Replekson RNW
Replekson RNW
De Guzman
ABM 12-Ford
Reading Etta B. Degering's "My Bible Friends: Baby Moses, Baby Jesus" and "My Bible
Friends: Joseph's New Coat, Joseph, and His Brothers" was a truly enriching and enlightening
experience. These two books, designed with young readers in mind, artfully capture the
essence of timeless biblical narratives while conveying profound moral lessons. In this reflective
journey, I will delve into the narratives themselves, the intricacies of character development, and
the profound moral messages seamlessly woven into these captivating tales.
In "Baby Moses, Baby Jesus," Degering masterfully interweaves the stories of Baby Moses and
Baby Jesus, both marked by divine intervention and protection. As I immersed myself in the
pages of this book, I was struck by the common thread of miraculous events that guided the
lives of these two infants, even though they lived in different times. Baby Moses, born during a
perilous era for Hebrew infants, embodies hope and resilience. The book narrates his survival
as he is placed in a basket and set adrift in the Nile River, only to be discovered and raised by
Pharaoh's daughter. This narrative beautifully underscores the concept of God's providence,
serving as a poignant reminder that faith can illuminate a path towards salvation even in the
face of adversity.
Similarly, the story of Baby Jesus, born in a humble stable in Bethlehem, is portrayed with grace
and tenderness. Degering's storytelling skillfully captures the significance of Jesus' birth as the
fulfillment of prophecies and the embodiment of hope for humanity. Baby Jesus, much like
Moses, is destined for a unique and transformative role in the world. The juxtaposition of these
two narratives emphasizes the consistent theme of God's guidance and protection in the lives of
those who serve His purpose, reinforcing the idea that faith and divine providence are enduring
sources of strength.
The character development in "Baby Moses, Baby Jesus" is subtle yet deeply impactful. The
infant protagonists, unable to speak or act, symbolize the embodiment of faith and innocence.
Their vulnerability serves to underscore the magnitude of the events surrounding their births,
making them central figures in the grand tapestry of salvation history. Through these characters,
young readers are introduced to the concept of divine destiny and the idea that even the
smallest individuals can play a pivotal role in God's plan, offering a source of inspiration that
transcends age.
Turning our attention to "Joseph's New Coat, Joseph, and His Brothers," we delve into a
forgiveness. Joseph's character arc is one of the most compelling aspects of this tale,
illustrating resilience and unwavering faith in God. From being cast into a pit by his jealous
brothers to rising to power in Egypt, Joseph's journey serves as an inspiring testament to the
Degering's storytelling doesn't shy away from portraying the complexities of sibling rivalry and
betrayal. It vividly illustrates the consequences of envy and the destructive power it can have
within a family. Through Joseph's suffering and eventual ascent to prominence, young readers
are introduced to the theme of redemption and the idea that forgiveness can heal even the
deepest wounds. The reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers serves as a poignant
moment in the narrative, underscoring the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in family
Furthermore, "Joseph's New Coat, Joseph, and His Brothers" emphasizes the significance of
faith and trust in God's plan. Joseph's unique ability to interpret dreams becomes a pivotal
element in the story, leading to his influential position in Egypt. This aspect of the narrative
reinforces the idea that God can utilize our distinct talents and experiences to fulfill His purpose,
even in the most trying circumstances. It serves as a reminder that, despite adversity, faith in
God's plan can lead to unexpected opportunities and transformation—a lesson that resonates
In summation, my journey through Etta B. Degering's "My Bible Friends: Baby Moses, Baby
Jesus" and "My Bible Friends: Joseph's New Coat, Joseph, and His Brothers" was an enriching
and enlightening one. These books beautifully encapsulate the essence of their respective
biblical stories, making them accessible and engaging for young readers while imparting
timeless moral lessons. The character development, moral messages, and themes of divine
providence, faith, forgiveness, and reconciliation found within these narratives make them both
As a reflection, these books serve as a testament to the enduring power of biblical stories to
impart wisdom and inspire faith, transcending age and time. They underscore the universality of
human experiences and the enduring relevance of the lessons found in the Bible, making them
invaluable resources for nurturing young minds and spirits. Etta B. Degering's skillful storytelling
has provided a bridge for these profound biblical tales to reach young readers and leave an
indelible mark, reminding us all of the enduring significance of faith, redemption, and
forgiveness.