Parents and children alike will fall in love with this unique book, Rejoice In the Lamb. This trilogy of story poems: Consider My Cat; A Creature of Great Personal Valor; and Consider The Lilies, all tenderly illustrated by Jedidiah Angkasa, will bring children to an early, deep love for God's creation. They will become more aware of how His creation glorifies Him, and how important it is for us humans to take care of it. The stories bring life and personality to each of the accompanying scripture references, and give children a starting point for developing their creation care theology. Christopher Smart's 18th C. poetry is no less relevant today. In fact, it is more important. Janet Payne and Jedidiah Angkasa have brought his genius to the pages of children's literature. The Latin title of Smart's epic poem, Jubilate Agno, from which these lines are excerpted, means "Rejoice in the Lamb." The "Lamb" refers to Jesus Christ, The Lamb of God. The vision of the poetry is to demonstrate nature praising the Creator by being what He intended it to be. And so, as all creation praises The Creator, we too are rejoicing in The Lamb. The Lamb of God!Endorsement for Jan Payne’s Rejoice in the Lamb:Delightful vignettes on the deep message spoken to us from God’s creation. Don’t be fooled that simple means shallow, for Rejoice in the Lamb is profound theology that hits its mark for people of all ages. Your heart will be warmed with a smile on your face as you listen to Jeoffry the cat, a noble mouse, and a fragrant lily, all eloquently proclaim their Maker. --Mark Saucy, Professor of Theology, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University.Payne and Angkasa have embraced the simple wonder of Smart’s poems—and, like him, they give us new reasons to praise God for small marvels. --Paul BuchananWe can learn much from observing and entering the wonder of children as they encounter the world, and Christ told us that we needed to become like children to enter His kingdom. Janet Payne reminds us of the wonder of God’s creation. She reminds us of what Job had learned:“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. Job 12:7-10 Carol Taylor, PhDPresident – Evangel University "Rejoice indeed! We are also rejoicing that such a book is now available. Filling an immensely important niche Payne's book is just the tool we need to reach out to our children at the best possible time of their lives to gain an indelible and everlasting appreciation for God's created world." Dr. Robert K Pelant, CEO, Pacific Rim Institute, Coupeville, WA"It is one of the great joys of my life to be a great grandfather. I'm very concerned about what I read to them. That’s why I am so delighted about Janet Payne’s children’s book, Rejoice In The Lamb. I want these dear great grandchildren to know and love the Lamb. This book will be a wonderful beginning.”Dr. Lloyd John Ogilvie, Pastor, Author, and Former Chaplain of the United States Senate
"I am happy to endorse the new illustrated edition of "Rejoice in The Lamb" by Christopher Smart. I became enchanted with this whimsical yet profound poem when I first heard it in the musical setting by Benjamin Britten. I am elated that young readers will have the opportunity, aided by the engaging artwork, to appreciate his poetry." Jeannine Wagner, Founder & Director, Wagner Ensemble, Los Angeles