Kristy Moody's Blog, page 5
March 11, 2025
Q&A with Janette Oke about “The Pharisee’s Wife”
How did this new story, The Pharisee’s Wife, come about?
Janette Oke: With all of those projects completed, I again felt that I was done and did not allow my mind to go searching for exciting new projects. There were a few ideas I played with for a while, but I did not feel the need, or the urge, to develop them.
It was a surprise to me when recently I had the sense that God was calling me to write a new book. I felt that the message he was asking me to share was, “God kept his first promise of sending his Son as a baby in the manger—even though the world had needed to wait for many years—and he will keep his promise of Christ’s second appearance—his return—even though the world has waited again for thousands of years. God will fulfill his plan. Jesus will return! Be ready!” I felt strongly that to refuse to write the book would be disobedient on my part. But books do not just happen. I needed characters, plot—all of the components that make a story. God had given the message he wished to relay, but putting it all together was my job. I had just read Revelation and followed it by reading the Gospels, but this time I had noted some things in a new way. I saw the parallels between Christ’s first coming as a babe in the manger and the yet unfulfilled promises of his second coming—his future return.
The time Christ shared with mankind was a most complex time. His coming made it even more so. Never were there so many layers in society. Never had the difference between what was right and wrong in the religious community been so complex. How did one sort through all the different viewpoints? From the faithful and dedicated intense Jew, to the many factions that offered their own interpretation of the ancient Scriptures—it was all so confusing. And the words from the lips of this new “rabbi” made it even more so. The huge and complex leap from the deeply entrenched Jewish faith, with all of its fixed rules and regulations, to a simpler faith and a trust in the words of one magnetic and powerful—though, to many, questionable—man who claimed to be one with God was mind-blowing. It meant that everything was to change.
And there were so many layers in society itself. Faithful Jewish priests, intent on keeping the Law. Pharisees. Sadducees. Foreigners from many countries mixing in parts of their own worship of their false gods. The extremely wealthy and the desperately poor; the masters and the slaves. And the ever-present Romans, foreign and controlling, always watching, always demanding. For the small, occupied country of Israel, things no longer seemed simple or secure, even for the very elect. How did one hold on to the past yet move on to the unknown future?
What inspired you to create the two main characters?
I wished to expose the underlying conflict of that time, so I chose an extremely strict and arrogant young Pharisee, dominated by thoughts of power and prominence, and a beautiful but poor girl from a simple Jewish home where the long-standing Law had been taught and obeyed. She had no say in the matter. The Pharisee’s position of power would override any protest. They were not a good match if one was hoping for a heartwarming love story.
How did you decide which individual characters would be receptive to the deity of Jesus and which ones would reject his message or be slower to come to faith? Do you think readers will see similarities between the way people responded to the gospel in those days and the way they respond now?
Again, I wished to show the complexity of life at the time. There needed to be a mix of the different layers. A need for surprise or question. Who would receive and who would reject the young Galilean with his strange message but great healing power? Sometimes individuals came one at a time, at other times little groups came together. And then there were the crowds, who were a mix of many layers. Curiosity may have brought them, but they often left with a changed heart. Jesus’ greatest and most productive ministry seemed to be with the crowds. But it always took an individual decision.
We never actually meet Jesus in the novel, but we hear much about him from the masses that follow him from town to town. It is from individuals within these crowds that we hear about him. Some of the stories were confusing. Seemingly unbelievable. What would he need to do to convince the crowds that he was who he claimed to be? Certainly, the miracles got lots of attention. But there had been miracle workers in past generations. They had all passed away. Ordinary men. This man, if one listened to him closely, claimed to be eternal. How could one accept that? It was no wonder the bulk of the masses found him hard to believe. Yet there was something about him that made one wonder. Could it really be so? Could this be the one God had promised to send?
Our world holds somewhat the same mix today. Those who believe, who are still waiting for the return of Christ, cling to that truth. We see our world and the events of the day in a different way than those who do not believe. Even though many may openly scorn us, we feel support and understanding from other believers. We tend to seek them out—to gather with those of like faith. To take strength and hope from one another.
Yet there are many who share our daily lives who cannot accept the Truth. Even when they have been raised among believers, many times in the same household, raised by the same parents, having been schooled in the same truths, they still do not embrace the Faith. They cannot see, do not understand or accept the message of Truth. Some openly oppose those who claim Christ as the coming Savior. And surprisingly, at the same time, there are those who have had little exposure to Truth, who do reach out to receive it gladly, claiming it as their own. Faith today is a personal choice, just as it was in Jesus’ day.
Was there a message or lesson you wanted to convey to readers by writing “good” or “nice” characters who do not accept Jesus, while other, less likeable characters do?
Yes, that was intentional. God has given freedom of choice. One individual will be so close and so “good,” yet still resist taking that final step of faith, and another we might feel is so evil and harsh and undeserving will gratefully accept forgiveness. Sometimes it doesn’t seem right or even fair. “She has done so many worthy things. Isn’t that enough?” Or “Did you see what he did?” How can such a terrible sin be forgiven?” We know how we would judge.
God forgives when one confesses and repents. Yet we do not know what goes on in another’s heart and mind. Only God has the knowledge, the right, to be the judge. He judges with perfect justice.We have heard the words, “As one dies, so he will remain.” We believe that Scripture teaches that after death, there is no second chance. Still, we often cling to the possibility that before death, an unshared, unknown, private decision has been made— so we hope, thinking, “What if light has come, repentance has occurred, forgiveness was sought, and God’s grace given?” We do not know. One thing we do know: God is loving. If there is any reason for mercy, it will be given. But he is also righteous—and just.
In the book, after the Pharisees have arranged Jesus’ crucifixion, there is a powerful scene between a scribe and a scholar who is poring over the prophesies about the Messiah when a feeling of dread comes over him. What do you hope this scene will communicate to readers?
I did not want to leave the impression that the line between those who believe and those who do not is definite and controlled by God, with no option or possibility for anyone whose name is not on a special list. No, the people of that day—as in our own— had individual choice. Not all the scribes or Pharisees or any other group rejected Christ because that was their destiny. Scripture tells us that there were those who went against the crowd and dared to accept Christ, taking a bold stand against their peers. Nor did all who had been schooled in the Old Testament Scriptures, and had been waiting through the years for this very event, accept him. All have been given freedom to accept or reject Jesus for who he claims to be.
How did you conduct research for this story?
I relied on the Gospel accounts. Since each Gospel writer presents the story in a little different way, it was sometimes tricky to sort out the definite order of events. I had a number of pages of crisscross notes where I felt it was important to keep things accurate and in the proper order. There were times in the story where I needed fill-in material that was not important to our faith position, where I fleshed things out for the sake of interest or understanding.
What do you hope readers will take away from this story?
I have tried to remind readers that God has given, both in the Old and New Testaments, the clear message that he has a plan. Our world is not controlled by random happenstance. God has a plan, and it will be fulfilled according to his timing. We need to be ready.
Are there any final thoughts you’d like to share?
We all have a part to play, not just in our work but in our daily lives, in sharing with our world the Good News of the Gospel. Whether earth’s time is short, as many believe, or stretched out generously before us, time is short for some of those around us. We never know the minute someone in our life may be taken from us. May we be open to God’s directive in every area of our daily life. May we share his love as we have opportunity.
Books are one very effective way to share our faith. From the letters, emails, and phone calls I have received over the years, I have been deeply impressed with the power of the printed page. I have dubbed my books “paper missionaries” because they go to places I will never go and speak to people I will never meet, and the response to the message has been surprising and uplifting. Some countries, closed to faith content in the past, are now opening to allow books from Christian countries to enter. As writers and publishers, we have a wonderful opportunity to present Faith to our world, and stories can sometimes be accepted when and where the Bible is not.
Even so, we know that lives are not changed by reading a book. Lives are changed when the Spirit of God is allowed to minister to a needy and open heart. Sending forth books must be accompanied by prayer that whatever the situation of the reader, God’s Spirit will be allowed to speak. That is why we write. That is why we print, and sell, and send, and promote. God can, and often does, speak through a simple story. May we use this opportunity to the best of our ability.
“The Pharisee’s Wife” is currently available wherever books are sold.
A Special Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers and Janette Oke for the Q&A and images.
March 10, 2025
Janette Oke’s “The Pharisee’s Wife” Review
Janette Oke delivers an exceptional tale of a young girl entering an arranged marriage during the time of Jesus Christ. In “The Pharisee’s Wife,” Mary is given in marriage to a young and promising Pharisee named Enos and in return her family is able to pay off their debts. She is designated the name Simona and tasked with learning the proper way to be a wife (at the same age Jesus’s mother was when she gave birth.)
While their distant marriage ensues, Mary (who was given the name of Simona by Enos) learns of Jesus Christ’s ministry, becomes a believer, while she is blind to her husband’s growing criminal ways and intense hatred for Jesus. However, her handicapped father at home and new husband help Mary put her own new faith in perspective when they have to decide whether to accept or reject Jesus Christ as their Savior. Her brother’s family is another test.
“The Pharisee’s Wife” was an interesting book that did a good job illustrating an historical time without being blasphemous to Christ. It’s appropriate for young adults+. The novel is a tearjerker in the second half, but it places a emphasis on the anticipation of Christ’s second coming. The target audience is Christians.
“The Pharisee’s Wife” releases tomorrow, March 11th, 2025.
A Special Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for the advanced reader copy of the book and cover image.
February 1, 2025
January 23, 2025
Review: “StowTown Worship Live From Praisefest Branson, Volume 1”
Credit: StowTown WorshipGet ready to praise with StowTown Worship!
On January 17th, “StowTown Worship Live From Praisefest Branson, Volume 1” was released on streaming platforms, and the ultimate worship experience came alive. Faith and music greats TaRanda Greene, Alvin Slaughter, Travis Cottrell, and Pastor Charles Billingsley joined forces to bring an 11-track album to Christian music fans.
“StowTown Worship Live From Praisefest Branson, Volume 1” kicked off the set with “There Is Power In The Blood” and concluded with a powerful “Hymn Medley.” Each track features the music icons, and it’s a welcomed surprise when their heavenly voices begin singing.
Standout songs from the track list are “Worthy is the Lamb,” “Every Praise,” “Because He Lives,” and “Hymn Medley” (What a Friend We Have In Jesus, Gratitude, I Exalt Thee). The songs are filled with hope while radiating soothing melodies and emotional lyrics. If you are a Christian or a fan of the faith, these hymns are sure to move you along with the other 9 songs. I highly recommend “StowTown Worship Live From Praisefest Branson, Volume 1” to CCM and Gospel music lovers. It’s also ideal for anyone who adores hymns in a classic church setting.
TaRanda Greene had this to say about the new project: “We hail from multiple genres and backgrounds and have all had incredible journeys as artists, but what a gift that Jesus brought us together for this.”
She added, “A Kingdom picture is painted in this project. The things that label us like age, race and background—they don’t have a place here. Together, we are singing these gorgeous songs that celebrate Jesus.”
If you are curious about the other songs included in the album, see the complete track list below:
There Is Power In The Blood (feat. TaRanda Greene)
I’ll Fly Away (feat. Travis Cottrell)
Blessed Assurance (feat. Alvin Slaughter)
Worthy Is The Lamb (feat. TaRanda Greene)
Every Praise (feat. Charles Billingsley)
I Stand Amazed (feat. Travis Cottrell)
Because He Lives (feat. Charles Billingsley)
Leaning On The Everlasting Arms (feat. Alvin Slaughter)
The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power (feat. TaRanda Greene)
Holy Is The Lord (feat. Travis Cottrell)
Hymn Medley (What a Friend We Have In Jesus, Gratitude, I Exalt Thee) (feat. TaRanda Greene)
“StowTown Worship Live From Praisefest Branson, Volume 1” is currently available on streaming platforms.
A Special Thanks to StowTown and Turning Point Media Relations for the album and image.
January 16, 2025
January 7, 2025
“StowTown Worship Live From Praisefest Branson, Volume 1” Releases This Month
Yesterday, big news about StowTown Worship Live From Praisefest Branson, Volume 1 was shared. Eleven hymns and familiar congregational songs “showcasing some of Christian music’s most esteemed worship leaders” will be featured on the high-anticipated project, according to an official press release from Turning Point Media Relations.
Recorded live at Branson, Missouri’s Praisefest famed musicians TaRanda Greene, Alvin Slaughter, Travis Cottrell, and pastor Charles Billingsley came together to lead the worship set.
Beloved songs “There Is Power In The Blood, “Because He Lives,” “Blessed Assurance,” and “Holy Is The Lord,” are all apart of the new album releasing on January 17.
TaRanda Greene: “We hail from multiple genres and backgrounds and have all had incredible journeys as artists, but what a gift that Jesus brought us together for this. A Kingdom picture is painted in this project. The things that label us like age, race and background—they don’t have a place here. Together, we are singing these gorgeous songs that celebrate Jesus.”
TaRanda adds, “There were some beautiful, atmosphere-changing moments in the presence of God and the Holy Spirit blessed us so much. One of those moments for me is ‘Blessed Assurance.’ When Alvin Slaughter, who is not only extraordinarily gifted as a musician but also an articulate communicator, begins leading this song, the room shifts. You can feel it when you listen to the recording, and that’s pretty special.”
StowTown Records and Worship President Landon Beene: “Giving new life to these songs brings generations together and we hope this collection will be a great tool for churches as well. With print music and soundtracks available for each song via PraiseCharts and MultiTracks, our goal is to create and develop resources for churches that have a broad generational reach. We want to include the whole family of God, embracing cultural and demographic differences in an effort to glorify Him and create an atmosphere of the Holy Spirit.”
StowTown Worship Live From Praisefest Branson, Volume 1 releases on music streaming platforms on January 17.
A Special Thanks to StowTown Records and Turning Point Media Relations for the image and info.
January 2, 2025
plus ONE Archive Launches This Year
View this post on InstagramA post shared by plusONE Archive (@plusonearchive)
Zack Dean and his team will be supplying plus ONE fans with all the best nostalgia in 2025. Plans to open a website to accompany the fan social media pages was recently announced. The plus ONE Fan Page is being rebranded to plusONE Archive. The website is going to share the same name.
Check out one of the inspiring concert clips of the band above.
Click here to visit the website in the works.
All the best to Zack Dean and co on the new website!
December 27, 2024
December 18, 2024
Cirque du Soleil Restages “OVO” for a Limited Engagement Next Year
OVO – Restaging 2024 – Photo credit Cirque du Soleil 2024 – Yagub AllahverdiyevWorld-renowned Cirque du Soleil made the big announcement today that the company is changing their “OVO” in the best way! They are bringing it for a special showing at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, IL. For six exclusive performances, from February 13-16, “OVO” promises an entertaining family show, according to an official press release from The Silverman Group.
Chantal Tremblay, who has been Director of Creation in 2009 and 2024, had this to say about the restaging: “The challenge was to find the balance between preserving the essence of the show that made it a success and allowing it to continue evolving. Like the insects that bring it to life, the show is in constant transformation, in perpetual motion: that’s the magic of live arts! Revisiting a production created 15 years ago, with the original creators and the touring team that has made it shine around the world, is an exceptional adventure!”
The press release added, “After performing in 40 countries and delighting audiences in the Middle East, Egypt, and Europe in recent years, the OVO insect colony returned to Cirque du Soleil’s headquarters in Montreal for a new look. Over the past year, a team of more than 135 professionals (including 53 artists of the show) and the original creators of OVO have developed this restaging, including a revamped set design, new acrobatic acts and characters, freshly designed costumes, and reinvented music.”
OVO – Restaging 2024 – Photo credit Cirque du Soleil 2024 – Yagub AllahverdiyevLearn more about OVO by visiting Cirque du Soleil, www.cirquedusoleil.com/OVO.
A Special Thanks to Cirque du Soleil and The Silverman Group for the info.
