A Thrill of Hope: The Christmas Story in Word and Art
Through John August Swanson’s artwork, as well as commentary and insightful discussion questions from leading biblical scholars, you will be drawn into ancient Bethlehem. There you will begin your journey through the familiar telling of the Christmas story. Striking depictions of well-known Scripture will enhance and perhaps even challenge your thoughts when reflecting on the birth of Christ. First offered in 2011, this resource continues to stimulate engaging conversation in a group setting. The DVD and discussion guide are also user-friendly for personal reflection. A favorite for the Advent and Christmas season, this one-hour DVD is divided into six sessions (Church Publishing Inc., 2011).
Advent Study
Give your Advent Bible study new depth this season as you encounter Scripture readings based on the lectionary with an emphasis on hunger in the world. Each of the four sessions offers texts from Isaiah and Matthew. Reflections, discussion questions, a prayer and even hymn suggestions are provided for group or personal study. The sessions are titled “A People of Promise,” “Bearing Fruit,” “Healing of the Whole World” and “God in Unexpected Places.” Download at elca.org/hunger/resources (ELCA World Hunger, 2016).
