1. Heretic's Guide to Eternity by Spencer Burke.
This book was a real stretch, concerning the wideness of God's mercy. "Almost a universalist" -- Burke says that people are in and have to "opt out" of heaven to go to hell , rather than being out and having to "opt in" to heaven.
2. Life of Charles Finney by A. M. Hillis
On the opposite side of the spectrum, when Finney preached, you could feel the fire and smell the smoke! It got a little hotter every word he spoke! An amazing story about the greatest evangelist in the first half of the 19th century. The best Finney biography, I think.
3. Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
Told in story form, this book gives excellent insights into how a staff leader can build a positive and dynamic team that works together for the common good with enthusiasm.
4. Bridge to Terebithia by Katherine Peterson
I read this aloud to the kids before we went to the movie. Peterson is a colorful and compelling writer. She knows how to turn a phrase -- and that's not captured in the movie. Heartwarming story with a very sad ending. If I ever read it aloud to the kids again, I won't do it right before bed.
5. When Not To Build by Ray Bowman
This book, written by a church architect, guides churches in facility expansion decision. The title is misleading -- as it should say, "Before You Build." I needed to read this. Every pastor considered any future facility expansion ought to take this book to heart.
6. H.A. Ironside: Ordained of the Lord by E. Schuyler English
The writing was terrible in this biography. It's hard for me to imagine why the publishing company didn't send it back to the author for "massive editing." However, Ironside's life was so interesting that it makes up for crummy authoring.
