One of the most amazing transformations in my life over the past six years has been my growing love for reading. In high school, I dreaded homework and I certainly was not going to sit down and read a book over the weekend. It is possible that my love for video games got in the way. I received good grades, but no one would have described me as a focused student who loved to learn.
However, as I began my freshman year at ACU as a Christian Ministry major, I developed a new joy for education and reading. Instead of dreading my school work, I could not put down the books. I loved learning more about Scripture and church history. I read books that challenged me to grow spiritually and others that challenged me to dream more about God's intentions for his church.
One of the most exciting benefits of graduation from my master's work is that I get to read the stack of books that have intended to read for a long time. During school I read many good books that I was forced to read. But now, I get to read books that I have chosen to read, which is always an added benefit.
In the future, I plan to suggest certain books for those who might be interested in a good read. Some of the books I get excited about would only be worth reading for those who are admitted "Bible nerds." These are the kinds of books I would never pass along to Holly. But there will be other books that I think others might be very excited about.
Today, I want to suggest two books for your future reading schedule.
The Shack is the first book I would suggest. While many people might think of the Trinity as an antiquated notion without much relevance today, William P. Young authors an incredible story that Eugene Peterson has dubbed the Pilgrim's Progress of our generation. This book is sure to widen your perspective about God and "his" presence in our lives. I would certainly encourage you to pick up this book when you get a chance.
The other book I have recently finished that I would pass along for your reading pleasure is Same Kind of Different As Me. This book weaves the stories of an African-American sharecropper and a white, upper-class art dealer who become close friends because of the impact of one woman in both of their lives. This book has widened my view of God's kingdom.
I hope these books will benefit your lives as you seek to be people who embody the values of the kingdom in your everyday lives. God wants to use each of you for his glory today! As God blesses you, commit to giving him the glory for the ways he shines through your life.
If you have any books that you would suggest for me to add to my future reading list, please let me know.
4 comments:
Collin,
Glad to hear you are coming to help build the kingdom in Colorado. I am a fellow minister
at Southeast CoC in Aurora, your neighbor to the North and East. Our congregation has been helped by Littleton in so many ways and it is a great church. We look forward to meeting you.
Larry Wishard
Colin,
There is a tremendous buzz within the congregation regarding 'The Shack'. After reading it, people not only recommend it to friends but do so with the comment 'when you finish, lets get together and discuss it'. The book has facilitated spiritually deep discussions between brothers and sisters here at LCOC.
Larry - Thanks for your comment. It sounds like there is a great need in CO for churches that can reach those who are searching. I look forward to hearing about your how Southeast is living as an outpost of the kingdom in Aurora.
Dick - It seems that 'The Shack' is beginning conversations all over the place. I have heard about this book in several places. I'm glad to hear how God is working at Littleton in so many ways.
I heard about The Shack from a library newsletter. Finally made it to the top of the wait list then read it in one sitting. Read it again to let it seep deeper. Hated to return it, so bought it on amazon then sent it to family! :) Can't wait to have a go at your other recommendation.
Kendra
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