Luke 2 | Christmas Story

  

 

 Today is the day we celebrate the birth of  JESUS

 

 

 

   Every year I read through the Holy Bible. Although I use the New King James Text on occasion, my first choice is — and always has been — the King James Text.

   Some years I get ahead, like this year. I finished in October and began again… Last week I finished up II Kings, where I stopped temporarily and turned to the book of Luke to celebrate Jesus’ birth. I usually read the book of Luke and part of the book of John during December… The first of January I’ll go back to the Old Testament and return to where I stopped. 

   Of course, it’s fine if you take longer than a year; the Bible has many difficult passages. The names are hard to pronounce and the history is at times heartbreaking. But the effort to read from beginning to end is worth everything.

   The point is to read the Bible… the more I read, the more I understand – most of the time. However, there is much that I may never understand fully, but I keep reading!

   Today I’m not reviewing books… today I am reading what I consider to be some of the most important verses written about the birth of Jesus – verses to contemplate on this very special day…

 

 

 Luke 2:1-14

1  And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

2  (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3  And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4  And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5  To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6  And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7  And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14  Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

 

God bless you… on Christmas Day… and always.

 

 

Christmas © 2018 DJ Mynatt

 

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A Fragile Hope | Cynthia Ruchti

 

 

Today I am reviewing A Fragile Hope by Cynthia Ruchti.

 

A Fragile Hope will tug at your emotions from the beginning . . . to the end. Cynthia Ruchti writes of love and forgiveness, hope and despair.

Josiah Chamberlain is a character I didn’t expect to like–but I did. And I think you will, too. Don’t miss the chance to read this amazing story. . .

I’m definitely looking forward to reading more by this author!

Happy Reading!

 

A FRAGILE HOPE BY CYNTHIA RUCHTI | BLOG TOUR AND SIGN OF HOPE GIVEAWAY

Author: Cynthia Ruchti

When your life’s work revolves around repairing other people’s marriages, what happens when your own marriage begins to fall apart? Find out what happens to Josiah Chamberlain in Cynthia Ruchti’s new book, A Fragile Hope. Feeling betrayed, confused, and ill-equipped for a crisis this crippling, he reexamines everything he knows about the fragility of hope and the strength of his faith and love. Love seems to have failed him. Will what’s left of his faith fail him, too? Or will it be the one thing that holds him together and sears through the impenetrable wall that separates them?

Celebrate the release of A Fragile Hope by entering to win Cynthia’s Sign of Hope Giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of A Fragile Hope
• A metal wall scripture hanging

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on May 3. The winner will be announced May 4 on the Litfuse blog.

  

 A FRAGILE HOPE

A Fragile Hope (Abingdon Press, April 2017)

Hope grows when seeds are planted—even in the muddy middle of life.

Josiah Chamberlain’s life’s work revolves around repairing other people’s marriages. When his own is threatened by his wife’s unexplained distance, and then threatened further when she’s unexpectedly plunged into an unending fog, Josiah finds his expertise, quick wit and clever quips are no match for a relationship that is clearly broken.

Feeling betrayed, confused, and ill-equipped for a crisis this crippling, he reexamines everything he knows about the fragility of hope and the strength of his faith and love. Love seems to have failed him. Will what’s left of his faith fail him, too? Or will it be the one thing that holds him together and sears through the impenetrable wall that separates them?

Learn more and purchase a copy.

 CYNTHIA RUCHTI

Cynthia Ruchti tells stories hemmed in hope. She’s the award-winning author of 17 books and a frequent speaker for women’s ministry events. She serves as the Professional Relations Liaison for American Christian Fiction Writers, where she helps retailers, libraries, and book clubs connect with the authors and books they love. She lives with her husband in Central Wisconsin.

Find out more about Cynthia at http://www.cynthiaruchti.com.

 

God Bless You!

Review © 2017 DJ Mynatt

 

 

Luke 2 | The Christmas Story

  

   Today is the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus.

   Each year I read through the Holy Bible. Although I use the New King James Text on occasion, my choice is — and always has been — the King James Text.

   Some years I get behind and don’t get finished on time, but it’s no shame to take longer than a year. The effort to read from beginning to end is worth everything.

   The point is to read the Bible… and the more I read, the more I understand – most of the time. There is much that I may never understand fully, but I keep reading!

   Today I’m not reviewing… today I am reading what I consider to be some of the most important verses written about the birth of Jesus – very pertinent verses to contemplate today…

 

 

 Luke 2:1-14

1  And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

2  (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3  And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4  And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5  To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6  And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7  And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14  Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

 

God bless you, today on Christmas Day, and always.

 

 

Blogpost © 2016 DJ Mynatt

 

An Amish Family Christmas | Shelley Shepard Gray

 

Today I am posting my review of An Amish Family Christmas  by Shelley Shepard Gray.

Here is a brief synopsis:

An unlikely Amish romance reveals that Christmas is a time for family, miracles—and love.

Ever since his father died in a tragic fire, Levi Kinsinger has felt adrift. Newly returned to Charm, Ohio, Levi is trying to fit into his old life, only to discover he seems to have outgrown it.

But when Julia, his young widowed neighbor, asks for his help with a Christmas project, Levi finds a sense of purpose for the first time in months. She and her daughter are new to Charm and could use a friend, a job Levi takes personally.

Soon enough, friendship grows into attraction, but Levi can’t help having doubts. There’s something about Julia that doesn’t ring quite true…

Like Levi, Julia Kemps has survived her fair share of hardships—but only by hiding the truth of her past. Being an unmarried mother in an Amish community was unthinkable.

Feeling hopeless, Julia did the only thing she could do: she moved to a new town and pretended to be a widow. But meeting Levi, she’s hopeful for the first time. Little by little, she begins to imagine telling him her darkest secret, and eventually…perhaps even sharing her life with him.

Christmas is a time for family, and as the holiday draws closer, Julia and Levi will have to face their pasts together…in order to find the healing, support and love they so desperately desire.

 

MY THOUGHTS:

I have been a faithful reader of all books from Shelley Shepard Gray for many years . . . and The Charmed Amish Life series doesn’t disappoint in the least. It’s a wonderful series, and, although I’m supposed to be reviewing An Amish Family Christmas, I can’t help but include the other books in the series!

This story is about Luke, the brother who left home after the fire. Now he’s back — and when he helps out his young, widowed neighbor, just maybe he’ll have a reason to stay!

Great characters! Great stories! This is an amazing series that I encourage you to read. I just know you’ll enjoy them as much as I have.

Happy Reading!

 

God Bless You!

Review © 2016 DJ Mynatt

 

An Amish Family Christmas | Shelley Shepard Gray

Don’t miss books three (A Sister’s Wish) and four (An Amish Family Christmas) in Shelley Shepard Gray’s Charmed Amish Life series. In A Sister’s Wish, when Amelia gets hurt, it sets off a chain of events that forces Amelia and Simon to consider their future together—and face their past mistakes. There’s a chance for love . . . but only if Simon dares to trust Amelia with the secrets of his past. In An Amish Family Christmas, Christmas is a time for family, and as the holiday draws closer, Julia and Levi will have to face their pasts together . . . in order to find the healing, support and love they so desperately desire.

Enter to win a book pack (a copy of A Sister’s Wish and a copy of An Amish Family Christmas) from Shelley. Five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced November 7th on Shelley’s blog!

 

Today I am reviewing An Amish Family Christmas, the fourth book in the The Charmed Amish Life series by Shelley Shepard Gray.

Here is a brief synopsis:

In Shelley Shepard Gray’s fourth book in her Charmed Amish Life series, an unlikely Amish romance reveals that Christmas is a time for family, miracles—and love.

Ever since his father died in a tragic fire, Levi Kinsinger has felt adrift. Newly returned to Charm, Ohio, Levi is trying to fit into his old life, only to discover he seems to have outgrown it.

But when Julia, his young widowed neighbor, asks for his help with a Christmas project, Levi finds a sense of purpose for the first time in months. She and her daughter are new to Charm and could use a friend, a job Levi takes personally.

Soon enough, friendship grows into attraction, but Levi can’t help having doubts. There’s something about Julia that doesn’t ring quite true…

Like Levi, Julia Kemps has survived her fair share of hardships—but only by hiding the truth of her past. Being an unmarried mother in an Amish community was unthinkable.

Feeling hopeless, Julia did the only thing she could do: she moved to a new town and pretended to be a widow. But meeting Levi, she’s hopeful for the first time. Little by little, she begins to imagine telling him her darkest secret, and eventually…perhaps even sharing her life with him.

Christmas is a time for family, and as the holiday draws closer, Julia and Levi will have to face their pasts together…in order to find the healing, support and love they so desperately desire.

 

MY THOUGHTS:

I have been a faithful reader of all books from Shelley Shepard Gray for many years . . . and The Charmed Amish Life series doesn’t disappoint in the least. It’s a wonderful series, and, although I’m supposed to be reviewing An Amish Family Christmas, I can’t help but include the other books in the series!

They are, in order:

1 – A Son’s Vow
2 – A Daughter’s Dream
3 – A Sister’s Wish
… and An Amish Family’s Christmas

This story is about Luke, the brother who left home after the fire. Now he’s back — and when he helps out his young, widowed neighbor, just maybe he’ll have a reason to stay!

Great characters! Great stories! This is an amazing series that I encourage you to read. I just know you’ll enjoy them as much as I have.

Happy Reading!

 

God Bless You!

Review © 2016 DJ Mynatt

 

{MORE ABOUT SHELLEY SHEPARD GRAY}

Shelley Shepard Gray is a “New York Times” and “USA Today” bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.

Find out more about Shelley athttp://www.shelleyshepardgray.com.

 

The Devoted | Suzanne Woods Fisher

 

 

Today I am reviewing The Devoted… the third book in The Bishop’s Family series by Suzanne Woods Fisher.

Here is a brief synopsis:

Fan Favorite Suzanne Woods Fisher Offers Readers Tender Romance, Humor, and Plenty of Surprises

Click to Purchase.

Restless and adventurous, Ruthie Stoltzfus is right on the cusp of leaving her Amish home. Secretly, she’s earned her GED, saved her money—but she can’t quite set her journey into motion. Just as everything falls into place, along comes Patrick Kelly.

Patrick is a young man on a journey of his own. He’s come to Stoney Ridge to convert to the Amish and has given himself thirty days to learn the language, drive a buggy, and adapt to “everything Plain.” Time is of the essence and every moment is to be cherished—especially the hours he spends with Ruthie, his Penn Dutch tutor.

Ruthie’s next-door neighbor and cunning ex-boyfriend, Luke Schrock, is drawn to trouble like a moth to a flame. Rebellious, headstrong, defiant, Luke will do anything to win Ruthie back—and Patrick Kelly is in his way.

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge for a story of dreams deferred—and the promise of hopes fulfilled—complete with Fisher’s signature twists that never fail to leave readers delighted.

 

MY THOUGHTS:

In this long-awaited novel, Suzanne takes us back to Stoney Ridge to follow along Ruthie Stoltzfus’ journey. It is not an easy one—and not one, but two young men stand in her path to leaving the plain life.

There is much more to Ruthie than what you see on the surface. She has secrets. She has dreams. She has plans. What is keeping her in Stoney Ridge? Could it be her family . . . or the new young man in town . . . or the boy next door — the ex-boyfriend who is determined to win her back?

I’m not certain even Ruthie knows, but something is holding her back.

Will she choose faith, family and love — or will she set off on her own to explore a world outside of Stoney Ridge?

You’ll have to read it to find out. In fact, I recommend you read the whole series. You’ll be blessed by it.

Happy reading!

 

God bless you!

Review © 2016 DJ Mynatt

 

 

 

To purchase your copy, click here.

About the Author

 

Suzanne Woods Fisher is an award-winning, bestselling author whose most recent novels include Anna’s Crossing and The Inn at Eagle Hill series, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace and The Heart of the Amish. She lives in California. Learn more at http://www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and follow Suzanne on Twitter @suzannewfisher.

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Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away a copy of The Devoted and an iPad Mini 2 16GB! Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/a60b

 

 

A Daughter’s Dream | Shelley Shepard Gray

 

Today I am reviewing A Daughter’s Dream, the second book in the Charmed Amish Life series by Shelley Shepard Gray.

Here is a brief synopsis:

In Shelley Shepard Gray’s second book in her Charmed Amish Life series, a young teacher and farmer discover they have much in common, especially when it comes to healing old wounds from the past…and finding love in one another.

Rebecca Kinsinger has always dreamed of being a teacher. But when she’s given the opportunity she’s been waiting for at Charm Amish School, she’s dismayed to discover that teaching is hard work—work she’s afraid she’s not very good at.

That is, until Lilly Yoder joins the class. A thirteen-year old who’s just lost her parents, Lilly is in need of someone like Rebecca. For the first time since starting her new job, Rebecca feels a sense of purpose. But when she meets Lilly’s uncle, Jacob, his good looks and sweet, easy-going temperament are hard to ignore. How can she even entertain romantic thoughts of Jacob when his niece is her student?

Suddenly becoming Lily’s sole caregiver, Jacob Yoder never thought he’d be a single parent—or a farmer. Having been living in Florida as a carpenter, Jacob feels more at home wielding a hammer than a backhoe. The only bright spot in his life is Rebecca Kinsinger. As Lily and Rebecca develop a bond, Jacob’s fondness for the pretty teacher grows, too.

But when a fateful accident brings them together, Rebecca and Jacob must choose between duty and desire. Will they follow the path before them? Or set out to find true happiness…and true love?

 

MY THOUGHTS:

Shelley Shepard Gray has been a favorite author of mine since I began reading her Amish fiction novels! And I’ve just added this story to my collection.

This book is just as great as I hoped it would be! Shelley writes a wonderful story about Rebecca, who works in the family business, but has always wanted to be a teacher. When she finally gets the opportunity to teach, she discovers —

Well, I can’t really tell you what (or who) she discovers. You’ll just have to read it for yourself. I will share that there’s lots more to the story than just teaching. Matter of fact, there’s lots more to the story than just Rebecca! It’s the perfect sequel to A Son’s Vow.

Don’t miss this exciting sequel in the Charmed Amish Life series! You’ll be glad you did.

You’re gonna love it!!

And . . . don’t miss your chance to win a copy:

Enter to win a copy of A Daughter’s Dream—five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced June 8th on Shelley’s blog!

 

 

Happy Reading!

 

God Bless You!

Review © 2016 DJ Mynatt

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for an honest review.

The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson

 

Today I am reviewing The Beautiful Prentender by Melanie Dickerson.

Here is a brief synopsis:

What happens when a margrave realizes he’s fallen in love with a servant?

The Margrave of Thornbeck has to find a bride, fast. He invites ten noble-born ladies from around the country to be his guests at Thornbeck Castle for two weeks, a time to test these ladies and reveal their true character.

Avelina is only responsible for two things: making sure her deception goes undetected and avoiding being selected as the margrave’s bride.

Since the latter seems unlikely, she concentrates on not getting caught.No one must know she is merely a maidservant, sent by the Earl of Plimmwald to stand in for his daughter, Dorothea.

Despite Avelina’s best attempts at diverting attention from herself, the margrave has taken notice. And try as she might, she can’t deny her own growing feelings.

But something else is afoot in the castle.Something sinister that could have far worse—far deadlier—consequences.Will Avelina be able to stop the evil plot? And at what cost?

 

MY THOUGHTS:

Melanie Dickerson has been a favorite author of mine — since the first time I read one of her books! And she continues to bless me with her stories!

If you not a fan of Melanie Dickerson, I would suggest you give her a try… her books are spiritual (without being preachy), romantic (without being sappy), adventurous (and a bit scary, but not too much) and completely awesome! After reading the first chapter, you can tell Melanie has gone above and beyond in doing her research, and it shows in her books.

If you are a fan of Melanie, I would suggest, if you haven’t read it, that you read The Huntress of Thornbeck. Then dive into The Beautiful Pretender. But make sure you have lots of time, because you’re not going to want to stop reading!

And, if you’re like me, when you’re done, you’ll be ready for another  . . . but we have to wait, at least for awhile, until the next one is released.

The Beautiful Pretender can be read as a stand-alone, but as it involves the characters in The Huntress of Thornbeck, it’s best to read them together.

I’m not saying anything else . . . if I haven’t convinced you to read the story, you’re just going to miss out on a great story — and a great series. All kidding aside, get a copy. read it. Just read it.

You’re gonna love it!!

Happy Reading!

 

Join Melanie in celebrating the release of The Beautiful Pretender by entering to win her Once Upon a Kindle giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of The Beautiful Pretender
• A Kindle Fire tablet
• A $25 Amazon gift card
• The choice between a Funko POP Disney Beauty or Beast doll

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on June 7th. The winner will be announced June 8th on Melanie’s blog.

 

God Bless You!

Review © 2016 DJ Mynatt

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for an honest review.

Pocket Prayers for Military Life | Max Lucado

 

Today I am reviewing Pocket Prayers for Military Life  by Max Lucado and Mark Mynheir.

Here is a brief synopsis:

Daily life for those in the military and their loved ones at home can be filled with rapid change, fear, and uncertainty.

For those bravely sacrificing for our country, bestselling author, Max Lucado, offers words of hope, pointing them to the Source of faith and courage.

Pocket Prayers for the Military contains forty scriptures and guided prayers that will help readers face the unique challenges of military life with courage and faith.

 

MY THOUGHTS:

Max Lucado writes with humor, compassion, and respect. He speaks of the Bible, the disciples and how they asked Jesus to teach them to pray.

Then Max, with the help of Mark Mynheir, has chosen 40 Bible passages, and written out 40 specific prayers — especially for those who have chosen a military life.

After reading through the prayers and writing my review, I placed this book on my shelf — waiting to see who the Lord wants me to present it to. And there it will stay, until the right person appears.

When I do, I hope these prayers are as special to them — as they are to me.

Happy Reading!

God Bless You!

Review © 2016 DJ Mynatt

Pocket Prayers for Grads | Max Lucado

 

Today I am reviewing Pocket Prayers for Graduates  by Max Lucado and Andrea Lucado.

Here is a brief synopsis:

Graduation is one of life s most exciting milestones.

It can also be a source of uncertainty and anxiety.

What comes after graduation day?

More education? A career? Starting a family?

Often this time in life can bring more questions than answers, but Max Lucado offers hope and direction by pointing to the Answer to all of life s question.

Pocket Prayers for Graduates includes forty scriptures and guided prayers written especially for those considering their futures post-graduation.”

 

MY THOUGHTS:

Max Lucado writes with humor, compassion, and respect.

He speaks of dozing off, his thoughts scattering this way and that. He says he thinks of a thousand things he needs to do, but forgets the one thing he’s trying to do — pray.

He speaks of the Bible, the disciples and how they asked Jesus to teach them to pray.

Then Max, with the help of his daughter, Andrea Lucado, has chosen 40 Bible passages, and written out 40 specific prayers — specificially for those preparing to graduate . . . high school, college, or higher.

They’re written for those who are preparing to face the world!

Graduates, take these prayers with you . . . they will help you through some rough spots, and make the good days seem even better!

Happy Reading!

 

God Bless You!

Review © 2016 DJ Mynatt