July

1. An Evening in Ephesus, by Bob Emery

This is a dramatic commentary on the book of Revelation -- and is by far the most interesting Bible Commentary I've ever read. Emery espouses the preterist view of eschatology -- and after reading his persuasive arguments, I thought, "Almost, thou persuadest me to become a preterist."

2. Our Jealous God by Bill Gothard.

Gothard's a bit eccentric, and the title is "put-offish" but this little book was an excellent reminder of God's holiness, and his desire for us to love Him alone.

3. Narrative of the Anti-Slavery Experience of a Minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church by Lucius Matlack.

A firsthand account of the trials experienced by a young Methodist minister. They refused to ordain him because he was "abolitionist." Consequently, Matlack joined the new "Wesleyan Methodist" movement to oppose "the sum of all villianies"

4. Out of the Deep, by Charles Kingsley.

Essays by a 19th century Anglican pastor, writer, and poet, published by his wife after his death. Good grist for sermons here!

5. Norman Vincent Peale: Minister to Millions, by Arthur Gordon

The biography of the man who inspired my "positively speaking" newspaper columns. Though somewhat dated now, I found it an inspiring read. He was often criticized for being too positive -- but that was from the folks who were much too negative. Come to think of it, Joel Osteen is the 21st Century version of Peale (with a touch of Kenneth Hagin thrown in.) I don't agree with everything Peale says (or Osteen for that matter) -- but every time you come in contact with a mega-postive person, you walk away charged up with positive juice!

6. Collected Poems, by Wendell Berry

Berry, the rural Kentucky poet, is one of my three favorites.

7. The Return of the Prodigal Son, by Henri Nouwin

This is a powerful, deep, little book based on Rembrandt's painting of Christ's parable. This one is worth a triple read!

8. Dakota, by Kathleen Norris

Finally -- a woman author!! A kind friend recently pointed out that all books on my lists are by men! I made a resolution to change that and start reading from those who use both halves of the brain. Norris speaks of life on the Dakota prairie, and the spiritual lessons she derives from understanding the "desolate" places.