The Expected One and The Risen One by Scott James

There is much to anticipate in both Christmas and Easter, but the Story is much bigger than the significant events, as Scott James demonstrates in a pair of devotional books.

*The Expected One by Scott James. B&H Publishing, 2021. 121 pages.

*The Risen One by Scott James. B&H Publishing, 2021. 121 pages.

Reading Level: Adults

Recommended For: Families with kids of all ages, especially younger children

The Expected One

Most Advent devotionals focus on the coming of Jesus Christ and end at the manger, celebrating the birth of the Word of God made flesh. But the Incarnation and the Resurrection are like the seamless woven robe that Jesus wore before He hung on the cross: they should not be torn asunder.

With this in mind, Scott James has written a pair of devotionals that examine these two great events in Jesus’ life for which many Christians mindfully prepare for and celebrate. The Expected One consists of twenty-five devotionals, beginning on December 1, while The Risen One asks the reader to plan twelve weeks before Easter (mark the starting date on your calendar!).

The daily readings in The Expected One are remarkably brief. Six parts in the book focus on promises of the Savior’s coming, birth, life, death, resurrection, and eternal reign, encouraging readers to ponder than the joy of the Incarnation.

Each devotional contains a brief reading from Scripture, a short explanation, two or three thoughtful questions (with suggested answers), and thought-provoking reflections to apply the reading and discussion. There are also prayer points to help family members grow in their walk with Christ.

The Risen One

The Risen One follows a similar format, though the Scripture reading and meditation are longer because they are read just on Sundays. What about the rest of the week? Additional scriptures are provided for daily reading, with lines so you can write in how the verses apply to the theme of the week.

While The Expected One is based on prophecies in the Old Testament, The Risen One is drawn from the gospels, beginning with the joy of Simeon when he meets the infant Jesus. It concludes with the beginning of Acts, because the purpose of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, is to build His church. We’re still anticipating the day He comes back.

These books are beautifully designed and the Truth they contain is beautifully expressed for individual or family use.

When you order a copy of The Expected One, go ahead and add The Risen One to your cart. You won’t be disappointed.

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5

• Worldview/Moral Rating: 5 out of 5
• Literary/Artistic Rating: 5 out of 5

Read more about our ratings here. *Indicates a starred review

Related Reading From Redeemed Reader

• A Review: Mission Accomplished: A Two-Week Family Easter Devotional also by Scott James
• A Resource: Advent Family Devotionals (a giant list!)
• A Resource: 5 Lent Devotionals for Protestants (a short list)

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