Jesus famously asked hundreds of questions to people throughout the gospels. Why? Especially when He could have known their answers already? Especially when He could have given them all of the answers? Why did He instead show up with the questions? Why did He so often ask rather than tell?

Perhaps because Jesus didn’t want information, He wanted conversation. He wanted a two-way dialogue not a one-way monologue. Questions are for connection. Jesus asks, not to know answers but to know us.

“Do you want to be well?” “Why are you so afraid?” “Who do you say I am?” “Do you love me?” Each of those questions, and many more, sparked the most beautiful interactions between Jesus and His friends. And I believe He is still curiously calling us into these kinds of conversations today.

If you don’t need more information about Jesus, but simply crave connection with Jesus, then these prayer exercises are for you. The aim for these 7 meditations is to guide you into a listening posture and ultimately to help you cultivate a deeper friendship with Christ.

Consider these pages your thoughtful guide, drawing you closer to the presence of Christ.

In this collection, you will find poems to ponder, passages of Scripture to read slowly, and a prompt to reflect upon quietly or to discuss with others.

Beginning with A Table Blessing for your holiday gatherings, and concluding with Let There Be Light for Christmas Eve, these 15 meditations can be used throughout the Advent season over your family meals, during your own peaceful moments alone, or as part of your church and community events.

These beautifully designed 62-page guides could make the perfect gifts for your volunteers or coworkers, as stocking stuffers, or for that gift exchange with your group of friends.