Advent for Exiles: Caroline Cobb’s Debut Devotional Awakens Hope and Deepens Longing for Christ’s Return

Just in time for the most anticipated season of the year, songwriter and storyteller Caroline Cobb has turned her lyrical prowess and theological depth into her first book, Advent for Exiles, released by B&H Publishing. This powerful devotional promises to be a companion for the Advent season, offering 25 soul-stirring devotions to stir up hope in the hearts of those yearning for the fullness of Christmas.

As holiday preparations start to fill our minds, Cobb’s Advent for Exiles steps in to recalibrate our focus on the true essence of the season. Far from being a simple countdown to Christmas, this 25-day journey is an invitation to reflect on the profound spiritual significance of both Christ’s first coming and His awaited return. Cobb, known for her rich songwriting and storytelling, weaves together Scripture, poetry, song lyrics, and reflective exercises, all designed to help readers not just celebrate but also meditate on the deeper truths of the season.

“Advent for Exiles is designed to help you make ready. Its primary aim is to whet your appetite for the coming of Christ,” Cobb explains, echoing the book’s thematic heartbeat. Through its pages, readers are invited to walk with Cobb through the biblical themes of exile and return, which have been foundational in her music.

Cobb’s venture into devotional writing stems from her 2020 album A Seed, A Sunrise, a project that resonated deeply with listeners by exploring the ache and anticipation of Advent, the joy of Christmas, and the hope of Christ’s second coming. Cobb, after diving into the rich and poetic imagery of the prophet Isaiah and meditating on the biblical theme of exile, soon realized she had only begun to scratch the surface. What was initially a supplementary project to her Christmas album quickly blossomed into a full-fledged book.

“I wanted to draw more connections between our current experience and the biblical theme of exile and help readers imaginatively engage in the ache of Advent as a way of expanding their joy at Christ’s coming,” she shares. Advent for Exiles, therefore, is a labor of love — the product of two years of deep reflection, prayer, and theological wrestling.

One of the key strengths of Advent for Exiles is its ability to awaken spiritual hunger through vivid, poetic prose. Cobb draws readers into the familiar Advent narratives but offers them through a fresh lens, one that blends ancient prophecy with contemporary longing. The devotionals are Scripture-rich, and the book is brimming with reflections that aim to satisfy both the intellect and the heart, all while reminding readers that our earthly journey is a kind of exile, and Christmas is the promise of homecoming.

For those who love pairing music with meditation, Cobb has also curated a special Advent playlist on Spotify to accompany the book. Featuring songs from her own albums and others, the music adds a new dimension to the reflective exercises within the book, giving readers an immersive experience of worship and longing.

Whether you’re new to Advent devotionals or a seasoned participant, Advent for Exiles offers a rare gift — a chance to engage deeply with the waiting, the longing, and the joyful anticipation of the season. It’s a profound reminder that as we celebrate Christ’s first arrival, our hearts remain tethered to the promise of His second.

As we enter a world that is increasingly weary, Cobb’s Advent for Exiles is the perfect invitation to pause, reflect, and recalibrate our hope in the only One who truly satisfies. Purchase your copy today and let Cobb’s words lead you into a richer, more meaningful Advent season.