Book Review: Last Call

Jerry Herships has had a calling on his heart for many years. He serves bag lunches and communion to those in need. This is his story where he shows each step along the way to here. He first left home for Los Angeles to become a stand-up comic and is now a minister. I loved the way that he brings some of his humor into the writing of this book. It made it a book that is open to all. Whether a comedian, working in a pub or serving those in need, his voice comes through in this book. He shows that we may not always see what God has planned for us and there may be some discomfort when the plan is laid before us, but when we listen the rewards are plentiful. They may not be earthly but you still know they are there.

This is a wonderful book, but don't be surprised if, during the book, you begin to think about God's plan for your life and be prepared to follow.

I was given this book by NetGalley and Westminster Knox Press in exchange for my honest review.

This book may be found HERE!

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Book Review: Names for the Messiah

This is a look at the names for Jesus as found in Isaiah9:6. These are Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. There is a look at how people have seen and understood each of these. Then whether Jesus fit the title, and finally what was the interpretation of the way Jesus was a representative of each of these names. 

Names for the Messiah, Written by Walter Brueggemann, is actually a book to be read for Advent. It would be good to use as an individual or as a small group, over this time. Brueggemann always has such insight in his writings. I found this book to be inspirational and I will keep it in mind in December to re-read as it was meant. 

I was given this book by NetGalley and Westminster John Knox Press in exchange for my honest review. 

Book Review: Advent in Narnia

I must admit, last year I began going through this book, but I was not in the spirit for it. It was just me. When I picked it up again, I was thrilled with the reflections found in this book. I am a fan of Narnia and Aslan, so this book really spoke to me. There is so much in Narnia that reminds us of Christmas and this book picks up on those themes.

At least in my area, there is cold weather, sometimes snow, the delicious food which can be a temptation, plus hope. In fact, Father Christmas even makes an appearance in both. This book takes each of these and more and works it into 28 devotions which include Scripture, devotions and excerpts from the book itself. I find myself reflection on the devotion throughout my day and it helps me to stay focus on the reason for Christmas.

I was given this book by NetGalley and Westminster John Knox Press in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: A Stubborn Sweetness and Other Stories for the Christmas Season

I love the way Katherine Paterson writes. This book is made up of short stories about those who make discoveries about themselves and others; those who are discouraged then uplifted; those that discover love is always here.

I believe I will find myself reading this book a few times a year just to revive these beliefs in myself.

This would be a great book to give to loved ones or to share with those you love.

I was given this book by NetGalley and Westminster John Know Press in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: God is in the Manger

Just as Advent is divided into weeks, this book is also divided into sections. Advent Week One: Waiting; Advent Week Two: Mystery; Advent Week Three: Redemption; Advent Week Four: Incarnation and The Twelve Days of Christmas and Epiphany.

I, personally have never read works by Dietrich Bonhoeffer before because discussions with my son about him were intimidating. However, this Advent Guide takes the reader to what matters during Christmas. Bonhoeffer was arrested by the Nazi's in 1943 for his position against Hitler. He was then hung in 1945. The writings from this book were recorded while in prison, and there were exerpts from letters and sermons.

I feel like this is a good resource for each year, as a reminder of what this season means.

I was given this book by NetGalley and Westminster John Knox Press in exchange for my honest review.