Saturday's Book Recommendation: Two from Galilee by Marjorie Holmes
Two from Galilee by Marjorie Holmes
I generally recommend children's books, because that's what I read the most. This time, I'm recommending an adult book, though mature children would probably enjoy it, too.
I first read this book years ago. I occasionally revisit it, especially in the Advent season of the church year, because it is such a beautiful telling of Mary and Joseph before Jesus was born.
If you click on the title above, you can read an excerpt. My library has an old, hardcover, unattractive-looking version of it, but it still contains a great story. Marjorie Holmes takes the simple story from the Bible and explores what it was probably like for Mary and Joseph. Can you imagine telling your fiance that you're pregnant and that you are carrying God's child? What about telling your family? What would the neighbors think when they noticed you are "showing?" How did the Jewish customs and beliefs enter into this relationship and the possibility of the Messiah finally coming to Earth? How could they believe it was true? How could they deny it?
The idea of a romantic relationship usually is the last thing I think of when I hear the Christmas account. I focus on the child and the unwed mother, the news of the shepherds and angels, the political danger. But, I didn't think of the relationship of Mary and Joseph much until I read this book.
I encourage you to read this book before Christmas, or shortly thereafter. I think it could enhance this year's holiday for you.
I generally recommend children's books, because that's what I read the most. This time, I'm recommending an adult book, though mature children would probably enjoy it, too.
I first read this book years ago. I occasionally revisit it, especially in the Advent season of the church year, because it is such a beautiful telling of Mary and Joseph before Jesus was born.
If you click on the title above, you can read an excerpt. My library has an old, hardcover, unattractive-looking version of it, but it still contains a great story. Marjorie Holmes takes the simple story from the Bible and explores what it was probably like for Mary and Joseph. Can you imagine telling your fiance that you're pregnant and that you are carrying God's child? What about telling your family? What would the neighbors think when they noticed you are "showing?" How did the Jewish customs and beliefs enter into this relationship and the possibility of the Messiah finally coming to Earth? How could they believe it was true? How could they deny it?
The idea of a romantic relationship usually is the last thing I think of when I hear the Christmas account. I focus on the child and the unwed mother, the news of the shepherds and angels, the political danger. But, I didn't think of the relationship of Mary and Joseph much until I read this book.
I encourage you to read this book before Christmas, or shortly thereafter. I think it could enhance this year's holiday for you.
Comments