Description
Each Advent, we are invited to slow down and pay attention — not just to Christmas on the horizon, but to Christ’s presence with us here and now. Draw Near, written by Outlook Editor/Publisher Teri McDowell Ott, is a daily devotional that helps you do just that.
Following the traditional Advent themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, each week offers Scripture, reflection, prayer and a simple practice to guide your days. Alongside these reflections, you’ll find artwork from children — tender and imaginative interpretations of sacred texts. Their drawings serve not just as illustration, but illumination, reminding us what it means to receive the kingdom like a child.
These digital devotions can be emailed out to your congregation, printed as a complete booklet or added to the Sunday bulletin each week. We ask that you do not post the material publicly outside of your congregation — on your website or social media, for instance.
Inside this devotional, you’ll find:
- Daily readings from Scripture to center your days.
- Reflections that connect ancient words to today’s life and longings.
- Prayers to ground your spirit in hope, peace, joy and love.
- Reflection prompts that invite you into simple practices of attention, gratitude and wonder.
- Children’s artwork that adds fresh, honest perspective to the season’s sacred texts.
Want to see for yourself? Read our sample.
Why choose Draw Near?
Whether you’re lighting candles with family, journaling quietly in the early morning, or gathering with a small group, this devotional offers gentle, accessible guidance. It begins not with sentimentality, but with summons: Stay awake. Pay attention. Notice God’s presence.
Each page draws you closer to the holy mystery of Advent — through beauty, story, memory and prayer.
Product details
- Format: Digital download (PDF)
- Length: Daily devotions beginning on the first Sunday of Advent and ending on Christmas Day
- Updated: 2026 with calendar-neutral language for year-after-year use
Sample
Are you curious about the product? Read our sample.
Digital devotions? What do I get when I order?
You are purchasing a digital copy of this devotion booklet.
We will offer the devotions to you in multiple forms so that you can use the version that works best for your congregation. Your purchase will include a full .pdf book of devotions and individual files for each week of Advent. You can email the devotions to your congregation, or you can print as many as you need. You have the option to print a half-page or full-page booklet. The full-page booklet has a slightly larger font.
Questions?
Email [email protected] with questions and/or for presbytery pricing.
