Here we stand–on February’s welcome mat. You may or may not know this but evergreens, various pine trees, populate Arizona. We do host myriad cactus too, however, we also see our share of deciduous trees. Sycamores. Cottonwoods. Arizona Ash. Acacia. Mesquite. Elms, and more.

Their leaves have finally given way to cold temps and winter winds. As part of God’s design and holy rhythm, the trees stand bare in their time to wait. It’s their turn to take a break from producing and to rest. Recuperate. To be rejuvenated before they bud and bloom again.

Perhaps you in your spirit and soul, heart and mind and body are in winter, a season of waiting. Looking for something somewhere to sprout. Someone to breathe new life into what was and isn’t anymore. Or could be. Hold onto hope. Jesus came to earth, and Easter Sunday happened! New life is a reality.

The momentum of the new year has me looking forward to my favorite celebration on the calendar. Easter. For Jesus followers, Easter holds the banner of God’s love out to all. Puts His mercy and grace on full display.

To celebrate the hope we have in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, I’m kicking February off with a book giveaway. Not just one book. I have two books for a giveaway. My thanks to Paraclete Press!

Women Who Followed Jesus ~ 40 Devotions on the Journey to Easter by Dandi Daley Mackall, Paraclete Press, 2024

After reading Three Wise Women ~ 40 Devotions Celebrating Advent with Mary, Elizabeth, and Anna by Dandi Daley Mackall, I’ve looked forward to reading Women Who Followed Jesus. Again, the author’s careful study of Scripture and first-century historical references and skillful writing compels readers to walk with eight women who followed Jesus during His in-between times–birth, ministry, death, burial, and resurrection. Her educated imaginings point readers sheds light on the grace and mercy and companionship available to us today.

Season of Beauty ~ A Lent and Easter Treasury of Readings, Poems, and Prayers by Paraclete Press, 2024.

Season of Beauty provides a peaceful and beautiful resource for remembering and reflecting on Love incarnate, the gift of Christ’s cross and resurrection. Through artful prose, poetry, Scripture, poignant quotes, and reproductions of Christian Art, Season of Beauty invites us  into contemplation of the hope we have in the light that dawns in these holy days between Lent and Easter.

To ENTER THE GIVEAWAY for one of these two books, simply comment on this post with one of your favorite Easter memories.

The giveaway ends Sunday February 4th at midnight (MST). Comment and share your favorite Easter memory now!

The post An Easter Two Books Giveaway appeared first on Mona Hodgson.