Each page was a delightful surprise in winter and Christmas art, from wildlife animals to a manger. I can’t give it all away, but this book is worthy of purchase for the art alone!
Grab a cup of tea or coffee, and let’s talk about this new release. I would love to hear from you in the comments!
Devotional Title
Jesus Listens
Subtitle
For Advent & Christmas Prayers for the Season
Author
Sarah Young
Published
October 2023 by Thomas Nelson
Book Art
Sally Wilson
Voice Audio
Bill Russell
How Found & Why Chosen
Around the end of summer, I saw Sarah Young’s newest book was releasing in October. The cover was so beautiful and her being known for Jesus Calling, I knew I had to preview it for you.
Inside the Cover
This devotional is a complete experience with the art, the feel of the puffy cover, and the writing style many love about Sarah Young.
I purchased the hardcover (puffy), but it comes in a Kindle and Audible version. The Audible is well done by Bill Russell and comes with a PDF of the art. That is a win! The Kindle has the art images as well. Most but not all of the art is in the Audible and Kindle. The colored pages and snowflakes are all that are missing.
There are four pages for each day’s reading. Page one has a devotional of thoughtful prayer. The second page has a reflective short thought from Christ’s perspective. Pages three and four have the Bible verses that inspired the devotion and a beautiful wintertime art image.
There are four lined pages in the back where you can write your Christmas prayers.
Loved!
I enjoy Sarah Young’s devotional style and she stayed true to it here.
Her introduction was heartfelt. It was evident that she expects you, the reader, to gain a closer relationship with God as you read the devotions and the three to four Bible verses that align with each day.
The devotions covered topics from resting in the rush, praising God and Jesus, and focusing on the season while allowing the to-do list to wait. Sarah Young’s relational way of explaining your connection with God and Jesus is truly a once-a-day gift.
Pause! *
There are 40 devotionals. With 40 days I think this leads you into January when some celebrate the arrival of the three wise men.
Looking online at the Amazon preview for the Kindle version, it looks like the devotional is divided into four sections: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. The audio and physical book has no such divisions.
Your Thoughts
Let me know in the comments when you would start the 40 days of this devo.
Who’s it for?
Are you looking for an Advent or Christmas season devotional? This might be the pick for you. Young has a huge following of readers who will purchase because they like what she delivers in their quiet time with God. The art-packed devotional is a daily gift of retreat with the Lord, focusing on the reason for celebrating our Savior’s birth.
Who it’s not for?
It is not for men specifically, but if read in a family setting it would be acceptable. Full disclosure, I did interview my husband for his perspective on the hard-bound copy of Jesus Listens.
Who would you gift this to?
Please tell me in the comments.
Announcement
Book Release 2024! More details to come. Sign up for my blog posts to make sure you keep up to date.
Keep Walking on Mustard Seeds,
Michele Marie Weisman
For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. Romans 11:29, ESV