Not a Silent Night: Mary Looks Back to Bethlehem
This Advent study invites readers to experience the Christmas story through the eyes of Mary, mother of Jesus. Author Adam Hamilton guides participants through a unique journey that begins at the end—with Mary at the crucifixion and resurrection—then travels backward through Jesus' ministry, and concludes at the beginning with the birth of Christ in Bethlehem.
Five-Session Advent Study Format
The book is structured as a 5-week study perfect for small groups, Sunday school classes, or personal devotional time during the Advent season:
- Beginning with the End
- The Piercing of Mary's Soul
- Amazed, Astounded, and Astonished
- Mary, Full of Grace
- It Was Not a Silent Night
A Mother's Perspective on the Savior
Hamilton presents Jesus from Mary's unique viewpoint—as a mother proud of her son, in awe of his divine gifts and mission, yet guided by her deep personal love for him as her child. This perspective offers fresh insights into familiar Gospel narratives, helping readers connect emotionally and spiritually with the Christmas story in new ways.
The study explores Mary's journey from witnessing her son's ministry and miracles to standing at the foot of the cross, and finally reflecting back on that silent night in Bethlehem when she held her newborn baby, unaware of all that was to come.
About Author Adam Hamilton
Adam Hamilton serves as senior pastor of The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, recognized by The Church Report as the most influential mainline church in America. Hamilton preached at the National Prayer Service during the 2013 presidential inauguration festivities.
He is a best-selling and award-winning author of numerous titles published by Abingdon Press, including The Walk, Simon Peter, Creed, Half Truths, The Call, The Journey, The Way, 24 Hours That Changed the World, John, Revival, Enough, When Christians Get It Wrong, and Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White.
Ideal for Churches and Small Groups
This paperback resource works well for women's ministry programs, adult education classes, church-wide Advent campaigns, and individual Christmas devotional reading. The accessible writing style and structured format make it suitable for groups of varying biblical knowledge levels.
Published by Abingdon Press in September 2019, this study offers congregations and individuals a meaningful way to prepare their hearts for Christmas by walking alongside Mary through her extraordinary story.
