Vance Havner (1901-1986) is remembered as a witty and passionate preacher and prolific writer. Though he attended Bible college he did not graduate, but self-taught the Bible, such that he was a sought-after speaker at Bible colleges and churches. His many articles were published in major religious periodicals.
He wrote twenty books, of which the best seller was Though I Walk Through the Valley, about the death of his beloved wife Sara. His books are still in print.
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The Advent season, lasting four weeks before Christmas, signifies the anticipation of Jesus Christ’s coming. Originating from the Latin “adventus,” meaning “arrival,” it emphasizes service and sacrifice.
updated November 24, 2025
The Advent season is a four-week period before Christmas that celebrates the anticipation and coming of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. The origin of “advent” is from the Latin word adventus, which simply translates as “coming” or “arrival.”
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Frederick Buechner (pronounced BEEK-ner) was an American writer and theologian. He wrote thirty-nine published books as an essential source of inspiration and learning for many readers.
His work encompasses many genres, including fiction, autobiography, essays, sermons, and other nonfiction. Buechner’s writing has often been praised for inspiring readers to see the grace in their daily lives. He was 96 years old when he died in 2022.
“Frederick Buechner has grappled with the nature of pain, grief, and grace ever since his father committed suicide when Buechner was a young boy. He continued that search as a father when his daughter struggled with anorexia.
In this essential collection of essays, including one never before published, Frederick Buechner finds that the God who might seem so silent is ever near. He writes about what it means to be a steward of our pain, and about this grace from God that seems arbitrary and yet draws us to his holiness and care.
Finally he writes about the magic of memory and how it can close up the old wounds with the memories of past goodnesses and graces from God.”
(about the book from Amazon affiliate link)
Exploring the HEART of health
Exploring is an adventure. That word, “adventure,” comes from the same Latin root as “advent.”
I’d love for you to follow this blog. I share information and inspiration to help you turn health challenges into health opportunities.
Add your name to the subscribe box to be notified of new posts by email. Click the link to read the post and browse other content. It’s that simple. No spam.
I enjoy seeing who is new to Watercress Words. When you subscribe, I will visit your blog or website. Thanks and see you next time.
Dr. Aletha
Explore Advent
Many people find using their phones a convenient way to read and meditate on the Bible. And it’s easy to do so with the Dwell Bible App. With Dwell you can listen to and read the Bible and special devotional offerings for Advent, Lent, and throughout the year.
Here are selections for Advent on the Dwell Bible App now.
““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16, ESV Vance Havner Vance Havner (1901-1986) is remembered as a witty and passionate preacher and prolific writer. Though he attended Bible college he did not graduate, but self-taught the Bible, such…
watercress words by Dr Aletha 