May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
Friday, April 22, 2016
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
Children's Book Review: Little One, God Made You Special by Amy Warren Hilliker. illustrated by Polona Lovsin
Book Description:
Little One,
God Made You Special, written by Amy Warren Hilliker and inspired by the New
York Times #1bestseller The Purpose-Driven Life, is a cute and cuddly
board book that let’s children know God made each one of us very special.
My Review:
As most parents, I believed my babies were perfect even when they made messes. In Little One, God Made You Special the mama and papa animals talk to their little ones in an adoring way. They show them how they're special, from their tiny chins to their big hearts. I like books like this one because I believe children are a special gift and need to know that God created them for a reason. We can't encourage our children too early or too often. Polona Lovsin's illustrations are lovely and add joy to this sweet book. I received Little One, God Made You Special in exchange for a fair review.
As most parents, I believed my babies were perfect even when they made messes. In Little One, God Made You Special the mama and papa animals talk to their little ones in an adoring way. They show them how they're special, from their tiny chins to their big hearts. I like books like this one because I believe children are a special gift and need to know that God created them for a reason. We can't encourage our children too early or too often. Polona Lovsin's illustrations are lovely and add joy to this sweet book. I received Little One, God Made You Special in exchange for a fair review.
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Children's Book Review: Read with Me Bible for Little Ones by Doris Winbeek RIkkers, illustrated by Dennis G. Jones
Book Description:
The
Read with Me Bible for Little Ones is
the perfect way to introduce the Bible to young children. Featuring simple
language and vibrant, full-color illustrations by Dennis Jones, this
action-packed padded cover board book is a great way to jump-start literacy and
a love of the Bible.
My Review:The Read with Me Bible for Little Ones features gentle tellings of some of the more common stories of the Bible. I particularly like "Jonah and the Big Fish" because it speaks the truth about what happens when you don't listen. In this case, Jonah didn't listen to God's directions. Each story could also be used for a Bible class in the nursery or preschool class. Although the book doesn't mention the crucifixion, Jesus is depicted going to heaven with the assurance that he'll return someday. I see a lot of good conversation starters for three to four year olds. The illustrations are fun. Young children will enjoy the exaggerated features and big smiles. I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
Saturday, April 16, 2016
Let the Children Come
Luke 19:13-14
Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.
Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to
me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as
these.”
He
ran down the aisle.
The night before, Eli told his mommy he wanted
Jesus in his heart. Our grandson loves Jesus and he wants to go to heaven
someday. He talked with his mommy and daddy about why he wanted to accept Jesus
as his savior and be baptized; and at the young age of six years old, he's got
it. So on Sunday morning, with total abandon he ran to the front of the church and
met his grandpa who took his confession of faith. Then his daddy baptized this
sweet young man in the water. After he came up out of the baptistery he looked
at his mommy and said, through his beautiful grin, "I can't believe I have
Jesus in my heart!" He was excited.
Jesus told us long ago to have the heart of a
child. To run to him with total abandon. But how many times do I let my
insecurities, frustrations, and doubts hold me back. Too often Satan gets in my
ear and fills me with anxiety. The trouble is, I listen to him sometimes. My
prayer today is that I can meet Jesus without constraint, love him unashamedly
and run into his arms without hesitation. I asked him into my heart a long time
ago. Now I need to bring him into every day and go to him for everything.
The Newsboys sing I Want to Live with Abandon.
That's how I want to live! Like a child who runs to Jesus.
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
Happy Birthday, Beverly Cleary!
One of the first books I remember reading by Beverly Cleary was Fifteen. Jane, a high school student was asked out by Stan, the most popular boy in school. I remember reading this sweet romance and thinking it was the best story ever.
Many years later my daughters read Henry Huggins, The Mouse and the Motorcycle, and so many other wonderful books written by this beloved author. When I worked in an elementary school library, I read Dear Mr. Henshaw to my students and recommended many of her books to my precious readers.
I can't let this day pass without wishing Happy 100th Birthday to one of the most wonderful children's authors, whose books crossed so many generations.
What's your favorite Beverly Cleary book?
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