David Graybeal takes us on an unexpected scriptural, spiritual and personal journey to Bethlehem. Moving between family memories of Christmas preparation and his own pilgrimage to the Holy Land, he crafts an insightful meditation on the mystery and the mercy of the meaning of Bethlehem. With honesty and humor, we encounter many biblical figures and stories along the way. But the heart of this book is an invitation to move our contemporary lives into the rhythm of the four weeks of Advent.

~Don Saliers, Wm. R. Cannon Professor Emeritus, Candler School of Theology

The author has produced a readable, approachable treatment of his themes that will both educate and nurture his readers. Lucid, probing and accessible, he invites reconsideration of time worn interpretations, blending scholarship with personal insights from his own experiences in the Holy lands. Geared toward his lay audience, Rev. Graybeal takes to heart the spiritual yearnings his congregations. His pastoral concern is always evident. The reader will be well rewarded.

~Rev. Peter J. Miano, Executive Director, The Society for Biblical Studies

In Bethlehem: An Advent Journey, David Graybeal offers a beautifully written and spiritually robust journey through this season of the liturgical year. Weaving together biblical scholarship, personal stories, and a rich theology of Jesus’s incarnation, this book will challenge and support individuals and communities as they prepare for the birth of Christ.

~Rev. Claire Brown, co-editor of Keep Watch With Me: An Advent Reader for Peacemakers

With wit and wisdom, David Graybeal guides us on an Advent journey through Bethlehem. Drawing from his own travels, personal reflections, and deep biblical insight, he opens the door to a richer understanding of the birthplace of Christ.

~Rev. Andrew Lay, pastor of discipleship at Cokesbury UMC, author of Hope for the Holidays: Exploring the Message of Hope in the Christmas Story and Palms, Passion & Resurrection: Holy Week According to Mark’s Gospel.

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David W. Graybeal is an ordained elder in The United Methodist Church. He has served churches in southwestern England and east Tennessee, where he is a member of the Holston Conference. He is an adjunct professor of religion at Tennessee Wesleyan University. He is also the author of Faith in The West Wing: The Portrayal of Religion in a Primetime Presidency (Wipf & Stock, 2023).