In my last newsletter I reviewed Michelle Griep‘s novella, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor. I told you that it was the first of Michelle’s books that I read, but it wouldn’t be the last. It is a wonderful Christmas read but could really fit any time of year. I would love to give you the opportunity to fall in love with it also!
Because it is the reason we celebrate, you will undoubtedly hear the story of Jesus’s birth during this season of Advent. Although I have heard the story many, many times before, the miraculous event never fails to absolutely AMAZE me. Because I have focused on the prophecies of the Old Testament in my recent novels, seeing the birth of Christ fulfill so many of them brings new awe and gratitude to the story. How about you? For a chance to win a signed copy of 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, please answer the following question in the comment section below:
What have you learned new about the biblical account of Christ’s birth this Advent season?
Entering the contest is easy:
- Answer the above question in the comment section below.
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- No purchase necessary to enter or win.
- Contest is open to US residents only. (Sorry we are shipping an actual book!)
- Contest begins when the Rafflecopter goes live on Monday, December 17th and runs through midnight (EDT) on December 28th.
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I’ve been reminded that if God loves me enough to sacrifice his own child for me, he’s not going to let any trial or hardship in my life overtake me.
I learned the meaning behind the gifts the Magi brought to the Christ child. The most meaningful and definitely a revelation to me was the gift of Myrrh. It was the gift of ’embalming’ qualities, announcing in advance that the Messiah would need it.
I have learned that if you want to do something no matter what anyone tells you you can do whatever it is you want to do.
what can i give the King? a humble and kind spirit
He is Lord of all and over all, and the beauty of our salvation has been given a fresh new meaning through the children’s Christmas program. This Is always one of the most meaningful parts of Christmas.
It’s for real. It’s not just a story. I’ve always known that, but hearing it read by Andy Andrews brought it home.
I’ve looked at Joseph’s perspective more…how he could have responded to Mary, but the love he showed instead. And how he responded each time God spoke to him.
I’ve realized how obedient Mary and Joseph were and that I need to try harder to not to let the cares of this world affect my obedience to Christ in all things.
I am learning how anticipated the birth of the messiah was … generations of people preparing and watching for it.
I was reminded that Mary never questioned what the angel said to her. She just accepted what the Lord had in mind for her. I wonder how often we just accept the Lord’s will for our lives without some argument, kicking and screaming or do we quietly accept.
I learned (well I knew, but didn’t focus) of how young Mary was. I wonder the emotions she felt and if she worried she’d live up to the expectations…
I was reminded that Mary gave herself willingly to be the vessel to bring the Savior into the world. Not a grand entry but a humble beginning. Perhaps, too, Jesus’ birth was not in December as tradition dictates because the shepherds would not have been out in the fields with the sheep in the cold, dead of winter! Hmmm, just a thought.
It’s not something new but that God loved us so much, already knowing the struggles His son would be facing. I fear for my grandsons in today’s world and I have no idea what they will face.
As I have been studying, realizing the role that women play in the Christmas story has been eye opening. God has a specific purpose and plan for women in advancing the kingdom. I love that women are part of the story!
God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son…..
A message so beautiful and yet so hard to give, not because it is complicated but because of “unwilling” hearts. Let us storm heaven with our desperate prayers for the lost.
I am reminded of the love and mercy God gave to us through the death of His son.
I have learned that even though you are expecting it (friends visits, family coming home, or a baby), you are never quite prepared for the real event… but you will get through it with joy. And other’s will be joyful with you!
That Jesus was born in a time of darkness. God chose that period in history because there was no other hope. When I think our times are difficult, I think about how that was a worse time. And H gave us a way out of the darkness
My pastor preached a Christmas sermon out of Galations this week (Gal. 4:4-5). It never occured to me that anyone would look for the Christmas story anywhere but in Luke 2. For some reason that tickled me.
Love reading about God’s love!
I just read a blog post about Mary and her trust in God during that time. It hit me hard. That had to be some kind of trust to do all that when all reason screamed it wasn’t normal. I need to find that post back and save it!!
I have been reminded over and over of God’s wonderful love and mercy to me!
As the world seems to go crazier all the time, I am always in awe that our Messiah would humble Himself and enter our world as one of us in order to bring us back into a right relationship with the Father. I am continually learning how much He loves and cares for us.
I have learned that Jesus was born as a poor baby so that everyone would feel he or she could connect personally with God.
I re-learned the power and depth of what it means for Jesus to be the light and salvation of the world. I’ve been a Christian since I was young, but this season, He’s saved my life and mind in daily, real ways. He truly is the Light that chases away all darkness.
I’ve learned how willing Mary was to do God’s biding and how much it had the potential to cost her. I’ve also learned how difficult it was for Joseph not to abandon Mary. I truly hope to become more willing, just as Mary was.
The minister at church yesterday talked about how awful the other women treated Mary when she was pregnant and the great courage she had to face that over and over.
It puts me in awe that God would actually come to earth (sending his Son) to die for all of our sins. another thing that puts me in awe is for Him to be able to live in this world without a bit of sin. Makes me wonder if He were to be born now, would He be able to live such a sin free life. But with God all things are possible, so i know he would be even though we are such a sin filled world now.
Briefly stating….it’s the preparing ourselves for the coming of our Savior, the caring of our spiritual souls as well as our physical ones, with hope and love.
I just recently watched a wonderful video about the factual evidence surrounding the star of Bethlehem. It reinforced in my mind even further God’s perfect timing and how His hand can be seen in all the details.
Anticipation of His return. Just like He promised to come the first time & did; He’s coming AGAIN! BE READY! Look up!
I have known since I was very young the true reason for the season and I celebrate it every year! I love this beautiful and peaceful time of the year.
I learned that there was much fear & concern about the baby being born in a place that wasn’t safe & that angels really did protect the family.
Its been all over the news that people feel God took advantage of and raped Mary. Not so at all. Even though she was probably just a very young teenager, her mature response says that she knew exactly what was being asked of her and what an honor it was to be chosen.
Reminded that Jesus, the Light of the World, came to a people who LOVED darkness. He is amazing!
I am reminded that God is ultimately in charge. He has always been with us from the beginning of time. He is the Creator of all. Because of Mesu’s books, I have been reminded also how the Old Testament stories (and especially of the women) are woven together and spill over into the New Testament. Mary, Mother of Jesus, read those same Psalms that those women did and we do now. We are strengthened by their lives and faith even in this 21st century.
I’m just reminded to be patient in waiting ~ “God’s got this.”
I’ve learned you never say If with God You say WHEN. Mary said be it into me as you say. Not if this is true! Love the trust!
Amazing that Marys answer was WOW God your amazing, thank you for picking me. Not How God can this work?, what if.. what if.
Realize how often I say How are you going to do this God?, instead of Wow God you are amazing.
I’m not sure this was exactly new but I’ve been thinking a lot about Mary and her willing spirit. Would I be as willing knowing what the consequences could be. I pray so!
I learned that the shepherds were important differently than i had thought before. They were raising sheep, likely not just for their wool, milk and cheese, bit also for the Temple sacrifices. And the angels visited them, not the religious leaders of the region. God thought they were important. 💕
I’ve learned to trust Him with all my heart!
I learned that while being with family, friends, giving gifts, the holiday parties, having a job, etc., are all good things, they should not be the center of my life. Having Jesus at the center of my life is what I should strive for. When life falls apart, all that won’t matter if Jesus isn’t in the center of my life, walking with me, holding my hand, and seeing me through it all.