Unwrapping the Names of Jesus: An Advent Devotional

by Asheritah Ciuciu

How to focus on Christ during Advent

Most Christians agree that Christmas is all about Jesus, yet most of us spend little time preparing our hearts to celebrate Him. Why is this? Partly because we don’t know how.

In Unwrapping the Names of Jesus, Asheritah Ciuciu leads readers through the four weeks of Advent (Hope, Preparation, Joy, and Love). Each week:


Begins with an interactive family devotional that equips readers to celebrate Advent together
Offers five daily reflections that focus on that week's name of Jesus
Includes suggestions for fun-filled family activities or service projects 
This devotional can be used by readers in their own personal worship times or as a tool to engage in family worship during the busy holiday season. Either way, participants will gain a greater sense of awe and wonder at who Jesus is.

By focusing on the person and character of Jesus throughout the Advent season, readers will prepare their hearts so that when they admire the live nativity, sit in the candlelight service, or wake up on Christian morning, they can join the faithful who sing from the bottom of their hearts, "O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!"

Genres: Christmas, Christian, Devotional, Nonfiction, Faith, Religion, Christian Living

128 pages, Hardcover

First published June 19, 2015

About the author

Asheritah Ciuciu is a writer and speaker who helps women find joy in Jesus in the midst of an overwhelming life. She and her husband, Flaviu, grew up in Romania but now raise their spunky children in northeast Ohio. Connect with her at www.OneThingAlone.com.

Reviews

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Most Christians agree that Christmas is all about Jesus, yet few of our calendars would reflect that priority.”

I heard about this Advent devotional somewhere and I decided that it would be a good supplement for my daily devotional reading during the Christmas season. It has 5 entries for each of the four weeks of Advent, and also weekly activities that the reader can do with others, or on their own.

Two entries really stick out in my mind after completion.
Week Two, Day Two-Jesus is the Truth is great reading, and theologically profound.
Week Four, Day Five- Jesus is the Lamb of God is an excellent entry.

There are times where the author, Asheritah Ciuciu, refers the reader back to a website that was created to accompany the text. This happens during the activities portion of each week. That is not a bad thing, I just ignored it. Perhaps there are good supplemental materials there.

I’m glad I read UNWRAPPING THE NAMES OF JESUS, mainly because it was yet another daily reminder of what the focus should be during the holiday season.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

2024:
Scott and I used this to guide us through the season. We even made ornaments with the names of Jesus from this devotional to put up on our tree. It was a wonderful experience.

2020:
I really enjoyed this devotional leading up to Christmas. I plan to get her one for Easter.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesus stands grounded in the reality that is Truth. He defines it, He lives it, and He calls us to experience the freedom that comes from walking in him, for you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. Truth is not merely the absence of a lie. Truth is the construct that defines reality, it stands in stark contrast to a lie because lies cannot exist without something to twist and oppose. Truth, in contrast stands on its own, it needs nothing external to prop it up, it needs no other affirmation.

This is my favorite Advent Devotional for 2017. It is family oriented that every member of your family from young to oldest of children can participate in the hope of the Christmas season. Where Mary and Joseph could not find a room at the inn, do we have room in our hearts for the one who knows our heart the best. Many times better than we do.

This devotional is a celebration of all the hope that is in Jesus. To be in awe is to truly worship. If we understand worship, we move from darkness into the light. I have two granddaughters that are under two years of age, and I feel they both are showing me this in a whole new way. It made reading this devotional more delightful and with wonder. My granddaughters see everything like it is the very first time. A Christmas tree, a bird, and when you delight in them, the joy on their face just melts any heart.

Week 1 is devoted to hope
Week 2 is devoted to preparation
Week 3 is devoted to joy
Week 4 is devoted to love

The beginning of each week starts with scripture and every day all in the family is encouraged to respond to the text. It is easy to follow along and to experience the advent season. Each week ends with activities to experience what Christmas is all about. Responding to others in love.

I highly recommend this one and I will be passing this one to my daughters families for next year.

A Special Thank You to Moody Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Lou Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great devotional. It was lovely to listen to a few minutes each day throughout December, though I recommend starting earlier in the first week of advent in November. I loved being reminded of the many names of Jesus throughout this Christmas season. You can listen for just a short time each day, or use the suggestions to study further if you have more time.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Normally, I don't feel like I rave about book covers. I've been known to be drawn to a book on a shelf in a store by its cover on occasion, but it's been a while since a cover has so drawn me in. I can't stop thinking about how pretty this book is.

More importantly, though, this book is about more than just a beautiful cover. Unwrapping the Names of Jesus carries that beauty into the simple message shared through the pages. Ciuciu has created a beautiful book that will remind you of the names of Jesus. For five days each week, you'll be able to sit down and ponder a name of Jesus, be challenged to think differently about how that name impacts our lives, pray, and be invited to dig deeper into scripture.

I am looking forward to years in the future when we can do the devotional as a family. At 3, my daughter isn't ready yet. But, in the future, we will definitely walk through it as a family. Ciuciu has included a section at the beginning of each week for you to sit down as a family and really walk through the story of Christmas. With a scripted narrative, you will walk through the reason for each calendar, answer questions, and read scripture as a family. I imagine this would be a great family tradition, and one that will help you focus on Jesus rather than all of the hustle and bustle culture tells us to be doing!

I also love the challenges at the end of each week. Ciuciu provides several ideas for ways for your family to live out the theme of the week. Things that will get you out of your house to interact with other and share the love of Christ. Simple things to do in your home that will help you focus throughout the season.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and author. This review is my own, honest opinion.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

We get so caught up preparing for Christmas - Christmas decorations, buying presents, and planning meals. But what about preparing spiritually? Ciuciu has written this book to help us focus on Jesus during the Christmas season.

I really like the format of this book. The reading for Sunday can be used in a family setting. There are passages to read aloud, a Scripture to read, discussion questions and a carol to sing. The readings for the weekdays contain short reflections on the names of Jesus. Each one of them has a challenge, a prayer, and Scripture for further study.

Ciuciu writes how she came to appreciate the practice of celebrating Advent on Sundays in church. She realized she could also worship Jesus for who He is at home by meditating on a different name each day. The idea for this book of Advent devotions was born.

I highly recommend this book for family and individual use. “We all suffer from soul amnesia,” Ciuciu writes. (13) This book has helped me remember who Jesus is and what He has done for us. The daily readings have helped keep my focus on Jesus in the midst of all the bustle.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Angie Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, I definitely read this at the wrong time of year--although these reflections are really suited for any time, not just Christmas. Also a note that I don't read many devotionals, so this is a little outside my normal range. Overall, though, I thought this was a nice set of reflections on some of the names of Jesus, and there wasn't much in it that set off my "but is that entirely accurate?" alarm. (Which is pretty high praise, if you know me!) ;) I'll keep it in mind if I ever want to try an advent devotional book (during actual Advent, I mean).

One thing that I noticed about the organization--I thought it was odd that the list of activities to do with your family over each week came after all the week's reflections, so that you get the list of possible tasks for week one at the end of week one instead of the beginning. I wasn't doing any of these with my family, but I think I would have been a bit confused if I had been, at least the first time. ;) However, that is a minor criticism in the scheme of things. ;)

[Nay Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great read. Enjoyed the scriptures, breakdowns and activities. I can see me re-reading this next November-December.

[Courtney Lyman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful advent to do with our family. I love the activities for each week to put Jesus's love in action.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Asheritah Ciuciu helps readers find joy in the Christmas season through her Advent Devotional Unwrapping the Names of Jesus.

Many of us worry about the business of the holiday season, taxes, politics, the death of loved ones and more. Ciuciu reminds us that Jesus goes before us in all things as the “Resurrection and the Life” (John 11:25):

“Jesus’ historical resurrection gives us hope both for today and for the future. Death is defeated as He transitions us from temporal lift to eternal. We live the lives of the resurrected.”

The introduction asks the question “Why Celebrate Advent?” and the author admits that it’s not something she grew up doing. Yet, she finds beauty in embracing an age-old tradition of celebrating the first coming of Jesus while anticipating his second.

“We all suffer from soul amnesia, forgetting who God is and what He has done for us from one day to the next. Like you, I too must remind myself each year who Jesus is and why His birth is so miraculous—not because my mind doesn’t know but because my heart ceased to be amazed,” write Ciuciu.

The book has 5 main sections: (1) Week 1—hope, (2) Week 2—preparation, (3) Week 3—Joy, (4) Week 4—Love, and (5) Christmas. With the exception of “Christmas,” each section contains suggested Scripture passages to read, devotional thoughts for five days of the week, and recommended family activities.

Not all activities will be applicable for each family, so pick and choose what works best. Ciuciu suggests things like bake cookies for your mail carrier, decorate your church for Christmas, act out the nativity, memorize a Christmas verse, make snow angels (not happening any time soon in Texas, right?), etc.

The book is very simple, but in-depth enough that most Christians will likely find an encouraging take away. Though preferable, it’s not necessary to go through the whole book. One could perhaps just choose some of the suggested activities or read selected portions. Find a topic that speaks to you and let your hearts be encouraged.

I went back and forth between giving this book 3 stars and 4 starts, but finally settled on 3. Generally speaking, I don't read a lot of devotional books for women (they usually drive me nuts), but I do love celebrating Advent. Overall, I love the look of the book and the layout and enjoyed reading through it...and if you usually like women's devotionals, you'll probably love this one.

(This book was provided by Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review.)

[Elena · Rating 5 out of 5]

What better way to celebrate Advent than to focus on the names of the Jesus. This five-week devotional is a great resource to deepen your knowledge and press you towards worshipping Jesus as you grow in understanding of what certain names signify, including Son of Man, Lamb of God, Light of the World, and the Vine. There were great questions for each daily devotional as well as a prayer. Every Saturday had activities to do rather than a devotional, which I liked because it gave me good ideas to celebrate the coming of Christmas in new ways that pointed me to Jesus and served others around me. I loved reading the devotions in the morning and thinking about them through the day.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful advent read. One that I would read again next year.

[MJ Torres · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had to DNF this book because I felt that the author just wasn't focused. Some of the devotionals seemed like they were fitting for Advent and yet some of the devotionals seemed like they should have been for the Passion Week of Christ's crucifixion! 

The book had a few activities, candle lighting at the beginning of the week, and mixed devotionals. It just seemed like a hodgepodge of a read.

Week 3: Joy 

The scripture the author gives right here is fitting for Advent: “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” LUKE 2:10

Now look at this one: “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess’. HEBREWS 4:14

Hebrews 4:14 belongs in The Passion week of Christ! The devotional on page 70 says: 

“What a privilege to have direct access to God! It might seem strange to picture the Old Testament sacrifices, especially since many of us recoil from the sight of blood and the fear of pathogens. But understanding the priests’ role in offering sacrifices helps us rejoice in the finished work of Jesus. So approach the throne of grace confidently today and pour out your heart to God. You will not be turned away.”

How is this related to Advent? It's also odd that she talks about sacrifices in the Old testament in this way. This might be for someone who's never known God before, but if this book is geared towards Christians, we wouldn't think like this!

There's a song that goes: 

“There is power, power, wonder working power, in the blood of the Lamb! We know what the blood stands for! Christians wouldn't “recoil” at the speaking of blood because we know what it symbolized in the Old Testament and what it accomplished in the New Testament. I find it strange that a Christian author would write this.


Unwrapping the Names of Jesus: An Advent Devotional

Citation (MLA): Ciuciu, Asheritah. Unwrapping the Names of Jesus: An Advent Devotional. Moody Publishers, 2017. Kindle file.

[Ada Tarcau · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a keeper. Family friendly, adaptable for children, concise and often-times profound in its simplicity.

[Lauren DuPrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

With the plethora of Advent devotional books released in recent years, it is becoming more challenging to find one that is just the right fit. For me, I've found that Unwrapping the Names of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu is exactly what I've been looking for. I became familiar with Asheritah as she followed me on Instagram and I returned the follow. When I saw that she had written a book designed for Advent, I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy.

In Unwrapping the Names of Jesus, Asheritah begins by stating, "We spend much of the holiday season creating our own little winter wonderlands: cookies and cards, lights and decorations, carols and get-togethers. But what exactly are we doing to prepare spiritually? Most christians agree that Christmas is all about Jesus, yet few of our calendars would reflect that priority" (pg. 10). 

From this point forward, Asheritah's daily readings and weekly activities take readers through the various names of Jesus presented in Scripture and reminds them of who Jesus is and the importance of what He has done for those who trust in Him for salvation.

Each daily reading is Christ centered and Scripture saturated which to me, is much needed and so encouraging, especially during this busy season. I also appreciate that the book is beautifully designed and have enjoyed placing it on display with my other Christmas decor.

As I read through the book, I noticed that since the daily readings are all about Jesus, this devotional truly could be use apart from Advent if one were desiring to study what the Bible has to say about who Jesus is.

If you're interested in receiving a 3 day sampler of the devotional, you can sign up by visiting Asheritah's blog at https://onethingalone.com/advent/t.

I highly recommend Unwrapping the Names of Jesus and look forward to reading it annually.

I received Unwrapping the Names of Jesus compliments of Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember seeing this author slip by me during one session at She Speaks 2017. I wish I could have said hello and congratulated her on her publishing contracts. But it was nice to settle into this Christmas devotional and get to know her a little better through her written words.

Asheritah Ciuciu writes with a quiet, contemplative style. She did not grow up observing Advent (like I did as a Lutheran school girl), but she decided to study Advent practices as an adult. She created this lovely, brief book based on her studies.

The book is divided into four weeks of devotions to reflect the four weeks of Advent. Each day dips deep into biblical and historical contexts to unpack the names of Jesus. I like that each day includes a thoughtful challenge and a beautiful prayer. But what I like most is that each week includes a group devotional option and fun activities you can do with your family (including service activities).

I’m a mom to one teen and two tweens, and this book is perfectly suited for the ages of my children. If your children are younger, you can easily modify the weekly group readings and questions to accommodate their level of understanding. This book is suited to personal study, perfect for busy moms due to its brief length.

In my family, we light an Advent candle on a wreath each Sunday night and read a Christmas devotion. This book will help us focus on Jesus with reverence and awe during our family Advent devotions.

I received a free review copy of Unwrapping the Names of Jesus from Moody Publishers–I am grateful for their generosity.

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book. The idea is cool--read your way through Advent with supplementary materials online including music, coloring pages, activity ideas, and printables. I also really liked the idea of focusing on the names of Jesus as a theme for the Advent season. Plus--the book is physically gorgeous.

But I didn't love it. I didn't even really like it, sadly. Nothing in this book was ground-breaking or earth-shattering; it felt more like an introductory concept for beginner Christians who were looking for a pretty, creative way to enter one of their first Advents as believers. For anyone who has been in the faith for much of their lives, this book feels rather childish and--okay I'll say it--boring.

I did like that the readings were short so it was easy to focus on during the holiday break when my kids were home and distracting, but their short lengths left a lot to be desired content-wise. I also really dislike prayers that are written for me; I'd much rather have a list of questions or food for thought to consider before praying on my own, or journal prompts that could also serve as prayer inspiration. It felt as though I didn't need to put any thought into anything with every piece of it spelled out for me.

If you're looking for a way to incorporate Advent candle lightings into your Christmas season and want simple, straight-forward readings and access to Advent playlists and activities, this is a great starting point. Ciuciu includes scripture and readings/recitations any member of the family can share during the weekly Advent candle lighting.

[Kimberly Krey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved diving into this book! I found it through a devotional plan on my Bible app; it offered the perfect approach to connecting with our mighty Jesus and accepting his glorious, unmatched gift of resting in Him. And while it's designed specifically to go along with the Christmas season, this is one I'll revisit throughout the year again and again. It's such a treasure, and I'm glad to have found it.

[Paola Barrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so grateful for this short Advent devotional. It’s written in very simple language about solid and meaningful truths. Each reading takes less than ten minutes and covers a name given to Jesus in Scripture. I imagine this makes a helpful resource for families with kids judging from the resources she lists. But I can fully recommend it for individual reading. I don't use devotionals very often. When I found myself in a busier anxiety packed season, with no margin or head space to read Scripture like I normally do, I wanted a resource that would help me think about more than deadlines and tests when I saw the calendar. Catching my breath from the intensity and long hours of work and study that became my normal since September, this little book filled a need for meaty reflection in a format that is doable and grace-filled. I loved it.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although we are Christians, our family never picked up the tradition of celebrating the days of Advent, but I found this book in a thrift store and read it through the month of December this year. I read it devotionally each morning along with my daily Bible reading. Using thIs book would be a great way for a family to reflect on Christ and his incarnation throughout the month of December. Along with daily devotions that focus on one of the titles used for Jesus in the Bible, it includes readings for the beginning of each week of Advent, discussion questions and suggestions for family activities.

However you may choose to celebrate the season, may you never lose the sense of wonder at the incarnation, God taking on flesh and dwelling on earth among His creatures, for whom He would later die to save.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a well written Advent Devotional. It is written for the 4 weeks of Advent, but it could actually be read any time of the year. The author invites you to prepare your heart through understanding the names from Scripture and roles that Jesus played from birth to death and how each plays a role in a believer's life.

I highly recommend this devotional for those who would like to prepare their hearts and minds for Christmas. I will be reading this again to prepare for Advent next year since I received it as a Christmas gift.

[Samuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

We really enjoyed using this Advent devotional this year! Never straying too far from the Christmas story, Ciuciu takes a series of names and titles to develop the context for the glory of Christ’s birth. The readings are short enough that our 4 year old was able to pay attention the whole way through, but enough scriptural meat is packed in to be a benefit to adults reading as well. (Side note: I don’t think this is meant to be a kids’ devotional, but it did work very well.)

[Skarleth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Muy completo y sencillo, nos lleva por los distintos nombres dados a Jesús en las Escrituras y una breve explicación de la manifestación de eso en nuestra vida.

Nunca había hecho nada de adviento y aunque empecé creyendo que este libro sería navideño la verdad el contenido no es enfocado en la navidad para nada y es una forma muy sencilla de estudiar este tema. También tiene secciones sobre como compartir en familia pero es mucho más relevante el estudio bíblico.

[E.L. Irwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know, I know, it’s WAY past Christmas. Life happened. This book, though. What a beautiful testament to what advent is (even though I’m a Christian, I’ve never really celebrated it before), and what a beautiful explanation for the names of Jesus. I absolutely loved it and have even gone so far as to set reminders in my calendar to read it again before Christmas, you know, during advent. 😊

[Tegan V · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful read to remind and refresh you about the various names of Jesus. She includes ideas for the 4 weeks of advent celebrations and many ways to include your family in seeing Jesus all advent long. This will be great to come back to again when my daughter is a bit older and will understand some of the ideas! But the daily reading on Christ’s names was powerful.

[Kacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book with excellent contents. I love how Asheritah writes in general, and this book is no different. If you're seeking a lovely way to focus on Christ during any season, you've found it here.

[Ammie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gentle and Lovely. Was very doable with 3rd and 4th grade students. This is one of their favorites. They enjoyed discussing all of the Names, where they had heard them and what they meant to them personally.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely Advent devotional. It is set up to be used as a family with an Advent wreath. I've used it like that before, but this year, I just read the daily devotionals on my own. It is a lovely daily focus on all He has done for us. Perfect way to look towards Him during the busy season.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't often like devotional books because many of them feel watered down and don't dig very deep into Scripture. However, Ciuciu's advent devotional is beautifully written to observe the four weeks of advent with teaching and insights into the names of Jesus as well as Scripture to enhance one's understanding of these names and how they fit into the broader Biblical narrative. I highly recommend Christian readers to bookmark this to have on hand next November to read with your family throughout the Advent season.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This advent devotional is perfect to include your kids in! The devotions are short which makes it easier for you to do with kids to keep them focused! Just a beautifully written devotional to help you to focus on the meaning of Advent !