Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee

by Barbara M. Britton

Hope can cross any distance—especially when Jesus is in the boat.

Set amid stories from the Gospel of Mark, Across the Lake by Barbara M. Britton is an inspirational Christian devotional for readers who long to encounter Christ’s power and compassion in a fresh way.

Through short, story-based reflections, Britton explores moments of spiritual warfare, physical suffering, and divine restoration. Each vignette reveals how the life of Jesus continues to transform hearts and renew faith today.
Inside, you’ll devotionals rooted in Scripture and historyEncouragement for your daily walk with God

Insights perfect for personal growth or small group discussionsBlending the beauty of Biblical fiction with the truth of Bible study, Across the Lake invites you to see that every struggle can become a testimony when placed in the Savior’s hands.

Jump in the boat with Jesus—the same Savior who still calms storms and transforms lives today.

167 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 6, 2026

About the author

Barbara M. Britton lives in Wisconsin and loves the snow—when it accumulates under three inches. She writes romantic adventures for teens and adults. Barb has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Romance Writers of America, and American Christian Fiction Writers. You can visit Barb online at www. barbarambritton.com or follow her on Facebook and twitter.

Reviews

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Barbara Brityon for giving me the opportunity to be on her launch team for this very informative book. It is a very interesting read as it gives you the opportunity to read about six different events and then apply them to your own life. I have only read a couple of devotionals in my lifetime but I would have to say that this one was very intriguing and related more closely to the bible.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Across the Lake takes you on a compelling and unique journey with Jesus at the Sea of Galilee. The six stories contain fictional elements concerning real events, but much care was given to carefully and respectfully do so.

I love the book’s format, with each part retelling a story from the book of Mark, followed by thoughts from the author and stimulating discussion questions. I prefer individual study, but the book is well suited for small groups as well. I appreciate that the questions aren’t run-of-the-mill queries. They prompt personal reflection and cause me to give candid responses.

I’ve enjoyed both fiction and non-fiction by this author and this blend of the two beautifully illuminates the miracles and healing love of Jesus.

First Line: I have never traveled to a more peaceful place than the region around the Sea of Galilee.
Genre: Devotional, Bible Study
Author: Barbara M. Britton
Page Count: 180

#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are my own.

[Jenelle Hovde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Across the Lake is a beautifully written invitation to step into the Gospels and walk beside Jesus. With immersive storytelling, keen reflection, and accessible study prompts, Barbara M. Britton takes us on six pivotal journeys around the Sea of Galilee—where storms are stilled, compassion is shown, faith is stretched, and hope is renewed. Whether you’re looking for a devotional companion, small-group study, or a fresh encounter with Scripture, I wholeheartedly recommend it.


Read for endorsement!

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a new Bible study, Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee is a great choice. Six miracles of Jesus are presented in a fiction-plus-devotional format that allows the reader to experience each Bible story from the perspective of someone who was there. The power and love of Jesus echoes through each account. Following each story, the Author Reflections provide additional insights, including details from the author’s personal account of her trip to Israel. The Discussion Questions are interesting and thought-provoking. In the best possible way, this book is like a grown-up Sunday School lesson—simple, truthful, accessible, personal, and powerful. I highly recommend it!
I received an advance copy of this book, but the review is my honest opinion.

[Mia Jo Celeste]

I've finished an advance copy of Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee, written by Barbara M. Britton, and I love it — especially how the author has structured the discussion elements.

My group members and I are busy. Our complicated lives sometimes lead us to complete only some questions, leaving others blank. Sometimes we’ve read the scripture and the lessons, and we don't understand what the questions are really asking, or the questions suggest that there’s only a single right answer called for.

I have a friend who regularly asks me, "What did you get for number such and such?"

She worries she's missed the point. She'd like Across the Lake.

In this study, open-ended questions invite participants to ponder--then to share their thoughts. A reader can answer all the numbered discussions or focus on one or two. This is great with our busy lives.

The discussions asked are easy, but they are insightful and lead to reflection. The study encourages readers to seek what God revealed to them.

It’s empowering.

Of course, before readers delve into the discussion elements, the author shares the scripture passage and then retells the story detailed in the scripture from the standpoint of a human character who witnesses Jesus’ actions, like the reenactments of The Chosen. Then, she imparts her reflections.

Her way of presenting lessons worked for me, and I believe it’ll work for other readers as well.

[Mary Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara visited the area of Capernaum, which inspired her to write about six of Jesus's miracles that took place in the area. She flashes out the background with fiction and then provides thoughtful author reflections and discussion questions. It is a great book to give to a seeker or new believer.
I received an advanced copy of this book. The review is honest and my own opinion.

[Zoe McCarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, Barbara helped me enjoy the Bible stories by adding color to the stories in each lesson —color from observations on her trip or from research. Her well-designed discussion questions made me think to take in what God wanted me to learn from the stories. But what made this study special for me was how she brought each lesson alive through her own life experiences. Right from the beginning she compares Lake Michigan near her house to the Sea of Galilee, giving me something to visualize.

Because of Britton’s real-life bleeding event, she was able to flesh out the woman who dealt with constant bleeding—made her come alive. And Barbara relates other personal hardships that gave her the knowledge and feelings to make the Biblical stories come alive for me. I believe God called her to use her personal stories to give each lesson authenticity—to help participants identify with what God wants us to take away from Biblical events and teachings.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a lover of fiction and a lover of scripture. Across the Lake by Barbara M. Britton is a beautiful merging of the two. The author chose six well-known passages of scripture and used fiction to bring the characters to life. Each story ends with discussion questions that can be used for self-reflection or with a small group. The questions are designed to delve deeper into the scripture and lead to a personal application. Both the fictional stories and the study questions are enhanced by the author’s visit to Israel. She walked the roads that are part of these passages and shared her experiences with readers. Across the Lake would be a perfect resource for a six-week Bible study. I give it my full recommendation.

[Linda Dindzans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Across the Lake, Across Time—Into the Heart of Dramatic Devotion

We are innately wired for story, and the author invites us to walk with her along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, bringing the setting vividly to life. Just as Jesus engaged His listeners through parables, she draws on her skill as a biblical fiction writer to shape stories that gently open familiar Scripture passages—each one centered on His ministry around the lake. These narratives become dramatic devotions, paired with thoughtful discussion questions that invite deeper reflection. The approach was so engaging that I read the book in a single day—yet I look forward to returning, slowing my pace, and lingering longer.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee is written by Barbara M. Britton. This is a through the Gospel of Mark.

This devotion is well written. The author writes the devotion through Biblical Truth, historical context and spiritual reflection. I love the blend of of personal experience and Biblical Truth.

The author highlights key moments of Jesus ministry. I loved reading these devotions.

This is a great devotion for those looking to dive deeper into the workings of Jesus ministry.

Thank you to the author, publisher and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

[Olivia Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book to use as a Bible study, family study, or to do by yourself. A great mix between fictional characters added to real Biblical stories.

[Lynn Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author incorporated her personal experiences around the lake in Israel. I read this during my quiet time, and was very encouraged and inspired by all of the devotions.

[Carla Bruns · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like stories that paint a picture for the unsaid things in the Bible. As long as we remember it is fiction and not gospel, it is another way to look at things and be inspired by God’s Word. Britton did a good job of balancing this in Across the Lake. The stories themselves were, for the most part, in line with the Gospel of Mark. They are familiar stories for those who have been a part of the Christian church for a while and stories that a newer member should know. I particularly enjoyed Holding on to a Thread, which focused on the woman who bled in Mark 5:21–34. While fictional, you could really see the research that Britton put into this tale, making it more vivid and relatable. By understanding things from the perspective of the time when the Bible was written, it provided me with new insight that made me really look at this biblical account from a fresh perspective. Whenever I read Christian fiction, I think in terms of on camera and off camera, and aside from one instance that left a little bit of a bad taste in my mouth, the stories were true to the on camera narration from the Bible and my comfort level grew with each narrative. Overall, this book offers a thoughtful and engaging approach to familiar biblical accounts. Readers who enjoy biblical fiction that stays close to Scripture will likely appreciate this book.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a fan of Barbara Britton's fiction. I was curious about this new-to-me form of Bible study, so agreed to check it out. Britton's cross-genre Bible study guide based on fictionalized stories of scriptural events is interesting. She chose six familiar stories from the book of Mark, with support of other scriptures, to briefly expand in compelling and realistic fiction on those stories. They are the story of the demon-possessed man among the tombs; the woman with bleeding who touched Jesus's cloak; Jairus and his daughter; Peter's experience when sent out to evangelize; the feeding of the thousands; and Peter's experience when Jesus interacts with the Gentile woman believer who wanted healing for her daughter. Britton chooses names and adds contextual details to "flesh out" the stories of the passages in several brief chapters in each section, some from different points of view of the observing or involved characters.

Each segment includes an author reflection mostly based on a trip to the area. Following is a several-question study guide that includes questions and comments from other similar and related scriptural references in other books. I personally am glad to see supporting scriptures especially for this study.

I am honestly not sure that creating a Bible study with fictionalized accounts of Biblical stories is for everyone. Britton's creation leaves little room for too much conjecture and is thoughtful. It's an interesting concept and will make for good discussion among people who are already familiar with the Bible.

The book is due out for sale January 6. I received an advanced copy for review.

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara M. Britton's exceptional Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee is a novel and Bible study along with a bit of memoir. She takes 6 accounts from the life of Jesus and asks the question, "What if?" What if the man with the Legion had a son and a family who was desperate for him to be healed and come home? What if the woman with the issue of blood also had loved ones who were waiting for her return and restoration? Or, what if we got more time with Jairus and his family?

This author has taken these accounts, plus three more, and asks the text questions about Jesus, His disciples, and those with whom He interacted. (And remember, not all of those who met Jesus in the Gospel of Mark were fans!) She tells us more about her time in Israel, especially around the Sea of Galilee, so that we can picture the events as well as see the Galilee through current-day eyes.

Each chapter has Bible study questions which are insightful, encouraging, and meaningful. They'd be great for either individual or group study.

This is a 5-star book for sure. Enjoy!

I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee by Barbara Britton, is a refreshingly unique devotional experience. Barbara Britton takes us into six passages from the book of Mark. Every passage focuses on a miracle performed by Jesus. Each part begins with an excerpt from the Bible providing the miracle. The Bible portion is followed by a fictional account of what might have happened to those who received the miracle, as well as a look into the possible circumstances surrounding the miracle. Then Barbara Britton includes her own reflections, which I found fascinating. The final portion of each part contains discussion questions with a strong Biblical focus. The strong Bible focused discussion questions were the icing on the cake for me.

Biblical fiction is a challenge. One must walk a fine line in staying true to the Biblical account while taking the reader down a path of wondering. Barbara Britton does not deviate from the truth found in the Word of God. This has been my experience with every piece of Biblical fiction written by Barbara Britton.

This study is worth doing individually, as well as with a group. Barbara Britton has provided a worthwhile experience in diving deeper into the life of Jesus!

I received an advance copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions provided are my own.

[June Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

A unique devotional inspired by the author's trip to the Sea of Galilee in Israel . . .

Author Barbara M. Britton has provided readers with an in-depth study of New Testament Scriptures from the Gospel of Mark regarding Jesus's travels around the Sea of Galilee to minister to people from all walks of life.

The author has written fictionalized versions of events taken from the Book of Mark by giving names to previously anonymous characters to illustrate how their interactions with Jesus greatly affected their lives.

The book is divided into six parts, each of which contains four or five fictionalized vignettes of the scripture passages being examined for that section. The vignettes are followed by the Author's Reflections and a detailed section of Discussion Questions. The formatting of the book is user-friendly and allows readers to record their thoughts in the book.

At the end of the book the author has thoughtfully provided a brief section entitled, 'Following Jesus.' I found the tone of the author in this section to be warm and encouraging because it gives new Christians specific ways to continue to grow in their journey of faith.

I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.

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[Sharon Wilharm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Across the Lake is a little different than your usual read. It’s listed as a biblical fiction devotional. I’ve never read a biblical fiction devotional before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. It’s basically a book of short stories tied together with a common theme, followed by author reflections and discussion questions.

The common theme for Across the Lake is Bible stories that took place along the Sea of Galilee. It opens with the story of the demon-possessed man living among the tombs told from the perspective of his young son. Interspersed with his scenes are scenes of the disciples traveling across the lake on the way to where the tombs are and interacting with the people of the town. Other stories in the collection include the bleeding woman and Jairus’s daughter.

The author takes poetic liberties in bringing the scenes to life, but I didn’t run into anything that contradicted Scripture. Everything feels well-researched and well thought-out.

If you’re looking for short biblical reads for yourself or a small group, check out Across the Lake. I imagine it would be even more interesting if you’ve actually been to the Holy Land and walked along the Sea of Galilee. Then, these stories would take on even more depth.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Britton is so good at taking little known Bible characters and bringing them to life. But in Across the Lake, this author has taken well known characters and brought them to light. She makes them seen as real people. What were their lives like before their mention in the book of Mark? Someone's son, daughter, husband, wife, father, mother? I was actually ashamed of myself after I read of the lady that had suffered bleeding for twelve years. Just the week before, I had heard the Biblical account on audio. Same story I've read every year for the past thirty plus years. But when I read of this same story as present by Barbara Britton, it made me look more closely at this woman. Question her life with the pain and suffering she must have gone through before meeting Jesus. Even reading the story in the Bible, with no name, she was still a suffering woman that deserved more of my attention and thought to than I have.
I enjoyed this compiling of stories so much, I'm planning to give copies as late Christmas presents. I want others to read and appreciate these stories as much as me. It may even give me and other a nudge to giving more thought and consideration to the people and the times as we read our devotions and study the scriptures.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Across the Lake was not what I was expecting at all, and that is not a bad thing. Seeing Biblical stories that I’ve heard my whole life come to life with fresh eyes and vivid imagery was a refreshing experience. The Author’s Reflections and Discussion Questions really brought the Biblical story home, giving me much to ponder.

I really enjoyed how unique this book felt. Not only did I feel like I was reading a Biblical fiction, but I was also able to parallel it with true Biblical accounts. This balance of fact and fiction is quite powerful. Seeing these stories from a unique perspective had me thinking about these Biblical truths in a fresh way and thinking about aspects of these stories that I had never thought about before. It really did make dead bones come alive in an exciting new way.

This is a devotional that I could see reaching many. With short chapters and truths that hit home, Across the Lake will help you see Jesus’s time in ministry from a unique perspective and remind you of timeless truths that are still applicable today.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devotionals are a daily part of my life. Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee by Barbara M. Britton is the most recent Devotional that I have discovered.

I found this Devotional to be very deep and can really challenge the reader to take their time to really read the story. The Author recounts the Gospel of Mark, focusing on certain books, and especially the Sea of Galilee. The stories are Biblical Fiction although they also speak about real life struggles for Women and many of them are from Personal Experiences of the Author. The 6 chapters of the Devotional are divided into 5 days of stories with 1 Day being Author Reflections. The Discussion Questions after the Author Reflections in each chapter, are "deep thinking" questions and the reader will probably want to take the time to reflect on their own life before answering. I think this is a WONDERFUL Individual Study, although it would make a GREAT Group study also. I HIGHLY recommend this Devotional to anyone who needs encouragement through the Storms of Life. AMAZING Devotional!

[M. Pike · Rating 5 out of 5]

The healing of a demon possessed man. The restoration of a woman with an issue of blood. The raising of synagogue ruler Jairus's daughter from the dead. I have read these beloved accounts of Jesus's miracles many times in my forty-year walk with the Lord, read them as seen through the eyes of the Gospel writers. But it wasn't until I journeyed along with author Barbara Britton to the Holy Land in her new book, Across the Lake, that I stopped to consider these real people with real lives that had been impacted by these infirmities and their miraculous deliverance from them.
Ms. Britton has compiled a wonderful collection of stories from Jesus's time and miracles in Capernaum, providing insights into His disciples' thoughts that make these well-loved stories come more fully alive. Her personal notes from her own life experiences along with thought provoking discussion questions for further reflection make this book ideal for personal or group study.
I highly recommend it!

[Paula C · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a refreshing approach to Bible Study whether you are a seasoned student of Scripture, or someone just beginning to walk with Jesus! This book reels you in as Barbara M. Britton weaves short stories of Jesus’s many miracles near the Sea of Galilee. Her fiction stories bring a human touch to the scriptures as Britton puts names and faces to people found in six true stories found in the Gospel of Mark. In each chapter, personal reflections are shared by Britton who traveled to Israel and was inspired to write about what she learned. After the reflections, the reader is then invited to engage with discussion questions that are perfect for individual or small group study. This study portion invites you to dig into the bible passages her stories were woven from as well as supporting scriptures, bringing each chapter into clearer focus! I highly recommend you taking this journey “Across the Lake” you’ll be refreshed and encourage as you travel with Jesus!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a unique devotional that takes six of Jesus's miracles that happen around the Sea of Galilee, and in story form we are taken deeper into the miracle. There are about five chapters for each story, then we are given the author reflections and following up with discussion questions. There are some fictional characters mixed with Biblical as the author tells her stories.

This would be a great devotional for a book group, or even on your own. I like that the questions are right there and they give you time to pause and reflect on the story, the miracle, and who Jesus is. I have not done a devotional like this one before and I am glad I got a chance to try it.

I was provided a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Barbara Britton admits in the beginning of the book that she wasn’t crazy about going to Israel, but she traveled there anyway and was changed by the experience. And you will be too by reading and studying her book. Vivid descriptions immersed me in the smell of the lake, the dust of the road, and the stark beauty of the area around the Sea of Galilee. Fictional short stories made six passages from the book of Mark personal as I experienced the situations through the eyes of those lived them. I found the story of the woman who bled for twelve years especially moving. The disciples became relatable with their fatigue, confusion, grumbling, and awe of being with Jesus. I appreciate the author’s reflections, and the discussion questions provide much food for thought. Highly recommended.

[Karen Malley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara M. Britton has a talent for bringing the people behind a story to life. What was it really like for the family members of those healed from demon possession? Or for the woman who bled for 12 years? Have you considered what the disciples went through in choosing to walk with Jesus? We see just a taste of the lives of the people in the Bible, but Ms. Britton paints the picture behind the story and truly brings them to life. Her personal visit to the Holy Land allowed her to imbue every chapter with realism and transport her readers to their destination. Each chapter is followed by questions for discussion or reflection. The stories are captivating and the discussion questions will draw you closer to the feet of Christ. Whether for individual or group study, this book is highly recommended if you want to dive deeper into the world surrounding the Sea of Galilee and our Lord Jesus.

[Valerie Biel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge fan of Barbara Britton’s Biblical fiction and was equally delighted with this Bible study. "Across the Lake" explores six well-known verses, using Britton’s storytelling skill to expand the lives of lesser-known people in a beautiful, engaging way that invites deeper reflection on those Jesus touched.

Having experienced the awe on our Israel travels when standing in the places we know from Scripture, I especially appreciated Britton’s notes on those same feelings from her own travels. The discussion questions thoughtfully connect the expanded stories with the original verses, helping readers reflect on their own faith journeys, providing the opportunity for spiritual growth. This is a thoughtful, unique approach that I highly recommend.

[Miriam Thor · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a unique and inspirational book! Each of the short stories delves into a different Bible passage. Though the stories are fiction, they helped me picture the real people involved in the familiar events in a new way. I particularly enjoyed the fourth story, based on Mark 6:1-13. I had never thought about how nervous the disciples likely were when Jesus sent them out in pairs to preach, heal, and cast out demons. In all of the stories, I enjoyed seeing the disciples' personalities, interactions, and perspectives of their Lord.

Britton's reflections after each story include anecdotes from her trip to Israel and insightful truths, and the discussion questions really made me think. This book is perfect for an individual devotional or a group study.

[Terri Wangard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspired by a visit to Galilee, Barb Britton has written six vignettes from passages in the Book of Mark. Many are seen through the eyes of Peter, the fisherman/disciple. My favorite features the disciples being sent out by twos to evangelize. They are animated in a way not gleaned from the Bible. Thomas gestures wildly while relating his experiences. Peter’s muscles ache from rowing in a stormy sea. Judas annoys everyone with his sourpuss attitude. Jesus’ only words are those recorded in the Bible.

Each story is followed by the author’s reflections and questions for personal study or group discussions. I would have liked more stories!

[Naomi Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

In true Barbara M. Britton fashion, this journey around the Sea
of Galilee unearths the humanness of the people Jesus
interacted with, and even the timeline of events that is easy to
skim over.
I loved the insight and Scripture brought out in the
devotional. I saw the compassion and love and tenderness of
Jesus in an impactful way.
This book brought me to tears as I related with the people
who met and served with Jesus.
The true mark of a Biblical Fiction is one that sends me to my
Bible—what a perfect way to do that with a built-in devotional!
This crossover fiction + devotion is perfect for visual
learners, as the stories come alive on page!