Divine Journey Moments with the Savior
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In the ancient town of Bethlehem, nestled under a canopy of twinkling stars, a profound journey began. Joseph, a humble carpenter, and Mary, his beloved wife, had embarked on a long journey to reach this modest destination. They arrived in Bethlehem, a town teeming with travelers seeking refuge under the guidance of faith and a celestial star. Yet there were no available rooms for them in the inn. And so, in the serenity of a stable amidst the soft rustling of straw and the lowing of cattle, the world was forever changed.Here, in the midst of the most humble surroundings, Mary gave birth to Jesus, the Son of God. Wrapped in swaddling clothes and cradled in a manger, the infant radiated a divine light that drew shepherds from the fields and wise men from distant lands. They followed the radiant star that had guided Joseph and Mary, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Their presence, like their offered gifts, symbolized the profound significance of this child's arrival.As the years passed, Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, His life punctuated by moments of extraordinary grace. His teachings resonated with depth and compassion, drawing crowds who hung on His every word. In the synagogue of Nazareth, a young Jesus stood before the congregation, unrolling the scroll of Isaiah; his voice, soft yet commanding, filled the space, and His words stirred the hearts of those who listened. "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me," He proclaimed, "because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor."Word of Jesus' miracles spread like wildfire. People journeyed from far and wide to witness His divine touch. On the verdant hillsides near the Sea of Galilee, a multitude gathered as He spoke of love, compassion, and the kingdom of heaven. With just a few loaves of bread and a couple of fish, He performed the miraculous, feeding thousands who had gathered. The air was filled with wonder and awe as the crowd realized they were in the presence of the extraordinary.Yet, fame also attracted attention. The Pharisees, guardians of tradition and law, and other religious leaders watched Jesus with a mixture of interest and mistrust. His lectures frequently challenged their perceptions and positions of authority while remaining firmly founded in scripture. Was He an oracle? Were the subjects of conversations and whispers in the synagogues a Messiah-related sign? Or a threat to the existing order?In the quiet moments beneath the olive trees in the Garden of Gethsemane, the weight of destiny pressed heavily upon Jesus. He knelt in fervent prayer, His soul in anguish, for He knew what lay ahead: Betrayal, suffering, and a cross to bear. Yet, His resolve remained unshaken, His faith unwavering.As the time drew near, Jesus gathered His disciples for a final meal in an upper room in Jerusalem. The atmosphere was heavy with anticipation and sorrow. He broke bread and shared a cup of wine, declaring a new covenant—a covenant of love and sacrifice. Then, in a gesture of profound humility, He knelt before His disciples, washing their feet and teaching them the essence of servant leadership.The hill of Golgotha, a place of sorrow and suffering, bore witness to an event that would change the course of history. Jesus crucified between two thieves, offered forgiveness even as He endured unimaginable pain. The sky darkened, the earth trembled, and the veil of the temple tore asunder, marking the culmination of a divine sacrifice.But the story did not end there. Three days later, an empty tomb bore witness to the miracle of the resurrection. Mary Magdalene, her heart heavy with grief, arrived at the tomb. To her astonishment, the stone had been rolled away, and the tomb was empty. In her moment of despair, she encountered the risen Lord. His presence radiated hope, and the world was forever changed.On the Mount of Olives, with the disciples gathered around Him, Jesus ascended into heaven. His earthly journey had ended, but His legacy would endure through those who believed in Him. As they watched Him rise, their hearts were filled with awe and wonder, for they carried with them the promise of His return and the commission to share His message with the world.This is just a glimpse of the profound moments and teachings you'll discover within the pages of "Divine Journey: Moments with the Savior." Join us on this extraordinary journey through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, where faith, compassion, and the enduring power of love illuminate every step of the way.
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About the Book
Embark on a spiritual adventure that will be unlike any other. With “Divine Journey: Moments with the Savior,” you will be taken back in time to witness the life of Jesus Christ via a captivating tapestry of narratives. You are invited to travel alongside the Savior and his followers as each page reveals meaningful encounters and unseen tales. The opening chapter will take you to a bustling marketplace in ancient Jerusalem, where rumors of a brilliant instructor who has started to alter lives with his words are spreading, and the air is filled with the aroma of spices. As you continue to accompany Jesus on his incredible journey, you will witness the miracles, parables, and acts of kindness that have inspired people for centuries. However, this book is much more than just a retelling of well-known stories; it is an immersive experience that will make you reconsider your assumptions and help you better understand Jesus’s message. You will witness the struggle of faith and tradition, the healing power of divine love, and the unwavering devotion of his disciples, from the shores of Galilee to the revered halls of the temple. As you turn the pages, you will discover unexpected details of the Savior’s life and be reminded that his teachings are just as relevant now as they were two thousand years ago. The movie “Divine Journey” invites you to explore the profound understanding and limitless love of Jesus Christ, urging you to journey with him and witness historical events. Prepare to enter a world filled with wonders, mysteries, and heavenly knowledge.
Your adventure begins here.
About the Author
Michael J. McDermott’s journey began in September 1949 at the Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point, North Carolina. Born into a Marine Corps family, Michael’s early years were marked by frequent relocations from the close-knit community of Millington, TN, to the sunny streets of Anaheim, CA. This nomadic lifestyle continued into his adult years, taking him from California to Detroit, MI, Richland, WA, and finally settling in the quaint city of Perris, CA.
In 1975, amidst the aisles of a K-Mart in Riverside, CA, fate introduced Michael to the love of his life. Their bond, now spanning 48 years, remains as strong as ever.
Michael’s sense of duty led him to enlist in the US Marine Corps in 1967. While the Vietnam conflict brought its own set of challenges, the camaraderie and discipline of military life left an indelible mark on him. This calling saw him return to service in 1981 with the California National Guard and, later, during the Desert Storm conflict with the US Army. After dedicating years to his country, Michael retired from military service, carrying with him memories and experiences that would last a lifetime.
Academically, Michael has always been a seeker of knowledge. After his obligation was completed with the Marine Corps, he pursued a law diploma from Barkley College, graduating as Valedictorian. His passion for technology led him to become a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer and a Certified Netware Engineer, finally earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Technology. Not one to rest on his laurels, Michael achieved his most significant academic milestone after he retired from the workforce, earning his Master’s and Doctorate in Theology and a second Doctorate in Eschatology, all by the age of 71.
Professionally, after his military service, Michael ventured into the world of entrepreneurship, establishing a computer consulting company. However, realizing that corporate life wasn’t his calling, he transitioned to a not-for-profit organization, dedicating over two decades to serving the disabled and elderly community.
As an author, Michael is relatively new to the literary world but has already made his mark with two published works: “The Final Battle - A Journey through End Times” and “A Showdown in Dusty Hollow: Unmasking the Deceiver.”
When he’s not writing or reminiscing about his varied experiences, Michael is a family man at heart. Summers sees him playing the perfect host, barbecuing for his clan. At the same time, winters are reserved for movie marathons on his couch, complete with coffee and popcorn. Through all his achievements and adventures, Michael remains a humble individual, always eager to share, learn, and grow.