LESSONS FROM A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM: A Devotional and Study Guide Resource

Pastor and writer Michael D. Kurtz reflects upon lessons learned from growing Christmas trees for nearly twenty years and applies these lessons to everyday faith and living in LESSONS FROM A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM. In the prologue Kurtz writes: "The instructions from God's creation are pronounced and profound if we will open our eyes, minds, and hearts to the inherent lessons. Growing Christmas trees, like growing in the Christian faith, is neither quick nor easy. There is required of us patience, diligence, and hard work. And, above all, divine grace."

Divided into thirty chapters LESSONS is easily adaptable to a monthly devotional resource, by simply reading a chapter per day for one month. Or, LESSONS FROM A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM is ideal for small groups and Sunday School classes. Each chapter is designed around one theme with a section entitled "Questions and Reflections" at the conclusion of every chapter suitable for discussion.

In LESSONS FROM A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM the reader will discover a wealth of biblical and practical wisdom for living. As you read this engaging volume you will not only be entertained, you will also be encouraged and inspired in your spiritual journey.

Michael D. Kurtz is an elder in the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church. He is married to Karen Christy Kurtz and they have two children?Joshua and Anna. He holds an Associate of Arts degree from Lees McRae College, a Bachelor of Arts from Eastern Mennonite University, a Master of Divinity degree from Duke Divinity School, and a Doctor of Ministry degree with an emphasis on marriage and family ministries from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Michael enjoys reading, playing basketball and golf, playing guitar, swimming, yard work, and writing. He also works part time as a licensed marriage and family therapist.

Other published writings by Rev. Kurtz include: Various articles for Graded Press, including Everyday Life in the Times of the Judges?included in Abingdon's Bible Teacher Kit; co-authored the book Approaching the New Millennium: Biblical End-Time Images; Wrote the Adult Bible Studies Teacher Manual for Spring of 1991; Michael and his wife Karen have also produced a musical CD (?Friends for Life?) in which eight of their own original songs are featured.