Book Review: Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus
As we enter into the Advent season, it can be very easy to be swept away by the busy-ness this season brings. “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus” is intended to counter just that. It is an anthology, a collection of excerpts of writings and sermons on the Christmas Story from some of the best minds of the Christian faith, from Saint Augustine to Martin Luther, to Charles Spurgeon to Tim Keller, compiled together by Nancy Guthrie. It contains 22 selections, arranged together to walk through the Christmas story and prepare your hearts as you await the coming of our long-expected Savior.
This collection can be a wonderful tool to slow down and reflect on the beauty, grace, and richness of the coming of the Messiah. It allows you to see the many facets of the Christmas story like a kaleidoscope of different perspectives across the great host that is the Church throughout time. One day you will read of the deep truths of the Trinity, another the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus’s birth, the titles and characteristics of God, reasons for joy in Christ, or Jesus through the eyes of the shepherds.
One section that stood out the most to me was written by Charles Spurgeon and describes the plight of Mary and Joseph as they look for a place to stay the night and give birth. He insightfully draws parallels between each of the parts of the town that could not provide them room and their corresponding facets of society today. He anticipates the excuses that come to mind for each of us, “I am not worthy,” “I am such a sinner,” and instead invites us to say “Yes, my heart is ready,” for he longs to dwell with you!
While potentially disjointed if trying to read all the way through, this book is meant to be read one selection at a time (think standalone episodes), providing a perfect daily meditation throughout what could otherwise be a busy Christmas Season. Each author has a different tone and focus, and expounds a different text or concept related to the Christmas story and the coming of Jesus.
This book provides a sampling of some of the wisest minds of the faith, a jumping-off point to discover great writers of acclaim both from history and the current day. It is my hope that, in reading this book, you may grow in knowledge and love of your Savior as you prepare your hearts for his coming.