THE CHRISTMAS CODE by O. S. Hawkins

THE CHRISTMAS CODE - Daily Devotions Celebrating The Advent Season by O. S. Hawkins is a book that allows you to slow down and remember the real reason for the season. With exactly 25 devotionals one could begin on December 1, if that is your pleasure.

Of course it would make a great stocking stuffer but that would mean the person would not get the book until Day 25. It would also make a wonderful table top book, or bathroom read (if you know what I mean) however, I think THE CHRISTMAS CODE is a great book to read anytime of the year but then again I watch Christmas movies year-round.

THE CHRISMAS CODE helps you keep the spirit of Christmas in your heart and mind no matter when you read it thus it would make a great gift.

Technically speaking: the book is 58 pages and each devotional comes with a Bible verse, commentary, a code word and a mini prayer. On December 11th the “Code Word” is Providence and the elaboration begins: “God is at work,behind the scenes in your life, right now.”  This book contains words of faith and encouragement a great devotional for personal use as well as a gift.   - written by Marsha L F Randolph

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. 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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

CHILDRENS BOOK REVIEW: IF HE HAD NOT COME by David Nicholson

Technically “IF HE HAD NOT COME” is a children’s book however the message is for everyone. IF HE HAD NOT COME originally told by Nan Weeks and reintroduced by David Nicholson is a story that ask the question: What would happen if Jesus had not come?
IF HE HAD NOT COME begins on Christmas Eve the day before the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus but without the birth of our Lord and Savior there is no Christmas Day. Not only that there can be no Christianity which means there are no churches or the activities that the church does.
The simplicity of the book facilitates a great meditation of John 15:22 which is supported by the six discussion questions presented at the end of the story. As a parent or Children’s church teacher they are excellent questions to help point out to the young that Christmas is not about gifts. These questions are great even for adults and for more mature Believers there are more questions that take you deeper into the meaning of Christmas.
The book concludes with the Gospel Message and the steps to salvation something needed by all young and old.
I recommend this book and suggest that it is read not only during the Christmas season but whenever you think about Christ.  Marsha L Randolph

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. 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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”