Review: Encountering Emmanuel

Maria Morera Johnson reviews Heather Khym's beautiful new book, Encountering Emmanuel: A Guided Journal for Prayer and Meditation (Ave Maria Press).

Heather Khym’s Advent companion, Encountering Emmanuel: A Guided Advent Journal for Prayer and Meditation (Ave Maria Press), is the perfect companion for this Advent season. I’ve only just recently embraced celebrating Advent for its spiritual richness instead of a kind of tailgating for Christmas. It took me a long time to get to this place, and rather than beating myself up for it, or lamenting lost time, I’m being gentle with myself and discovering the joy and wonder of waiting, anticipation, and restoration in the Lord.

Through guided reflection and prayer, readers are invited to find meaning in the chaotic days leading up to Christmas. Each day brings a passage from Scripture that sets the tone, followed by a reflection addressing everything from hope and expectation to the joy and humility of preparing for Christ’s birth. I love journaling, and this guided journal challenges me with prompts that encourage honest and heartfelt responses. If this is the first time you journal in this way, it eases you into this kind of reflective writing.

The layout of the journal is simple. Each entry has space for reflection, intentions, gratitude, or personal prayers. If you’re a veteran of journaling, you might choose to use the prompts for a deep dive in your personal journal, or if you are new to this approach to prayerful meditation, the space available in the book is perfect for bulleted thoughts.

A Thoughtful, Accessible Guide

Too many times, my eyes are set on the final destination, preparing for Christmas that is so far off. Encountering Emmanuel is all about being present, even in moments of uncertainty or longing. The prompts invite us to dwell on those in-between moments, helping readers deepen their sense of anticipation and trust.

The artwork in the book has simple, elegant designs that don’t distract from the message but instead enhance it. It feels like every part of the journal is crafted to keep you centered on the mystery and beauty of the season.

If Advent always seemed to get lost in the Christmas preparations, Encountering Emmanuel offers a much-needed pause, helping you rediscover the holiness of this season in small, simple moments. It’s a gentle reminder that even in the busy-ness of our lives, there’s always time to encounter the Emmanuel.

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