Unveiling Mercy: 365 Daily Devotions Based on Insights from Old Testament Hebrew

by Chad Bird

Unveiling Mercy will do just that--unveil how the mercy of God in the Messiah is spoken of from the very opening Hebrew word of the Bible, all the way to the closing chapter of Malachi. By the end of the year, you will have entered the Old Testament through 365 new doorways, looked with fresh eyes at old verses, and traced a web of connections all over the Scriptures that you've never spotted before. You'll begin to see what one person meant when he described Hebrew words as "hyphens between heaven and earth." Reading the Bible in translation can be like "kissing the bride through the veil." Each of these 365 devotions is crafted so as to lift that veil ever so slightly, to touch skin to skin, as it were, with the original language. You do not need to know anything about Hebrew to profit from these meditations. They are not written to teach you the language of Abraham, Moses, and Isaiah, but to give you a taste of their insights, to expose you to their eloquence, to laugh with them at their winking wordplays, to un-English their idioms, and--most importantly--to trace their trajectories all the way into the preaching of the Messiah and the writings of his evangelists and apostles.

Genres: Christian, Devotional, Theology, Christianity, Old Testament, Nonfiction, Christian Living

380 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2020

About the author

Chad Bird is a Scholar in Residence at 1517. He has served as a pastor, professor, and guest lecturer in Old Testament and Hebrew. He holds master’s degrees from Concordia Theological Seminary and Hebrew Union College. He has contributed articles to Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, Modern Reformation, The Federalist, Lutheran Forum, and other journals and websites. He is also the author of several books, including Night Driving: Notes from a Prodigal Soul, Your God Is Too Glorious: Finding God in the Most Unexpected Places, Upside-Down Spirituality: The 9 Essential Failures of a Faithful Life, and Unveiling Mercy: 365 Daily Devotions Based on Insights from Old Testament Hebrew. He cohosts two popular podcasts: “40 Minutes in the OT” and “Hidden Streams.” Chad and his wife Stacy have four children and three grandchildren. They enjoy life together in the Texas Hill Country.

Reviews

[John F. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chad Bird’s Unveiling Mercy: 365 Daily Devotions based on insights from Old Testament Hebrew is an exemplary, monumental, and historic work or art. There are so many “Christian” devotional books on the market that focus on good works (salvation earning kind) and also focus on empowering the “Christian” to please God with their life. Not Chad Bird. His focus in Unveiling Mercy is seen through the cross atop Calvary where Jesus was crucified to atone for the sins of the world; the Resurrection where Jesus opened heaven to all who believe in Him, and the Ascension where Jesus now lives eternal at His Father’s right hand. Bird gives Jesus to the Christian reader. Jesus is the comfort one needs when distressed in the soul. Jesus is the only answer to sin when the Christian is troubled. This is the kind of devotional book that meets the needs of EVERY CHRISTIAN. More importantly, Unveiling Mercy is the ONLY devotional book the Christian will ever need again. Why? Unveiling Mercy is the greatest devotional book that answers the Greeks statement to Philip in John 12:21 when they said, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” (John 12:21) Bird delivers 365 straight days of seeing Jesus on every page! Bird delivers Unveiling Mercy with God’s greatest eternal gift: His only begotten Son, Jesus, the Christ.

Rev. John F. Wurst, Emeritus

[Shane · Rating 5 out of 5]

With "Unveiling Mercy," Chad Bird has continued the tradition of writing books that I highly recommend. This latest offering is a devotional book that contains a one-page devotion for each day of the year. Each devotion unpacks the significance of a single Hebrew word from the Old Testament (Chad is a Hebrew scholar). You do not need to know any Hebrew whatsoever to fully appreciate this because the devotion expounds the significance. For those who may have learned some Hebrew, this book is a great way to review some important Old Testament vocabulary, and the words will be opened up in ways you may have never even considered.

The devotions are brief, but they are dense, soaked in Scripture, and centered firmly on the Gospel of Jesus. The writing is vivid, colorful, devotional, poetic, earthy, and understandable. Any Christian can derive much benefit by pondering the words in this book. Each devotion shows us how each “word for the day” truly unveils God’s mercy found in Christ. You will be richly blessed by the devotions, as I have been.

[Michael Heidle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Devotional

This daily devotional is even more filled with amazing and fascinating insights into the Bible than I anticipated---and as a fan of Chad Bird's writings I knew to expect a lot!! Absolutely fascinating!! But not just fascinating in the sense of trivia; no these insights made sharper the Law of God's expectations and made sweeter the message of God's Grace in Christ Jesus!!
I recommend this devotional book to anyone seeking to know more about God's Word and to toss seeking to grow in their faith; but I especially recommend that those who think they know the Bible pretty well to read this devotional with an open mind! I truly hope that Chad Bird will continue writing more such insightful and inspirational devotionals!! And his writing leaves me wanting more; thankfully his social media posts this year often gave additional insights into many of these devotions to go even deeper! I look forward to reading this devotion again!!

[Matthew Gasperoni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each day in this devotional highlights one Hebrew word from the Old Testament—explaining its meaning, context, and connection to the gospel—ultimately showing how every thread of Scripture points back to Christ.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and picked up several interesting nuggets along the way. As a devotional, it’s easy to read, encouraging, and offers practical application to help keep our gaze fixed on Christ.

Some of the connections drawn to Christ felt stronger than others, but even so, this remains a very unique devotional. To be honest, it’s one I’ll probably keep on my reference shelf. I’m not sure I’ll go through it again as a daily devotional, but I could see reading portions with my wife or using it during family devotionals in the future. Since it’s organized in order, it would also serve as a great reference companion when reading through the Old Testament again to refresh certain insights.

Not necessarily a must-read, but definitely a worthwhile one.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has a devotion for every day of the year. Chad Bird, a Hebrew scholar, starts with Genesis and works his way to Malachi. He focuses on a Hebrew word or two from the text for each devotion and connects it with the New Testament.
Each devotion is short and concise but very insightful; they usually end with a prayer that focuses on a Psalm verse.
I am so appreciative of the Hebrew scholarship that went into this book (and all of Bird's writing). While the gospel message is simple enough for a young child to understand it, the Bible can also be studied a whole life long without plumbing all its depths.

[Nick Schram · Rating 5 out of 5]

I use this in my daily devotions, but I'll admit that I'm usually so enamored that I end up reading a few days ahead. Wonderful!

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chad Bird wrote his story of being a prodigal in his excellent book "Night Driving:Notes from a Prodigal," which, like this devotional, I highly recommend. His specialty is the Old Testament and this excellent devotional is very short (1 to 2 minutes to read) chapters focused mainly around Hebrew words and their meanings. Mr. Bird has a knack both for writing, and writing concisely, so he illuminates a lot in these pages. It is well worth your time to read.

As one example, in his devotional on the phrase "Let their be light" (Gen 1.3), Mr. Bird writes:

"Light is voiced into being. Not stumbled upon by chance or constructed by careful engineering, but “worded” into being.

Light shines forth from the face of God—specifically, his mouth. This light is a more profound light than the sun, moon, and stars, which will be created on day four. It chains the darkness, erects a barrier between night and day. It says to darkness, “Here you shall go, and no further.” To flourish in this light is to escape darkness and thrive before the radiant face of the God."

Great book. Worth your time.

[Eric Estes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The subtitle of this book may be a bit long, but the devotions contained within it are brief. The entry for each day takes about three minutes to read, but if you’re like me you will find yourself rereading part or all of the devotion to absorb the rich theological insights the author shares. Chad Bird is a scholar of Hebrew, but this volume is approachable and beneficial for any reader with a high school reading level. You do not need to have knowledge of Hebrew to enjoy these devotions, but even if you do you will be very likely to learn something new each week. Some insights of the Biblical texts that I have recently shared in my sermons and Bible studies have come from this book. Most importantly Mr. Bird unveils God’s mercy centered in the gospel of Jesus with Biblical accuracy and doctrinal fidelity. He connects the two testaments without using scholarly jargon, but rather explains things in devotional prose. You will be a better reader of the Old and New Testaments if you take your time to understand and inwardly digest these devotions. If you’re looking for a devotional book for the New Year, I highly recommend “Unveiling Mercy” for consideration.

[Jörg Zabelhöfer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truely beautifully made book that takes even the layperson into the depth of the original hebrew text, unveiling even more of God's mercy as you go through your daily devotions.
Therefore it also provides a nice little additional "textcritical apparatus" for your bible studies, giving you even more understanding of Scripture. Additionally, if you are aware of the fact that hebrew uses consonants only in its written form, you can't help but learning the hebrew alphabet once you drop the vowels in the given transliteration. Learn just one single word per day to deepen your understanding of God's grace or simply read through the text and the concluding prayer to lift up your heart and raise your spirits, see God's love unfolding and his mercy unveiled. God bless you, Chad Bird.

[Teri Reck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cheated a bit and read through to the end already--but I will probably read and reread this devotional for years to come. It is a fantastic treatment of the Old Testament as it foreshadows the New. It makes me want to study Hebrew! (Well, ok, maybe I won't jump into that right now.) But Bird's love for the Hebrew language and it's expression in the Old Testament is contagious. And his ability to show how the Old whispers of the New is remarkable. Chad Bird has become a favorite Christian author of mine. His words are humble and wise. You should be reading them.

[Thelma · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Chad's knowledge of the Hebrew and the light and understanding it sheds on a passage or verse. I enjoy how he can make it practical and timely. But I was reading this on Hoopla and about 2/3 of the way through, the e-book developed problems and I could never seem to load the book to read it. I decided to stop fighting with it and marked it as a DNF, not however because I didn't enjoy it, but because of technical difficulties with the e-book. I recommend Chad Bird's writing if you want insights into the hidden meanings of Hebrew words in Scripture.

[Shaneen Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This daily devotional goes through the entire Old Testament, with at least one stop in each book, examining a Hebrew word in context and how its meaning and significance relates to Jesus. It was a very encouraging book to have with me throughout the year, daily being pointed back to God's grace and love and seeing how they've been woven through God's story from the beginning.
It's a quick read every day (which is perfect in a daily devotional), and so impactful.

[Cristina Vargas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful and enlightening was to start your day

This book has been a wonderful companion throughout the year. Dr. Bird has chosen 365 Hebrew words from every book in the old testament, and explains each one of them in its original context. Then he reads the word canonically as projected into the new testament, usually in a christological manner. I will be missing my daily Hebrew word!

[Ryan Geer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be the first yearly devotional I've ever actually done for the entire year... It was excellent with a lot of great insights into the Hebrew text--not academic insight but insights that make the text come alive in a greater way.

[Stephen Kilbøurn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable but too short

I like the idea of these readings, but they were usually so brief that I didn't feel like we dug into the passages much. I think that it was a good supplement to other daily readings, though.

[Susan K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great daily devotional.

Chad Bird is truly a modern day Lutheran scholar. His words are insightful. They unlock Christ in the Old Testament. This book has become a part of my daily devotional life. It will remain that way for a long time. Thank you, Chad Bird.

[Diana Khoshaba · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow thank the Lord! I really loved this devotional and being Assyrian I found still so many similarities between biblical Hebrew and the version of Aramaic that we Assyrians speak today. I’m grateful and blessed to have read this devotional. Thank you Chad.

[Elisabeth Cary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this devotional book—the writing is exquisite and the content is encouraging and challenging. I will most likely re-read this book regularly and will add it to my list of books I like to give people.

[Lisa Wenzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Chad Bird, for this book. (And for my son who bought it for me!). Thank you Mr Bird, for sharing your intellect and for showing us the beauty and intricacies and charm of the Hebrew language. What an amazing and uplifting year of readings it has been!

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not much of a "devotional" person, I much prefer in-depth Bible studies, but this was a daily devotional that I LOVED. Not only satisfying for my inner word nerd, but connecting Old Testament Hebrew to New Testament gospel and pointing to Jesus throughout! Highly recommend!

[Nick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional was absolutely fantastic! Diving into the treasures of the OT and in them always finding Christ. This is a must read for sure!

[Richard · Rating 3 out of 5]

A 365 devotional I actually completed! This was very interesting, and there were some days when I wanted to know more. A good introduction to some Hebrew words and phrases.

[Mark Loughridge · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some great insights, but not as rich as his book The Christ Key.

[Bob Hiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Utterly delightful. This is the perfect daily devotion. Each day’s devotion is brief, profound, and, most importantly, Christ-centered. There is no other devotional I know of like this one.

[Derek · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the Hebrew word pictures and connections to Christ / New Testament. I read it in about 2 months as opposed to a daily devotion.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some of the entries were a little dry but most had enlightening explanations of Hebrew words. A good way to start the day!

[Jack Hairston · Rating 5 out of 5]

A goldmine of wisdom

It’s not often that you find so many nuggets of wisdom in one book. These thoughts and insights will be treasured.

[Ole Madsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

insightful

[PottWab Regional Library]

SM

[Brooke McAllister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like with eggs, I've had an on-and-off aversion to devotionals. But I would recommend this one to just about anyone. Chad Bird introduces you to the Hebrew language and surrounding context/culture of the Old Testament like they're dear friends who are just dying to meet you and tell you about the Jesus they know. He bridges the intimidating gap between the OT and NT in almost every devotional, shining new light on even familiar biblical passages. It's people like Bird who God uses time and time again to show me how beautiful, weird, funny, and stunningly intricate the Bible is.

I genuinely hope you'll get this one soon!

Xoxo,
B