The Un-Christmas - by Jackie Hardy (Paperback)

About the Book

Discover how the "UNs" in life-unhappy, unwanted, unworthy-don't diminish faith but are part of the journey. This Advent devotional shows that true joy is found in Jesus, who meets us in our struggles with unwavering love.

Book Synopsis

What are the "UNs" you face in life? These are the emotions and experiences that Christian culture often deems taboo, the feelings we're told are "UN-Christian" to express or even acknowledge. From feeling unhappy and unwanted to being unfiltered and unworthy, these "UNs" are not just seasonal struggles during the holidays but challenges we face throughout every stage of life. In this transformative Advent devotional, you'll explore these difficult emotions and discover that they do not diminish your faith or distance you from God-in fact, they are a part of the human experience that even biblical figures faced.

Through 31 days of reflection, this book will take you on a journey through the lives of key characters from the Christmas story, the lineage of Jesus, and those who played pivotal roles in God's redemptive plan. You'll see how they navigated their own "UNs," often finding strength in the midst of their most vulnerable moments. By walking alongside these figures, you'll gain a deeper understanding that being Christian is not about having everything perfectly together, but about embracing the messy, the difficult, and the "UNs" with faith and trust in Jesus.

This Advent, challenges the myths that have held you back from fully experiencing the depth of God's love. Let this devotional guide you to the truth that true joy is not found in life's milestones or in meeting others' expectations, but in encountering Jesus-the One who doesn't shy away from our "UNs" but meets us right where we are. Discover a faith that is honest, resilient, and rooted in the person of Christ, who brings light into the darkest corners of our lives.

Review Quotes

"The UN-Christmas offers a fresh perspective on Advent, turning the spotlight on life's unexpected struggles. The "UNs"-like the unideal, unfair, and unexpected situations in life. Each chapter introduces a biblical figure who faced one of these UNs, connecting it with modern struggles. Through daily reflections, personal anecdotes, prayers, and interactive prompts, author Jackie Hardy crafts a unique guide for navigating Advent and beyond, emphasizing faith's resilience.

Hardy's storytelling approach is the book's real charm. She introduces each character with an empathetic and personal tone that pulls readers in. Take Joseph, for instance, grappling with an "unideal" situation upon learning of Mary's pregnancy. Hardy's retelling brings Joseph's emotions into focus, drawing parallels to her own experience during the 2008 housing crisis. This personal connection grounds her reflections, making the book feel as if it's written for those who find faith challenging amidst adversity.

Day 19 centers on Tamar, whose story Hardy labels as "unstoppable." Tamar's resilience in the face of injustice is striking. She refuses to be dismissed or marginalized, fighting for her rightful place in her family line. Hardy brings Tamar's bravery to life, depicting her as a woman who defies societal norms to secure justice and recognition. In exploring Tamar's story, Hardy encourages readers to reflect on moments when they, too, might need to push past obstacles or stand firm against mistreatment. It's an empowering chapter that highlights how faith can fuel determination.

It's heartfelt and relatable and offers unique insights into well-known biblical stories, making it a great companion for the Advent season. The only minor drawback is that some readers might wish for more depth in biblical context, but overall, this book would be an inspiring read for anyone seeking a new way to experience Advent or needing reminders that they're not alone in their "UN" moments.

Un-Christmas: An Advent for Navigating Life's UNs is ideal for anyone who feels overwhelmed by life's uncertainties and could use a relatable faith-based guide. Hardy's candid reflections and interactive exercises make it a companion through the tougher seasons of faith.

-Literary Titan

★★★★

"This has been one of my favorite reads so far, as I'm personally experiencing a major life transition that's full of "UNs", and it isn't even the holidays yet!"

"I liked the way you challenged the reader with subtle questions that they could ponder on as it related to the character, God and/or themselves personally."

"What you have here is powerful, inspirational, and sure to make a difference in many lives of those who read this devotional"

"This devotional is powerful and made quite an impact on me"

"After reading this devotional, I am very much encouraged to continue my journey"

"This devotional was just the dose of "sunshine" I needed"