DEVOTIONS, MONICA YEARSLEY, Simon of Cyrene

SIMON OF CYRENE – Monica Yearsley

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Simon of Cyrene

I did not wake up that morning expecting to carry a cross.

I was just passing through.
Just another man in the crowd.
Just another face in Jerusalem.
Just another pilgrim with dust on my sandals and plans for the day.

I had children to think about.
Work waiting.
Responsibilities.
A life that felt ordinary.

And then Rome interrupted me.
The soldiers’ hands were rough.
They did not ask.
They seized me.
“You. Carry it.”

I remember the weight of it before it ever touched my shoulders.
The splintered wood.
The metallic scent of blood already soaked into it.
The murmuring crowd.
The sound of women weeping.
The hatred.
The chaos.

And then I saw Him.
His back was shredded and torn open.
His face barely recognizable.
Blood matted in His hair.
A crown of thorns pressed into skin.

He was trying to carry it.
Trying.
But His body was giving out under the weight.

And suddenly, that weight became mine.
I wanted to protest.
I wanted to say, “This is not my fight. I have done nothing wrong. I do not belong in this story.”

But before the words could leave my mouth, the wood pressed into my shoulder.
The cross was heavier than I imagined.
It dug into flesh.
It scraped bone.
It pressed the air out of my lungs.

And I was angry.
Angry at the soldiers.
Angry at the crowd.
Angry that my day had been interrupted by someone else’s suffering.

But then I looked at Him.
He was close enough that I could hear His breathing.
Labored.
Shallow.
Determined.

His eyes met mine.
There was no resentment there.
No shame.
No apology.
Only love.

Love?
For me?
I was the one forced to carry His cross.
I was the unwilling participant.
The drafted helper.
The man caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.
And yet when His eyes met mine, it felt like I had been chosen.

Chosen.
I thought I was helping Him.
But somewhere between Pilate’s Hall and Golgotha, I realized something terrifying and holy, He was letting me carry it.

The weight on my shoulders was wood and blood and splinters.

But the weight on His shoulders was the sin of the world.
My burden was temporary.
His was eternal.

And still…
He let me step into it.
He let me feel the heaviness.
He let me taste the cost.
He let me walk beside Him in the suffering.

I had planned to simply observe Passover.
Instead, I carried the Lamb.

I did not know then that this cross would not be the end.
I did not know that three days later the stone would roll.
That death would bow.
That the One I walked beside would rise in glory.

All I knew was the weight.
And sometimes I think about that day when my life was interrupted by obedience I did not volunteer for.

I have come to understand something since then.
Some crosses we do not choose.
Some burdens find us.
Some callings feel forced upon our shoulders by circumstances we did not pray for.
But if you look closely—
He is always near.

Breathing.
Bleeding.
Walking beside you.
And what feels like punishment
may be proximity.
What feels like interruption
may be invitation.
What feels like inconvenience
may be initiation into glory.

I thought Rome conscripted me.
But Heaven had written my name into the story long before that morning.
I carried His cross for a mile.
He carried mine for eternity.
And now when I feel the weight of obedience,
when I feel pressed into service I did not plan,
when suffering brushes up against my life without permission—

I remember His eyes.
And I no longer ask,
“Why me?”
I whisper instead,
“Let me be close enough to feel the weight.”

Monica Yearsley

DEVOTIONS, JESUS CHRIST, MONICA YEARSLEY

WHEN JESUS CAME – Monica Yearsley

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When Jesus came to walk amongst His beloved creation He knew exactly where His steps would lead, He knew each misunderstanding He would face, each heart-ache, each moment of hunger, each pain – He knew it all !
He knew that He would be extremely disappointed and that shouts of “Hosanna” (Save us, Saviour) would suddenly change within days. He was acutely aware that most of His friends who had been with Him during the good times, when baskets of food overflowed and there were so many crowds that He had been pushed onto a boat to find space.
With those momentous steps soon approaching, His mind must have reminded Himself that almost all of those “followers” would abandon Him, when He faced His most difficult moments, that even His closest friends wouldn’t be able to stand with Him, when His heart and mind were in unbelievable turmoil and utter distress and, at the time it appeared He was at His lowest and weakest, on His knees crying out to see if the cup of suffering could pass, at that moment when it appeared things couldn’t get worse, He would be betrayed by a kiss given by a chosen friend.

He knew that those who should have stood up for justice would be corrupted by power and greed. He had perfect foresight, that those who should have spoken truth would rather pour scorn on the innocent. With certainty, He knew that those in authority would be too frightened to use their power correctly because of fear of losing that power. Finally, those who had, or would have, benefited from His every quietly spoken word and each gentle action in their lives would suddenly shout, yell and scream and would perpetuate such an apparent hindrance of His plans ….

He knew every disappointment that would come
He knew His true strength of Holy, forgiving Love, would apparently be used against Him
He knew every harsh word that would be spoken by those who chose to hate Him
He knew every unkind whisper that would leave the lips of a friend
He knew every heart-ache
He knew every agonising pain
He knew the moment He would surrender everything in His giving of that final breath.

He knew.

And yet, He carried that knowledge through every day of healing, of teaching, of preaching, of sharing love, laughter and joy with those who would break His heart, but He never let that knowledge stop Him from giving.

God is gracious to us. We don’t know our whole story in advance (sometimes we still don’t know what happened even with hindsight!)
Some days are difficult.
Some weeks drag on
Some months (and even years) seem to see different problems pile up, one on top of another, until we feel like we are on our knees – all energy apparently completely spent…..

The same God who endured pain, suffering, betrayal, harsh words from family, friends and foe, who innocently bore the unfair burden placed upon Himself, chooses to still walk with us knowing what will happen so that we can have His strength when we are weak.
We can be filled to overflowing with His love whenever we encounter hatred.
We can embody His Peace when the world is in chaos and breaks down in violence (or words as well as action)
We can be immersed by His everlasting Joy when our hearts are broken
We can be cradled by His Gentleness amidst the whirlwind of this harsh world
We can be filled with His kindness when we face cruelty
We can be armoured in His goodness in this wicked world where evil often seems to hold a throne
We have Him within us to shine forth with self-control, humility, honesty and integrity, when selfishness, pride, deception, corruption, deceit and hypocrisy try to darken the whole world.

In the utter darkness of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, the Light of the World shines out even brighter.

We often face our own “Maundy Thursday” when we face the loss of friends (through death or betrayal), when our burden is too heavy and even our friends fall silent…
We often face a “Good Friday” that seems to hold everything bad (injustice, brutality, humiliation and unbearable physical and mental pain).

Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

In the whole of eternity, the words and actions of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday will be glorified and magnified. Known from the beginning of time, when sin entered a perfect world and a solution was formulated. Known. In a kingdom where every tear is wiped away, every injury and disability vanishes….one body alone remains scarred….the scars on the hands and feet of Jesus are eternally magnified and glorified.

The very worst becomes the very best.

So when we wish we knew what was going to happen, when we feel like we are too weak to face this current situation or to continue enduring the unfair, harsh words and actions of others, let us pause for a moment.
Would it really be easier to know every difficulty we will face before things work out ? Would we really want to know everything in advance – or would we feel life became boring with everything laid out like a book we’d already read?
Sometimes it might be better to simply take hold of the hand of the person who does know what is coming and who also knows without a doubt that, with His help, we will come through to the other side of the darkest valleys or loneliness mountain peak, and we should simply let Him guide, comfort and protect us with His shepherd’s rod and staff until we find our green pastures and still water.

Monica Yearsley

GRAFTED PAGE PRESS, JOANNA DAVIDSON POLITANO

THE LIFE SHE FORGOT – Joanna Davidson Politano

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Set in the windswept Cornish Coast, “The Life She Forgot” by Joanna Davidson Politano is a sweeping dual-timeline novel of identity, memory, and the love that endures, even when everything else has fallen by the wayside. Here is a captivating tale of a man named William who is intrigued by a woman captured on canvas — Merryn Dunn. She holds mysterious secrets that could unravel everything William thinks he knows. She might even hold the key to the redemption he dares to hope for.

Joanna Davidson Politano gave me an advance reader copy of this book. She did not require me to write a review. She understands the reviewer’s right to choose, and she stands by her reviewers. Loyal and faithful, Joanna writes in deep sincerity, opening her heart to her readers. This is why I never miss a chance to review her books, all of which I love with all my heart. Joanna’s stories capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives, inspire me deeply and teach me invaluable lessons for life.

PLOUGH PUBLISHING HOUSE

BREAD AND WINE

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“Bread and Wine” are ninety-six daily truth-revealing reflections for Lent and Easter, plumbing the passionate depths of the soul. The season of Lent leads up to Easter, a soul-searching time for self-denial, a time for meditating on the true state of the soul. This time-tested collection of reflections deepens our faith like never before, culled from twenty centuries, featuring the best classic and contemporary Christian writers, through the contemplative seasons of Lent, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Pentecost.

Here is a prolific treasure-trove from Christianity’s classical authors, from the early church fathers and medieval mystics to modern saints, living authors, scholars, activists and literary giants, spanning the Greek East to the Latin West, in a brave and bold clarion call, energizing and revitalizing—exactly what we need in a sinful world living without grace.

Here are inspiring readings from leading literary and spiritual writers, aesthetically-rich writing, spanning two millennia in a glorious, magnificent cloud of witnesses, striking a prophetic and poetic chord to beckon us back to the Gospel, to conquer death and encourage us to live as true “Easter people”.

ALEYAMMA JACOB

PRAYER IS LIFE – by Aleyamma Jacob

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Prayer is life,
Life is prayer.
Prayer gives me the strength to face all the problems of this world.
Prayer brightens my day,
It gives me sound sleep at night.
I abide in my Saviour,
And humbly I rest. Prayer makes me strong to defeat Satan. Prayer continues unceasingly. It does not stop in the morning or at noon.
It goes on and on,
until sleep shuts my eyes.
O, that blessed life of prayer,
I long for the sweet life.

Aleyamma Jacob

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THE GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT

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The Greatest Achievement

“What did you achieve today?”

“Nothing… I just walked with Jesus, talked with Him, and enjoyed His presence.”

The world might call that nothing —
but heaven calls it everything.

We often think achievement means doing more, producing more, being more.

But Jesus reminds us… only one thing is truly necessary.

Mary knew it.
While others were busy serving, she simply sat at His feet —
listening, loving, resting in His presence.

And Jesus said,

“Mary has chosen the good portion,
and it will not be taken away from her.” — Luke 10:42

So if today you chose to walk with Jesus,
to talk with Him,
to simply be with Him —
then, my friend, you’ve already achieved the greatest thing of all.

Source: Internet

ALEYAMMA JACOB, ALEYAMMA JACOB - DEVOTIONS, POETRY, SHORT STORIES

To My Mother, Aleyamma Jacob

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To My Mother With Love,

You entered into glory on 26 October 2025 at 8.30 am.

Our loss is your gain.

Enjoy the joys of heaven while we miss your presence with us.

Every second that passes
brings us nearer to you.

We shall be reunited in God’s time.

Our only comfort is that you were happy because we were with you always. You were never alone.

Your daughter,

Miriam

—

MIRIAM JACOB,

ANOINTED FOR CHRIST CHURCH MINISTRIES

SOURCEBOOKS LANDMARK, TRACEY ENERSON WOOD, WRIGHT BROTHERS

KATHERINE, THE WRIGHT SISTER – Tracy Enerson Wood

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Katherine Wright Haskell was aviation’s unsung heroine, admired for her exemplary courage, outstanding achievements and noble qualities. She was a true feminist heroine at heart. This unique story is written with heart and verve. It is a heartfelt tribute to a  trailblazer, a gripping tale of unflinching determination and steadfast perseverance. Pioneers of the aviation industry, Katherine’s brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first controlled, sustained flight of an engine-powered, heavier-than-air aircraft with the Wright Flyer on December 17, 1903. Katherine was actively involved in everything they did. In this captivating novel, Tracey Enerson Wood honours her rich and varied legacy, keeping it alive and vibrant for centuries to come. It is heartbreaking to read of the tragedy that separated Orville and Katherine, bringing them together only in the face of death. This is the sad end to a life well-lived for others.

Katherine Wright in 1898 as a graduate of Oberlin College (Credit:Public Domain/Wright State University)

REVELL, BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP, SUZANNE WOODS FISHER

LOVE ON A WHIM – Suzanne Woods Fisher

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In “Love on a Whim” by Suzanne Woods Fisher, faith, forgiveness and second chances unite in a perfectly delightful blend to produce a profound literary treasure that will enrich your intellect and inspire your heart deeply. This Cape Cod creamery story is exactly like the exquisitely iced cake on its lovely cover, each chapter an expertly lined layer of delicate sweetness. In a turbulent story that defies all logic, life serves up unpredictable flavors in all imaginable colors. This is a unique tale of self-discovery and redemption, with past mistakes offering comfort and solace in forgiveness. Through self-revealing talks and quiet, contemplative reflection, Suzanne Woods Fisher delicately weaves the eternal themes of faith, hope and love into the story, nourishing readers with the awesome, life-transforming power of healing. This delightful novel is written with tender, heartmoving warmth and authentic genuineness, inspiring readers to savor each moment with pure joy. Like a perfectly baked, delectable pastry confection, “Love on a Whim” offers a satisfying blend of loving humor and heartfelt moments, rendering readers with a truly unforgettable reading experience. With its uniquely lovable and highly relatable characters, this book will delight readers of all ages. Its irresistible allure beckons readers invitingly. This enchanting novel is a captivating experience of pure God-given love, beautiful second chances and soul-inspiring Christian faith in a redemptive world of love, joy and peace. As Brynnn faces a most difficult choice that tests the ultimate depths, borders and limits of her strength, she discovers the transformative power of love and healing. Suzanne Woods Fisher delights readers with this heartwarming story of familial love, restorative friendship and impulsive decisions on an altered scale. You will definitely want your own copy. Get it fast!

ANN H. GABHART, BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP - REVELL

THE SONG OF SOURWOOD MOUNTAIN – Ann H. Gabhart

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“The Song of Sourwood Mountain” by Ann H. Gabhart, beckons us invitingly, with a lilting melody, to a captivating tale, inextricably linking faith, love, and the majestic beauty of the mountains in an awesome tapestry. This heartwarming story grips us poignantly, its soul-inspiring melody echoing through the hidden recesses of our hearts. Ann H. Gabhart has an incredible gift for crafting characters whose lives are intricately woven into the very fabric of the novel. Mira Dean is faced with an unexpected proposal. Gordon Brown is a man solely led by faith, trusting in God’s well-ordained plans for His beloved children. This unique story unfolds with genuine tenderness. The large-as-life characters capture our hearts with their fiery courage and brave resilience in the face of adversity, adding an eternal depth and exquisite warmth to the story. Throughout the novel pulsates rhythmically the heart-throbbing theme of trusting in God and His awesome plans for our lives. Each person’s life, filled with intermittent interludes of joys and sorrows, unfolds in perfect harmony, creating a glorious symphony of faith, hope and love. The Song of Sourwood Mountain plaintively lingers in our hearts, giving us a deeper appreciation for the heart-moving symphonies of life’s precious joys and heart-numbing sorrows. This is a soul-stirring journey through the passionate heart of a novel that beckons readers invitingly. Get your own copy quickly!

DON FREEMAN, PLOUGH PUBLISHING HOUSE

COME AGAIN, PELICAN – Don Freeman

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“Come Again, Pelican” by Don Freeman is a beautifully illustrated classic picture book, set on the high, rolling sand dunes on a windswept beach. It is the charming story of a Pelican and a dear little boy named Ty. The colorful, eye-catching pages create the gusty ambience of a windswept beach, with sandpipers digging for sand crabs. It brings you close to the heart of nature, set deep within the heart of a book. It is full of space, with the display of light on sky and sea delightfully captured in fascinating color.

This classic picture book celebrates a child’s deep bond with the natural world. The white sand dunes by the ocean, and the shining colors of sky and sea tell the delightful story of the ocean’s tidal waves and their impact on one excited little fisherboy in the delightful company of nature’s best fisher pelican. The story is told with simplicity, humor, and originality. The inspiring illustrations and original artwork blend into the text to make every little child’s dream come true. Get your own copy quickly!

BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP - REVELL, JOANNA DAVIDSON POLITANO

THE ELUSIVE TRUTH OF LILY TEMPLE – Joanna Davidson Politano

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“The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple” by Joanna Davidson Politano, features the silent-film actress, a smart, witty woman with a shadowy past. In the world of Edwardian England in 1903, a whimsical, multi-layered tale lies delicately sandwiched somewhere between the true world of reality and the imaginary world of make-believe. This exquisitely crafted work of Christian literary fiction explores the extraordinary relationship between the human nature and the eternal spirit as the reader patiently navigates through all the mysterious highways and byways of life, trying to discover its true meaning. As in all her inspiring books, Joanna captures the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives and highlights them in her own unique, inimitable style. Her inspired writing catches the reader’s attention from start to finish. It compels us to want to read every single book of hers. You will want to get your own copy. Happy reading!

Miriam Jacob

BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP - REVELL, IRENE HANNON

SANDCASTLE INN – Irene Hannon

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“Sandcastle Inn” by Irene Hannon is an inspiring story of restorative love with highly relatable, large-as-life characters, simply because they are flawed people like everyone else. The main characters, Vienna and Matt have their own unique problems. Can a joint project to revive Sandcastle Inn help to solve them? God works through all things in His own unique way as Matt and Vienna work jointly together to restore the struggling Inn. The Lord graciously allows their souls to be restored as they draw closer to Him, paving the way for them to root their relationship in Christ, with a firm and stable footing. I highly recommend this beautiful book!

Miriam Jacob

LIFE REVISION, MIRIAM JACOB

APPETIZING AROMA – Miriam Jacob

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Cooking nourishes the soul in a most inspiring way. As I stand in the kitchen, ready to cook the most delicious meals, I feel a great sense of release within me, an exhilaration and exuberance that can only be felt, not explained. A divine peace and serene calmness wells up from the deepest recesses of my heart, a knowing that is my very own, stamped with God’s imprint. There is a personal touch here, a practical application that has to be tasted to be believed. The good things in life come naturally in God’s time, those divine moments in which time stands still, where the divine things of God touch humanity, a soul connection, a moment of nourishment, and warmth that is out of this world. Cooking feeds the body, mind, and soul. It boosts creativity and brings joy.

I am not flustered in the kitchen. I am never in a flurry or a hurry. I cook quietly in confident faith, knowing that my Father will meet all my culinary needs. I am confident in Him. Martha was “cumbered about much serving” (Luke 10:38-42) but Mary has chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Trust His sufficiency. “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8). I pray to the Lord of Pots and Pans for efficiency and peace of heart and mind as I prepare to cook a meal and wash up the plates. I have Mary’s mind to worship God and Martha’s hands to serve with devotion.

Lord, fill the kitchen with Your love, and calm me with Your peace. Accept my humble service, that I do for love of family, for Your honour and glory. Amen.

– Miriam Jacob

First published in LIFE REVISION Ezine (March – April 2024)

LOUISE REDDEN

THE WEIGHT OF A PRAYER – Louise Redden

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Louise Redden, a poorly dressed lady with a look of defeat on her face, walked into a grocery store.
She approached the owner of the store in a most humble manner and asked if he would let her charge a few groceries.

She softly explained that her husband was very ill and unable to work, they had seven children and they needed food.

John Longhouse, the grocer, scoffed at her and requested that she leave his store at once.

Visualizing the family needs, she said: ‘Please, sir! I will bring you the money just as soon as I can.’

John told her he could not give her credit, since she did not have a charge account at his store.
Standing beside the counter was a customer who overheard the conversation between the two. The customer walked forward and told the grocer that he would stand good for whatever she needed for her family. The grocer said in a very reluctant voice, ‘Do you have a grocery list?’

Louise replied, ‘Yes sir.’ ‘O.K’ he said, ‘put your grocery list on the scales and whatever your grocery list weighs, I will give you that amount in groceries.’

Louise hesitated a moment with a bowed head, then she reached into her purse and took out a piece of paper and scribbled something on it. She then laid the piece of paper on the scale carefully with her head still bowed.

The eyes of the grocer and the customer showed amazement when the scales went down and stayed down..

The grocer, staring at the scales, turned slowly to the customer and said begrudgingly, ‘I can’t believe it.’

The customer smiled and the grocer started putting the groceries on the other side of the scales. The scale did not balance so he continued to put more and more groceries on them until the scales would hold no more.

The grocer stood there in utter disgust. Finally, he grabbed the piece of paper from the scales and looked at it with greater amazement.

It was not a grocery list, it was a prayer, which said:

‘Dear Lord, you know my needs and I am leaving this in your hands.’

The grocer gave her the groceries that he had gathered and stood in stunned silence.

Louise thanked him and left the store. The other customer handed a hundred-dollar bill to the grocer and said; ‘It was worth every penny of it. Only God knows how much a prayer weighs.’

Source: Internet

☘💦☘💦☘💦☘💦

HARPERCOLLINS CHRISTIAN PUBLISHING, Rachel Fordham, THOMAS NELSON

BEYOND IVY WALLS – Rachel Fordham

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In “Beyond Ivy Walls” by Rachel Fordham, sacrificial love is honored to the utmost, to the point where it hurts the most, when life leaves you with excruciatingly painful experiences that leave permanent scars upon your heart. This poignant, deeply moving book is about healing, acceptance and forgiveness. Rachel Fordham dives deep into the human experience to write heartmoving stories with warmth and grace, involving memorable, unforgettable characters, who become an integral part of our hearts and lives, appealing to our intellects and emotions in a way that causes us to think about everything that is praiseworthy, honorable and good. “Beyond Ivy Walls” has a compelling, captivating title that captured my attention instantly, making me want to know urgently what went on behind the scenes. When I received a complimentary review copy from the publishers, I excitedly hung onto every single word and I could not put it down. Readers, you won’t be disappointed. Get your own copy right away and step into a fascinating world that will keep you there forever!

Miriam Jacob

APRIL W. GARDINER, CELEBRATE LIT PUBLISHING

A HOPE FULFILLED – April W. Gardiner

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“A Hope Fulfilled” by April W. Gardner is a Biblical historical fiction novel in which the book of Obadiah spring vividly to life. Tikvah boldly and bravely places her hope in God’s deliverance, according to Obadiah’s prophecy and fervently longs for the invigorating fresh air of freedom and the right to return to her own home. Action-packed drama is skillfully interwoven into this historic storyline. Here is a profound picture of the evil and difficult times that people had to endure. Tikvah represents the hope, endurance and faith in God’s promises even in the midst of the most terrible times, distressing situations and unpredictable circumstances.

BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP - REVELL, JILL EILEEN SMITH

THE ARK AND THE DOVE – Jill Eileen Smith

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“The Ark and the Dove” by Jill Eileen Smith is the stirring story of Noah’s wife and a stunning way to experience the Great Flood as one never has before. Zara and Noah walk with the Creator all their lives in a wicked and defiant world, deeply committed to raising their three sons to follow in their footsteps. When the Creator tells Noah to build an ark to escape God’s wrath against the evil sins of all the people on earth, Zara steps out boldly and bravely in faith, an extremely significant course of action since everyone else, with the exception of her husband, her sons, and their wives are destined to be doomed to destruction. When the animals are finally shut up inside the ark, two by two,  Zara, Noah and their family embark on a mind-boggling adventure that tests their patience and their faith to the utmost, as they bravely await God’s deliverance and the appearance of dry land. In Jill Eileen Smith’s  fiction, women from the margins of biblical history are dramatically brought to life as our imagination swings into full gear. In this stunning book, we view the Great Flood through the eyes of Zara, Noah’s wife. Come and experience this unimaginable adventure as the action unravels in all its thrilling excitement. This is a reading experience like no other, to illuminate our vision of the Great Flood that wipes out the evil world, the Ark that protects Noah’s family and the Dove that is the harbinger of deliverance.

Miriam Jacob

LIFE REVISION Ezine, MIRIAM JACOB

KITCHEN DIARY – Miriam Jacob

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Photo courtesy: UnSplash, Jason Briscoe

Cooking honours the Creator. It is a holy act to glorify God. It has a nutritional and a theological purpose, to feed the body and enrich the soul. God’s glory is displayed in the kitchen, as healthy food is graciously prepared for His glory. The cook has a holy job, to create healthy food to nourish our bodies, with ingredients provided by God, who sustains us with the living Word of his power to replenish our souls. The kitchen is the health hub of the house, the core of the home, the most important office on earth. Our very survival and existence depends on it.

I am in the kitchen, to do the cooking for the day. I cook in the kitchen for the love of God and family. As I cook, I sense the presence of God in a soothing peace that calms me. Creativity is in the kitchen. The God of heaven and earth is the God of the pots and pans, too. I cook with the ingredients He gives me. God guides me as I pray for the grace to prepare tasty, nourishing food. The crackling sounds of the pots and pans make me feel as if they are clapping for God. The appetizing aroma of the kitchen is like incense in God’s kingdom. The family for whom the food is deliciously prepared, are praising and clapping for God’s glory. All family members join together for the heavenly manna which God provides every day.

The familiar culinary sights and sounds in the kitchen inspire me as the fish cooks with its rich flavour. And when the vegetable pieces boil and blend together, delicious stew emerges with its healthy taste and fragrant aroma. The love of God stokes like a roaring fire within me as I cook at the stove and experience God’s presence powerfully in the kitchen. When I cook and write about my culinary experiences with prayer, the cooking becomes a great expedition. I worship God in the kitchen as I cook and serve my family wholeheartedly. The Lord shows me how to use the kitchen as a creative place. God takes me in hand and leads me, step by step, through the cooking.

Cooking is an act of worship to the Lord, a profound way to serve Him in creative action. There are no struggles for me in the kitchen. Only God’s loving help and guidance is here. Life is easiest in the kitchen for me. This is where I do worshipful work, cooking food for the family and praying to the God who loves me. The kitchen is my office, my lab, my work place, my prayer room. I serve God through cooking for His glory and honour. Cooking is an act of worship to the Creator, who created all the ingredients used in cooking.

I exercise my faith in the kitchen, among the pots and pans, in the midst of cooking fish and chopping vegetables. God gives me strength to do the daily chores, making the seemingly mundane tasks come alive. I see God in all things, big and small. Jesus is what my heart needs, right here in the kitchen. He guides my hand as I cook for His glory.

© Miriam Jacob

Life Revision Ezine, January-February 2024

SONG OF SONGS, WORD FOR WORD BIBLE COMICS

THE SONG OF SONGS Word For Word Bible Comic

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Word for Word Bible Comics presents The Song of Songs: Word for Word Bible Comic, a delightful 64-page graphic novel that features every word of the Old Testament Scripture word-for-word. It is a unique book with eye-catching images that are accurate to the historical, ethnic and cultural setting to make it a true representation of the original Bible story. A historically accurate and unabridged graphic novel of the Bible with a high view of Holy Scripture, it even exudes an authentic ambience of love that moves the heart deeply, to captivate the vivid imagination of the modern reader of today’s fast-moving world.

PLOUGH PUBLISHING HOUSE

CALLED TO COMMUNITY – The Life Jesus Wants for His People

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“Called To Community : The Life Jesus Wants For His People,” edited by Charles Moore, is the perfect answer to all the loneliness in the world, in an age of hi-tech internet connectivity, when individual lives are sadly even more isolated and fragmented than ever before. The answer lies in the hearts of God’s people who respond wholeheartedly to Christ’s call to share their lives more fully with others, discovering the rich, meaningful life that Jesus gives everyone, restoring the Church to its original calling: to be a united Christian community. The selections in this book are by pioneers in community life, who have nurtured a Christian community through a sustained period of time. I highly recommend this deeply inspiring book to all people who aspire to live meaningful lives, reaching out to others with the life-transforming love of Christ.

BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP - REVELL, Sara Brunsvold

THE DIVINE PROVERB OF STREUSEL – Sara Brunsvold

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“The Divine Proverb of Streusel” by Sara Brunsvold is an utterly satisfying novel with an unusual thought-provoking title, delightfully multilayered with heartache, heartbreak and healing, forgiveness and love of family, interspersed with brilliant nuggets of wisdom. When Nikki Werner tries to retrieve her shattered present at her uncle’s farm, the past confronts her in a strange way, through an old notebook found among her grandmother’s possessions, filled with handwritten German recipes and wise sayings from the book of Proverbs. By connecting to her heritage, Nikki learns how her ancestral women endured – through their proficient culinary prowess, exceptional cooking skills and a healthy dose of faith thrown in for good measure. This is a beautiful faith-filled novel, a tale so honest that simple times and simple truth stand out in glaring light. With its intricate details and memorable, highly relatable characters, it is a veritable feast to rediscover one’s illustrious heritage and reconcile the most fragmented relationships. Sara Brunsvold pens a tale so lavishly flavored with the enlightening wisdom of past generations and life’s valuable lessons learnt in the crucible of suffering.

BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP - REVELL, SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY

HER SECRET HOPE – Shelley Shepard Gray

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“Her Secret Hope” by Shelley Shepard Gray is the inspiring and exhilarating story of how Lilly Kurtz left home to find herself but found true love instead. She wants to make a fresh start, without a past and no secrets lurking in the shadows but the past reluctantly refuses to lie dormant. Will Lilly be forced to give up on love to find peace or is love the solution to all of her myriad problems? Lilly frantically escapes her Ohio roots, desperately seeking and trying to find the elusive happiness her heart poignantly yearns for. Adopted at the tender age of two, she carries a chip on her shoulder. Now aged twenty-four, in the Amish community of Pinecraft, Lilly works as a maid at the Marigold Inn, where she meets Eddie Byler, who was jilted in love and smarting from the devastating hurt. As Lilly and Eddie spend more quality time together, they start to care for each other and Eddie slowly begins to heal. However, his penetrating questions about her family puts the budding relationship at risk. Gray’s revealing portrait of a young woman seeking her own unique place in the world, and Lilly’s profound insights into self-worth and faith prove most affecting and worthy of deep contemplation. Here is a book that avid readers would like to invest their time and energy in, with no regrets. Happy reading!

A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE, DAN PETRONELLI, THE SEED OF FAITH

THE SEED OF FAITH – Dan Petronelli

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“The Seed of Faith” by Dan Petronelli is well on its way to becoming an enduring and timeless Christmas classic for our times. This is a timeless tale of the inherent joys and blessings of faith and of having courage in the most challenging times. To plant the seed of faith in the mind of an innocent child is the greatest gardening we can ever do. There is no greater joy than to watch this tiny seed grow into a tall and stalwart tree, strong and sturdy, putting out branches to provide leafy shade for children and adults to shelter underneath. The seed of faith in the mind of a child is the most powerful gift we can ever give to the next generation. A child’s faith is beautiful to witness, delightfully fresh from God. By sharing this inspiring story with the world, Dan Petronelli is investing richly in planting the seed of faith in the hearts of little sons and daughters everywhere. Once children read this book, they will never be the same again. Their little minds will be enlightened like never before. They will want to read this awesome story over and over again. They will be captivated and spellbound with the beauty of such an inspiring book, filled with good morals and righteous deeds to enhance and enrich our day-to-day lives. Thank you, Dan, for giving this heartwarming story to the world. Through it, everyone will sense the serenity of your faith and give glory to your heavenly Father.

Miriam Jacob

S T KIMBROUGH, JR., WIPF AND STOCK PUBLISHERS - RESOURCE PUBLICATIONS

CHRISTMAS CONTRASTS – S T Kimbrough, Jr.

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“Christmas Contrasts” by S T Kimbrough challenges us to see through the differences, to think through our faith and help us to understand Christmas more meaningfully through the contrasts that evoke vivid images in our minds, comforting and pleasant, troubling and disturbing. Contrasts are an undeniable part of life that cannot be ignored. How do we deal with the stark reality of contrasts that do not bring peace and goodwill to earth, of which the angels sing through the birth of the Christ Child? A poignant, self-revealing look at the contrasts of Christmas help us to understand its inner meaning and how it can inspire us to make a significant difference in the world around us today, as we chase an elusive peace that never seems to appear, as evil rears its ugly face time and again. Yet, we must not lose hope that we will ever see the beautiful world that God intended, filled with peace. One day, all our hopes and dreams for peace will be realized, as we persevere in hope-filled faith. Let us continue to sing the angels’ chorus for peace and goodwill on earth. The poems in “Christmas Contrasts” explore different, challenging, thought-provoking ways to understand Christmas. I pray that this Christmas will bring you a renewed hope, joy and trust in Jesus Christ, as faith is born anew in your heart, like the Christ Child was born into the world to save us from our sins and give us eternal life.

IRIS O

SEPARATE UNTO THE LORD – Iris O

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Galatians 1:15-17 NKJV

“But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus.

There are times in our Christian walk that we may be required to retreat by ourselves for a period of time, even from our beloved brethren in Christ. This may occur when confusion arises, or if perhaps bitterness and anger threaten. Maybe you will feel the gentle nudge of Holy Spirit asking you to simply turn aside so that the still, small voice of Yahweh may be heard personally. Paul had a profound encounter with the Living Christ on the Damascus Road. He came to know Jesus in such a living and personal way that he had no need to ascertain this experience with any other living soul. Paul knew Jesus in that moment, totally, personally, intimately and assuredly. Therefore He chose to retreat for three years to learn from Christ alone before he returned to meet the Apostles. This is a blessed assurance, when we can know Christ to that depth of intimacy, and receive teaching directly from heaven without needing to confer with others. An intense intimacy with Jesus always produces unshakeable results of knowing Him and the plans He chooses to reveal. This requirement of deep connection with the Lord ensures that we can avoid any potential error by following His leading and direction for our lives. And although we are not to forsake the gathering of ourselves together (and indeed the Lord desires for unity in the Body of Believers), we must also discern the times that He may require us to retreat for a season. The reasons for such a need may vary person to person. It may be that the waters of the current Christian stream we are in seem muddied to us, and the way has become less clear, or it may be that we have become too reliant on others in our own personal walk. Whatever the reason, the Lord will likely call us to occasional separation wholly unto our King. There, we will renew our intimacy and love for Him, and He in turn will love us wholly and open our spiritual senses and understanding more fully. We are called to be mature sons and daughters in this day, that we may lead a lost world to Christ, and separation to the Lord is part of the requirement.

BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP - BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS, CELEBRATE LIT PUBLISHING, MISTY M. BELLER

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PROMISE – Misty M. Beller

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About the Book
Book:

Rocky Mountain Promise

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: November 21, 2023

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“Rocky Mountain Promise” by Misty M. Beller is a compelling book, with its exquisitely beautiful cover, extremely unique characters, highly original storyline and a deeply realistic plot. It is set in the most rugged terrain, often too stunningly beautiful to visualize, in the hidden recesses of one’s mind. Intricately woven with the truth of God’s love, here is deeply inspiring Christian fiction infused with the splendid grandeur of the mountains, top notch historical fiction that displays God’s divine love for His people through the extraordinary twists and turns in the turbulent lives of the larger than life characters. I highly recommend this second book in the “Sisters of the Rockies” series. It is delightfully interesting to read, waxing warm on the emotions of our hearts, and will tenderly linger in our minds long after we put the book down. For the fans of Misty M. Beller’s extremely warmhearted books, here is yet one more to add to your own private collection, to be read at your leisure, and treasured forever.

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Misty M. Beller

USA Today bestselling author Misty M. Beller delivers an exhilarating addition to the Sisters of the Rockies series fraught with peril, adventure, and romance amid the majesty of the Rocky Mountains.

AMANDA BARRETT, BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP - REVELL

THE WARSAW SISTERS – Amanda Barrett

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“The Warsaw Sisters – a novel of World War II Poland” by Amanda Barratt is an unforgettable story of twin sisters who choose unflinchingly to resist under German occupation, fervently relying on the innate courage that beckons ordinary citizens to resist in the face of dire odds. This is a well etched portrait of immense courage, selfless sacrifice and staunch resilience. Through the revealing eyes of Antonina and Helena, we see, understand and feel. Elegantly compiled prose, intensive research, and intriguing characters make this a suspenseful journey through turbulent perils. “The Warsaw Sisters” emphasizes the immeasurable cost of freedom, intertwined with the inspiring themes of hope and family ties that can never be destroyed.

HARPERCOLLINS PUBLISHERS, THOMAS NELSON, Rachel Fordham

THE LETTER TREE – Rachel Fordham

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“The Letter Tree” by Rachel Fordham is a charming tale of how hidden letters can change the world for two lost souls and their entire communities. Seven years ago, a letter hidden inside a tree helped Laura Bradshaw to endure the tragic loss of her mother and gave her something to look forward to in her sad and lonely life, living with her overbearing father, with no joy in sight. When Isaac Campbell, the original letter-writer learns that Laura whose name he doesn’t know, is going to be pledged to another, he begs her to meet him and reveal her true self. That’s when he realizes that she is the only daughter of his family’s sworn enemy. Can the grown-up children of feuding parents bridge the bottomless chasm between them? Or is the bitter, strife-torn divide far too deep and ever too wide to be crossed? Read on to find out what happens in this awesome book penned in true Rachel Fordham style. You won’t want to miss a single one of Rachel’s books, which are well worth reading, in an enchanting, captivating world of their own, that you will want to linger in, long after you put the book down.

Miriam Jacob

JOSHUA JARVIS, KINGDOM DRIVEN LEADER

KINGDOM DRIVEN LEADER – Joshua Jarvis

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“Kingdom Driven Leader” by Joshua Jarvis is a magnificent treatise on Kingdom Driven Leadership. It takes prospective Leaders from successful endeavors to a significant mission. Every single word in the book is food for thought in a train of thought. Kingdom Driven Leaders are carefully trained to succeed in their significant mission. There are specific principles to be adhered to, based on the lives of the Kings in the Old Testament of the Bible. There are specific instructions to comply with, pay heed to, obey instantly in absolute surrender, observe patiently, stand by in total submission, and follow unquestioningly the rules laid down for Kingdom Driven Leaders. Joshua Jarvis has done a truly commendable job with this book. I highly recommend it.

AMANDA CABOT, REVELL, BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP

AGAINST THE WIND – Amanda Cabot

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“Against The Wind” by Amanda Cabot is a fresh, new and appealing read for all lovers of Amanda Cabot’s inspiring books. Readers are instantly drawn to Amanda’s arresting style, plot and storyline. Every word is aptly set in its place, her characters are larger than life, depicting reality to perfection. The book captures our rapt attention from start to finish. It holds the reader spellbound as the story unfolds thrillingly, page by page. I highly recommend it as it is guaranteed to inspire readers to the hilt.

Miriam Jacob

CELEBRATE LIT PUBLISHING, DAVID ESPINDOLA

SOULFUL – You In The Future of Artificial Intelligence – David Espindola

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“Soulful” by David Espindola explores the extraordinary connection between humans and Artificial Intelligence, when our intuitive, ‘high-touch’ capabilities dramatically collaborate with analytical ‘high-tech’ machines to bring futuristic technology within our ‘feather-touch’ reach. Exponential technology makes Artificial Intelligence (AI) easily accessible to people. Combining human intuition with the computational skill of machines opens up an unseen level of unimaginable productivity. Popularized by ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence hits an inflection point with staggering implications as machines relentlessly encroach on the exclusively human tasks. Those who collaborate with Artificial Intelligence will be highly rewarded.

David Espindola, a trail-blazing technologist reveals the immense magnitude of the imminent changes Artificial Intelligence brings in its wake as it encroaches on every aspect of our daily lives; to give people the skills and insights to deal with these changes, as we live in a world shared with high-tech, super-intelligent machines. In a potential scenario, machines soullessly work to provide for our essential needs while humans devote themselves to more purposeful pursuits to fulfill the needs of our souls.

Soulful” is perfectly timed to meet the present transformative moment, through the comprehensive, all-encompassing analysis of David Espindola, to skillfully connect the dots between technology and the human experience, providing a timely look at a time-proven knowledge driving invention of unprecedented speed and immensely unpredictable impact.

Soulful examines fearful threats and unimaginable opportunities from the rapid advancement of AI, initiating deep, thought-provoking reflections to open up new possibilities, providing dramatic new insights from multiple domains, including technology and theology. It concludes with a discussion about the soul – the uniquely human trait that is impossible to impart to machines.

In an intensive study of “Soulful,” I would like to explore the connection between God and the human soul, and how artificial intelligence can be used to enhance human intelligence, in the pursuit of God to satisfy the soul’s deepest thirst for ultimate spiritual fulfillment.

MELODY CARLSON, REVELL, BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP

A ROYAL CHRISTMAS – Melody Carlson

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“A Royal Christmas” was something that Adelaide never imagined, not even in her faintest dreams. It was absolutely unbelievable, too far-fetched to believe, by any standards or by any stretch of the imagination. I like the character development in this novel. Adelaide’s character is very well developed and matches the fast pace of the book. All readers of Melody Carlson’s books will enjoy this fantastic addition to her stunning portfolio of truly exceptional books, guaranteed to captivate the reader’s vivid imagination from start to finish. I highly recommend “A Royal Christmas to capture your instant attention and draw you into a high-profile world in which everyone is dazzled by the extraordinary trappings of royalty.

Miriam Jacob

CHARLES HADDON SPURGEON, WIPF AND STOCK PUBLISHERS, PICKWICK PUBLICATIONS

THE BOOMING BARITONE BELL OF ENGLAND – E. G. Romine

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“The Booming Baritone Bell of England” by E. G. Romine richly captures the passionate spirit and enthusiastic zeal of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, whose vibrant open-air preaching revealed his true passion for truth and his inherent love of people. Spurgeon’s open-air preaching in his pastoral training had a deeply formative role in Spurgeon’s evangelistic preaching, emboldening him with a holy boldness like never before. This strikingly bold initiative in such passionate preaching empowered the spread and growth of the Gospel, reflecting on a time when people went all out for the Gospel, to find the one lost sheep.

The life and ministry of Charles Spurgeon is a mine filled with glorious gems that equip the Church with a wealth of instructive inspiration. This book challenges every believer to live more prayerfully, zealous for the winning of souls. All Christians will glean precious gems from Spurgeon’s practical, down-to-earth, open-air preaching and from his preaching of Christ crucified to save lost souls. Vast crowds heard Spurgeon’s sermons in open air meetings, which greatly impacted his ministry to spark a zeal for the lost and to see souls saved.

May this exceptional work on open-air preaching, this magnificent labor of love for the Prince of Peace, by the prince of preachers, cause the Booming Baritone Bell to resound reverberatingly in the invigorating atmosphere of our contemporary landscapes. This inspiring book can be read by everyone, historians, scholars and all who have a heart for evangelistic preaching. It will undoubtedly bless the hearts of all who read it.

CHARLES MARSH, WIPF AND STOCK PUBLISHERS, CASCADE BOOKS

RESISTING THE BONHOEFFER BRAND: A Life Reconsidered – Charles Marsh

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In “Resisting the Bonhoeffer Brand – A Life Reconsidered,” Charles Marsh explores the relationship between theology and biography, fervently affirming that Bonhoeffer scholarship needs the revitalizing energies and spirited debates of the life and legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, revisited in its entirety and wholly uncensored in any form. In this book are soul-stirring reflections on the radical meaning of history and biography from one of the most brilliant, extremely fearless and outspoken theological minds of our times. Charles Marsh, with his historian’s eye and novelist’s pen, crafts a mind-revealing vision of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the man who bravely and boldly stood up for his convictions, fearing none. Charles Marsh eloquently reinterprets Bonhoeffer’s extraordinary life, vividly depicting the latent passions that often simmer undetected but everpresent beneath a scholar’s painstakingly laborious tasks.

HANNAH ROSE THOMAS, PLOUGH PUBLISHING HOUSE

TEARS OF GOLD – Hannah Rose Thomas

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“Portraits of Yazidi, Rohingya, and Nigerian Women” by Hannah Rose Thomas is a profound tribute to highlight the persecution of religious and ethnic minorities around the world, whose sufferings remain largely unseen, unknown and unheard of. Hannah showcases their horrifying stories in her poignant artwork for the whole world to see. Her paintings serve to alleviate the soul-scarring trauma of the most vulnerable, marginalised people worldwide by lifting them above their sufferings. In her paintings, Hannah vividly captures the stoic courage, true nobility, serene dignity, remarkable resilience and extraordinary compassion of these women who have suffered so heartbreakingly.

A remarkable painter of exceptional artistic skills, Hannah is a true storyteller extraordinaire. “Tears of Gold” simultaneously testifies to the excruciating sufferings of fellow beings while restoring the sufferer’s humanity and self-esteem. A pervading sense of peace, a quiet, serene strength is seen in Hannah’s portraits. Her golden halos reflects the individual acts of resurrection. The portraits of the survivors represent a new beginning again on an altered scale.

The self-portraits enables victims of atrocities to process traumatic memories to heal and reclaim their own voices and inherent dignity. Hannah taught the women how to paint their self-portraits to share their stories with the world. Some women painted themselves with tears of gold, inspiring the title of this one-of-a-kind, life-transforming book, for here are the self-effacing faces and extremely traumatic stories of extraordinary women of great self-worth, who take the world by storm because of their sacrifices.

Miriam Jacob

IRIS O

WHAT IS CHILDLIKE FAITH? – Iris O

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What is Childlike Faith?

by Iris O

In this hour, I am challenging myself to return to the simplicity of childlike faith. This seems in juxtaposition to the definition of spiritual maturity. But we forget Whose children we are, and consequently the appropriateness of our simple dependency and faith. We can never outgrow or mature above our Father Yahweh. It is His delight to bring us into responsible sonship, even coming alongside shoulder to shoulder for His works and glory; yet remaining childlike is key. Being childlike can be distilled into the simplest definition, and that is the belief that our Father is pure Love. Jesus is Love incarnate. He is our example.

When Jesus began His ministry at about thirty years of age, we know He was in a position of maturity. Yet He said He could only do what He saw the Father doing. John 5:19 “Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what he sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner.” NKJV

This is mature, childlike faith. He was the Son of God, in His full maturity, equal to the Father, yet He did nothing of Himself. He fully emulated and trusted His Father. We must never lose this dependence upon our Father, through His Son. For truly childlike faith is found in being the branch grafted into the Vine, John 15:5.

So the independence and strength of this world are not the same as the strength of the Kingdom of God. We are forever dependent, but therefore we also carry the essence of the strength of the Father. This, I would postulate, is what mature, childlike faith is.

I also think there is great value in the beauty of the raw, emotional simplicity of personally communing with Yahweh in all our distresses and joys. In this place of intimacy with Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit, we can be free to express the vulnerability of our humanity. In this place, we may use our honest words, and our tears, freely. In this place we can cry out for comfort and help. In these precious private moments, the Lord cradles us and enfolds us in His care and in His assured love. He has no agenda other than for us to fully know His love and care. But the beautiful result of these encounters is also expressed by our growth. They answer our cries for finding a path to greater fullness as sons, “ O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? I thank God-through Jesus Christ our Lord! “ Romans 7:24-25. NKJV

Lastly but most importantly, in order to be childlike with the Father we must know Him. He sent His son as His express image so that we may do just that. “ Who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. “ Hebrews 1:3 NKJV

I recommend meditating on the beautiful scripture of Isaiah 9:6, which describes our King and Saviour, Jesus. There you will find breathtaking truths;

“ For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given,

And the government will be upon His shoulder.

And His name will be called

Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. “ NKJV

CHRISTIAN WARFARE

CHRISTIAN WARFARE

Administrator

Based on “JUNGLE WARFARE” by Christopher Cunningham

I dedicate myself to being prepared, no matter what comes my way. And then, to serve how and where I am assigned. I look for ways to toughen my resolve. Stay fit. Know the enemy of your soul. Serve your leader, Jesus Christ, your Commander-in-Chief. Review your battle plan for the day. Fight through the tough times and come out victorious on the victory stand.

I am a Christian warrior. I serve in God’s Army. I have a mission with a vision. I will not quit under any circumstances. I will never accept defeat. I am disciplined, proficient in warrior drills and skills. Prayer is the war. God’s Word is the weapon. In the name of Jesus Christ, by the power of His Blood. Amen.

DAN ALGER, ECCLESIOLOGY, MISSIOLOGY, NEW GROWTH PRESS

WORD AND SACRAMENT – Dan Alger

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“WORD AND SACRAMENT: Ancient Traditions For Modern Church Planting” by Dan Alger reveals how the rich traditions of liturgical worship provide a robust framework to plant missionally effective churches. Church leaders are stewards of the old faithful Church. Rediscovering the foundations of our heritage builds more faithful, effective churches. Simultaneously, planting new churches breathes new life into these ancient traditions in a variety of cultural contexts. This book contextualizes the way of discipleship for a global church to help those in ministry to discern their role in church planting.

Word and Sacrament is a timeless book that intertwines wisdom from ancient traditions with modern church planting, giving a fresh vision to church planting, ever ancient, ever new. It honors the rich tradition of the past to pursue a hope-filled future—a relevant message for today’s Church. This timely book asserts the importance of missiology in our context to give a renewed vision for sacramental, liturgical, and biblical mission. It meets a critical need at a critical juncture in church planting. Along with the importance of God’s Word, Alger develops the Scriptural roles of sacrament and the church in ‘sacramental church planting.’ This awesome work on ecclesiology and missiology is for all church planters. While asserting the true essence of the church and her mission, Word and Sacrament enlivens our vision to plant churches in the fertile soil of the historic church. In an extremely well-chronicled and resourceful work for church leaders, this book clearly outlines the two aspects of discipleship – Word and Sacrament – to provide a competent framework for modern church planting and draw you into a deeper love for Jesus Christ.

IRIS O

IT’S A GOOD LIFE – Iris O

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IT’S A GOOD LIFE
by Iris O.

Our lives are lived in a cycle of ebb and flow. Sometimes we think our ‘good’ seasons are spiritual and our ‘difficult’ seasons are weakness. That is untrue. Everything we walk through in this life is useful to develop our character and ultimately outwork our salvation. So when you are prone to chastise yourself for experiencing a difficulty, please stop for a moment to allow yourself grace. It’s the least you can do, because your Heavenly Father extends this grace to you, grace that came at a very high cost, the very life and blood of Jesus. It was a purchase paid for by Love. The prize is the Father’s, and that prize is you. Jesus redeemed you entirely, spirit, soul and body.

The Lord is there with you, in the everyday living, that we, as believers, often choose to dismiss somehow, as tainted and fleshly. But flesh is not to be ignored. It has been crucified with Christ, that’s true. However, we are created as triune beings, and as such Jesus has paid the price, fully, to redeem us fully. It’s our turn now to walk into fullness, with every task we do, every sorrow, pleasure or temptation we experience, and each failure or victory we encounter. It is all for Him and offered to Him whether in pain of suffering and failure, or in celebration of victory. It is ours to give as a fragrant offering to the Father. Offering the fullness of our lives in our everyday living, is a reasonable sacrifice.

Jesus thought our earthly life was so important that he came in the flesh. He didn’t come to bring death but life. He came here, to this earthly realm, to bring heaven to earth. In His plan, heaven and earth are to be one. He embraced walking the dusty roads, eating and drinking, toiling, sorrowing and rejoicing, all within community life. The common life. Jesus blessed it because He loved it, and He loved it because He loved us. He came to be present. So lets be present fully, here and now, in every moment of our living.

The key to being present is to rest in His Presence. This can be found by quieting your heart and mind and entering sweet union with the King of Glory. These are the glorious realms of His loving kindness. Take some time every day to sit with the Lord and cast your cares on Him. This is true communion. Now watch as He meets you there in this beautiful place, and as the indescribable bliss of union overtakes, you will know that all is well. Living your best life flows out of this place. Embrace and treasure this life, entirely. In doing so, you honour your Maker.