Discover the processes and patterns of the contributors of Good News, Great Joy: Devotions for Advent and Christmas 2024-2025.

How did you get inspiration to write your entries?  

Annabelle Markey: I pull inspiration from my own life experiences, the struggle and concerns we all face, and from what I've observed in creation. I read and listen to the texts, meditate with the photos, and pray to the Holy Spirit for inspiration to pull all of these inputs together into a cohesive devotion that will speak to people where they are. 

Troy Troftgruben: I always start with reading the scripture passage several times — and eyeing it more carefully in Greek. Meditating on the passage never fails to inspire me somehow, however long or unpredictable the process. In doing this, I get the chance to hear the passage first and foremost for myself — and then to ponder what good news this has more broadly. It's a joy to do this.

Do you engage in the practice of a daily devotional, and if so, what does that look like for you?  

Annabelle Markey: I have discovered that a daily practice of lectio divina with the lectionary readings is really helpful in hearing these ancient words as words that have something to say to my life and what I am experiencing. I listen to the texts while I walk and read or listen to seasonal devotionals to encourage me in entering the flow of the church year.  

Rev. Priscilla Austin: During Advent, my devotional practices shift from personal to familial. When my children were little, it was as simple as slowly reading our way through the narrative of the birth of Jesus. Now that they are grown, we seek out different reflections or collections that we can read on our own and then discuss over meal times. The daily practice is a wonderful way that our family is accountable to each other to remain grounded in a spirit of sacred anticipation rather than busyness and consumption throughout the season. This year, I'm excited to have "Good News, Great Joy" available in a digital format.

Troy Troftgruben: I do have a daily practice of reading prayer and scripture. In seasons like Advent, I have the bonus of a devotional resource (like this one) to bring more to that time. During Advent, our family also has a regular practice of lighting a candle on our Advent wreath and reading a brief devotion from a resource. Since our kids are now teens, it's a tougher sell (for them) — but we continue the practice with a bit more flexibility. The regularity of daily devotional activities keep me grounded in God's word and prayer in ways that center me for the chaos of life.

What would you say to someone who thinks that a daily devotional practice sounds too overwhelming to them, especially during the busy month of December?  

Annabelle Markey: I have felt the same! It has been difficult to get into a groove because it felt like I couldn't afford the time. However, by incorporating these practices into my daily schedule in a way that connects with me, I've found that the readings and meditations help me to return to God's word throughout the day. I would encourage people to experiment with different times and ways of incorporating devotionals into their life to find what works best and then to stick with it, even if it sometimes feels like a struggle or if you're unsure it's making a difference. It's through repetition and perseverance that we develop new habits and they help to shape and form us over time.  

Troy Troftgruben: Try it. I doubt you'll regret it. Most people I know experience December as arguably the busiest month of the year. (It's what makes the idea of "skipping Christmas" look a little bit attractive.) And for parents of young children, I think it's especially hard to find time for anything extra. But living life revolved entirely around my "to do" list isn't life-giving for anyone. I find that the busier my life gets, the more essential and life-giving it is to take time, however little, to be centered in trusting God. 

Good News, Great Joy: Devotions for Advent and Christmas 2024 - 2025 is available while supplies last. Get free shipping on orders of 100 or more!

Looking to the Lenten season?  Life Renewed: Devotions for Lent 2025 is available now! Quantity Discounts apply.

Interested in more devotional options? Check out our blog post We're Devoted to Devotionals! where we walk through the range of devotional options from Augsburg Fortress including daily, weekly, quarterly, annual, topical, 30- and 40- day and more!