The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill: Visions of Glory, 1874-1932 – by William Manchester

Pages: 1025. Imprint: Bello, Pan Macmillan, Macmillan Publishers Ltd., electronic edition: 26.03.2015. ISBN: 9781447279518. £8.03.
First published in 1983 by Michael Joseph.
© William Manchester 1983.
Miriam Jacob

“The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill: Visions of Glory, 1874-1932”, the first volume in William Manchester’s epic three volume series, is the definitive biography of Britain’s pre-eminent prime minister, Sir Winston Churchill, who was born when Imperial Britain was at the pinnacle of her power. Yet, a few years later, the British Empire hovered dangerously on the brink of a catastrophic new era. This impressive biography of the aristocrat, soldier, and statesman covers the first fifty-eight years, a period during which his courageous vision charted the course for Britain’s future, guiding the nation through darkly troubled times. Portraying the illustrious life of one of the greatest figures of the twentieth century, in one of the most brilliantly well-executed narratives in historical literature, William Manchester is undoubtedly one of the best biographers, a master in the literary art, who wields his pen dexterously with a flourish. It is extremely significant that the dynamic and versatile Winston Churchill perfectly complements Manchester’s engaging, insightful style. “The Last Lion” is a brilliant and inspiring testament of the history of Britain in the Victorian, WWI, and post-war eras.

In the first volume, the Preamble “The Lion at Bay” begins with the Allied evacuation of France in World War II – the “Miracle at Dunkirk”, a disastrous catastrophe of overwhelming proportions, that saw the French collapse, the Dutch hopelessly overwhelmed, and the Belgians surrendered. The trapped British army fought free to beat a hasty retreat to the Channel ports, to a fishing town, then named Dunkerque. Totally defenseless, there was no escape, for behind them lay the deep, turbulent sea. England’s greatest crisis since the Norman conquest, Britain found itself utterly alone. If the Germans arrived, all would be lost. The southern weald of England’s island was indefensible against armed forces, its southern terrain unsuitable for constructing strongpoints to establish uncontested beachheads. At Dunkirk, the two hundred and twenty-thousand troops were doomed to perish on the Flanders beaches. Only a handful of them might ever come home. The Royal Navy’s ships were wholly inadequate. At the crisis of the hour, King George VI was alerted that only seventeen thousand troops might be saved. The House of Commons was warned to prepare for imminent disaster. And that was when the miracle happened. Suddenly, out of the blue, from the silent streams and estuaries of Kent and Dover, came a strange fleet of an unusual kind – a flotilla of trawlers, tugs, scows, fishing sloops, lifeboats and coasters, full of brave civilian volunteers, ready to face anything. England’s gallant fathers were sailing courageously to rescue Britain’s bleeding troops. Even by today’s standards, it was miraculous. British soldiers and French support troops were delivered. A staggering total of three hundred and thirty-eight thousand, six hundred and eighty-two soldiers in all.

Winston Churchill was an embodiment of the Victorian standards of honour, valour, loyalty, selfless duty, and the supreme virtue of action; uncompromising, who could inspire people with heroic visions of what they could become. He was a leader of intuitive genius, who believed in his national destiny and the supremacy of people, a master artist who gathered history’s light into his prism and reflected it to his ends, an embodiment of inflexible resolution, adept at imposing his will on people. After waiting in the wings of time, his hour had struck. He was the man for whom the bell tolled. Sitting in Parliament for forty years, he had grown old in his nation’s service, enduring slander and calumny only to be summoned to salvage hopeless situations. A BBC bulletin stated: ‘His Majesty the King has sent for Mr Winston Churchill and asked him to form a government.’

Hitler was supreme master of Europe. No one had ever sat on such a immovable pedestal or stood upon such a towering pinnacle. The Führer declared: ‘The war is finished. I’ll come to an understanding with England.’ On the first day of the Dunkirk evacuation, a negotiated peace with Hitler seemed to be England’s only alternative,the only reasonable decision a stable man of sound judgement could ever take. But Winston Churchill was not a reasonable man, being as sound as the Maid of Orleans. He himself said: ‘It’s when I’m Joan of Arc that I get excited.’ He was like an Elijah or an Isaiah; a political prophet with deep insight.

To the War Cabinet, Winston Churchill concluded: ‘If this long island story of ours is to end at last, let it end only when each one of us lies choking in his own blood upon the ground.’ He spoke courageously to the English people as no one had ever done before or is likely to do so again. His words became immortalized for ever: ‘I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat.’ Churchill said: “Even though large tracts of Europe and many old and famous states have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of Nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender. ‘Behind us,’ he said, ‘. . . gather a group of shattered states and bludgeoned races: the Czechs, the Poles, the Danes, the Norwegians, the Belgians, the Dutch – upon all of whom a long night of barbarism will descend, unbroken even by a star of hope, unless we conquer, as conquer we must, as conquer we shall.’

It was in the same vein as the language of the greatest poet in history and the greatest English dramatist & poet, William Shakespeare (1564 – 1616): ‘This England never did, nor never shall, /Lie at the proud foot of a conqueror.’ – (“King John”, Act 5 scene 7). Winston Churchill was fired by the conviction of one who had faced inner despair. To the demoralized and beleagered French, he boldly declared: ‘Whatever you may do, we shall fight on forever and ever and ever.’ When General Maxime Weygand asked what would happen if Nazi divisions landed at Dover, Churchill responded that they would be hit on the head as they crawled ashore.

Here are selected extracts of his speech ‘Never, never, never, never give in’ at Harrow School, London, England on October 29, 1941 –

“But we must learn to be equally good at what is short and sharp and what is long and tough. It is generally said that the British are often better at the last. They do not expect to move from crisis to crisis; they do not always expect that each day will bring up some noble chance of war; but when they very slowly make up their minds that the thing has to be done and the job put through and finished, then, even if it takes months – if it takes years – they do it. Another lesson I think we may take, is that appearances are often very deceptive, and as Kipling well says, we must “…meet with Triumph and Disaster. And treat those two impostors just the same.

“You cannot tell from appearances how things will go. Sometimes imagination makes things out far worse than they are; yet without imagination not much can be done. Those people who are imaginative see many more dangers than perhaps exist; certainly many more than will happen; but then they must also pray to be given that extra courage to carry this far-reaching imagination. But for everyone,…. this is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never – in nothing, great or small, large or petty – never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.”

“Britain, other nations thought, had drawn a sponge across her slate. But instead our country stood in the gap. There was no flinching and no thought of giving in; and by what seemed almost a miracle to those outside these Islands, though we ourselves never doubted it, we now find ourselves in a position where I say that we can be sure that we have only to persevere to conquer.”

When the boys sang an old school song, rewritten in his honour: “Not less we praise in darker days /The Leader of our Nation, /And Churchill’s name shall win acclaim /From each new generation. For you have power in danger’s hour /Our freedom to defend, Sir! /Though long the fight we know that right /Will triumph in the end, Sir!” Churchill suggested that ‘Darker’ should be ‘sterner’, provided his watchword was followed: ‘Never, never, never, never give in.’ “Do not let us speak of darker days: let us speak rather of sterner days. These are not dark days; these are great days – the greatest days our country has ever lived; and we must all thank God that we have been allowed, each of us according to our stations, to play a part in making these days memorable in the history of our race.”

Winston Churchill saved Western civilization, its redemption worth any price. “The Last Lion” refers to the lion in Revelation, ‘the first beast,’ with ‘six wings about him’ and ‘full of eyes within.’ Aged eighty, he said: ‘It was the nation and the race dwelling all round the globe that had the lion’s heart; I had the luck to be called upon to give the roar.’ He made light of it but it wasn’t that simple. Their spirits lay dormant and inactive until he became prime minister, when renewed, revived and rekindled by his enlightening words, they emerged as a people transformed, to the immense admiration of the whole world.

Churchill wanted to be where the action was and the bombs fell. A man of extraordinary personal courage, each battle made him expose himself to gunfire fearlessly. At sea in 1943, when a U-boat was in sight, he said: ‘I won’t be captured. The finest way to die is in the excitement of fighting the enemy.’ On second thoughts he added: ‘It might not be so nice if one were in the water and they tried to pick me up.’ When Averell Harriman said that the worst a torpedo could do to this ship . . . was to knock out one engine room’, Churchill grinned, ‘Ah, but they might put two torpedoes in us. You must come with me . . . and see the fun.’ It was his sense of humour in the face of war that kept him from being gloomy. At the same time, he called war a ‘dirty, shoddy business, . . . disguise it as you may.’ ‘You cannot gild it. The raw comes through.’

Winston Churchill viewed war as an incredibly big adventure. As a war correspondent, he reported the sad death of a peer in battle ‘for which the only consolation is that the Empire is worth the blood of the noblest of its citizens.’ In 1914, the diarist Frances Stevenson, noted that war filled the British cabinet with gloom, whereas ‘in burst Churchill, radiant, smiling, satisfaction upon his face. “Well!” he exclaimed, “the deed is done!”’ Lloyd George said that ‘Winston was radiant, his face bright, his manner keen . . . You could see he was a really happy man”. Elected to Parliament at the young age of twenty-five, Winston Churchill saw war as something to be conquered, not feared. War inspired him to give his very best to the nation. He was a true son of England’s soil, faithful to Queen and country.

 

QUEEN VICTORIA: A LIFE – by Lytton Strachey

In this highly acclaimed, classic biography of Queen Victoria who, with her irresistible sincerity defined an entire era and etched her name into history by the power and strength of her personality, Lytton Strachey created a humane portrait of the iconic monarch whose unaffected simplicity, youthful vitality and deep conscientiousness won the hearts of her people.

Queen Victoria caught the vivid imagination of the admiring public, for the dazzling symbol of England’s amazing might rested upon her youthful head. As the Queen of England, the wheels of monarchy revolved around her in all its pomp and glory. She was an extraordinary character whose strong personality was clearly visible through the swirling mists encircling royalty.

Queen Victoria’s life shone in the spotlight of conscientious duty. She spent her time fulfilling her numerous public responsibilities and attending to family cares. Personal portraits of the Queen, Prince Albert and their nine children present her as a loving mother enjoying precious family time. The queen recalled fondly the evenings when she and Prince Albert dined alone and looked at their photographs together. “It was such an amusement,” she wrote in her journal. “Such an interest.” Her truthfulness and sincerity were applauded. There was a striking transparency in her truthfulness – not the slightest exaggeration of facts. Her letters were a spontaneous burst of expression. Her style was exactly suited to her thoughts and feelings. Her language had a very personal flavour.

Through her writings, Queen Victoria touched the heart of the public who instinctively sensed her irresistible sincerity. It was an endearing trait and people responded warmly to her. As she aged gracefully through two-thirds of the nineteenth century, Queen Victoria became a symbol of Time. Firm and tactful, dignified and gracious, she was a model Sovereign. One of her ardent admirers described her as “the pattern and paragon of womanhood.”

Queen Victoria was a woman with a heart, sharing selflessly in the sorrows of her people and in their personal bereavements and sufferings. Her tears of sympathy were mingled with her nation’s tears. She was quite undoubtedly the “people’s Queen.” In an age of democracy, Queen Victoria was one of the most democratic rulers of her day.

On 20th June, 1837, Queen Victoria acceded to the throne and died on 22nd January, 1901 after an illustrious reign of sixty-three years, seven months and two days, setting the first record for the longest reign in the history of the British throne, until Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain became the world’s oldest reigning monarch and the longest-reigning monarch in British history.

In the most remarkable of all British reigns, at the end of the nineteenth century and the dawn of the twentieth century, Queen Victoria’s long and illustrious life finally came to an end. She made the “Victorian Age ” the most splendid era in the history of Britain.

Compiled by Miriam Jacob

GEORGE VI – by Denis Judd

George VI

by Denis Judd

I. B. Tauris

George VI was crowned as King of the United Kingdom on 11 December 1936 and reigned until 6 February 1952. He was the last Emperor of India and the first Head of the Commonwealth. Born on 14 December 1895, the thirty-fourth death anniversary of his great-grandfather, Albert, Prince Consort of Queen Victoria, he was named after him. In Queen Victoria’s view, the distinguished name was the hallmark of the lineage and bore the stamp and seal of her union with the Prince Consort. Successive generations of male royals bore his name among their names. The baby’s father, the Duke of York, later King George V, wrote to Queen Victoria (aged seventy-six) with some finesse, proposing to call him Albert after the Prince Consort. Queen Victoria, the baby’s Godmother, accepted it graciously with warmth and spontaneity. The baby prince was christened on 17 February 1896. Not born to be King, Prince Albert Frederick Arthur George, the second son of King George V, was second in line to the throne. He was born in 1895 at a time when Britain was the greatest world power, wielding far-reaching influence worldwide, her Empire far-flung, with the Royal Navy patrolling the seven seas. A focal point of imperial patriotism, at the heart’s core of a global imperial structure, the Royal Family were leaders of British society.

(The first paragraph of a review compiled by Miriam Jacob)

SARAH’S SMILE – by Dawn Kinzer

In “Sarah’s Smile”, Book 1 of The Daughters of Riverton Series, Dawn Kinzer teaches us to love and forgive. God’s love comes with the gift to forgive.

Sarah McCall (a heartbroken missionary-to-be, awaiting a call to leave for Africa) abruptly halts, as if before an invisible wall, as a tall figure is silhouetted in the sunlight. Her heart beat painfully, but it’s too late to flee. After ten years of being apart, a time to heal and bury her heartache, Reverend Peter Caswell, Sarah’s very own Lazarus, comes back into her life. Peter is still the same, yet somehow strangely different, his eyes piercing deep into hers. His decisions had cost them dearly. Sarah wants to meet his little girl. Peter’s eyes lit up at this. Mary was a lot like her – buoyant and high-spirited. The compliment by comparison and contrast stung Sarah, who once believed they would have children together. When Sarah first saw Mary, she instantly recognized the little girl with golden curls, whose eyes were exactly like Peter’s own. His precious little daughter, the living proof of Peter’s love for Lily. For a split second, Sarah wanted to hug her but she restrained herself. Mary’s blonde, curly ringlets bounced merrily. The child‘s angelic beauty and charm mesmerized them all.

From his sad look, even after two years, Peter still grieves his late wife. His marriage to Lily had brought Sarah bitter heartache, a lost, irretrievable past, to be buried forever. Used to city life and its metropolitan lifestyle, Peter could never convince Lily to visit his rural home in the country. Lily also found one of Sarah‘s letters to Peter, words of encouragement he never received after marrying Lily, a vivid reminder of who he‘d once been and who he hoped to be. Lily accused him of loving Sarah, and though he denied it, Peter had lied to himself, a stunning reality adding guilt to his heavy burden. Lily wouldn’t set foot in the same town as Sarah, and refused to allow Peter to go alone or with Mary. Peter’s sister, Ellie said that Lily made it very difficult for her to know either Lily herself or Mary , never giving them a chance to meet. Peter couldn’t persuade Lily to visit his family even for a few days. He never liked to talk about Lily either. Ellie tried to earn Lily’s friendship, but she always felt like an intruder. Sarah couldn’t even bear to hear about the life Peter had made without her.

Sarah longs to receive the letter to the African mission field, a call to set her free to do something noble and self-sacrificing with her life, a promise once made to her grandfather. Sarah was grateful her grandparents had taken her in when her own parents had deserted her. How could the debt ever be repaid? While Gram had a sour, demanding disposition, Grandpa Nels had showered Sarah with affection. Sarah inherited his gift for numbers and his accounting business. It helped to feed them before the Home Store was built. When her grandfather died, Sarah gave up her dream of making her own mark on the world.

Sarah fervently believed that despite anything she faced, God would never abandon her. She had promised God and her grandfather to share this truth with hopeless, lonely people. When she could leave Riverton, no one would stand in her way. Not even Peter. Sarah’s mind was firmly made up. She‘d waited years to begin a new life. Peter had made his choice when he married Lily, a high society, city-bred woman. Sarah would never fit the role of a pastor‘s wife. On the contrary, she loved to race horses across pastures, enjoy fishing or tramp through woods. Sarah was devastated when Peter abruptly went out of her life. No vows were made, but love was mentioned. Sarah nurtured it in her heart, though his letters became fewer as time passed. Peter had viewed her only as a friend. How else could he have married Lily? Sarah never returned to their favorite spot, unable to bear Peter’s loss, the place in her heart where she bid farewell to Peter forever.

Peter Caswell yearns for the past they once shared together. But could they share a future together, after their turbulent past? Can trust, once broken and lost, ever be restored? The den was a quiet place for Peter to prepare his sermons. At the sight of Lily’s photo on the fireplace mantel, guilt and regret filled Peter’s heart. The memory of the night Lily died haunted and taunted him mercilessly. How could Peter seek God‘s forgiveness when he couldn‘t accept it himself? He would have removed Lily’s photo, had it not been for his daughter. Mary missed her mother and needed to keep her memory alive. Peter was fond of his daughter. When he scooped her into his arms, swinging her around in a circle, Mary squealed. It sounded like music to her father‘s ears.

Abandoned as a child by her parents, Sarah strives to overcome a tarnished family history and the tormenting heartbreak inflicted by Peter, when he jilted her to marry Lily, which, try as hard as she might, Sarah just cannot forget. Meanwhile, however hard Peter tries to get on with his life, he simply cannot forgive himself for his wife’s death. Peter hopes Sarah still cares enough to give him a second chance at love. But there is stiff competition, as William, a charming newcomer, vies for Sarah’s heart, pursuing her affections to pull her away from Peter. William was a fine man but Sarah couldn’t get involved with anyone as she was leaving. She had to do something with purpose in her life, to make a difference in other people’s lives. She knew the importance of people hearing about God’s love for them. She also had to get away as she couldn’t risk being hurt again. Not by Peter or anyone else.

Rebecca Hoyt, Sarah’s childhood nemesis, expertly manipulates her way into Peter’s life, to add to Sarah’s scalding cauldron of woes. As far as Rebecca was concerned, it had been worth the long wait. Now she could get what she always wanted. Her whole life had been prepared for Peter’s return, all her hard work for this moment. Rebecca always knew that Peter would be hers one day. He held a special place in her heart ever since they were children. But however hard she tried to get his attention, Sarah had ruined it, standing in Rebecca‘s way, with her appalling tomboy manners, running off with Peter to look for squirrels or down to the river to fish. Sarah would do anything that her mother didn’t forbid as ‘unladylike’ to win the affections of Peter. Peter deserved a genteel wife whose family didn’t have a sordid past, an educated spouse and a good mother for his daughter. None stirred Rebecca’s feelings more than Peter. Rebecca could never have what she wanted most – a child of her own. Her parents knew her sad plight, but Rebecca kept the heartache a secret. Teaching helped to fill the aching void in her heart. Rebecca poured her life and soul into her students. Peter was educated, and having married into society, was accustomed to refined ways. She understood children, and his daughter needed a mother. Rebecca could be a proper minister’s wife. It was all for a purpose. Everything would work out. They were made for each other. She would brook no interference from anyone, doing whatever it took to win Peter. Rebekah might make a good choice, but unable to bear it, Sarah brushed the disheartening thought aside.

Will Sarah and Peter ever find their way to true forgiveness, for a second chance at love? Are their past mistakes too irreconciliable to make a life together impossible? Sarah had believed in Peter, but after his engagement to Lily, all her correspondence had stopped. Sarah didn’t deserve to be kept in the dark about his relationship with Lily. Peter couldn’t expect to go back to the way it was between them. Things had changed while he was gone. He understood. He spent hours on his knees praying for God‘s help to start over again. His wounds needed healing — even more than Mary‘s. Sarah appearing like an angel to the rescue, felt like a real answer to prayer. He missed her smile — the way he could talk to her about anything — the way she understood him and knew what was in his heart – even before he said it. She had never let him down. Peter hoped that Sarah would open her heart up to him again. He didn‘t deserve her love. But after seeing her, he fervently hoped that she might still care. They‘d been close once. Maybe they could rediscover what was lost. This was his heartfelt prayer.

Sarah’s Smile adroitly presents the affairs of the heart in bitter and passionate conflicts of love, heartbreaking secrets and second chances. Stepping back in the annals of time to 1902, the story’s appealing dialogue and distinctive descriptions are steeped in historical fiction, charmingly delineating late-Victorian characters, replete with the hurts of the heart and redeemable traits. The storyline passionately revolves around the Christian themes of trust, forgiveness, and the bitter consequences of lost choices.

Peter’s yoke of obedience to Christ and responsibility for people made him want to make things right with Sarah. His decisions had affected their relationship, and he had regretted it ever since. He hoped that his sermon in church that morning would help restore even a small part of what they had lost. It was Pentecost Sunday, the day to celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit, to symbolize the Holy Spirit descending like tongues of fire upon Christ‘s disciples. Sarah was the first to hear and support Peter’s decision to go into the ministry. He dearly wanted her to be proud of him. He didn‘t want to let her down. Sarah should be hanging on to every word Peter spoke. This was his first sermon in their church and the very first she had ever heard him preach at all. She‘d known about his calling since Peter was fourteen and she only thirteen. Neither had any doubt about what God wanted him to do. Peter spoke about forgiveness, swiftly drawing Sarah back from her memories to the pulpit. Shame and remorse for not paying attention swept over her. Had the sermon of forgiveness been directed at her? Sarah had forgiven Peter but she could not let him back into her life. She could not afford to risk being hurt by him again. For Sarah, vulnerability with Peter meant grieving afresh. But as she desperately tried to protect herself, she might lose out on God’s blessings for her life.

After the church service ended, joy and heartbreak almost suffocated Sarah. She should be singing God‘s praises. Wasn’t Peter fulfilling his calling what she had prayed to see. But she had asked God to let her be a part of Peter’s life. That prayer was unanswered. Emotional turmoil filled Sarah’s heart. In the deepest part of her heart, she wanted him back as her confidant, best friend, and more. When it was Sarah’s turn to greet Peter, he reached for Sarah‘s hand and grasped it with a strong, comforting grip. Her words stuck in her throat. His gaze didn‘t waver as he asked her to stay on for a few minutes. She agreed, wondering what could he possibly want here? Whatever he said that day would attract attention. Sarah waited under a tree and Peter’s sister, Ellie soon joined her, her glowing face flushed with excitement. Sarah hugged her. She told Ellie how Peter had asked her to stay for a few minutes. They needed to be honest about some things, their friendship too important to keep secrets. Ellie gave Sarah an understanding smile, knowing that she and Peter needed to talk at the right time. Living in the same town and attending the same church, they could never avoid each other. Ellie told Sarah how hard she had been praying.

This captivating, true-to-life, well-crafted story of love and forgiveness woven by real, refreshingly human characters, touches the heart at many levels. The author, Dawn Kinzer has an uncanny ability to immerse her readers in a heartwarming story with a remarkable ring of truth. Peter and Sarah remain alive in our hearts, making us feel their joys and sorrows as if we know them personally and share their lives intimately. There are precious mementos of those times – In Sarah’s world, a gold locket around her neck carries great sentimental significance. It was the only thing her mother left behind. The locket was empty, signifying her parents’ absence in her life and waiting for Sarah’s own family photo to fill it with love. Sarah’s late grandfather deeply respected missionaries and gave Sarah a copy of David Livingtone’s journals, which she still hugs to her heart. Symbolic of the times, Sarah’s grandmother enjoys tatting with a tatting shuttle and hook, to create delicate handmade lace to make lace doilies and edgings, as well as to embellish lace collars and cuffs on clothes.

Compiled by Miriam Jacob

from “Sarah’s Smile” and Dawn Kinzer’s website

DAWN KINZER

http://www.dawnkinzer.com

 

HOME TO CHAPEL SPRINGS – by Ane Mulligan

“Home to Chapel Springs” by Ane Mulligan has the most perfect, picturesque, small-town charm anywhere. The people are dynamic and enterprising in their growth, smartness and ingenuity. Ane turns phrases with dexterity, making lavish use of in-vogue colloquialisms and fast humor, to drive her readers to laughter and tears, as the story lines twist and turn effortlessly, intricately spinning the beautiful tale of charming people who love God. This is an inspiring story of faith, with a touch of humor, a dab of mystery, silent heartache and poignant tears. We marvel at the peculiar quirkiness of the town’s people and take delight in the every day drama, mysterious intrigue, and lighthearted romance of their lives. Brimming with delightful humor, wit, intelligence, shrewdness, astuteness, cleverness, candidness, common sense, wisdom, sagacity, judgment, acumen and insight, “Home to Chapel Springs” entertains its readers from a dramatic, inspiring start to a flourishing, spellbound finish. Ane Mulligan is the perfect storyteller, an amazing author who knows how to create a charming novel for her readers to enjoy. Ane has a natural aptitude and sparkling wit to use words and ideas in a quick and inventive way to create dashing humor, wittiness, drollery, jokes, witticisms, quips and puns to delight her readers and render her novels unforgettable!

Miriam Jacob

Home to Chapel Springs by Ane Mulligan

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Prophetess – Deborah’s Story – by Jill Eileen Smith

Bold, outspoken and fearless as Israel’s most powerful woman, Deborah has faith in God but cannot see the hidden potential in her own life. As an Israelite woman, the mundane tasks of life seem to be more than sufficient to occupy her time and energy. But God has a unique plan for Deborah. He calls her to deliver her people from the oppression and constant terror of Canaan’s armies for twenty years. Will her family understand and her people believe in God’s calling upon her life? Jill Eileen Smith’s impeccable research and imaginative storytelling brings to life the mystical figure of Deborah in an intriguing and inspiring novel, giving vivid voice to the woman at the center of Israel’s victory over Canaan. This is a tale of indomitable courage, determination, fearless strength and passionate faith that bears the utmost significance and relevance for all ages.

Grace, Not Perfection – by Emily Ley

Embracing Simplicity, Celebrating Joy

You must hold yourself to a standard of grace, not perfection, realizing afresh and anew that you can never do it all. Simplify your life, get organized and prioritize the priorities of life. You must give space to what matters most. Focus on your faith. God pours out His grace on us. Let your cup overflow. Embrace simplicity, celebrate joy.

A Spectacle of Glory – by Joni Eareckson Tada, with Larry Libby

God’s Light Shining through Me Every Day

You are unique, special and chosen. God created you to showcase His glory – and to show His love to everyone you meet each new day. After living as a quadriplegic for nearly half a century, and dealing with chronic pain daily, Joni knows from her own life’s experience how very important it is to glorify God in the toughest of circumstances. In this devotional, you will learn how to put God’s glory on display and live as a spectacle of His glory. You will find peace, joy, comfort and encouragement when you trust in Christ, who will lead and guide you every step of the way, every single day, all the days of your life. Your life is a stage set for you to glorify God. A Spectacle of Glory is breathtakingly beautiful and full of wonder, truth and honesty, signed with God’s wondrous heart of love and compassion. This devotional book is a rare jewel of a treasure to cherish every day for its limitless reservoir of divine wisdom. God will make you a spectacle of glory and a spectacle of grace.

The Angel Answer Book – by Robert Morgan

The Angel Answer Book by Robert Morgan is an excellent study of what the Bible says about angels.

Angels are intelligent beings created by God in His spiritual realm. Angel means messenger. They are created to serve and glorify the Creator. The Bible refers to angels as “ministering spirits, heavenly hosts and holy ones.” The Bible affirms the existence and presence of angels. They appear in the Bible naturally, personally, and frequently. Angels weave in and out of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. In the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, angels are involved in His birth, death, resurrection, ascension, and in the prophecies regarding His second coming.

Angelology is the theological doctrine concerning angels.

Martin Luther said, “The acknowledgment of angels is needful in the church. Godly preachers should teach them logically. … They should show what angels are. … They must speak touching their function. … In this sort ought we to teach with care, method, and attention, touching the sweet and loving angels.”

To learn about angels, there is only one authoritative, trustworthy source of information: the Bible.  The Word of God is our only infallible Book on the intriguing subject of angels. There are 234 specific passages about good angels. Another 278 times, God is referred to as the “Lord of hosts” (“hosts” are the angelic armies of heaven). Angels are referenced in thirty-nine books of the Bible — nineteen in the Old Testament and twenty in the New — and the range of angelic activity spans the Scriptures from Genesis 3:24 to Revelation 22:16.

Psalm 119:130 says, “The unfolding of your words gives light.” There are some things only God can tell us, and He has revealed them in His Word. Everything must be measured by the standards of scriptural truth.

Angels are portrayed in the Bible matter-of-factly as a normal part of His creation. In His world, angels exist. There is a spiritual zone where much unseen angelic and demonic activity exists.

Charles Haddon Spurgeon said, “I do not know how to explain it; I cannot tell how it is; but I believe angels have a great deal to do with the business of this world.”

God using His angels to accomplish His will. Angels comforted Hagar in the desert, guided Israel through the wilderness, fed Elijah under the juniper tree, surrounded Elisha with chariots of fire, led Isaiah to spiritual commitment, directed Ezekiel into ministry, surrounded Jesus through every phase of His work, bore Lazarus to heaven, delivered Peter from prison, and comforted Paul aboard a sinking ship

To believe in the Bible is to believe in angels. Sometimes they appeared in human form or in superhuman splendor, either recognized as supernatural or as run-of-the-mill strangers, appearing in ones or twos or in multitudes, some with wings; others without, with feet on the ground or hovering in the sky, in three-dimensional reality or in a person’s dreams, visible or invisible.

In Revelation 18:1, an angel descended from heaven with such sun-like brilliance that the entire earth was illumined by his splendor.

When God made the cosmos, He created diverse life forms, humans – and angels. To God, angels are part of the diversity of life in heaven and earth, interplanetary creatures traveling instantly between dimensions of reality in the spiritual and physical realms. They are virtually everywhere – our celestial family.

In the Bible, angels treated realistically. Angels are active in Genesis, appearing at the gates of Eden, to Hagar, to Abraham, and to Jacob. The angel of the Lord accompanied Israel through the wilderness.

Angels are subservient to Christ, subject to Him. After His resurrection, Jesus resumed His full position and the prerogatives of His glory as He sat on heaven’s throne. Hebrews 1:4 says that He is as superior to the angels as the name He has inherited is superior to theirs. God commands all the angels to worship Him and describes angels as “servants.”

Angels are created by Christ, who is both God the Son and Lord. Angels hover worshipfully around the Lord Jesus at His birth, during His ministry, and prophetically at His second coming. They gaze in awe at Him, and long to look into His work and redemption (1 Peter 1:12).

They are “ministering spirits,” invisible with the ability to travel quickly, flying between heaven and earth, hovering in the skies, bridging the chasm between the spiritual and physical realms in the twinkling of an eye.

The term “ministering spirits” lies in the realm of mystery. Martin Luther said, “An angel is a spiritual creature created by God without a body for the service of Christendom.”

Angels have a great purpose. They are ministering spirits, sent to serve those who will inherit salvation. They are God’s response to our needs.

Be Confident in Your Calling – by Nathan D. Thomas

In “Be Confident in Your Calling,” Nathan Thomas writes with warmth, simplicity and an incredibly helpful spirit. The thoughts and ideas presented are excellent. The Lord has a certain plan and calling for each one of us. This book is a real encouragement and strength for every Christian. Jesus Christ is the answer to all our problems. He is our guide through life. Here is a book with very simple truths, filled with encouragement, insightful quotes, questions, and personal reflections.

5 MINUTES WITH JESUS – by Shiela Walsh

Here are profound life-changing truths for your fast-paced days. God offers you the gift of His presence as you spend time in His Word. With honesty and vulnerability, Sheila Walsh helps you find peace and perspective in the midst of your hectic life. Every day features a powerful devotion and Scripture to nourish you, sustain you, assuring you that God is with you and you are not alone. These five minutes with Jesus each day will give you God’s peace. You will realize that this precious time with Christ will become the most peaceful and meaningful moments of your entire life.

Miracle For Jen: A Tragic Accident, A Mother’s Desperate Prayer, And Heaven’s Extraordinary Answer – by Linda Barrick, John Perry

Miracle for Jen is the remarkable true story of a family who overcame tragedy and learned to trust God’s plan for their lives in a whole new way.

On the night of November 5, 2006, the Barrick family was driving home from church when their van was struck by a drunk driver. Fifteen-year-old Jen suffered multiple skull fractures and severe brain trauma and was not expected to survive the night. But against all odds, she did. As she lingered in a coma, doctors warned that if Jen ever woke up, she would be cursing and screaming in confusion due to her brain injuries. Instead, after five weeks she opened her eyes and began praying and praising God. Jen didn’t remember her middle name, recognize her parents, or recall that she had a little brother, but she remembered Jesus and every word to every praise song and scripture she had hidden in her heart before the accident. As any loving mother would, Jen’s mother Linda wanted God to heal Jen, make her like she was before. Normal. But a loving God had something else in mind — instead of making her normal, God is making Jennifer and the whole Barrick family — extraordinary, miraculous.

Faith: Believing in the God Who Works on Your Behalf – by Dr. Yonggi Cho and Dr. Wayde Goodall

“Faith: Believing in the God Who Works on Your Behalf” by Dr. Yonggi Cho and Dr. Wayde Goodall, is a divinely anointed book about genuine, prevailing faith, with time-tested spiritual insights into the deeper things of God, following the Holy Spirit with reckless abandon, teaching how to cross the “bridge of faith” between then and now, “to believe the implausible and attempt the impossible.” God bridges the delicate gap between the past and the present into a supernatural flow of His Spirit, in the secret place of prayer. “One thing I know, though I was blind, now I see.” – (John 9:25). When you experience the power and presence of the Holy Spirit, you walk by faith in the precious grace of God. You belong to Jesus, bought with His Blood. Faith in Christ transforms your life. As you walk by faith in Him, your faith grows to believe incredible miracles, supernatural signs and wonders. God will use you amazingly, giving you indefatigable courage well beyond the impossible.

These time-tested, spiritual truths will enhance your walk by faith, to believe in the impossible, dream God’s dreams, and let the Lord do what only He can do. “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him” — which God has revealed through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. (1 Corinthians 2:9–10). “Faith is more important than life itself because without it there is no fullness of life.” — Mother Teresa. By faith we see things happening when they do not exist yet. “Faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see.” – (Hebrews 11:1)

We have a “measure of faith” (Romans 12:3). Faith as small as a mustard seed, can grow into a huge tree (Matthew 17:20). Faith grows as we study God’s Word and dwell upon His goodness. The Holy Spirit gently speaks in quietness and confidence, giving us fresh hope. “Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal.” – Mother Teresa. Dreams Give Hope for Tomorrow. Our creative God gives creative ideas to open the door to circumstances to bless our lives. We carry dreams in our hearts. Successful People, with dreams and visions of the future, see what others cannot see, standing alone confidently. “If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with success.” – Henry David Thoreau.

Aged seventy-five, Abraham received God’s calling in Ur. Abraham possessed his God-given dream in his heart. God answered his prayer and made him into the father of faith (Genesis 12–24; Romans 4). There are principles of faith and God-inspired dreams. When God speaks to you in thoughts, dreams, and visions, your life is transformed because Jesus Christ is in the equation. God is with you and you are competent in Christ. Like Paul, we declare, “But one thing I do, forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13–14). Although our dreams are not yet a reality, they give us vision to accomplish God’s will and His purpose in our lives. God-inspired thoughts can be turned into faith. Learn how to implement a strategy to work with God to bring a thought to pass. Your dream is not yet a reality. As you pray and study the Bible, you can set goals and ways to implement your goals.

When God spoke to Abraham, Abraham had a new dream in his heart for the future. This became a desire and he was filled with hope. Although he didn’t understand the dream, he believed what God had shown him. He trusted in God’s promise, a part of the dream in his heart. “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8 ESV). By hearing from God and his God-inspired dreams, insurmountable faith arose in Abraham’s heart. His dream became a desire, and Abraham left Ur. By faith he walked away from the familiar to the unfamiliar, due to the God-given dream to receive an inheritance. When Abraham was ninety-nine years old, he had faith to have his own child. His faith came due to the promise God gave him. In the natural, it wasn’t possible due of his age, but with God added into the equation, his dream became a reality and Isaac was born. Abraham believed, trusting in God, believing God would fulfill His promise. He took his first step by faith and walked away from his past. Abraham did not weaken in faith when his own body was as good as dead or the barrenness of Sarah’s womb. No unbelief made him waver concerning God’s promise, but he grew strong in his faith, giving glory to God. (Genesis 4:19–20)

When we have faith and the dreams of the Holy Spirit, our hope grows as we step out in faith. Our faith grows as we see the evidence come to pass. Abraham prayed for a son. He was promised to have as many descendants as the stars in the sky. On clear nights, gazing at tens of thousands of stars, seemingly unending, his imagination grew, and hope, encouragement and the anticipation of the fulfilled dream filled his heart. When we have a God-inspired dream in our hearts, we trust that God hears our prayers, giving us wisdom and patience as He brings our dream to fruition. But this only happens in His time.

PRAYERS FOR CHILDREN

Lord, thank you for yet another day to glorify Your Name. Thank you for the privilege of praying for children. Cover them with Your Word that brings healing and deliverance. We pray that they will move around in the strength of Your love. In Your mighty name we believe that children will be healed completely. You shed Your Blood for us on Calvary to deliver us and heal us of all our infirmities. Thank you for calming our hearts with the assurance that children have been healed. Watch over their parents today. Fill their hearts with the peace and harmony that only You can give. Let them be sensible parents filled with the wisdom that You and only You can give them. Bless them O Lord with common sense at all times. Help them understand that You have entrusted these children into their hands to nurture, love and train with godly values for all eternity. Let them understand the magnitude of the trust and the task You have invested in them for these tender lives. We claim complete healing for children. In Your name alone, there is healing, deliverance and restoration. Let affliction never affect children again. Don’t allow the devil to attack our kids to drive them away from Christ. Cover the children with Your Blood to protect them. In the mighty and matchless name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Father, let families glorify Your Name. Make them Your ambassadors. Give parents great patience with children to pay attention to their needs. Let them sense what is bothering them. Give children good, sincere, honest friends at school and among neighbours, who will never hurt them or tell tales about them. Friends who tell the truth at all times. Let all godly values be inculcated in children. They belong to You and You are in charge of their lives. Control what they play on the computer and what they watch on TV. Protect them at all times and keep them in good health. Don’t let the devil attack our kids to drive them away from Christ. Cover children with Your Blood to give healing and deliverance. Amen.

Lord Jesus, we pray for children. Help them to grow up happy and content. Let parents love them and set a fine example of loving parents to them. Keep parents from uncontrollable anger and help them to correct children with love tempered with justice. Let parents be calm and composed to show great love and caring for children. Let children be very happy at home. Let there be no shouting or angry voices ever in the home. Allow children to grow up in the security of a loving and compassionate home. Have mercy on the kids. Let the home be filled with love and laughter. Don’t allow the devil to attack our kids to drive them away from Christ. Let children grow in the love of God. Let their characters become more and more like You. Let the family become more and more Christ-like each moment. In the mighty name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

© Sarah George

Activating the Power of God’s Word – by Kyle Winkler

In Activating The Power of God’s Word, Kyle Winkler describes how, deep inside in the very heart core of creation is a law stronger than the laws of nature, an unrivaled force, more powerful than gravity, a supernatural power that radically transforms everything it touches. It is the spoken Word of God. In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was formless and empty (Gen. 1:1–2). Then God spoke, in all His majesty- with a resounding declaration “Let there be…” thundering in all its supernatural glory into the dark void from the heavens — to chase away the darkness and light up the cosmos with creative life. This ground-breaking moment defined and established God’s spoken Word as the basis of creation, to hold everything together in time and space. He sustains all things by His powerful Word. — Hebrews 1:3. God’s Word keeps the planets silently spinning in their orbits and the seasons in their respective cycles. We marvel at the unique grandeur of God’s design and the sheer majesty of His awesome power. Most remarkably, God made this power accessible to everyone. The spellbinding reality is that we can activate the power of God’s Word to transform our lives forever.

The purpose of this book is to confidently assert that God’s Word spoken through you can and will accomplish the very same things it accomplished for the Biblical superfaith heroes. Through strategic declarations, you can activate God’s Word to transform every area of your life. The power of God’s spoken Word declares God-inspired destiny and gives perfect identity to what seems hopeless, empty or meaningless. It provides strength to get through insurmountable difficulties in the dark valleys of life. It is the spiritual basis to overcome life’s greatest obstacles and win every single battle of faith and spiritual warfare. The power of God’s spoken Word sustains you as “more than a conqueror” in the life of overwhelming victory that Jesus Christ died to give you (Rom. 8:37). God’s spoken Word is a powerful spiritual weapon to give abundant life in all its fullness. In Activating the Power of God’s Word, Kyle Winkler helps us to discover the supernatural power of declaration. You will receive biblical keys from the Word of God to make strategic declarations that will bring the supernatural breakthrough you are praying for.

Miriam Jacob

Anywhere Faith – by Heather C. King

In Anywhere Faith, Heather C. King helps us to learn about Abraham and his journey to an unknown destination. God called him out of a place called Ur and told him to go, without knowing where to go or how long it would take to get there. Everyone wants faith like Abraham, without counting the cost. In a moment of soul honesty and penetrating analysis, Heather realizes the worst nightmare scenario of not knowing where the road leads to or how long it will take to get there! We have to trust God wholeheartedly, instead of trusting in our own worthless plans. Abraham deserves superfaith status for his radical obedience and unquestioning faith that does not complain at any cost. Not only was he ready to follow God anywhere, but he also passed a greater faith test. Abraham and his wife, Sarah, waited for almost thirty years, from God’s promise of a baby, to the actual moment when they held their precious child of promise, Isaac, in their arms. When Isaac was finally born, Abraham was one hundred years old and Sarah was ninety. Isaac was a miracle child — a gift from God and the glorious fulfllment of the divine promise to Abraham that he would become the father of many nations.

God tested Abraham’s faith by asking him to place his son’s life on the line. Years after Isaac’s birth, God asked Abraham to climb the mountain with his young son and build an altar, supposedly to kill Isaac as a sacrifice to God. God asked Abraham to give back the promised child. “How could Isaac possibly be both the promised son and a sacrifice?” Abraham did not question God or try to reason with Him. Instead, with his unquestioning, obedient faith, he did not stall at all. “Abraham rose early in the morning, saddled his donkey, took his men with him, and his son Isaac. He cut the wood for the burnt offering and arose and went to the place of which God had told him” (22:3). God called in the night, and early the very next day, Abraham did exactly as God commanded. In Hebrews 11, Abraham was willing to obey God in the most radical of ways because he knew God was able even to raise Isaac from the dead. While we might stall, question, and fight with God, Abraham simply believed in the impossible. God could raise Isaac up from death if He chose.

Are we ready to be used by God, to do only what He wants us to do, and go anywhere He wants us to go? Will we choose God over everything else? This is the wholehearted, selfless devotion God desires from us. He won’t settle for anything else. Even Abraham made mistakes, when he trusted his own plans and not God’s, when his faith broke down and he tried to take matters into his own hands. Our faith “superheroes” weren’t superhuman at all. When God called them, they responded honestly – sometimes telling God they didn’t know if they could do what He asked. Moses wanted God to send somebody else. Gideon worried about whether he heard God correctly. Elijah felt alone. Isaiah felt unworthy. Esther was terrified. When God calls us, we answer hesitatingly, afraid to get intimate with God, fearing that He might ask us to give what we cannot, terrified to move forward for fear of failure, or that the costly task might hurt too much.

A. W. Tozer said, “We can be in our day what the heroes of faith were in their day —but remember at the time they didn’t know they were heroes.” The faith heroes and heroines were regular people with perfectly ordinary lives, insecure and frightened, but choosing to obey God anyway. They followed Him in spite of fear, insecurity or questions. In Anywhere Faith, Heather C. King writes about dialogue, relationship and friendship with God. She explains how to respond to Him when He asks us to trust and obey. When God called men and women throughout Scripture to follow Him, and their answers in that moment of their calling revealed the honest truth about their heart condition and their faith condition. We love God and want to follow Him. We want to be “anywhere faith” Christians and pray like David Livingstone did: “Lord, send me anywhere, only go with me.” But we have struggles, or even excuses, that hold
us back. We want to be God’s friend like Abraham, but we have hidden away parts of our hearts from God, our Creator.

When we hide our hearts from God, our deep-rooted fears and insecurities weigh us down, chaining us to the darkness, and not allowing God’s light to shine into our hearts, to deliver and to liberate us. Let us give God the freedom to do His work in us. When we bring our needs to Him, He rescues us. When we feel afraid, He gives us peace. When we are unworthy, He clothes us in His righteousness. When we confess the painful truth that we don’t want to go, He reveals His sovereignty and grace to give us the strength and courage to undertake the journey. “The Lord shows compassion to those who fear Him.” God knows the truth of our hearts because He made us. He has compassion on us. He wants to rescue us. He beckons us to bring Him our brokenness, to make us whole and holy. God invites us into His presence, promising that it will be worth any sacrifice, effort, or price we pay. Surely we can trust Him. “God is love” (1 John 4:16). He will never leave us: “Be strong and courageous. The Lord goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6). “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). With promises as trustworthy as this, can we resist Him any longer? Let us honestly tell Him the truth: “God, in spite of my fears, uncertainties and insecurities, I’m coming with You anyway! I’ll go with You anywhere, to do anything You ask me to do.”

Prayer by David Livingstone, missionary to Africa:

“Lord, send me anywhere,
Only go with me.
Lay any burden on me,
Only sustain me.
Sever any tie but the tie
That binds me to Yourself.”

Miriam Jacob

The Anna Anointing – by Michelle McClain-Walters

In The Anna Anointing, Michelle McClain-Walters explains how God pursues us, searching for those to answer the call to stand in the gap breaching God and our society. Someone must stand in the gap between God and man to cry for mercy and grace. God seeks people to take up the mantle of prayer to release healing, deliverance, and glory upon the earth.
In one of the darkest times of human history, God raised up Anna the prophetess. God releases the spirit of grace and supplication for seasons of prayer, to proclaim the revelation of Jesus to a lost world. Anointed by the Holy Spirit, we can become people who moves the Hand of God in our generation. There is incredible power in a consecrated life. With spiritual influence, we can become people of persistence, hope, and power, anointed to serve God.

God commissions an army of people to cry out with the knowledge of God’s glory. They will be watchmen on the wall until revival comes, to labor in intercession for the Holy Spirit to save lost souls and revive the church. These people will touch the heart of God as they cry out to be imbued with power to proclaim the saving grace of Jesus Christ to a lost generation. God awakens a worldwide prayer movement to release the power of His kingdom on earth.

God needs people to contend for the faith, to fight for deliverance while battling difficulties that hinder release. Anointed people of God will have a passion and burden to see generations walk in God’s plans and purposes. They pray for the advancement of the kingdom of God on earth, in a time of transition into the fullness of the glorious new covenant power to be implemented upon earth, in the splendor of God’s glory, manifested through miracles, healing, and prophetic ministry. The glory of the new covenant is the transforming power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. As part of the glorious new covenant, God will write His Word on our hearts (Jeremiah 31:33).

In His sovereign power the Lord stirs nations and people to be His agents on earth. When the Lord wants tasks to be completed and His divine purposes fulfilled, He will awakens people to accomplish His will. The Lord commands an army to cry out in prayer intercession and spiritual warfare against the evil plots and schemes of the enemy of our souls, until revival and glory fill the earth. The Lord opened His armory and brought out the weapons of His indignation — (Jeremiah 50:25).

God calls us to be spiritual history makers, as He turns potential disaster zones into powerful revival centers, by the anointing of the Holy Spirit. He wants people to be agents of change before the throne of grace. He wants people to be intimate with Him, partnering with Him to be His chosen vehicles of blessing to the world. God awakens in people a deep thirst and desire to know His divine calling and destiny for their lives. All people are called to serve the Lord, for the glory of His Name.

Miriam Jacob

Valerie Elliot Shepard

In a glorious answer to prayer, here are Valerie Elliot Shepard (daughter of Jim and Elisabeth Elliot) and her husband, Walter Shepard.

VALERIE ELLIOT SHEPARD and her husband WALTER SHEPARD

VALERIE ELLIOT SHEPARD with her Mom, ELISABETH ELLIOT GREN.

JIM AND ELISABETH ELLIOT, Valerie’s parents.

JIM ELLIOT, Valerie’s father.

HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY – 16 APRIL 2017

http://www.heartlight.org

https://www.facebook.com

JESUS – THE SACRIFICIAL LAMB

When Jesus died, God tore the veil of the Temple from top to bottom, because Christ’s blood now gave us access into God’s presence. Jesus was the sacrificial Lamb. Our redemption was complete, united and reconciled with God forever. We can come at any time, with any need, into God’s presence, to be assured of our Father’s help.

© Miriam Jacob

VISITORS FROM 74 COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE

ALGERIA, ARGENTINA, AUSTRALIA, AUSTRIA, BANGLADESH, BELGIUM, BRAZIL, CAMBODIA, CANADA, CHILE, COLOMBIA, CROATIA, CZECH REPUBLIC, DENMARK, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, ECUADOR, EGYPT, EUROPEAN UNION, FIJI, FINLAND, FRANCE, GERMANY, GHANA, GREECE,  HONG KONG SAR CHINA, HUNGARY, INDIA, INDONESIA, IRAQ, IRELAND, ISRAEL, ITALY, JAPAN,  KENYA, KUWAIT, LEBANON,  MALAYSIA, MEXICO, MONGOLIA, NETHERLANDS, NEW ZEALAND, NORWAY, NIGERIA, OMAN, PAKISTAN, PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES, PARAGUAY, PERU, PHILIPPINES, POLAND, PORTUGAL, ROMANIA, RUSSIA, SAUDI ARABIA, SERBIA, SINGAPORE, , SINT MAARTEN, SLOVENIA, SOUTH AFRICA, SOUTH KOREA, SPAIN,  ST. LUCIA, SWEDEN, SWITZERLAND, TAIWAN, THAILAND, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO, TUNISIA, UKRAINE, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES, UNITED KINGDOM, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,  VIETNAM, ZIMBABWE.

Daily Wisdom for Women 2016 – Barbour Publishing

God’s Spirit, who dwells within us, can start with a blank page. If we allow Him to take charge, He can bring new energy and sparkle. With God’s help, let’s start over fresh. Let Him set the goals that will bring glory to Him through the life we live.

Daily Wisdom for Women 2016 Devotional Collection,

published by Barbour Publishing, Inc.

Used by permission.

 

Review by MIRIAM JACOB – THE JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES, OXFORD ACADEMIC, OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS – RADICAL CHRISTIANITY IN PALESTINE AND ISRAEL- LIBERATION AND THEOLOGY IN THE MIDDLE EAST – by Samuel J. Kuruvilla

GRAPHIC – COPYRIGHT PROTECTED – FOR THIS BLOG

iF@ITH by Daniel Darling – Review by Miriam Jacob

New Hope Publishers
ISBN-10: 1596692944
ISBN-13: 978-1596692947
December 21, 2010

iF@ith by Daniel Darling connects with God in the 21st century through an in-depth study of the real people in the Bible who instantly communicated with God, heart-to-heart, in a personally intimate way. How do we connect with God in the digital age of pixels, bandwidth, high-speed and warp speed, when “we are always plugged in and wired to the digital revolution”, with instant answers at the tips of our fingers? How do we restart our prayer life to open a high-speed connection with God? We live in a connected generation, moving at warped speed, through a maze of intricate data, traveling swiftly at the speed of thought. We send digital messages by email and receive instant, real-time answers in the blink of an eye. Reading iF@ith will activate your faith and set you on a unique road in this connected generation in which life explodes with data racing ahead at the warp speed of thought. Leap on board and surf with iF@ith. Your life will never be the same!

God certainly has a digital mission for this millennium. Where does prayer fit into the fast-paced and ever-changing scenario of today’s technological revolution, where  people are constantly plugged in and wired, with instant answers at their fingertips? iF@ith is Daniel Darling’s perfect response to the digital generation of which he is an integral part. Practical prayer refreshes your prayer life and opens an instant, high-speed connection with God. Do the centuries-old, time-tested truths of Christianity connect with the modern expectations of the digital era? “We are an always-connected generation, weaned on warp speed, raised on instant formula, with life revolving around our ever-expanding devices, exploding with data traveling at the speed of thought.” We send instant messages, emails and texts to people connected in the world wide web and get instant real-time answers in the blink of an eye. As we send and receive information , we get instant answers, one-on-one, person to  person.

With the advent of the internet and “the rapid acceleration of communication” at the click of a button, the lost art of letter-writing was duly revived in digital format as we strive to paint a digital masterpiece, carefully weighing the pros and cons of each word and the significance of every phrase used to embellish our artwork. Gone are the days when letter-writing was an exquisite art, duly executed on paper, with words dexterously painted like a portrait, every word significantly weighed to convey the most accurate meaning.

This is the fast-paced digital age of pixels and bandwidth, rebooting and opening high-speed internet connections, faced with the urgent need to be always-connected, racing on fast-track from high-speed to warp speed, as we struggle to cope with vast amounts of data transmitted at the lightning speed of thought. Digital messages by text and email demand instant, real-time answers, as we send and receive information to  communicate personally, one-on-one. Global communication makes gigantic leaps across oceans, spanning countries and borders, transcending time zones. It is as easy as the click of a button.”Nobody is ever out of reach, unavailable or offline.” You will see Jesus form deeply in you and discover Him smiling at you through the all-important missives of emails, text and chat messages.

In iF@ith, Daniel Darling enriches your walk with Christ through practical, revealing insights into the lives and times of biblical characters, those giants of faith who inspire our faith beyond the eye of reason. Faith is based on biblical fact. “The heart has its reasons of which reason cannot know.” Christ died for us and His undying love for us is the reason for our faith. “Love’s strength lies in love’s sacrifice and He who suffers most has most to give.”

Review by Miriam Jacob

---

 

AUTHOR PROFILE

Daniel Darling is the Vice President of Communications for the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission. He previously served five years as Senior Pastor of Gages Lake Bible Church in Gages Lake, Illinois, USA. He is a contributor to Leadership Journal, Gospel Coalition, and a variety of other publications. He has written several books, including his latest, Activist Faith. He blogs at www.danieldarling.com

LAURIE BAKER FULL MOVIE FEATURETTE & DOCUMENTARY FILM TRAILER 1 – “UNCOMMON SENSE – THE LIFE AND ARCHITECTURE OF LAURIE BAKER – Featured in ArchDaily’s “Architecture Documentaries To Watch In 2017”

http://www.lauriebaker.net/

http://www.archdaily.com/

Broadcasting Architecture Worldwide

Architecture Documentaries To Watch In 2017

Uncommon Sense: The Life and Architecture of Laurie Baker / Vineet Radhakrishnan

Forthcoming Release / English

Laurence Wilfred Baker (known as Laurie Baker) was a renowned British-born Indian architect and humanitarian. Alongside that, he was also an accomplished cartoonist, artist and innovative designer. Among other professions, he was also an architect. He once said: I think I am subconsciously often strongly influenced by nature, and much of nature’s ‘structural work’ is not straight or square. A tall reed of grass in a windy, wild terrain is a long cylinder or a hollow tube; tree trunks and stems of plants that carry fruit and leaves are usually cylindrical and not square. Curves are there to take stresses and strains and to stand up to all sorts of external forces. On top if it all, they look good and beautiful and are infinitely more elegant than straight lines of steel and concrete.”

According to Wikipedia,

ArchDaily is one of the most visited architecture websites worldwide, with over 500,000 daily readers and about 160 million page views per month as of 2016.

 

Recognition:

On Dec 29th 2016 “Uncommon Sense” was selected to ArchDaily‘s (the largest architecture website in the world) yearly exclusive and prestigious list of “Architecture Documentaries to Watch in 2017” making it the first Indian film to be selected to the list

Synopsis of the film:

Often called the Gandhi of Architecture, the Father of Green Building in India and India’s Architect for the Poor, Pritzker (Nobel Prize for Architecture) nominated British-born Quaker architect, Dr. Laurie Baker was convinced to come to India by Gandhi and lived on the fringes of civilisation with his Indian doctor wife in the remote Himalayas and forests of India for over 20 years helping the local people with medicine and building. At the age of 50, he returned to democratise architecture with his unusual simple yet powerful design ideas, making strong, green, beautiful yet cheap homes a reality for thousands in India who could never have otherwise afforded a house.

Filmed over 3.5 years and directed by his grandson, Vineet Radhakrishnan, this social documentary covers his remarkable life story, examines his pioneering socially and environmentally relevant building philosophies and how his radical, innovative ideas redefined the role that an architect and architecture can and should play in society.

Source: Vineet Radhakrishnan

 

Review – Miriam Jacob – April 2016, Volume 67, Issue 1 – THE JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES, OXFORD ACADEMIC, OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS

Review – Miriam Jacob – April 2016, Volume 67, Issue 1 – THE JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES, OXFORD ACADEMIC, OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS – RADICAL CHRISTIANITY IN PALESTINE AND ISRAEL-LIBERATION AND THEOLOGY IN THE MIDDLE EAST – Samuel J. Kuruvilla

A Tribute for Her Majesty’s 90th Birthday

By Mark Greene, Executive Director, The London Institute For Contemporary Christianity & Catherine Butcher, Communications Director, HOPE

“The Servant Queen and the King she serves”, published by Bible Society, HOPE and The London Institute for Contemporary Christianity is a beautifully illustrated tribute for Her Majesty’s 90th birthday, described by the Queen in Her own words, to portray the pivotal role of her faith and trust in Jesus Christ, in shaping her life’s work, offering us an inspiring, multi-faceted insight into a life well-lived for others.

Her Majesty is very grateful to God for His steadfast love and compassion, having witnessed His loving kindness and faithfulness throughout her long life and reign. The Queen relies deeply on her faith as a beacon of light to guide her safely through the storms of life, to bring her to a safe haven at last. Her Majesty’s authentic, religious beliefs, consistency of character, constant sense of duty and selfless devotion to Christ ultimately shapes all she does. There is a unique quality about her, a calm, ‘quietly held’ authority, a peace and serenity that marks her out in a special way. The Queen’s extraordinary contribution and exemplary life of service to country, commonwealth and global community makes her one of the most admired people in the world.

In the Foreword to the book, as she embarks on the threshold of her 91st year, the Queen reflects on a poem quoted by her father, King George VI in his Christmas Day broadcast in 1939. “I said to the man who stood at the Gate of the Year, ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.’ And he replied,’Go out into the darkness , and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light, and safer than a known way.'”

This poem by Minnie Louise Haskins was handed to King George VI by his 13-year-old daughter, Princess Elizabeth, thinking it might be useful, which it certainly was. The Queen’s self-effacing modesty did not mention this fact in her Foreword to the book. All that mattered to her then and now is how the poem helped others, strengthening the faith and hearts of millions worldwide. In fact, this is exactly what she did herself. She put her hand into the hand of God and He has not let her down. It was a clarion call to the simple faith and trust in God that marks the Queen’s own personal  life and long reign, time-tested and proven worthy in every way.

The Queen always looks up to God and out to her people. As we ponder upon her unflinching sense of duty, selfless devotion to God  and exemplary service to community, country and Commonwealth, we wonder what the unusual source of her inspiration, courage and strength is in times of joy and sorrow. The Queen herself answered this at Christmas in 2002. “I know just how much I rely on my faith to guide me through the good times and tough times. Each day is a new beginning. I know that the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right; to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God. I draw strength from the message of hope in the Christian gospel.”

The abiding and enduring secret of the Queen’s successful reign lies in the humility of her heart when she requested the people of the Commonwealth and Empire to pray for her in the first Christmas Broadcast in 1952, as she dedicated herself anew to their service at her Coronation.

Compiled by Miriam Jacob

Graphics from Google Images

THE SCARS THAT HAVE SHAPED ME – How God Meets Us In Suffering – by Vaneetha Rendall Risner

“Vaneetha Rendall Risner writes with unique authenticity in a creative, compelling style that inspires readers to want to know more about her time-tested faith, selfless integrity and her deep and passionate love of a gracious God who never fails to satisfy her with His unfailing goodness. This inspiring book gives fresh new hope to those battling grief, loss and pain.

Vaneetha’s credible writing is firmly rooted in deep pain and suffering, in which her indefatigable determination to hold on to Christ played the greatest role in her life. She patiently endures suffering with amazing joy, grace, and perseverance. This transparent, truth-filled book gives a rare glimpse into her world and her loving God.

Vaneetha knows and understands. She has been in the valley of pain and despair and survived to tell the tale. There is no better voice than hers to convince us of the truth of Christ’s words. In either a sudden, unprecipitated crisis of daily life or a long, relentless, seemingly-endless struggle for perpetual survival, Vaneetha’s time-tested insights are purified and refined in the fire of adversity.

In the unfathomable designs of God’s plans, Vaneetha securely latches onto God’s reliable faithfulness, with a love that will not let go, whatever the consequences. Her faith helps us to weather the storms in our own lives with courage and strength as Vaneetha herself has walked difficult terrains and swam in deep spiritual waters. This vulnerable yet deeply hopeful book is firmly rooted in God’s faithfulness in suffering. You will glimpse a little of God’s light through Vaneetha’s eyes and hear His music through her ears.

Through this anointed, Spirit-filled book, Vaneetha gently guides us through the dark, lonesome, trouble-filled valley of tragedy, triumphantly laced with victory in God’s love. With rare grace and truth, she reveals the redemptive power of God in a dark world, inviting us to glimpse God’s glory in bitter times of struggle and strife. Instead of drawing us into her pain, with rare grace and wisdom, Vaneetha gently guides us through our own sufferings into the heart of God. She captivates us with the goodness of God in the midst of pain and suffering, inspiring us to dare to trust Jesus. This book is a loving gift to those who silently suffer, and to those who selflessly care for them.

Miriam Jacob

LOUISA – THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE OF MRS. ADAMS – by Louisa Thomas

PENGUIN PRESS, PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE,

PENGUIN PUBLISHING GROUP.

PENGUIN PRESS

“Louisa: The Extraordinary Life of Mrs. Adams” is about Louisa Catherine Adams, the British-born American wife of the sixth President of the United States of America, John Quincy Adams (1825 to 1829).

Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams was born in London, England on February 12, 1775, to an American father and a British mother on the eve of the Revolutionary War. When she died on May 15, 1852, she had witnessed some of the greatest transformations of her time.

Louisa was smart and intelligent, outspoken and extremely well-read. She was an avid reader of the Bible; Plutarch, Milton, Pope, Dryden, Shakespeare, Dickens; Voltaire and Molière in French; newspapers, literary journals, novels, travelogues and histories. She was a prolific writer, writing diaries, two autobiographies, and letters to her family, commenting on political developments. It is extremely significant that her father-in-law, John Adams paid a glowing tribute to her, “Your journal is a kind of necessary of life to me. I long for it the whole week.”)

This is an illuminating biography of a woman who played a profound role in American history. As the wife of John Quincy Adams, Minister to Great Britain, Netherlands, Prussia, Russia, U.S. Secretary of State, U.S. President, and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, her story is as interesting as her husband’s own – at times even more so, as she often had to act on her own and on her husband’s behalf, shedding light on American political life through her astute, spontaneous observations.

Louisa saw more of the two continents of Europe and America than almost any other woman of her age and time. But irrespective of where she lived, she forever pressed her nose against the glass, unsure of herself,  and whether she actually looked in or out. Louisa had to invent her own identity and forge a sense of self. As America found its rightful place in the world, she found a voice for herself which still resonates, loud and clear. In this inspiring biography, Louisa’s extraordinary life is given its rightful due.

An intimate portrait of a remarkably strong-willed woman at a pivotal moment in history, this is a masterful work and a detailed, authoritative book. Louisa leaps to life on the page, observant, strong, compassionate and human. This is an insightful, compassionate portrait of a vibrant, strong-willed woman, an avid writer, and a clever political personality. “Louisa” is an authentic biography that paints a charming, vivid portrait of the sixth First Lady of the United States.

In this inspiring historical biography, Louisa Thomas successfully gives Louisa Catherine Adams her own voice. Great writing is an educative journey into the historic past, into the beating heart and living soul of a country discovering itself and who it really was. This is a biographical and historical narrative of the life of Louisa Adams; Louisa Thomas gives that life of long ago a living heart, and springs the real Louisa to life. This is a fascinating portrait of Louisa Catherine Adams, a complex and enigmatic woman and the extraordinary era in which she lived.

Miriam Jacob

Queen Esther’s Reflection: A Portrait of Grace, Courage, and Excellence – by Ann Platz

ANN PLATZ GROTON

Learn how to make your home your palace, your work your court and your marriage a royal anointing by reflecting the excellence of character demonstrated by Queen Esther.

Author Ann Platz elegantly demonstrates in Queen Esther’s Reflection the lessons that are learned of heart, home and hope through the story of this noble woman of the Bible.

Ann Platz is a noted interior designer, author, storyteller, and speaker. Working as interior designer for more than 30 years, Ann’s design work has been featured in Traditional Home, Art & Antiques, and Southern Living magazines. She is the author of 12 books, written specifically for women. She currently lives in the Greater Atlanta area.

http://newhopepublishers.com/2010/08/queen-esthers-reflection-2/

THE JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES, OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS

Reviewer: Miriam Jacob,

The Journal of Theological Studies,

Oxford University Press.

04/01/2016

https://jts.oxfordjournals.org/content/67/1/390.extract

Radical Christianity in Palestine and Israel—Liberation and Theology in the Middle East – By Dr. Samuel J. Kuruvilla

https://jts.oxfordjournals.org/content/67/1/390.extract

Radical Christianity in Palestine and Israel — Liberation and Theology in the Middle East.

By Dr. Samuel J. Kuruvilla,

Publisher: I. B. Tauris, UK.

 

Reviewer: Miriam Jacob
Publication: The Journal of Theological Studies
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Date: 04/01/2016

 

Editors: Dr. Graham Gould and Dr. Katharine Dell.

The Journal of Theological Studies, Oxford Academic, Oxford University Press

The Journal of Theological Studies, established in 1899, is published by Oxford University Press in April and October each year. It publishes theological research, scholarship, and interpretation, and ancient and modern texts, inscriptions, and documents.

CO-EDITORS

Dr. Graham Gould

who oversees the articles and book reviews in non-biblical fields of study (including patristics, church history, and systematic theology).

Dr. Katharine Dell

(Director of Studies in Theology and Religious Studies, Reader in Old Testament Literature and Theology, Faculty of Divinity, University of Cambridge and Fellow of St Catharine’s College).

I. B. TAURIS

I.B. Tauris, founded in 1983, is an independent publishing house with offices in London and New York. Its declared strategy was to publish accessible works on international politics and culture. The company first specialised on publishing on the Middle East and now specialises in non-fiction books on art, history, politics and International Relations, the Middle East and Islamic world, religion, geography and environment, and visual culture (film, photography and contemporary art).

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I.B._Tauris

GEORGE VI by Dr. Denis Judd

Publisher: I.B.Tauris & Co Ltd
ISBN: 9781780760711
Publication Date: 28 Feb 2012

George VI was not born to be king but he became King with his unexpected accession to the British throne in 1936. He was the prince who bore the brunt of weighty responsibilities when he bravely stepped into the breach to save the monarchy and restore the nation’s confidence during the most unexpected and unprecedented changes following the abdication of his elder brother, King Edward VIII.

King George VI occupied a most extraordinary position in the history of his country. He maintained public morale during World War II and the Blitz. His calm, dignified personality was a shining beacon of hope, comfort and reassurance to the nation. He was earnest, frank and reliable, a greatly loved and much admired monarch. His life was the triumph of selfless honesty, exemplary goodness, fervent understanding and compassionate goodwill. Kindhearted and benevolent at all times, he was good, honest and kind in the face of despair, triumphing over extremely overwhelming odds.

A great-grandson of Queen Victoria and King-Emperor of the Commonwealth and Empire, King George VI set staggeringly high standards for himself to emulate in his private and public life. Not surprisingly, his daughter, Queen Elizabeth II took after her father in this respect, having admired and respected him greatly. She is her father’s daughter after all and a chip off the old block. His selfless, deeply committed spirit was reflected in her personality when at the tender age of 21, on a worldwide radio broadcast, she announced, “I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great Imperial Commonwealth to which we all belong”. The Empire is gone but the Commonwealth is still here and Queen Elizabeth II, as Head of the Commonwealth, did her utmost to preserve and keep the best traditions alive.

One of King George VI’s admirable qualities was his extraordinary power to adapt to his changing circumstances and to do his utmost to the very best of his abilities. He was not a great scholar but he was a quick learner. This proved to be one of his best and most admired traits. He knew to the hilt the peculiar limitations of his role and sphere of influence as a constitutional monarch.

Though born into great wealth and brought up in palaces, King George VI projected an entirely genuine image. There was no artificiality in him. He was a genuine person at heart. He never tried to flaunt his intelligence or parade his intellectual brilliance to an astounded world.

Denis Judd presents Prince Albert’s successful transformation into King George VI in this highly acclaimed biography of the father of Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain, the world’s oldest reigning monarch and the longest-reigning monarch in British history.

Miriam Jacob

Helena Rubinstein: The Woman Who Invented Beauty by Michèle Fitoussi

helena-rubinstein-the-woman-who-invented-beauty-by-michelle-fitoussi

Helena Rubinstein: The Woman Who Invented Beauty – by Michèle Fitoussi

Helena Rubinstein: La Femme qui inventa la beauté – Translated from the French –
by Kate Bignold and Lakshmi Ramakrishnan Iyer

Gallic Books, Belgravia Books Collective
eBook ISBN 9781908313553,
London, 2013.

She invented beauty, understood women and created a revolution.

Helena Rubinstein, one of the most extravagant and wide-ranging style-makers, built a cosmetics empire that spanned the globe. Her creative, professional and scientific approach to beauty coupled with innovative advice on skincare were an instant worldwide sensation. This visionary businesswoman and entrepreneur lived and breathed her own life’s work. Helena Rubinstein was a breathtaking, stunning original. She struggled, nearly gave up, and triumphed. This is her riveting, rags-to-riches life story, a vivid account packed with fascinating detail, the stuff that romantic fiction is made of.

A true heroine at heart, Helena believed in herself and in her extraordinary power to conquer the world. She turned all her disadvantages into strengths. Her character was forged in iron and steel. Driven by great courage, extraordinary intelligence and an indomitable will to succeed, she invented modern cosmetics, making them accessible to all. To Helena, beauty was a new power to assert independence. Her innate sense of marketing helped her to promote her cosmetics empire successfully. She constantly invented new sales techniques to set high professional standards, using creative advertising to her advantage.

Helena worked tirelessly. Work was her best beauty treatment. She believed in the energizing power of hard work. It kept her young, smoothing the wrinkles from her mind and spirit. She became one of the richest women in the world, amassing a fortune almost singlehandedly, by the power of sheer, hard work. She was a visionary and deserved her hard-won success. Madame, as everyone called her, became a billionaire businesswoman and a highly successful entrepreneur. She even acquired a royal title by becoming a princess later in life. Helena Rubinstein watched the dramatic democratization of beauty, the advent of consumerism and women marching towards freedom and liberty.

What is so interesting about Helena Rubinstein? First encounters are often mysterious. We do not know exactly how things happen. Mostly it is a matter of chance. A person’s story touches us in ways we cannot express. With her name boldly emblazoned on beauty products, the opening lines of her life story are dramatic enough. Born in 1872 in Kraków, Poland, she had seven younger sisters. Aged twenty-four, she sailed to Australia as a pioneer, armed with only a parasol, twelve jars of cream, and inexhaustible energy. She disembarked in Melbourne, in the heart of a foreign land, where she struggled, nearly gave up, then triumphed.

Helena Rubinstein became a sort of romantic heroine who despised the past. Her motto seemed to be ‘Onwards!’. She was a conqueror. Her character was forged in iron and steel. Helena set out to prove one thing alone: ‘Give a girl the right cosmetics and she can conquer the world.’ Her extraordinary and tumultuous life spanned almost a century and across four continents. Inspired by courage and imbued with intelligence and a will to succeed, she built an industrial and financial empire.

More impressively, she re-invented modern cosmetics, making them accessible to all. It was not an easy task for a woman. But she loftily disregarded disadvantages, often turning them into strengths. Her first beauty institute was opened in Melbourne in 1902, when Australian women obtained the right to vote. Helena was a strong supporter of women’s equality, which meant fighting for their rights and their liberation.

For Helena, beauty was a new power through which women could assert
their independence, using the assets at their disposal to conquer the world. Cosmetics existed before Helena Rubinstein but she was the visionary who created the science of modern beauty. Her extraordinary and tumultuous life spanned almost a century and across four continents. Inspired by courage and imbued with intelligence and a strong will to succeed, she built an industrial and financial empire. She lived through many eras and died in 1965, aged 93.

Miriam Jacob

QUEEN VICTORIA: A Life – by Lytton Strachey

QUEEN VICTORIA: A Life
by Lytton Strachey

Publisher: I.B.Tauris & Co Ltd
ISBN: 9781780760483
Publication Date: 30 Mar 2012

In this highly acclaimed, classic biography of Queen Victoria who, with her irresistible sincerity defined an entire era and etched her name into history by the power and strength of her personality, Lytton Strachey created a humane portrait of the iconic monarch whose unaffected simplicity, youthful vitality and deep conscientiousness won the hearts of her people.

Queen Victoria caught the vivid imagination of the admiring public, for the dazzling symbol of England’s amazing might rested upon her youthful head. As the Queen of England, the wheels of monarchy revolved around her in all its pomp and glory. She was an extraordinary character whose strong personality was clearly visible through the swirling mists encircling royalty.

Queen Victoria’s life shone in the spotlight of conscientious duty. She spent her time fulfilling her numerous public responsibilities and attending to family cares. Personal portraits of the Queen, Prince Albert and their nine children present her as a loving mother enjoying precious family time. The queen recalled fondly the evenings when she and Prince Albert dined alone and looked at their photographs together. “It was such an amusement,” she wrote in her journal. “Such an interest.” Her truthfulness and sincerity were applauded. There was a striking transparency in her truthfulness – not the slightest exaggeration of facts. Her letters were a spontaneous burst of expression. Her style was exactly suited to her thoughts and feelings. Her language had a very personal flavour.

Through her writings, Queen Victoria touched the heart of the public who instinctively sensed her irresistible sincerity. It was an endearing trait and people responded warmly to her. As she aged gracefully through two-thirds of the nineteenth century, Queen Victoria became a symbol of Time. Firm and tactful, dignified and gracious, she was a model Sovereign. One of her ardent admirers described her as “the pattern and paragon of womanhood.”

Queen Victoria was a woman with a heart, sharing selflessly in the sorrows of her people and in their personal bereavements and sufferings. Her tears of sympathy were mingled with her nation’s tears. She was quite undoubtedly the “people’s Queen.” In an age of democracy, Queen Victoria was one of the most democratic rulers of her day.

On 20th June, 1837, Queen Victoria acceded to the throne and died on 22nd January, 1901 after an illustrious reign of sixty-three years, seven months and two days, setting the first record for the longest reign in the history of the British throne, until Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain became the world’s oldest reigning monarch and the longest-reigning monarch in British history. 

In the most remarkable of all British reigns, at the end of the nineteenth century and the dawn of the twentieth century, Queen Victoria’s long and illustrious life finally came to an end. She made the “Victorian Age ” the most splendid era in the history of Britain.

Miriam Jacob

 

TWENTIETH CENTURY THEOLOGIANS by Philip Kennedy

TWENTIETH-CENTURY THEOLOGIANS – A NEW INTRODUCTION TO MODERN CHRISTIAN THOUGHT

by Philip Kennedy

Publisher: I.B.Tauris & Co Ltd
ISBN: 9781845119560
Publication Date: 30 Jan 2010

“Twentieth Century Theologians” has the outstanding and rare distinction of being described by Graham Ward as “a tremendous achievement – colossal in stature, subtle in intellectual grasp and enviable in its scope.”

Philip Kennedy writes impressively with the undisputed authority, crystal-clear clarity and elegant exposition of an experienced Christian theologian as he brilliantly illuminates the exponents of modern theology in the historical context of their turbulent times. With great sensitivity, admirable lucidity and remarkable precision, he draws on the most influential thinkers to give an introduction to several Christian theologians from a kaleidoscope of backgrounds. He presents their ideological lives, the unique setting in which their thoughts originated, while skillfully presenting their theologies against the backdrop of the twentieth century, a time of rags and riches, of great technological advances and horrific violence. Philip Kennedy believes that true theology will always challenge injustice and try to change the world into a better place.

“Twentieth Century Theologians” gives a fresh new insight into modern Christian thought. It provides a clear-sighted  assessment of the central ideas of modern theologians in a biographical style. It depicts how the unique lives of the theologians profoundly shaped their theologies. It is an invaluable, progressive and all-inclusive resource as it examines a wide variety of theologians of different genders and backgrounds. Philip Kennedy’s deep, insightful thoughts, his penetrating and perceptive analysis of different theologians and diverse theologies as well as his comprehensive, in-depth studies of a panoramic range of historical contexts are extremely praiseworthy.

In a world delicately and precariously balanced between massive upheavals and scientific innovations, with even more obstacles to faith than in any other previous era and growing scepticism about religion in today’s materialistic world, there is an urgent need to reassess modern theologians sensitively to make a lasting impact on culture and society. “Twentieth Century Theologians” presents a golden opportunity “to study the great minds that gave birth to the most profound and far-reaching thinking of our times.”

Miriam Jacob

IN MY BOOK REVIEWS, THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE REVIEWS IS THAT OF THE AUTHORS.

CREDIT IS GIVEN TO THE AUTHORS OF THE BOOKS FOR FACTS STATED IN THE REVIEWS.

AS I WRITE REVIEWS TO PROMOTE THE AUTHORS AND PUBLISHERS, I HAVE THEIR BEST INTERESTS AT HEART.

THAT IS WHY MY REVIEWS PORTRAY THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE AUTHORS.

IT IS THE BEST WAY IN WHICH I CAN PRESENT THE UNIQUE STYLE OF EACH AUTHOR TO PROMOTE THEIR BOOKS.

RADICAL CHRISTIANITY IN PALESTINE AND ISRAEL – LIBERATION AND THEOLOGY IN THE MIDDLE EAST by Samuel J. Kuruvilla

RADICAL CHRISTIANITY IN PALESTINE AND ISRAEL – LIBERATION AND THEOLOGY IN THE MIDDLE EAST

by Samuel J. Kuruvilla

Bibliographic Info
Imprint: Tauris Academic Studies
Publisher: I.B.Tauris & Co Ltd
Series: Library of Modern Religion
ISBN: 9781848855519
Publication Date: 30 Sep 2012

Review by MIRIAM JACOB is published in

THE JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES,

OXFORD ACADEMIC, OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS.

https://academic.oup.com/jts/article-abstract/67/1/390/2451876/Radical-Christianity-in-Palestine-and-Israel

New paragraph added to the review on this blog:

The International Centre of Bethlehem (ICB), ‘Dar Annadwa Addawliyya’ is led by Revd. Mitri Raheb. The ecumenical Lutheran ICB developed a contextual theology of spiritual liberation, around a theo-political praxis, with a politico-cultural contextualization to reshape the development of the Palestinians, and remodel their society in their context, by highlighting people’s narratives with service-oriented policies.

© Miriam Jacob

GOD LOVES BROKEN PEOPLE by Shiela Walsh

God loves us, broken people, who open up our battered hearts to allow God to heal our personal sorrows and heartaches. When our carefully created glass houses crash down, we slowly start to carve a brand new world beyond the safe haven of those demolished walls.

We are broken lambs, who limp after our Shepherd. We do not know where He goes but we want to go with Him. Our personal brokenness opens up the way to the heart of God. We broken people know that God loves us, a heart knowledge that we dare to believe, and through such blind trust, a whole new awareness emerges from the shattered ruins of yesterday’s broken pieces.

The Shepherd loves us. We have no hope and no meaning in life apart from Him. We are not alone, we have never been alone, and we will never be alone. Our divine Shepherd is with us. He has always been there except that we will never know it unless and until we welcome Him into our hearts.

The dark little fingerprints in our lives leave not-so-easily-brushed-away smudges that only the Savior can wipe away clean from our slates. Let us bring the scarred, broken pieces of our lives to God and allow Him to do for us what only He can do. He can stitch together the torn fragments of our shattered lives into the most beautiful tapestry.

God loves us with a selfless, undying passion. He has committed Himself and His supernatural, omnipotent power to getting us safely home to heaven to be with Him forever. To God be all the glory.

© Miriam Jacob

FTC Regulations Compliance & Disclosure of Material Connection:

THOMAS NELSON has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book, through BOOKSNEEZE Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

HOW HUGE THE NIGHT – by Heather and Lydia Munn

HOW HUGE THE NIGHT

by Heather and Lydia Munn

Kregel Publications

ISBN: 9780825433108

Publication date: 3-9-2011

Growing up as a youth in war-torn, Nazi-occupied France, Julien Losier finds his very identity threatened by the horrifying and devastating effects of war. At the young age of fifteen, this can be extremely daunting for a teenager and can inflict huge psychological damage.

In “How Huge the Night,” Heather and Lydia Munn portray the unseen and unsung heroes of World War 2, as they grapple with hunger, racism and war, in a world not of their own making, struggling to come to terms with heart-searching questions about the goodness of God in the midst of conflicting ethnic tensions in communities torn apart by war.

The devastating horrors of war, the selfless heroism of adolescents triumphing in the face of overwhelming adversity and the significant choices they made are vividly portrayed as the authors deftly weave together the lives of ordinary people who promptly chose to focus their immediate attention on those in dire danger and protect them safely from harm. This historical novel, a most inspiring and compelling coming-of-age drama, will inspire people to reflect thoughtfully on the choices they make each day and the cost they have to pay to make those choices.

Miriam Jacob

FTC Regulations Compliance & Disclosure of Material Connection:

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, as part of every web or retail site review, the author or publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

BRANDED: Sharing Jesus with a Consumer Culture – Tim Sinclair – Kregel Publications

Kregel Publications,

ISBN: 9780825438943

Published: June 2011

How do we share Jesus with a consumer culture? In “Branded: Sharing Jesus with a Consumer Culture,” Tim Sinclair boldly declares that sharing Jesus has absolutely nothing to do with mass-marketing and everything to do with being personally branded by Christ, permanently marked by our Savior. BRANDED is a clarion call to turn the Christian hourglass over, to make drastic changes in order to see new progress. It is all about branding Jesus and becoming branded by Him ourselves.

Tim Sinclair specifies that when it comes to sharing Jesus with the world around us, it is crucial that we acknowledge our own unique talents and abilities and use them effectively to reach out to people within our own circle and sphere of influence. As Tim states so clearly, there is no “one-size-fits-all” methodology. How do people see you? When they look at you, what do they see? Do they see love? When love is authentically lived out in a person’s life, it stands out brightly in today’s world. Do they see you as a lover of Jesus who cannot help but share Him? Do you speak about your love for Christ to the world?

As a Christian, you inadvertently advertise Jesus wherever you go. Tell your story with your own particular flair and style, boldly, confidently, as open and honestly as you can. Show the world how Jesus can make a striking and significant difference in your daily life. The story of your walk with Christ is your most powerful tool. Be a bright and shining example of the extraordinary power of Christ to transform a person’s life and make it totally new! Make those around you want to believe! Your own life is your greatest testimony! Remember the words of St. Francis of Assisi: “Preach the gospel at all times – if necessary use words.”

Tim Sinclair, a top-flight communicator in today’s hi-tech, consumer-oriented world, exhorts Christians to promptly sign on for a world-class marketing campaign for the Savior and to share their faith honestly in authentic ways for God’s glory.

Miriam Jacob

FTC Regulations Compliance & Disclosure of Material Connection:

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, as part of every web or retail site review, the author or publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

JONI & KEN: AN UNTOLD LOVE STORY by Ken & Joni Eareckson Tada

Zondervan Publishers

ISBN-13: 9780310314691

Published: Apr 2, 2013

In their autobiography “JONI AND KEN: AN UNTOLD LOVE STORY”, Ken and Joni Eareckson Tada live out their beautiful lives for the whole world to see. Here is faith in action, a rare and treasured glimpse into the courageous lives of two faith-filled people who are faithful to God and to each other. Joni has traveled an amazing journey of faith across the tough terrain of life. Her remarkable resilience has birthed hope in millions of people worldwide. Theirs is a faith that weathers the worst of storms and endures the harshest of realities, a sort of sacrificial and unconditional love that only God can give in full measure. They have faced unique challenges, in which the normal stresses and strains of marriage were further complicated by the hurdles of quadriplegia, in a life lived for the most part, in the glaring spotlight of public gaze.

In this book, Joni and Ken have laid their lives open for others to read in the most vulnerable way. Their hard-won fidelity inspires people worldwide to conquer the obstacles of life, as they have so courageously done, for the glory of God. They are a truly selfless couple who bravely show the whole world that Jesus Christ is the answer to all life’s problems. They reveal what commitment really means, as they overcome their own personal challenges through steadfast commitment and continual surrender. Their amazing story also includes the greatest story ever told – how the Lord Jesus Christ conquered the horrors of the cross in the face of the deepest trials ever known to man. They bear a strong witness to the deep, inner strength that comes to us when we surrender our hearts and lives to the One who cares for us wholeheartedly. Theirs is a real marriage, with true, time-tested love and selfless commitment, between two very real people. They overcome their own personal struggles through a deep and steadfast commitment to each other and a full and complete surrender to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Here is a beautiful love story for the ages and a very personal glimpse into a thirty year marriage, characterized by unimaginable challenges, as God prunes, purifies and transforms their lives by permitting trials for His glory. As we watch their trials turn into successes by the power of Christ, we get the grace to believe that our own sufferings only serve to draw us closer to Christ, shape us into His glorious likeness and make us faithful and fit for eternity. They have an unfailing love for the Lord and His work and for each other. They are loved worldwide for their groundbreaking ministry “Wheels for the World” which provides a free wheelchair and the Gospel of Jesus Christ to children and adults affected by disability. Theirs is an honest story of commitment, surrender and selfless love.

Here are two lives beautifully lived, and two hearts beating as one, for the glory of God. This profoundly powerful and eternal love story leaves an indelible impression upon our hearts. It reflects the highs and lows of Christian marriage with its struggles and triumphs, while portraying the unique challenges of a life of quadriplegia, with the price of fame and excessive ministry demands. What makes Ken’s and Joni’s marriage succeed are the rare jewels of love, tenderness, unselfishness and endless patience , powered with the presence and blessing of the precious Holy Spirit. This is a poignant and profound love story of hope and encouragement, inspired by God and reflecting His heart for marriage. Through the most intense adversity, their tender love and commitment to Christ and to each other is so inspiring and elevating, as they love, honor and cherish God as the very source and sustenance of their lives.

What a heart-warming love story that cries out to be told! It is both honest and unique, utterly penetrating and riveting, while being open and transparent, all at the same time. A God-given marriage portrays our Savior’s love for His bride, the Church. Joni and Ken embarked on their life’s journey in a marriage laced with love and hope amidst bitter hurts and hardships. In a gripping, challenging and hope-giving narrative, they open up the best and worst in their lives to portray the undeniable fact that God can use even the very worst trials in our lives for our own good and His glory.

Ken and Joni Eareckson Tada live out their faith on the world’s stage, in full view of the glaring spotlight, where every flaw is highlighted and nothing is secret. Here is a precious glimpse into the lives of two people who love Christ and each other. Theirs is a faith that triumphs over the worst odds. They inspire people to conquer the obstacles of life for the glory of God and the love of Christ. A truly selfless couple who firmly believe that Jesus is the answer to all life’s problems, Ken and Joni overcome their own personal challenges through complete surrender to Christ. They inspire us to surrender our hearts to the One who loves us wholeheartedly. Here is a unique love story for the ages as we watch their trials draw them closer to Christ and shape them into His glorious likeness for eternity. Their groundbreaking ministry “Wheels for the World” provides a free wheelchair and the Gospel of Jesus Christ to children and adults affected by disability. Here are two lives joyfully lived, two hearts beating as one, for the glory of God. This poignant, powerful love story will reverberate through the centuries as Joni and Ken display the rare jewels of love, tenderness, unselfishness and patience, anointed by the Holy Spirit. This is a story of hope reflecting His heart. Through intense adversity, their love for Christ shines through as their marriage strives to portray Christ’s love for His bride, the Church.

Miriam Jacob

I received this e-book free from THOMAS NELSON PUBLISHERS through their book review bloggers program.

FTC Regulations Compliance & Disclosure of Material Connection:

To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, as part of every web or retail site review, the author has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

LOVE’S VIOLET SUNRISE – by Naomi Rawlings

 

An Eagle Harbor Novella

Ebook: 100 pages. December 19, 2016. $3.09

 

This inspiring Eagle Harbor Novella and Historical Christian Romance, “Love’s Violet Sunrise” – Hiram and Mabel’s story – is a prequel to the rest of the Eagle Harbor Series.

Eagle Harbor–the town at the end of Love’s Violet Sunrise–is a real town located on the southern shore of Lake Superior. Here are the lovely surroundings Naomi Rawlings envisions when she write scenes that take place in Eagle Harbor. The lighthouse is open for tours, and Eagle Harbor is a beautiful place to visit any time of the year.

 

 

When Naomi Rawlings first wrote the Eagle Harbor Series, she hadn’t thought much of Hiram and Mabel Cummings. As her main characters needed parents, and Naomi wanted the series to deal with an important godly upbringing, she created the needed characters. When she wrote this novel, she thought about why Hiram was the way he was. What inspired him to fight courageously for justice in Eagle Harbor? What was Mabel so attached to her husband that she couldn’t cope with tragedy later? Thus Naomi comes to the story of how Hiram and Moses faced corruption and injustice in Milwaukee before reaching Eagle Harbor.

Miss Mabel Krause stood in Mr. Hiram Cummings’ office. She had wheat-colored hair, fresh creamy skin, and gray-tinted eyes. Hiram looked at her apologetically, very concerned that she was locked in jail for charges she hadn’t committed. Mabel thanked him for getting her out of jail. Would he take up Dietrich’s case? Hope welled up in her heart. He would try to make a case to assert her brother’s innocence.

Mr. Cummings was an honest man. He had paid Mabel’s fine to secure her release. Mabel’s cheeks turned pink on realizing this. Dietrich wished to pay Cummings for protecting his sister. But Hiram didn’t believe in getting paid for doing his Christian duty. Dietrich was in jail awaiting trial for a crime he didn’t commit. Hiram must leave this case up to God and His justice, because only God could bring the culprit to justice.

Mabel wept, thinking of Dietrich’s arrest. In a strange house, she couldn’t control her tears. Unable to sleep, she went to the kitchen, where Hiram sat studying Dietrich’s papers. Mabel fought back tears, as Hiram prayed, “Dear Father, let Mabel have strength to face what lies ahead, and comfort her. May her brother and his friends be released from jail, their names cleared for a crime they didn’t commit. Let whoever set the Schroder mill on fire be brought to justice. Give Mabel sound sleep. Calm her spirit, clear her busy mind and allow her to rest in you.”

Hiram’s prayer touched Mabel’s heart. They sat on the sofa, his hand in hers, as he told her tales of justice, his soft voice lulling her to where justice prevailed and mercy reigned. Her hair was golden in the lantern’s light, illuminating her soft eyes and creamy skin. She was delicate looking, yet strong at heart to fight courageously for her brother. He would do anything to see her smile.

Out on the beautiful beach, Mabel stared at flecks of gold dancing across the waves, smiling at Hiram so prettily that his heart stood still. The golden sunlight made her silky tresses of hair look as rich as honey. Had God brought the right woman across his path after all?

The fresh scent of the forest wafted around them, with its rich soil, clean air, lush green foliage and long grass dotted with sunflowers. Mabel’s hand was tucked in his, as she walked quietly beside him. He loved to see her smile, to glimpse her innate stubbornness and courageous spunk. A sweet smile was on her soft, pink lips, with the most delicate blush on her cheeks. In the golden, flower-scented air, he felt utterly helpless in the face of her beauty.

Pray for the best. Right was right, regardless of how much it cost him. Hiram was imbued with courage from God. Mabel’s safety was more important than his own feelings. He had selflessly given up everything to help her and Dietrich. If only he didn’t have to say goodbye to her.

Helping Mabel had cost Hiram dearly. The gentle, kindhearted look on his face was so tender, she couldn’t keep her tears at bay. “Don’t say that, darling. You needed help, and God allowed me to give it. I’m grateful for the opportunity.” He was so good at heart, so pure and simple. So genuinely good. She loved Hiram Cummings. And now she might never see him again.

Mabel wanted to sink into the warmth, strength and tenderness Hiram offered, into the poignant hope of a future together, that might never be destined to be. Hiram instinctively sensed her sorrow and brought his own regrets into their relationship. He was honest with Dietrich about his feelings for Mabel. Hiram had nothing to hide.

Dietrich asked whether Mabel felt the same way about Hiram. She said that she did. Laughing, Dietrich said that if they felt that strongly about each other, they should get married instantly. Then came the excuses. “I only just met him…” “I don’t want to pressure her too soon.” They spoke simultaneously, gazing at each other. Mabel hugged Hiram.

Hiram’s proposaI was honest and frank like the man himself. “I don’t see how I deserve a woman like you, Mabel, but I’d be honored if you’d be my wife.” In her heart, Mabel knew that it was a proposal complete with promises of undying love, honest and forthright, from a man she deeply admired and loved, and whom she wanted a future with. “I love you, Hiram Cummings, and I promise to love you for a long time to come.”

When Mabel was married to Hiram, her heart felt as bright and colorful as love’s violet sunrise. They looked forward to a life full of promises of hope and a happy future, of a place where justice and integrity were valued above all else. It was a future that they couldn’t wait to claim as their own.

Love’s Violet Sunrise – Hiram and Mabel’s story – is a prequel to the Eagle Harbor Series, which takes place thirty years later in the town where Hiram and Mabel make their home and raise their children. I recommend reading the entire series!

Miriam Jacob

 

 

ROAD TRIP OF DELUSION – by Jean Ann Williams

ROAD TRIP OF DELUSION
by Jean Ann Williams

Pages: 258. Publisher: Love Truth, May 22, 2017. ISBN-13: 978-0997701623. $15.99
Miriam Jacob

Road Trip of Delusion is a captivating story of the hair-raising adventures of Kari Rose and her sisters, staying with their great-grandma. Faced with a difficult choice, Kari opts for a 500-mile-long trip north from California to Southern Oregon to visit family. Kari’s first attempt to drive is jerky at best, but with Granny no longer able to, everyone depends on Kari to survive. What an incredible story, told with kindness and compassion, in Jean Ann William’s unique style. Her gift for graphic description is commendable and exemplary. This book holds us spellbound from start to finish. A great read!

Buy ROAD TRIP OF DELUSION at AMAZON

JEAN ANN WILLIAMS

Author Jean Ann Williams, the eldest in a large family, enjoys digging into her fascinating childhood to create stories for children. Having written over three hundred articles for children and adults, Road Trip of Delusion is her second book for ages twelve to ninety-nine. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She writes regularly at Putting on the New blog, Book Fun magazine, and her own Real Stories for Real Girls website. Jean Ann and her husband live on one acre in Southern Oregon where they raise a garden, goats, and chickens. Her favorite hobbies are hiking through the woods, practicing archery, and her favorite game is Scrabble.

Inside Exeter Cathedral, with the vaulted ceiling – the longest uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceiling in the world.

Inside Exeter Cathedral, with the vaulted ceiling – the longest uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceiling in the world. By Edward Swift (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)%5D, via Wikimedia Commons

By Edward Swift (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0

(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)%5D,

via Wikimedia Commons

Medieval Barns – Cressing Temple Barns – near Witham, Essex, UK.

Cressing Temple Barns near Witham, Essex, UK. Courtesy: Dr. Graham Gould. Copyright Protected for this Blog.

CRESSING TEMPLE BARNS near Witham, Essex, UK.

The wheat barn, in the foreground, and the barley barn, behind, are both thirteenth-century structures in origin, though reframed and reroofed before the end of the Middle Ages, and are among the oldest and largest medieval barns in the world. The infill between the studs would originally have been board not brick.

Dr. Graham Gould

Graphic: Copyright protected for this Blog