions
a fifth session for the week of Epiphany
daily scripture reading and reflection questions
an introduction to the spiritual discipline of breath prayer


What are the questions you bring to God this season?

Genres: Christianity, Faith, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2002

Reviews

[Naomi]

I'll recommend this Advent devotional to moderate to progressive christians interested in a small group Advent study. There's definitely doctrine and claims specific to a mainline christian tradition, but there's also room for personal and group reflection and drawing in other material. I was regularly caught and connected to Redding's weekly reflection questions. An informed group facilitator might be able to use this text in a multi-faith setting, especially by asking folks to bring in and share wisdom stories that are related to Redding's weekly reading. This is an adult text, but with good facilitation, accessible to youth groups. It is, like many other Advent texts, a difficult read for families & individuals struggling with infertility - especially since Redding includes a reflection on her own seeking pregnancy. GLBT community members will need to bring additional images and read family pretty widely to participate well. OTOH, making room when there isn't any and making a way through our expectations and limitations are very much part of the Advent themes presented, so bring your experiences, hopes, and griefs and explore more deeply the meaning of this season (first Sunday of Advent in 2010: November 28).

[Kris Dersch]

I surprised myself by how much I liked this although I will admit the final chapter celebrating Christmas and leading to Epiphany was kind of a bummer and felt more like devotionals I don't like. However, the reflections, the breath prayers, and the Biblical figures focused on throughout were interesting and original and I really liked this.

[Suzanne]

We read this for our Advent devotional. I found the stories unusual ones to focus on by the author, but rich in discussion and concepts. Our group loved the suggestions for the leader in the back. It was a very meaningful time for our group.

[Aaron]

I read this as part of my church’s Advent book study. I love this book and found the author insightful, with a wonderful way of rereading and deeply reading scripture.

[NancyInWI]

I should have just read the weekly lessons. The questions at the end of each week were vague or didn't apply to me or I suspect a wide range of Christians.

[Michelle]

A wonderful advent devotional for both individuals and churches, often exploring the stories of advent in new and insightful ways

[Janet]

Insightful and well-written. Incisive, wide-ranging questions for reflection. I really enjoyed working through this study.