Reading List

I'm a reader. I know it is a little bit nerdy but I could really don't care. I have always loved to read and now I work in publishing and get books super super cheap. So I read more. I try and tell Josh that we're saving money, but he knows the truth. I spend way more money on books now because I get such good deals on them. While working with books I often make mental lists of ones that sound good or exciting or that I'd like to get when they come out. Oh well... there are worse things to spend money on.

With regard to what I end up reading, sometimes I like to be personally and spiritually challenged or encouraged. Sometimes I just like to read for fun. In any case, you'll probably hear a lot about books from me. I am often in the midst of 3-4 books at any given time. Here is what I'm reading now:

The Bible (NIV or TNIV) - We're reading this through with our small group this year, and although I'm enjoying it I am perpetually behind where I should be. I definitely plan to catch up a little and spend some good time meeting God in His word tonight. I'm in the midst of both Proverbs and Joshua. I'll pass along any words of wisdom that particularly stand out to me.

Plan B: Further Thoughts on Faith, by Ann Lamott - I don't agree with all she has to say, but I love reading her books (I read Traveling Mercies a while back and enjoyed it). She is frank and honest about her struggles, joys, and walk with God, but manages to toss in quite a bit of humor. Like me, she doesn't have everything together.

Peppermint-Filled Pinatas, by Erik Michael Bryant - This book hasn't come out yet but I started to read the advance copy I got from work. "For too long," he writes, "the world has been made aware of what Christians hate rather than whom they love; what they are against rather than what they support. " It is basically about loving people, instead of just tolerating them. Relationship evangelism. Intentionally building community with those around you, breaking stereotypes, and not being afraid to be reach out to people who are different from you. A good read. I should really finish it someday.

Walking From East To West - Josh and I are listening to this one together, having downloaded the audio book. It is the autobiography of Ravi Zacharias, a well known apologist and preacher. Josh and I have enjoyed listening to him preach, both in person a couple of times as well as via his podcast. The story of his life is fascinating. We are enjoying learning about his childhood in India, his family situation, and his spiritual journey. Surprisingly enough, this world-renowned intellectual was once considered the dunce of the family. I look forward to hearing more on our road trip to Indiana this weekend.

A Diary of Private Prayer, by John Baillie - This book was a gift from a friend and is nothing more than a collection of prayers to read on a daily basis. I sometimes use them in my times with God. When I don't know what to pray for reading these always gives me direction, encouragement, and just a renewed sense of God's presence and power. Here is how one starts: "Eternal Father of mu soul, let my first thought today be of Thee, let my first impulse be to worship Thee, let my first speech be Thy name, let my first action be to kneel before Thee in prayer." Highly recommended.

There you have it. A glimpse of the stack on my bedside table! :)