December 10, 2011
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Messiah Advent Reader
Devotional books abound.
So, no doubt you own several addressing Advent and/or Christmas.
I do.
But today’s book review highlights a stellar selection in the sea of choices.
The Handel’s Messiah Family Advent Reader surpasses others because the daily readings excel in four areas:
We read a good poem. Scripture is the best writing, always worthy of reading and re-reading. Yes, even memorizing.
We hear a little song. A compact disc of the specific arias/oratorios accompanies the book, allowing for easy listening of each day’s libretto.
We see a fine painting. Thirty-two pictures/paintings illustrate and make application for the various stories, one of which is Holman Hunt’s “The Light of the World.” I was particularly tickled to recognize it because it was also highlighted by Carolyn Weber in her memoir Surprised by Oxford, which is probably my favorite book this year. Dont miss her Advent writings this year at her website, PressingSave.
We speak a few reasonable words. Each day’s essay expands the topic in a way that all age-groups can grasp. It makes you want to talk about it. Plus the narrative is informative with *End Notes* where one can *read more about it*, if desired.
We have all heard Messiah over and over, but have you really studied it?
Cindy Rollins’ essay give some good reasons at Circe’s blog (I’m listening to that CD in the car). But there’s nothing like having a personal stake (a child involved).
A few years ago I spent more time studying Messiah because daughters were singing it with their college choral group. Here’s the link to those blog posts based on Roger Bullard’s fine book, Messiah: The Gospel according to Handel’s Oratorio, which is excellent and erudite.
The Handel’s Messiah Family Advent Reader makes the task easer, more accessible, and especially enjoyable.
I highly recommend it.
What are you using for Advent Devotions this year?
Comments (4)
This sounds like a wonderful book. I am reading Watch for the Light which looked like a great option when I saw the names of a few contributors on the cover. But the contents are far from edifying and the few orthodox theologians (listed on the cover) are overshadowed by the many liberal ones who fill the book.
@hopeinbrazil - Hi Hope! Thanks for stopping by. I see you live in Spring Arbor, MI? I went to college in Michigan… at Hillsdale which had its first campus in Spring Arbor, if I remember correctly.
@hiddenart - We have a few Hillsdale connections since my husband’s parents lived there for a few years. When we are not in Brazil, Spring Arbor is our home base.
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