Reading List
Staff Summer Reading List:
I asked the staff to recommend some things that people might be interested in reading this summer. Here it is. Links are provided via our “virtual bookstore” so you can actually purchase the books on line if you want. Most links will take you through Wellspring Christian Resources, our local Christian bookstore.
From Pastor John
Practice the Presence of God - Brother Lawrence
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Practice-of-the-Presence-of-God-Brother-Lawrence.9780883681053.htm
Learn a method of how to grow in the realization of God’s presence with you every moment.
From Brent Osborne, Intern Pastor/Student Ministries
Surprised by Hope – NT Wright
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Surprised-by-Hope-Rethinking-Heaven-the-Resurrection-and-the.9780061551826.htm
A new look at heaven, resurrection, and living eternally here and now.
Christ Plays in Ten Thousand Places – Eugene Petersen
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Christ-Plays-in-Ten-Thousand-Places-A-Conversation-in-Spirit.9780802862976.htm
A great read; it will challenge your understanding of time, place, and how we experience Jesus in each.
What’s So Amazing About Grace? – Philip Yancey
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Whats-So-Amazing-about-Grace-Yancey-Philip.9780310245650.htm
Pictures of grace that will help you understand how amazing God’s grace truly is.
The Reason for God – Tim Keller
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.The-Reason-for-God-Keller-Timothy.9781594483493.htm
Good stuff explaining what we believe and why.
Podcasts recommended by Brent:
John Eldridge/Ransomed Heart Ministries – The Daily Prayer
This podcast in particular is profound for me. A great guided prayer
Tim Keller Podcast
Anything he does is super solid.
From Tina Rasmussen, Intern Pastor/Adult Discipleship
Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels - Kenneth E. Bailey
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Jesus-Through-Middle-Eastern-Eyes-Cultural-Studies-in-the-Go.9780830825684.htm
Dr. Bailey is one of today’s top five Biblical scholars that brings a lifetime of living and teaching in the Middle East to his writing. Beginning with Jesus’ birth, this book leads you on a journey with Jesus through the four Gospels. Throughout the book, Bailey leads the reader into a deeper understanding and significance of Jesus within his own culture. Dr. Bailey lifts away our Western interpretation to reveal Jesus in the light of his actual historical and cultural setting, making Jesus more real to us today.
The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming - Henri J.M. Nouwen
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Return-of-the-Prodigal-Son-Nouwen-Henri-J-M.9780385473071.htm
Henri Nouwen offers personal spiritual insight into the parable of the prodigal son found in Luke 15. During a time of life questioning and reflection, Nouwen discovers the call to live a grace-filled life. Reflecting on the characters found in Rembrandt’s painting depicting the parable of the prodigal son, Nouwen discovers what we all need to know. This read is perfect for personal and spiritual formation.
If the Prodigal Were a Daughter: A Fresh Look at the Parables for Women Today - Janice Chaffee
http://www.amazon.com/Prodigal-Were-Daughter-Janice-Chaffee/dp/0736909834
Janice Chaffee is an engaging storyteller and reveals life-changing insights about women’s experiences as she recreates four parables using female characters and contemporary situations. Chaffee offers sound Biblical commentary as well. The book includes a study guide and can be used for personal or group use. While this book may be directed at women, men will gain insight and understanding of each parable from a women’s perspective.
Soul Feast: An Invitation to the Christian Spiritual Life - Marjorie J. Thompson
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Soul-Feast-An-Invitation-to-the-Christian-Spiritual-Life-Tho.9780664229474.htm
Marjorie Thompson invites your to experience and grow in your relationship with God as she explores practical and inspiring discussion on prayer, worship, fasting, hospitality, and spiritual reading. Soul Feast is a powerful introduction to spirituality and a classic favorite for individual reflection and group study.
Too Busy Not to Pray: Slowing Down to Be With God - Bill Hybels
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Too-Busy-Not-to-Pray-Slowing-Down-to-Be-with-God-Hybels-Bill.9780830834754.htm
Central to Jesus’ life was his relationship with his Father. Jesus could do nothing apart from God. As Jesus became busier, he left crowds to pray and experience an intimacy with God that was crucial to God’s mission. Hybels’ book stresses that as our lives today become busier, it is crucial that we spend time “listening” to God. This book is great for individual or group study.