For those who might appreciate an unusual approach to the Christmas story, this chapter book is a creative nonfiction study in narrative form. If you are an out-of-the-box seeker of truth, no matter your background, this book offers some extraordinary insights to consider. If you are a Christian who enjoys delving into biblical prophecy about Christ and His Kingdom, may this book bring you great joy. If you are a descendant of Abraham, willing to see the Torah or Tanakh in a new light, you might find unexpected treasures here. If it gives you pleasure to put yourself in the shoes of past earth-dwellers, this book might, in one way or another, float your history-loving boat. And if you're a fellow, nerdy stargazer, I hope you will find as much delight as I do in the possibilities presented in this story (a thirty-seven-day or -week study).
This book is designed to be a daily chapter reading Advent through Epiphany (December 1st - January 6th). Though it can be used at any time of the year, as a thirty-seven day or week study in Old Testament prophecy and biblical times.
Primarily written for use in small groups (for example: families with older children, Bible study groups, reading groups, and other fellowships), it can also be used for daily personal devotions or biblical studies.
Used interactively, the following roles might be assigned to various group members:
"Yosef," the narrator.
"Levi," who reads the Bible verses that are quoted throughout each day's reading (beginning in chapter two) and occasionally other material. Throughout the book, asterisks mark these separate readings.
A song leader, who prepares music in conjunction with the day's or week's reading. Suggested songs or music for each day are listed in the appendix.
A nativity scene coordinator, who prepares each day's visual representation of the nativity. A list of possible nativity scene pieces that could complement the reading is provided in the appendix.
Footnotes taken from a Bible version will sometimes be included within a Bible verse (these will be in parentheses). Clarifications in Scripture quotes by the author will be contained in brackets [for summaries, to give context, or to indicate who is speaking or being spoken of].
This book is the first in what I hope will be a series of books celebrating Jesus in what were once known as Holy Days. Look for upcoming books containing prophecy and teachings about Christ in the Old Testament for the Passover season, the fifty days leading up to the Day of Pentecost, and for the seventh month beginning with the Day of Trumpets and going through the Last Great Day of the Feast of Tabernacles.
Owen, Shelli: - Shelli began writing in earnest when the last of her five children graduated from home school high school. She is herself a 2020 graduate of George Fox University, with an interdisciplinary degree in biblical studies and art and a minor in writing. Besides writing and encouraging other writers, Shelli is a Bible student and artist. Other favorite pastimes are reading, researching, and writing, and spending time in creation. This is where you may find her hiking in the woods, walking on a beach, biking, stargazing, camping, picnicking, or exploring natural parks. She also enjoys hosting friends from far and near and treasures time spent with her husband, adult children, grandchildren, and extended family.She, with her beloved (husband), has lived in Europe and several places in the USA. They currently live in the Pacific Northwest. They are parents to five adult children and Nana and Papa to five grandchildren.
