The Art of Advent

Synopsis

Join Jane Williams on a journey from Advent to Epiphany, and discover the timeless wisdom to be found in some of the world's greatest paintings.

Illustrated in full colour with nearly forty famous and lesser-known masterpieces of Western art, this beautiful book will lead you into a deeply prayerful response to all that these paintings convey to the discerning eye.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Heart of Advent

Advent is a time of waiting and preparation for the coming of Christ. It is a time to reflect on our own lives and to make room for Him in our hearts. The real example for this chapter is the story of Mary and Joseph as they wait for the birth of Jesus.

Chapter 2: The Light of Advent

The darkness of winter is a reminder of the brokenness of our world. But the light of Advent brings hope and joy. The real example for this chapter is the story of the shepherds who see the star of Bethlehem and go to find the newborn King.

Chapter 3: The Joy of Advent

Advent is a time to rejoice in the coming of Christ. We can find joy in the simple things of life, in the company of loved ones, and in the anticipation of Christmas. The real example for this chapter is the story of Elizabeth and Zechariah as they welcome their son, John the Baptist.

Chapter 4: The Peace of Advent

The world is often filled with chaos and conflict. But Advent offers us a time to find peace. We can find peace in prayer, in meditation, and in the stillness of nature. The real example for this chapter is the story of the angels who sing "Peace on Earth" to the shepherds.

Chapter 5: The Hope of Advent

Advent is a time to hope for a better future. We can hope for peace, justice, and reconciliation. We can hope for the coming of Christ's kingdom on earth. The real example for this chapter is the story of the Magi who follow the star to Bethlehem and offer their gifts to the newborn King.

Chapter 6: The Promise of Advent

Advent reminds us that God is faithful to His promises. He promised to send a Savior, and He kept His promise. We can trust in God's promises for our own lives. The real example for this chapter is the story of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.

Chapter 7: The Fulfillment of Advent

Christmas is the fulfillment of Advent. It is the day when God's promise is finally realized. We celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. The real example for this chapter is the story of the angels who announce the birth of Jesus to the shepherds.