Tracing the Promise of Jesus from Creation to Cradle: A Special Advent Episode with Donna Amidon

Welcome to Fierce Calling, where your host Doris Swift dives into heartfelt conversations and explores meaningful stories. We're talking with guests who take action where their passion, compassion, and conviction intersect. In this episode, we welcome back Donna Amidon, a wife, mom, speaker, author, musician, and graduate of Southern Evangelical Seminary. Donna shares insights from her inspiring book, Tracing His Promise: Understanding the Bigger Story of Jesus and What That Means for Us, which delves into the beauty of biblical genealogies and Old Testament prophecies fulfilled by Jesus. How does the Jesse Tree tradition help families understand the significance of biblical stories and prophecies? We'll discuss her experiences with the Jesse Tree tradition, what it's all about, and how it shaped her family's celebrations. Hear how this tradition spread like wildfire through her church and has become a beloved way for us to share the bigger-picture story of Jesus at Christmastime. Listen as Donna elaborates on her mission to make the Bible accessible to all, offering her book as a treasured resource for spiritual growth. Plus, discover how her collaboration with her artist daughter has added a special touch to this family-centered project. Join us for an enriching conversation as we affirm the transforming power of the Bible and encourage listeners to embrace its truths. Don't miss this episode filled with joy, inspiration, and a shared passion for living a life centered on Jesus. Key Topics and Takeaways ... Donna Amidon’s Book: "Tracing His Promise" Overview of the book's content on Old Testament connections to Jesus. Aim to appeal to readers of varying familiarity with the Bible. Emphasis on using the Bible for spiritual growth. Writing process and original plans for the book's title. Importance of the Jesse Tree tradition in the family context. Jesse Tree Tradition Explanation of the Jesse Tree's purpose and historical background. Modernization and its role in teaching children about biblical stories. Biblical Connections and Genealogies Discussion on the significance of biblical genealogies. Examples of prophecies in the Bible relating to Jesus. Mention of key figures like David, Abraham, and Ruth. Book Features and Resources Description of the 25 stories and corresponding Christmas ornaments. Information on craft exchange and printable ornaments. Inclusion of ornaments and stories in personal, church, or educational settings. Artwork and Contributions Donna's daughter as the illustrator and her role in the project. Details on her daughter’s professional work as an artist. Check out my previous episode with Donna as mentioned in the show: Living Surrendered to God's Plan Connect with Donna! A graduate of Southern Evangelical Seminary, Donna is a wife, mom, speaker, author, musician, and lover of all things Bible.  Since college, Donna has dedicated herself to engaging women in the rich truths of Scripture while weaving its application into daily life.  With a passion for the local church, Donna has served as a Bible teacher, worship leader, radio broadcaster, small groups director, and pastor’s wife.