Advent Conspiracy
by Rick McKinley, Chris Seay
& Greg Holder
Reviewed by Dale Lewis
"...powerful, profound and poignant."
When most people reflect
on the Christmas season, they come face-to-face with a season of overwhelming
stress, shopping lists and looming debt.
When most people think of a “conspiracy,” images of corrupt
politicians or the hidden mafia fill their minds. Sadly, the hyper-consumerism
of our culture is, in effect, ruining Christmas. What the authors of Advent
Conspiracy are proposing is a means of changing the world by worshiping
well, spending less, giving more and loving all.
The thesis that Americans definitely have a perverted way to celebrate
the birth of Jesus, (who gave up all of his riches to save the world),
by spending billions of dollars on material items at Christmas is powerful,
profound and poignant. It is written as a passionate plea rather than with
a pointing finger of guilt.
As I read, I was gently convicted and the message resonated within an already
softening heart.
Reading Advent Conspiracy nurtured the process begun by
the Holy Spirit last year. My desire is to give generously and not just
collect more stuff: to give items of great value and not be consumed with
getting. Spending an excessive amount of money to prove my love is a thing
of the past.
This is not a “To Do” list for you to check off just so all
will be well. There are solid suggestions, inspirational stories and biblical
insights. The sole purpose of Advent Conspiracy is to help each of us find
new ways to really celebrate the story of promise, hope and revolutionary
love found in Christ.
The study questions, divided into four sections, are complementary to the
DVD that is available. Proceeds from purchasing a copy of Advent Conspiracy will
support Living Water International.
What if we chose to substitute the consumption mentality of America with
that of the compassion of Christ? What if this year Christmas for you and
yours became a world-changing event? Welcome to Advent Conspiracy!
Buying
Options:
Dale Lewis is the graphic designer/pre-press production artist at the EFCA (The Evangelical Free Church of America) National Office in Minneapolis, MN. Prior to that, he was the publications manager at his alma mater, Northwestern College in St. Paul, MN in the public relations office as well as the adviser to the college’s yearbook. He's directed the Hope Church (Oakdale, MN) adult drama worship team and was the senior editor of the church newsletter. He's also written two collections of poetry, “Whispers of Assurance” and “On Life: Constant Communion Without Ceasing” as well as a devotional entitled “Eternal Education.” He and his family live in Oakdale, Minnesota.
