Want to slow down this Christmas? Read this outstanding Advent devotional

This new Advent devotional invites readers to journey slowly towards Christmas, offering daily reflections and prayers as an antidote to seasonal busyness and a way to rediscover the deeper spiritual meaning of the season

Donkey Roads and Camel Treks: A pilgrim’s guide for Advent (Bible Reading Fellowship) by Gemma Simmonds is a welcome invitation to slow down as Christmas fast approaches – to take the journey to Bethlehem at the pace of a donkey or a camel, to savour each day and enjoy the experience of travelling slowly towards the birth – and the wonder – of the newborn King.

But be warned: slowing down, especially at Christmas, is a seriously counter-cultural act. In the weeks leading up to the big day, there’s so much to do, so much happening – both inside and outside the church. Shopping, planning, travelling, socialising – all this activity can easily crowd out the deep spiritual meaning, the expectation and the wonder…the waiting for the Saviour to be born.

How can we push back against the frantic busyness? How do we carve out quiet space in the sometimes-manic rush to welcome Christ the King?

This accessible ‘pilgrim’s guide’ could be the answer for many. You will need to set aside some time and quiet space – to join the journey to Bethlehem. But in doing so, you’ll see Advent and Christmas through a deeper, richer lens. It may even transform how you experience the season altogether.

Your guide is Roman Catholic sister, broadcaster and spiritual director Gemma Simmonds – a wise and sensitive fellow traveller as you journey together step by