Fear of terrorism, rumors of epidemic, the pressures of consumerism…. Are today’s anxieties shrinking your Christmas spirit, your sense of joy, your purpose, your song?

This Advent, expect the unexpected.

Reconnect with the Christmas story, the arrival of Christ’s biblical message of hope and healing for this world.

Expecting the Unexpected is a spiritual feast for mind and imagination. Use it each day of the four-week Advent season. Open it and find:

• vivid day-by-day biblical images and reflections on Jesus’ life and message
• small-group discussion themes and prayers
• a featured weekly Christmas hymn by Charles Wesley, whose lyrics ("Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" and others) witness to a faith of gusto and courage

"I often wonder how we can decorate our tree, haul out the nativity set, sing 'Away in a Manger' once or twice, pack it all away again, and think we have celebrated Christmas adequately," writes Meeks. "The season holds so much more for us. …God's work through Jesus Christ only begins in the manger. Our joy in God's gift of Jesus to us should be part of our lives every day."

With Meeks as your companion and guide, reclaim excitement and refreshment. Expect Christ’s reign in your life — today.