Mark D. Roberts on "god is not Great"

god is not Great by Christopher Hitchens: A Response

Check out how Mark D. Roberts takes on the new book by Christopher Hitchens.

Velvet Elvis

Like Paul I just finished reading Velvet Elvis: Repainting the Christian Faith. I think it was Paul who recommended I read it. One of the great benefits of my Sunday night meetings is the book recommendations I get and this is a top notch one.

Some of the books I've been reading are really poking at the brand of Christianity in America. Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell really captures a desire to see real change in the Church. The ideas of true unconditional love and service are the items that stand out. One of the issues that us Christians have is an "us" vs. "them" approach. We also have a "sacred" vs. "secular" approach to life. Bell really is issuing a wake up call to the church that God loves everybody and we need to serve others without some kind of targeting agenda. The Church needs to be involved everywhere and just be there to serve.

I know I've got plenty of work to do in these areas and it's good to get a kick in the head every once in a while.

November 6, 2006 - Currently Reading

I usually read a few books at a time and plan on finishing them all. A couple of them are re-reads.

Book Review - The Life of Teenagers "Ain't No Joke"

This is my latest review for Active Christian Media. I chose to review this book (The Life of Teenagers "Ain't No Joke") more from selfish reasons than for anything as I have 2 sons moving towards their teenage years and I'm always looking for advice in raising them.

Keith G. Wright uses his experiences of growing up to impart wisdom to kids today. The book is almost autobiographical as Wright intersperses key truths into those stories. His task is to drive home those key truths to the reader as the audience is actually supposed to be teenagers.

Wright offers a lot of good advice including dealing with parents, peer pressure, sex, individual uniqueness, overcoming obstacles and a lot more. As a former teenager I see how helpful this book of advice could be for a current teenager. In a couple of years I will give this book to my oldest son. DO NOT GIVE THIS BOOK TO A CHILD WHO DOESN"T UNDERSTAND SEX. Even though it's sprinkled in small spots around the book I'd wait until a child is 13 to give this book to them.

I'm hopeful that books like this would be helpful to teenagers. My only concern is that the kids who don't need the book would be receptive while kids that would benefit would drop the book quickly. It's definitely a book that sounds a bit parental in its' tone but I am hopeful. There is a ton of practical advice that any teenager can use.

Overall, I'd give this book a 4 out of 5. Mr. Wright's goal to educate and inspire teenagers is met pretty well as I do believe the advice is worthwhile and written in a tone that has possibilites for teenagers to grasp. Again, I'm not sure all teenagers, especially ones who really need the advice, will be receptive. That's why it doesn't get a 5.

This book was reviewed for Active Christian Media. I received no payment for this review, but was given the book as a gift. The publisher is ANJ Books, Miami Shores, FL and the ISBN is 0-8778342-0-4.

Active Christian Media Review - Dirty Dancing at the Prom

Another review for Active Christian Media (AKA Blog for Books). The author, Barbara Curtis, is a parent of 12 children from ages 35 down to some young ones. She's been through a divorce and didn't become a Christian until she'd had about 5-6 kids. Basically, she's seen it all and is someone that has earned my ears. She's even done it all in terms of eduction from home school, private school and public school.

One of the great things about reading this book is the authenticity of the author. She talks about personal successes and failures without any sugar coating. In many Christian parenting books you get the "darn-right" formulas but not in this one. The points of views of the kids are important in this book and the author allows disagreements but focuses on what is major (sex, drugs, drinking, etc.) instead of minor (male earrings, dances, entertainment). In the minor areas the kids need to be provided with enough parenting to trust that the kids can make good decisions. The setting of limits is something that is established as important but so is the respect a parent needs to also have for their children.

The primary focus of the book is two-fold; "to present a realistic picture of challenges faced by today's teens" and "to equip parents to empower their teens to meet those challenges". This is not a book about whether to spank your child or not but discusses, in frank terms, some of the difficult challenges kids do face. Some of those things include mocking of other students, parents and teachers of Christianity, keeping Christian standards in difficult circumstances and "dirty dancing at the prom".

Even if you don't have children this book is a good read as it gives a great view of what parenting is about. Here's a great quote from the book to leave you with:

"I'm not as concerned with what they grow up to be career-wise as I am with who they grow up to be. I want them to become faithful wives and husbands, loving parents, brave believers, good friends, and committed citizens."

Active Christian Media Review - Help Mom! Hollywood's in my Hamper

In my latest review for Active Christian Media (AKA Blog for Books) I get to read another "Help Mom" books (see previous review here). I liked this one a bit more than the previous as the caricatures in this book were a little bit better, especially the Brittany Spears character. It seems any kid that read this book would at least understand and relate to that character.

Here's my main problem with the book; it wasn't very funny. I gave it to me 11 y/o son and he said it was kind of funny. He did understand what it's about but I don't want him to believe all Hollywood people are mindless twits (even though there are quite a few). He seemed to like the book and understands that not all of Hollywood is that way.

I appreciate the intent; to warn kids that folks in Hollywood really aren't worth listening too much in terms of morals, politics and their pet causes. It does seem like I'm the only conservative who doesn't like these books but I think I've had enough of the "Look Mom" books. I'm in disagreement with my son, Rush, National Review, James Taranto of Opinion Journal and others about the "Look Mom" books.

Currently Reading

Mind and Media Book Review - Help! Mom! There Are Liberals Under My Bed!

Again, it's an honor to be able to review another book under the banner of Mind and Media. As I read Help! Mom! There Are Liberals Under My Bed I was looking forward to a book that I'd feel comfortable sharing with my children or at a minimum, to help explain what liberalism is to them. Instead, I got a re-hash of what Rush Limbaugh was doing back in 1988, only Rush did/does it much better. I didn't find the book very funny and I'm not a big fan of sterotypes. This book was all about taking stereotypes of liberals and taking the liberal ideas to the extreme. I have friends that are liberal and I'd be embarrassed to let them see this book. Not because it's offensive, but because it's so absurd as to not even be relevant.

This book is not for children unless you want to teach them absurd stereotypes and an "us" vs. "them" mentality. Are there liberals that want to tax us too much, or remove all references to God, or overregulate? Of course there is but going to absurdities isn't going to help the conservative cause. I also don't want my kids developing a hate towards other people and to turn everything into "us" vs. "them". I work with many different types of people and plenty of them are liberals and they work their butt off. They are good people but I believe they are wrong on many issues. So what! Let's discuss things but let's keep it clean. If they aren't fair it doesn't give us license to do the same to them.

I put off writing this review for almost two months because I knew, that if I'm to be honest, that I'd have to write a very negative review. I hate having to do this but it is my job as an honest broker. I'm sure the author, Ketharine DeBrecht (a pen name), has good intentions but this is not the language I want to use with my kids or with my friends.

Soon To Be Reading

A wise man tonight told me to read these books as a follow up to Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul. I start tonight!

Wild at Heart - John Eldredge

I will be buying the above book to for birthday presents, Christmas presents or Fathers Day presents for the next year. Wild at Heart is forcing me to look at myself as a man and my relationship with God. I won't be sharing many details because I don't want to put all my crap online and make this blog some type of self-therapy but, if you are a man, get this book. If you are a woman with men in your life especially fathers, husbands or sons then get this book for them.

The bottom line with this book is that many men are wounded and are not truly living out there true destinies. It points out that men hide behind many things and never reach their full potential as men but most importantly, as children of God.

Just get the darn book.

What I Got With My Barnes and Noble Gift Card

I've heard that these are pretty dangerous books. I'll find out soon enough.

Currently Reading: No Holds Barred - Mark D. Roberts

I picked up the above book by Mark Roberts a few weeks ago at my church bookstore. It deals with some new (actually ancient) thoughts on prayer that I've never really dealt with. I've always been one to approach God like I would a mean employer; not saying what I should say and always afraid of the consequences. Mark uses the Psalms to teach that prayer is much more than my old model. We need to approach God with reverence but also with complete honesty. Just look at some of the Psalms! God obviously wants so much more than my prayer model and now I'm trying it. I'm not going to share the details of my dealings with God as that is a private matter but I'm looking for so much more than what I have now.

I'm only about half way through the book but am extremely pleased with it so far.

Book Review - The Bible or the Axe

(This book provided by the publisher)

I waited a bit more than a week to write my review for The Bible or the Axe as I wanted to let it sink in a bit. I also want to see if it really did make an impression on me. I'll write the review and we'll find out.

The Bible or the Axe is the autobriography of William O. Levi up until around 1993. Levi is from The Sudan and was born in 1964 (same year as me). Fortunately, Levi decided to give some very necessary historical background of The Sudan to give his birth and the first 30 years of his life some context. As most of you know, most Americans know very little of The Sudan (including myself) and the historical information is worth reading the book by itself.

In The Bible or the Axe you will ready many instances of hard time, narrow escapes, much sadness and some joy but the key that I found was one man being faithful to God's call on his life. Levi felt called to not take up arms but to choose a different path. At the same time he did not feel that everyone should do what he did. He did not condem the ones who did take up arms against the radicals in The Sudan but did stick to his calling in life.

The book itself isn't a very hard read and it does read pretty quick. Don't expect to be blown away by elegant prose but be ready to get nailed to the wall as you face the comparisons between the life of a Christian in The Sudan and a Christian in America. We spend a bunch of time with silly speculations about how the removal of Jews from Gaza affects the coming of Christ while folks in parts of The Sudan have to decide whether to embrace Islam or have their child denied emergency health care. Yes, this book will help you focus on issues that really do matter. The basic right to practice a religion is a major issue and it's something that, as a country and no matter what your faith (or lack thereof), we should all care about and should keep looking in to.

Thanks to Stacy at Mind and Media for the opportunity to review The Bible or the Axe as another book has helped me think through my faith a bit more.

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Latest Read -Through Painted Deserts

I'm currently reading the latest Don Miller book Through Painted Deserts : Light, God, and Beauty on the Open Road. I know that Miller isn't everyone's cup of tea but he's great at shaking up some of our Christian Ghetto mentality.

I will be writing my review of The Bible or the Axe soon. I'm still digesting what I read.

Currently Reading - The Bible or the Axe

I'm reading the following for Blog for Books:

What I'm Reading - "A Testament of Devotion"

I got this book recommendation in a personal letter from Tony Campolo. In one of his books I read, Speaking My Mind : The Radical Evangelical Prophet Tackles the Tough Issues Christians Are Afraid to Face, Dr. Campolo spoke about a very deep level of a relationship with Christ. As someone interested in that type of stuff I sent him an email and he wrote a personal letter back and recommended this book along with Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius. This new book is an easier read than the Ignatius book. So far, so good.

BookCrossing.com

BookCrossing - Home - FREE YOUR BOOKS! - This looks a bit interesting. You purposely leave books that are tagged so other folks can get them and read them. Interesting....

Insomnia Reigns

The cause of my insomnia is my second reading of:

I'm going to update my previous review.

Mind and Media Review: Jesus: An Intimate Portrait of the Man, His Land, and His People

(Book provided by publisher)

This is a review for Mind and Media.

Jesus: An Intimate Portrait of the Man, His Land, and His People by Leith Anderson is a book I've been waiting for, for a long time. As a Christian I've always wanted to see the 4 Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) all combined into a complete chronological story and now I have it. The 4 Gospels are written by 4 different authors with 4 different points of view. This book not only attempts to accomplish this task but it also tries to add in some more historical context; the political situations, the culture, the environment.

Now the question is were those goals accomplished? The book reads like a standard biography. If you are expecting the Bible, that's not what you are going to get. It does follow the Bible quite well but is written in a different style. It reads kind of in a contemporary fashion so you aren't going to run into any King James English. I found that modern English (not much slang) just doesn't feel right to me, especially when Christ is speaking.

Where the book is strongest is all the non-biblical historical information. Anderson really has gone the extra mile to bring the modern day reader back into a different time and different context. I've learned a lot and will read it again. If you are interested in learning about the times of Jesus Christ, the people around Him, the culture He grew up in and the political landscape then this is a book for you. It can be read by the believer or unbeliever and knowledge will be acquired.

Book Review - Blue Like Jazz

Blue Like Jazz: Nonreligious Thoughts on Christian Spirituality by Donald Miller, is a book I've put off reading for awhile now but after enough recommendations from people I admire and respect I decided to read it. I could not be more pleased that I read it. It's a quick read and hard to put down once you get rolling.

Miller, first and foremost, is transparent. This book is a book about his journey of faith (and some of his friends' journey also). He's not a typical Evangelical and really doesn't care about that. The journey is filled with doubts, challenges, victories, defeats and a path to being at a point to accept God's love. I love the way he seeks to be authentic and loving; maybe pissing off a few people along the way as he breaks down some of the silly barriers that American Evangelicals have built up.

I'm positive that Miller and I would disagree on many political issues but where we'd agree is that the association between the name of Jesus and conservative (or liberal) politics needs to be removed. Miller's discoveries included that many people who are not part of the Evangelical movement believe Evangelicals probably hate them. That is not an image I'd like to believe, but I have found it to be true. Not that we hate but we seem to have put out that perception. I'd much prefer that the perception be that we love, do good works and reflect the nature of the God we claim to worship and follow.

I dare all conservative Evangelicals to read this book. Recognize that you can read someone that you may not disagree with but is a true brother in Christ. Miller has so much to offer that a couple of swipes at George W. Bush and fundamentalists is well worth it. In fact, Miller admits he needs some work on loving religious conservatives. Again, he's authentic. I'm hoping that reading this book will inspire me to learn more about the love of God and to be more transparent as I write.

I dare non-Christians to give this book a try. There is a chapter about confession that is truly beautiful and inspiring and is worth the price of admission itself. You will learn a bit more about Christianity (or Christian spirituality) than just what the conservative pundit or the televangalist has told you.

This is a life changing book and worth reading more than once. I'm going to start his followup tonight called Searching for God Knows What. If it's half as good as Blue Like Jazz then it will be worth the effort.

Cross-posted at Blog Critics here.

UPDATE (after finishing it again on 7/10): I just finished reading this book again and I got a bit more out of it. That is always a sign of a good book; you read it again and discover more. One of the issues I deal with is kind of a stale relationship I feel with God. Many times I just don't "feel" like there is a relationship. That's all on me. I need to read the Bible with a passion, looking at what Christ truly has done and why. I also need to accept the love that Christ has for me and that if I don't I won't grow nor will I have the joy that He wants for me. Miller has truly opened my mind to the Jesus that, if I were to sit at a campfire with Him, he'd not tear me down but would get to know me at a meaningful level, would encourage me in my strengths and would help me with my weaknesses.

Current Reading for Review - Jesus

My next review for Mind and Media will be for:

It's written as a biography of Jesus based on Scripture and other historical documents. It reads just like a regular biography with extra details that adds more information about the cultural and political context of the times. More when I'm done.

Book Review: Beyond the Shadowlands

This is my first review as an Exclusive Reviewer for Mind and Media. First off, thanks to Stacy and Mind and Media for giving me the opportunity to have a look into books that will push our Christian faith.

To the topic at hand, Beyond the Shadowlands: C.S. Lewis on Heaven and Hell by Wayne Martindale. My Lewis background consists of reading Mere Christianity quite a few times and then, having finished the Chronicles of Narnia for just the first time last summer. I've not read the Space Trilogy but, after reading this book, I need to.

If you've read a bit of Lewis then this is a book for you. Martindale takes the writings of Lewis and extracts the nuggets about Heaven, Hell and even Purgatory (do you know what Lewis believes about this topic?). As a person who's always had trouble getting my head around the afterlife this is a book that makes you think. The emphasis on how Lewis uses his imagination to try and break through our perceptions about the afterlife is key and Martindale ties together great fiction and strong theology.

I enjoy the highlighting of Heaven as it puts an emphasis on a part of Lewis's books that didn't always stand out to me, except in certain parts. Mostly, it's background or just one of many points Lewis is trying to make. In Beyond the Shadowlands, the focus is on the afterlife and helped me to get some new thoughts on what Heaven and Hell may be like. If you are expecting harps and horns in the afterlife then this book is for you as it will make you think. Many of the myths about Heaven and Hell are dealt with, right off the bat. This allows the reader to clear their head from the misconceptions they may have.

In terms of Hell, Martindale highlights how Lewis consistently reminds us that Hell is a choice; people who don't want God will not get Him. The myths of Hell and Lewis's views on why people go to Hell, what Hell might be really like and why people in Hell probably wouldn't even want to be in Heaven.

I do recommend having at least of read The Lion, the Witch & The Wardrobe before reading this book. The more Lewis, the more this book will touch you.

Again, thanks to Mind and Media for the marvelous opportunity to review this book.

Mind & Media

I've been chosen by Mind & Media to review the following book:

I look forward to reading and reviewing the book. Should be fun.

Book Review - Blog

Last night I finished Blog: Understanding the Information Reformation That's Changing Your World by Hugh Hewitt. It took me a while to get to it as I needed to get some other books done, or at least started. Oh how I wish I'd started it earlier as I've been reinvigorated about blogging. In fact I'm looking at having some guest bloggers within the next few months. In reading Hugh's book he brings home the point that the events of the Protestant Reformation are paralleled in the rise of the blogosphere. With or without the breakaway of the Protestants the Catholic Church needed change. With or without the blogosphere the news delivery systems need to be reformed. Even before the advent of the blogosphere there has been a drastic drop in the ratings of the MSM with people flocking to Fox News and talk radio.

I look at Hugh's book and the warnings he offers to everybody need to be heeded. Corporations and high-profile people must realize that everyone is watching. You never know who's in your audience or organization. When an injustice occurs it only takes one blogger with a few readers and a firestorm can be started. Hugh offers some great defenses but many will not read this book and will suffer. I'm trying to figure out how to get this book into the hands of the higher ups in my company.

As I read Hugh's book I remember the inspiration from In, But Not Of to create this blog. I'd been messing around on Live Journal and Blogspot but when I read that book it changed my life in many ways. Why do I blog? As a friend of mine sings, "I want to see miracles, to see the world change". That's why I blog. I blog about whatever floats my boat as, I guarantee, there are many folks who care about the same topics that I do (with varying opinions). If I can get one person to ponder a post and they are inspired to greatness, that's what it is all about.

I cannot do anything but highly recommend reading Hugh's latest book and encourage others to start reading blogs. Please check out the links to your left and begin reading blogs before checking the other Martha Stewart, Michael Jackson junk via the MSM later. The blogosphere is filled with experts of all types with all kinds of views. The MSM is severly handicapped by it's bias. According to Hugh the first blog appeared around 1999 and within 3 years had a big part in removing the Senate Majority Leader and 2 years after that had a huge role in removing the leadership of the New York Times, gave voice to the Swift Vets and blew up CBS News over fraudulent documents, thought to bring down President Bush. It's safe to say that the truth from the blogosphere helped keep the current president in office.

I know that this has become more than just a book review and has become a big advertisement for the blogosphere. Sorry but it has to be done.

Finished "In, But Not Of" Again

I've just finished the masterful In, But Not Of by Hugh Hewitt again. It's the first time I've read it since some changes in my roles at work and the take aways this time include:

Spotlight - Spiritual Excercises of St. Ignatius

Based on a letter I received from Tony Campolo I purchased the above book about the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius. Ignatius was a Roman Catholic during the time of the Reformation. He created the Society of Jesus within the Roman Catholic Church and the exercises he created were a major force in the creation of that society. I'm looking for some more personal discipline in my spiritual walk so I'm open to suggestions. Fortunately, Dr. Campolo responded to my request. In my reading of this book I've been touched by some of the exercises that Ignatius is teaching. As a protestant I don't agree with all of Ignatius's methods but am finding some interesting ideas.

Trying A New Saint Augustine Confessions

I had tried a different one before but it was translated into King James English. This one is translated by Henry Chadwick and is much more readable for me.

Finished Mere Christianity

I finished Mere Christianity the other night. The take away I got this time (I've read it a few times) is the concept of the new man. Lewis spoke of how, despite being Christians, some folks aren't so pleasant. There are many good people who are not Christians. Some folks are just naturally nicer and more charitable than others. He then goes into how we all have different nature's and personalities and how Christ meets us where we are at. It doesn't mean we are changed into the picture perfect Christian. Back to the not so pleasant folk, Lewis asks how they might be without Christ. He also says that the naturally nicer people would think they have less of a need for Christ but we are all sinners and are accountable for all the gifts we are given.

Mere Christianity - Another Book I'm Reading

As part of my renewal this year I'm re-reading Mere Christianity. Whether you are a pastor or a skeptic, this book is worth reading. Lewis makes a great case for Christianity, period! I will blog later about some more of the details of the book, if you are not familiar with it.

Living by the Book - Currently Reading

I'm reading the above book to learn how to actually study the Bible. I've read the Bible a few times but have failed in being able to study it very well. The above book mentions three key aspects of the method for studying the Bible:

Hugh Hewitt's New Book On The Blogosphere

If this book is as well written as the other 3 that Hugh has written (and that I've read) then it will be well worth buying. I will be putting in my order today at Amazon. The impact that Hugh's books have had on me have been enormous. In, But Not Of is the main inspiration for this blog and also has helped guide me in other aspects of life. I will be re-reading it once I finish Mere Christianity. It's become one of those books I read when I need to get grounded. It's a refresher book that helps me get my priorities straight.

While you are at it get these other ones I've also read:

Book Review Section

On the left side of the blog I've added a section for book reviews. I plan on doing more book reviews in the future as I only have 3 reviews. I have read a lot more than that though :).

"Speaking My Mind" by Dr. Tony Campolo - My Review

I picked up Tony Campolo's latest book at Costco a few weeks ago. I saw Dr. Campolo at my college a long time a go for a week of revival. He does bring the message home quite well. He also opened my mind quite a bit as Dr. Campolo comes from the left. His focus on applying our faith instead of just speaking our faith was great. When I saw this book for $9.99 I had to buy it as it seemed like a good time for a strong challenge to my beliefs.

To the book.... Dr. Campolo wrote this book for various reasons. What I got as his reasons were that he wanted to redefine the public perception of Evangelicals to not mean "Christian-Republican". Another reason was to challenge the Christian Right in some of their beliefs that are just taken for granted. The last reason was to try and bring conservative Evangelicals a bit to the left. Some of the topics he covered were mainline denominations, the image of Evangelicals, sexism, gays, universalism, science, helping the poor, Islam, war, why people hate America, morality and the future of Evangelicanism.

His view on sexism focuses on why many Evangelicals don't support women pastors. His scripture references didn't convince me to change my perspective. I'm actually not one who's positive that women should be pastors but lean towards that the shouldn't be. My solution is that I will attend a church where the pastor is male but will not judge churches that allow women pastors. I know many women who have a much stronger view than myself. Dr. Campolo is trying to strike a balance between what he calls "male chauvinism that too often has expressed itself in evangelicalism" and radical feminism. I don't think it's male chauvinism when we are just trying to follow what we feel the Bible teaches.

In terms of the gay issue, this is a touchy one for sure. Campolo believes that many gays cannot change but also believes that for them to be in God's will that they must be celibate. He feels they should be open about their homosexuality but not act upon it. Campolo believes that gays should even be open in church and the church should accept them. He's against gay marriage but is a strong supporter of most gay rights. Many examples were given in the book that showed how homosexuals (like anyone else) have a longing for God but don't feel they have a place in the church. This is probably the most controversial and compelling chapter in the book as I do agree that the church just hasn't gotten this issue right. What happens if a gay couple were to enter my church? What would we do? What should we do? WWJD?

In many other issues related to politics Campolo basically spouts the liberal line, just in a nicer way. In terms of war he criticizes Bush for the war in Iraq but doesn't criticize Clinton for Yugoslavia. There's also some of the tired tax cuts for the rich rhetoric and it's during the political issues where the book kind of gets uninteresting. Campolo is strongest when he deals with issues of the heart and weak when he defends big government and the UN. In my opinion, Christian responsibility is at it's best when it's local. Let the person of faith write the check. The government can do some things but not everything.

I wish Campolo would address the issues of the left especially the abortion issue. Like many on the Christian Left, he minimizes the life issue. It's a huge issue that if the Christian left (think Hillary Clinton) keeps supporting abortion rights all the way through to the support of the partial birth abortion rights, they will not make progress with the Christian Right.

I applaud Dr. Campolo for this book, especially in some of the issues that he supports well with scripture. I would urge all Christians to give this book a look. Even though I still have many disagreements with Campolo this book is still fresh in my mind as I finished it almost two weeks ago.

My Next Book

My next book purchase shall be:

Finished Chronicles of Narnia

I've finished the Chronicles of Narnia. The big question, why didn't I read these when I was younger? Fortunately my kids will read them soon.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Amazing as it can be, I finished reading this book for the first time. It's an amazing allegory that I will be reading with my kids sometime soon. Thanks to my pastor for inspiring me to read it.

Purpose Driven Life - A Review

As I stated a couple of months ago I was skeptical about this book. Just from the title it sounds like a trendy book without much substance. Despite some issues that I had with it, I'm glad I read it and would recommend it (I even bought my Mom a copy for Christmas).

First I'll discuss the negative aspects of the book. Although more than 1000 Bible verses are quoted Rick Warren fails to use the Scripture reference and instead uses appendix markers. You have to go to the appendix to get the reference and that does not make it an easy book to study and check it against Scripture. Also, he uses a lot of modern translations for the references and I find those lacking in quality. Now, in about Chapter 38 Warren finally explains that the context of the Scriptures should be studied on their own (this is good) but this should have been in the introduction. I read this book as part of a men's Bible study and people in whom I trust, had already read the book and approved. As I went through the book nothing jumped out at me as being way off. I may not of agreed on some points but nothing that would lead someone off the deep end.

Another negative that I found is that Warren seems to imply that a fully committed Christian is following his 5 areas that he's identified as part of the purpose driven life. I know he's just trying to restate some historical truths but I don't believe a book other than the Bible is essential for Christian living. Maybe Pastor Warren isn't implying this but that was the feeling I got near the end of the book.

Now the positives.... there is a lot of great practical information in this book. What Pastor Warren has done is lay out a lot of great practices that Christians need to consider including your place in God's Kingdom ("It's not about you"), healing relationships with others, service, community, fellowship, worship. The list is extensive and this book reminded me of some things I need to take care of. Again, lots of Scripture is referenced and a good exercise might be to look more at the Scriptures and extend the study.

The book is very readable and Pastor Warren recommends reading each of the 40 chapters over 40 nights. I actually wrapped up the last 3 in one night but followed it pretty closely the rest of the time. He wants the reader to absorb the information so the smaller chunks is a good idea and it worked for me.

All in all, the Purpose Driven Life is a pretty practical book. For the newer Christian it might be best to read it within a group or with a mentor. This is a book that lends itself to discussion. For the experienced Christian don't expect your life to be radically changed from this book but it's a great tune-up or maintenance check we all need every once in a while. I know that a lot of experienced Christians are skeptical about this book but it's not as bad as some think and better than I expected. If you are curious about the book then read it. It's worth the time and effort. I believe any of the negatives I stated do not negate recommending the reading of the book nor the practicality of it.

The Passing of a Classic

ESPN Classic - Colorful McGraw had brain cancer

Great Christmas Present

I'm way late to the Lord of the Rings, but am catching up. Fortunately, the Broken Wife got me "The Hobbitt" and I'm totally eating it up. I was never interested in fantasy until the last couple of years so this is all new and wonderful for me. I can't wait to read it to my sons.

Bought This Book Today

John Fischer was the first author that I'd read that really challenged my faith in terms of being relevant to the rest of society. I'm looling forward to reading this book as I make my way out of the christian ghetto.

Book Recommendations - 12/11/03

 - This is the first Hugh Hewitt book I read. Broken Wife is reading it now. It encourages Christians to step our and be relevant in the world with our Christian faith. I'm going to re-read it once Broken Wife is done with it.

 - I'm currently reading this one. It's a good, back to basics examination of the biblical foundations of the Trinity. It never hurts to go back to the basics.

 - This was recommended to me by my pastor after 9/11. Too many books about evagelizing people of the Islam faith death with being "darn right". This book treats their faith with respect (and the people) and uses the Muslim faith to bring out Jesus.

 - This is a deep look at President Bush during the war in Afghanistan. It's written by Bob Woodward who's no conserative and is always looking for the next Pulitzer.

 - This book by David Frum, really gives you a good picture at the character of President Bush. Any of those "no blood for oil" types should read this book.

Book Recommendations from Hugh Hewitt

Take a look at Hugh Hewitt's latest WorldNetDaily column of book recommendations for Christmas.

Currently Reading

The Victors book by Ambrose in mind blowing. It's recording the history of many stories of men who served under Ike. Of course, there is a lot of D-Day stories and I'm numbed by the numbers of men who died on that one day. In some cases the transport would open up to allow the soldiers to storm the beach, but all 30+ men would be killed before getting out. It gives a lot of perspective to the current situation in Iraq and still makes me made that the French government has not supported us after so many American and British soldiers were killed in the liberation of France.

Recommended Parenting Books

I'm reading the above book for the third time. I think it's really a good thing to make sure we relearn some things. This book empasizes how we can't expect our kids to behave unless they feel unconditional love from us parents. The author talks about that it's so barbaric to punish a child when that child is really just asking the question, "Do you love me?". It talks about the concept of a "love tank". When the child's love tank is empty, they will behave that way. If the tank is full, yet they still misbehave then punishment is in order.

There are so many books about discipline but they speak of discipline in terms of punishment and ignore the love issue. Discipline is far more than punishment. It is steering our children into the right path, not beating them into the right path. Ephsesians 6:4 says "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." When we punish our kids unjustly then we are provoking them to anger. Before punishing, is their love tank filled? If not, they need to be shown love.

Looking back at so many instances where my kids have misbehaved, it's been because of an empty love tank. Most of us do love our kids but do they really know it? When was the last time we just gave them a hug for the heck of it? When was the last time we turned off the TV and put down our book and looked at our kids in the eye and talked and listened to them with our undivided attention? When was the last time we took one of our children out and just spent quality AND quantity time with them? If we don't have good answers to those questions then we must expect our kids to ask us "Do you still love me?" but they won't ask us directly, they'll misbehave. As Bill Cosby said, kids are brain damaged. They are irrational and need their love tanks filled up regularly. We need to remind them of our love.

My pastor preached a wonderful sermon on this topic about 2 years ago. Here are the notes and the audio.

This book deals with something called "reality discipline". It's tying discipline to real consequences. For example, your kid messes around in the morning before going to school and will be late. The kid may want a note for an excuse. Reality discipline says, don't give the kid a note. They need to live with their action and the consequences.

Buy Hugh's Book

Check out the left column. There is a link to buy Hugh Hewitt's most execellent book, "In, But Not Of".

In, But Not Of (again)

I've been re-reading some of the chapters from "In, But Not Of" by the esteemed Hugh Hewitt. If you haven't read it yet, please do. There are so many useful ideas on making an impact. This book has been a great inspiration for me especially the chapters on blogging, exercise and work. I need to read it again for some reinforcement and to look at more things that need changing in my life.

Treason (so far) - Ann Coulter

I finally have gotten around to reading Ann Coulter's Treason book. I'm about a third of the way through and so far it's quite informative. Yes, Ann can paint with a very broad brush and can be a bit uncharitable but, dang it, she brings up many good points. Based on her information that she's gathered there were communist spies and communist sympathizers in our government and most Democrats and too many Republicans just ignored it and, instead, demonized Senator McCarthy. The information gathered from the Venona Project (if you don't know what that was, please look it up) clearly indicates that so many of the people defended by the Democrats and many of the elite of this country were Soviet spies. That is just horrible. True patriots put country over party and so many of them didn't.

The Abolition of Man

I decided to read "The Abolition of Man" by C.S. Lewis, again. I just didn't "get" it the first time I read it. After another citing by my pastor last Sunday of the book I'm trying again. Voila, I think I'm understanding this time. I just finished "Men Without Chests" this morning.

Horowitz Takes On Coulter

Worth reading.

P.J. O'Roarke Reviews Hillary's Book

To see the complete review check it our here. There is a golden quote that I must share:

Conservatives, including most of the Founding Fathers, have always worried that the price of a democratic system would be a mediocre nation. But George Washington and William F. Buckley Jr. put together could not have foreseen, in their gloomiest moments, the rise of Clinton-style über-mediocrity--with its soaring commonplaces, its pumped trifling, its platinum-grade triviality. The Alpha-dork husband, the super-twerp wife, and the hyper-wonk vice president--together with all their mega-weenie water carriers, such as vicious pit gerbil George Stephanopoulos and Eastern diamondback rattleworm Sidney Blumenthal--spent eight years trying to make America nothing to brag about.

Alpha-dork? That's funny.

Ann Coulter - Be Careful

I'll be buying Ann Coulter's new book, "Treason" at Costco soon. I do wish she'd not comment on Hillary's weight. Even though she barely smacked her down it's heading down the ugly path that liberals have taken in the past. Remember Paula Jones, Katherine Harris, Linda Tripp and any other woman they wanted to humiliate? They always went after their appearance. That's gross and Ann is better than that. BTW, Ann does have quite the fire when she talks but her books are well researched and worth a read.

Recommended Reading

My pastor has a list of books he recommends. Here's the link.

In, But Not Of

I got done reading In, But Not Of by Hugh Hewitt a couple weeks ago. It is a very inspiring book. Even though my life path doesn't really fit in with the overall theme (gaining power and influence to affect the Kingdom of God in a big way), it still impacts me. Some of the main points that I take from it are how to handle office politics (especially a lot of the negativity), that I need to be a bit more well rounded, that politics do matter and that moderation is really good. It's a quick read but I highly recommend it. If any of my children have a calling in life to be a leader then this book will help. It definitely lays down some good ideas on how to network and get on a career path that will impact God's Kingdom in a very positive way.

One tangible result of this book is I've excercised almost every morning since finishing it. I find that I'm also able to shun more of the negativity at work. Broken-Wife is now reading the book and we talk about it a lot.

God in the Dock

Tonight I will be starting the book, "God in the Dock" by C.S. Lewis. My great friend in Texas has recommended it to me and said it's more challenging than "Mere Christianity". Heck, it only took about 10 readings of that book to begin to "get" it. I'm looking forward to the challenge.