Randy Petersen

Meditate on the wonder of Christ's birth in 25 words Ever wonder why the Christmas story includes so many angels? Or who the magi from the east really were? Brothers Ken Petersen and Randy Petersen answer these questions and more by unpacking 25 significant words from the gospel accounts of Jesus's birth. Each daily reading is sprinkled with humor as the authors trace the surprising Old Testament roots of the Christmas story's familiar elements and help you see their significance for today. Every day also features a beloved or lesser-known holiday carol, and a "Preparing for Christmas" section that brings the biblical truths of the Savior's birth home to your life. While many of us prepare for Christmas by decorating our houses and buying gifts, don't forget to prepare your heart as well. The Wonder of Christmas: 25 Words and Carols to Celebrate Advent will point you to Jesus for hope and joy this holiday season.

Take a meaningful journey through 40 key words of Easter. From terms found in the Gospels--repent, palm, cross--to words related to traditional Christian practices--Maundy, ashes, abstain--these readings guide you to a fuller understanding of our Savior's death and resurrection. Every day includes a Bible verse, devotion, and reflective question, prayer prompt, or exercise so you can appreciate the significance of each term and what it means for you.

From Nero's burning of Rome to Martin Luther's posting of the 95 Theses to Billy Graham's crusades, the history of Christianity is a story filled with difficulty, daring, and devotion. This compelling book highlights 100 of the most important events in 2,000 years of that history in a single concise volume. Packed with well-researched information and written in a readable, journalistic style, it brings to vivid life some of the people, events, and ideas that have shaped the church. Perfect for pastors, teachers, history buffs, and anyone who is interested in learning more about the origins and development of the Christian church.

"Be Still, My Soul" is a collection of 175 of the most popular hymns and the stories behind them. Many of these hymns were written out of incredible life experiences--from the heart cry of a repentant slave trader to the renewed hope of a survivor of attempted suicide. In this devotional you'll discover the stories behind the songs we sing. You'll experience the passion and joy contained in these hymns' lyrics and melodies. In addition to the hymn stories, "Be Still, My Soul" includes the musical score, lyrics, and in-depth biographies of 12 of the most-prolific hymn writers, singers, and composers. Whether you are new to hymns or have cherished them for a long time, you'll enjoy this illuminating book on the stories behind some of the most popular hymns you sing in worship.

Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the Psalms. Here, in a convenient daily format, you'll find the entire book of Psalms divided into 365 just-right readings. Each day you'll enjoy a compelling devotional, complemented by an inspiring hymn stanza. You'll also love the added features--Notable Quotables, Bible Networking and Fascinating Facts--designed to stimulate your thinking and living. The Interludes sprinkled throughout the audio will open windows into topics like Hebrew poetic style, acrostic psalms and more. You've always loved the beauty of the Psalms, now come to know them, and apply them as never before.

Many women today have problems with men who are unable to show or express love. But there is hope for women who want to improve their relationships and create more intimacy with their partners. Randy Petersen and Thomas Whiteman show how a woman can find practical ways to nurture intimacy and help a man overcome reluctance to express the love he feels inside.