Who Is Jesus?

Who is Jesus?

So many things come to mind whenever I think of the answer to that question.

How would you answer the same question if your child asked you? 

You don't want to say too much and over-complicate your answer, and on the flip side, it can be hard to know how to simply express Jesus. After-all, Jesus is alive and applicable! The story of hope doesn't end with Jesus dead in the grave, but instead as risen from the dead! He conquered death, made a way so that we can no longer live in repeating sin. He is praying for us and preparing a forever home for us. -- we should never shy away from sharing His amazing message and hope! We love our children so much, let's share with them the Hope of the world!

One author has set to a mission to create relevant stories to help children understand the One that has created a forever-life of love and freedom for them, if they choose to believe in Him! Dr. MaryAnn Diorio writes riveting books for women and children that explore in a compelling way the deepest issues of the human heart. She sent me one such text to review, Who Is Jesus? and I love reading it to my kids and adding it to our bookshelf.

This book has darling and captivating illustrations by award-winning illustrator Kim Sponagle and is targeted to share the message of who Jesus is with children ages 2-6. Who is Jesus? is formatted in such a way to show what sorts of things Jesus would do, from a child's perspective, which keeps it super relevant to this age group. The important overarching message -- Jesus is not out to get you, He Loves You!

When my sister, Leah came to visit -- she enjoyed reading this story to Marshall. You can see how darling it is! It is important to me that Marshall understands what Jesus is all about, and how He encourages us to live. 

The curiosity of little kiddos often leaves them pondering things that haven't come to your mind in years, if ever. The format of this children's book follows a pattern of exposing misconceptions: 

Does Jesus ________? No, Jesus _________!

“Children ask tough questions that can be particularly challenging to answer,” Diorio says. “Questions like, ‘Does Jesus love me when I mess up?’ and ‘Did God make me sick?’ The goal of this book is to help answer these questions from the truth of Scripture, presented in an engaging and relatable way that young toddlers can understand.” 

The simple message is paired with pages of scripture verses to support the concepts. My sister and I discussed these concepts after reading the book, because some things were uniquely expressed and sparked further discussion on who Jesus really is. Jesus is near to us -- He is not distant or maliciously waiting to punish us when we mess up. Not at all. 

I love this quote from the author:

“Jesus said ‘Let the little children come to Me,’” Diorio continued. “Sadly, it’s all too easy for children to become afraid of God. ‘Who is Jesus?’ invites children to come to Jesus, and helps them understand that He is the Son of God, the Savior of the World, the essence of all that is good, holy and true and the One whose arms are always open to them.”

“Who is Jesus?” is a 48-page picture book, available in hardcover for $19.95, softcover for $14.95, and Kindle for $9.95 through Amazon or at www.maryanndiorio.com/bookstore.

*I received a copy of this children's book for my review, but have given only my honest thoughts and accurate information from http://maryanndiorio.com/!

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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The Best Yes - Book Review + GIVEAWAY {3 WINNERS!}

Do you ever get torn or confused between what you should do, what you want to do and what you feel obligated to do? How are you supposed to make wise decisions and live your life in the design and purposes God would have you do?

For the longest time, I made my decisions based on what was the "nice" or "good" thing to do. This concept worked pretty well for me in high school. Say yes to good things and good people, say no to the bad crowds and sins. It seemed straight forward to me. However, as more decisions in life were placed in my hands and more options were presented to me, this method actually caused me to face several issues. I was not used to saying "no" when I needed to and ending up busy. This was especially the case in college, so many great things to say "yes" to. All of them were "good" things -- like prison ministry, prayer groups, children's ministries, mission trips, justice groups, choir, etc. How was I supposed to know how to make the wise decision? I couldn't do it all ... What was The Best Yes? 

I learned so much about how to navigate the world of decision making from reading The Best Yes by Lysa TeurKerst that I have a desire to share it with other people! I contacted Proverbs 31 Ministries, and they gave me 3 copies of the book to GIVEAWAY to readers like you!

A few things I love about The Best Yes::

1 || It offers new information to process

What I love about this book is that it is not one of those I've-heard-all-of-this-before sort of titles. No. It offers new insight and perspectives on our lives as women and as people in our current society.

2 || It is applicable and makes sense!

The Best Yes is such a well organized text, with a full outline and reference tool of Things I Don't Want You to Forget at the end of the book, that you can flip through and reread to be reminded of important truths and their corresponding chapter.

3 || There is plenty to share with others!

I have had so many conversations based on things I've learned from the text. This book would be a wonderful choice for a small group or book club to read and discuss. There is actually a DVD curriculum and study guide, so don't be intimidated by your role in leading the group. Consider it, because could be a BEST YES for you!

4 || Concepts are presented through scripture and stories

Lysa TerKeurst shares vivid stories and analogies that connect my memories to the concepts she presents.

There is no perfect decision -- it can be the right choice, but there will always be imperfections within the choice. ~ The Best Yes

I love that Lysa brings new light to biblical examples. She breaks them down and gives her perspectives on how God can empower those truths in our lives. So often I brush over familiar passages of scripture, thinking, "I've heard this story before". That, of course, is a negative practice on my part. I am encouraged to look through the Bible as it truly is living and active [Hebrews 4:12] -- and allow it to continue to shape my choices, actions and thoughts. There are 48 scripture passages throughout the book.

5 || I like Lysa! She is one wise woman!

I had the privilege to go with some ladies to the Women of Faith conference this year. There, I was able to hear Lysa speak, and even wrote about it on the blog. Lysa talks about seeking wise counsel, not just going to the people that will easily agree with you and support your ideas without giving you an alternate perspective. I really appreciate that distinction.

In honesty and humility Lysa shares something that I hope I can internalize here, even in the first stages of motherhood. I've highlighted some of those thoughts in the quote below:

And you know what I'm tempted to do as a mom? Draw a straight line from my child's wrong choice to my weakness in mothering ... And that's exactly where Satan wants us mamas to stay. Paralyzed.  

But what if that's the wrong line to draw? What if I'm supposed to draw a straight line from my child's wrong choice to my strength in mothering?  

What if God said, "...What mama is willing to be humbled to the point of humiliation, yet not blinded to the wisdom found like diamonds in dirty places? ... What mama will be courageous enough to let Me write her child's story". p 218 ~ The Best Yes

6 || There are LOTS of resources

Proverbs 31 Ministries has shared a preview of the first session in the DVD series along with a few other freebies!

The free mobile phone screensaver has been a wonderful thing for me. When I pick up my phone, I am presented with the question, "Is this my best yes?" and my actions, and time spent on my phone, change as a result.

Now's your opportunity -- Enter by clicking below! Be sure to share with your friends :)

The Best Yes - book giveaway - 3 WINNERS!

Don't wait, grab your copy HERE!

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Liv on Life - Going to the Park - Review + GIVEAWAY!

Now that I have a little girl in my life, I love getting acquainted to all things cute and girly :) Not that she will have to fit into a preformed mold, or anything, but that she may enjoy some things pretty, that little man may overlook ;) I was given a darling book to review this month as I celebrate a little girl coming into our world in a big way -- AND I'm going to giveaway one of these cute and meaningful books to one of YOU, my Mitchael Journey readers!

What I love about Liv's story: 

• She is a fun-loving kid who enjoys life
• Her story is very relatable in this age of technology and distractions! 
• Her character is inspired by the author's own daughter!
• I don't want to spoil the story ... but let me just say that I love the message! Liv wants to grow up and not be on her computer or phone all day. She and her pooch want her parents to take her to the park and be present in her life!
• Her story is great for adults as well -- reminds me to be PRESENT in my family and take time to enjoy the simple things in life -- like pretty things, puppies, and parks!
• She is optimistic and a dreamer, which are wonderful traits in a person. 

The Illustrations - The beautiful and whimsical illustrations are set on a very unique color palette, which reminded me of Neapolitan Ice cream :) which, of course, is very appealing!

via

This lovely text is the first book in a series called Liv on Life that is bound to be a wonderful collection for kiddos in your life! They also have a darling website with games and activities for enjoying life: http://livonlife.com/ Connect with Liv on Life through Facebook and Twitter too!

Check out the fun trailer below for a peak at the inspiration behind this story!

I want to say, thank you SO MUCH for sharing this message and giving me an opportunity to share it with others as well! aaaaand now -- for your chance to WIN! Follow the rules, and enter the giveaway below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*I received a complimentary copy to review and one to give away in exchange for sharing my honest review with you!

Comment below, because I'd love to know:: 

How can you become better about managing technology and family interaction? 

   

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 Oak and Oats

It's Not About You, Mr. Santa Claus - Book Review {GIVEAWAY closed}

With Christmas in sight you may be working and wondering on how to make this Christmas meaningful for your family. What events will you attend? How many gifts will you give? Will your children ever learn to give generously? Will they internalize the truth about Christmas? AND a big one:: 

How will you handle Santa Claus and not let him overpower Jesus' Birth Celebration?

via As the Stars in the Sky

A little history: 

Whether you LOVE Santa or not, he will be a part of your Christmas season. --and I'm here saying, let's not hate on dear Ol' St. Nicholas! After all, the man that inspired the Santa Claus hype actually was a wonderful man. Nicholas suffered for his faith, lived generously and was known as a protector and helper to those who found themselves in need. One of the common stories told about St. Nick was that he rescued three girls by tossing bags of gold through their windows to give them a way out when they were about to be forced into lives of prostitution. 

via As the Stars of the Sky

Modern Day

We've strayed quite a bit from St. Nicholas' example of giving sacrificially and secretly -- but the positive remembrance, is something to celebrate -- but maybe not on Christmas. Many European countries actually still celebrate St. Nicholas' feast day on December 6th, or the eve (December 5th) or December 19 - and shares small gift-giving and candies early on during the Advent season in order to focus on the Christ Child during Christmas! 

via As the Stars of the Sky

Christmas This Year

I am so thrilled to share with you a new and darling book -- It's Not About You, Mr. Santa Claus [a love letter about the true meaning of Christmas] 

[Giveaway Closed] We are doing a GIVEAWAY, gifting one copy to TWO WINNERS! Be sure to enter and share with your friends -- after-all, you could BOTH win!

via As the Stars of the Sky

This beautiful book is written from a sweet child's perspective as a letter to fill Santa Claus in on the fact that CHRISTMAS is a celebration of Jesus Christ, and not about him. The pages illustrate the TRUE meaning of Christmas and the birth of Jesus Christ and His purpose to redeem the world.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What I love about this book:

1 || It focuses on Jesus Christ and illustrates His birth and receiving of gifts

It doesn't skim over the Christmas story, but rather gives explanatory details and also cute perspectives like this: "They didn't care that they found him in a manger surrounded by all the animals and smells in the stable. They were used to them. Besides they smelled like them, too." How cute!

2 || It is kind -- it doesn't "hate" on Santa or tell kids not to celebrate St. Nicolas' legacy

Here's a little example at the end of the book, "This Christmas, I want to thank you for all that you do. For every gift that you give to kids, well, it is as if you are honoring Jesus, too!" 

3 || Easy to read print

The pages have a nice, large sized print that makes it easy to read -- especially for you Grandparents out there :)

4 || The Author

Soraya Diase Coffelt is a widow and the mother of two sons. She has a very educated background (lawyer and former judge) and has used her gifts to do ministry and missions. 

5 || This is a gift that gives back

You all know by now that I love gifts that have a deeper meaning. Well this book fits right into my liking! All proceeds from the sale of this book goes towards the As the Stars of the Sky Foundation, Inc., a non-profit that assists with the physical and spiritual needs of children. How wonderful is that!

Thank you to my blog sponsors and for As the Stars of the Sky Foundation, Inc. for making this giveaway possible and spreading the true meaning of Christmas and the origins of giving gifts! 

Andrea from Mitchael Journey || Tiffany from A Touch of Grace || Whitney from Southern Hope || Kelli from A Deeper Joy

*This review contains my opinions and was sponsored - I received copies of It's Not About You, Mr. Santa Claus in return for my honest review!

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