Judith Dennis reviews With Heart and Soul and Voice by Tim Chester.
This collection of meditations on the Christmas story contributes further to the trend of books introducing those in the non-conformist tradition to the Anglican church calendar.
The author bases his thoughts on the Divine Office which furnishes prayers for three occasions each day: the songs of Mary, Zechariah and Simeon are used, to which he adds the Angels’ song, all from the opening chapters of Luke’s Gospel.
It is written in an accessible, conversational style, and immerses the reader in the sweep of the Biblical story of God’s purposes in the world. The aim is to show the historical continuity of the story from OT prophecy through to culmination, and is underscored by quotations from the writings and, in some cases, hymns of people throughout history (though, owing to a typo, C.H. Spurgeon becomes a contemporary of some of us at least).
The reader is challenged to see him/ herself caught up in this amazing story. It instructs the reader in the character of God, demonstrating His love, mercy and grace (supremely in the person of Jesus) and highlights the way God often works in ways that are counter-intuitive to fallen humans. It is thought-provoking and challenging as well as inspiring and comforting. It roots the individual believer in the context of all believers who have ever lived, providing a dimension which is rarely found today.
This will be of interest and benefit to believers of all ages and stages of maturity. It could also be given with confidence to anyone who is seeking to understand the gospel and piece all the elements of the story together. This book deals with the content of songs and, though it is not possible for a book written in prose to be sung, there are many ideas here which would lend themselves to being set to music for the edifying and joy of God’s people.
WITH HEART AND SOUL AND VOICE: Advent Devotions on the First Christmas Songs
By Tim Chester
The Good Book Co. 141 pages. £8.99
ISBN 978 1 802 543 223
