Heartening and Relevant
345435
Lauren writes as she teaches: from the heart. Honest stories from her own classroom illustrate how language development and language teaching alike benefit from a mindful sense of curiosity and inquiry. She recognizes the essential interdependence of student learning and teacher growth, approaching both with patience, clarity and compassion. I enthusiastically recommend this book for international schools and the global population they serve.
- Jon Nordmeyer, Director of International Programs, WIDA Consortium at University of Wisconsin-Madison
895372
The Precious Moment is a special book that conveys a message of great depth while remaining accessible.  Rabbi Burt Jacobson candidly shares his experiences, struggles, and the conversations of his soul in dialogue with his spiritual master, the Baal Shem Tov. My husband and I have a practice of reading aloud to each other at night before bed as we explore spiritual wisdom. A compilation of lectures, this book invites the reader as well as the listener into a conversation between the author, with his contemporary perspective, and his teacher who lived about three hundred years ago.  I was struck by the humility of Rabbi Burt as he shares the humanity of both men in their struggle to approach the Great Love of God.
1456840
Having had the privilege of knowing both Rick and Cassandra Laymon for many years now, it came as no surprise to me that Cassie's new book on Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI), "I found Jesus in the Stock Market" is as engaging as she is. While one might initially be tempted to react a bit cynically to the book's title, you will soon find Cassie transparently weaving the personal tapestry of her life's successes and failures into a tale of how the Lord actually did help draw her to accept Jesus as her Lord and Savior via her investigation of worthiness of Biblically Responsible Investing as one important way of expressing Christian faith. Given Cassie's inquisitive nature and keen intellect, her own personal growth from studying the Why, What, Where and How of BRI was substantial and comprehensive. Readers of her thorough review of BRI will find they can quickly come up to speed on this important Christian stewardship topic as she addresses all of the key questions BRI raises for both individual investors and financial advisors. Moreover, she does not only leave the reader simply better off in their own Christian walk but also inspires them by pointing to what good might be accomplished in our world if BRI transitions from a simple act of personal faith to a broader movement within the church. I heartily recommend "I Found Jesus in the Stock Market" for all those looking to deepen their relationship with their Lord and desiring to do what they can with the wealth, however great or small, the Lord has given them stewardship over to have a positive impact on the world.
4876478
Rev. Dr. Hardwick is an authentic storyteller of Good News that soothes and offers insights. Pastor Hardwick explains his personal journey by relating Biblical truths along with interesting chronicles of important life events. As an ordained minister who received a life-altering late-30's diagnosis as being autistic, he demonstrates his authority by thoroughly explaining his position and reasons. By reliving and revealing his struggles and triumphs, Dr. Hardwick helps the reader come to a better understanding about what it takes to be "strong" in the precious amount of time we have on this earthly adventure. Pastor Hardwick's charming voice is clearly heard throughout the book. "I am Strong" is a fantastic read with stories and details that are thought-provoking, edifying, challenging, and inspiring.
1788470
Thoughtful and relevant. I'm very thankful for this work.
4770693
A big Thank You to Jon & Jer, for the work they are doing at The Global Immersion Project,  and for documenting the important ideas and concepts that make their work so compelling and life changing.  For those of us who care about our world and have eyes to see the brokenness in our midst, Jon & Jer offer wise and practical words to guide us in our quest for restoration and healing.  This book is a delight to read,  full of stories of courage, humility and creative love.  In a world where conflict is all around,  how refreshing to be part of a discussion about reconciliation and "discovering the blessed humanity, dignity and image of God in others."
3773415
This book beautifully illustrates an intelligently heart-felt narrative of Scripture that a pastor could preach and practice in a local congregation. One might hope for that pastor to reflect similar sensibilities as does Shroyer, whose Journey congregation, when I visited, appeared as authentic and open as she presents it in this book. The utility of this work is in its artful presentation that invites the reader to enter into emergence Christianity in all the humanity, biblical context, and life story which the author presents. The book presents a powerful vision of hope and promise that may touch many looking for a practical and grounded approach to seeing a new Christianity that would speak to the contemporary lives of people in the pew.
1537365
What a wonderful book that speaks to the beauty and grace of our loving Father. I'm so thankful to have someone of my generation speak to some of the very difficult themes of the Bible and provide a perspective that highlights the goodness of God as Joshua has done. At the same time, has made it wholly accessible with thoughtful references and passionate deliberation. I encourage anyone who may be struggling with their faith or wishes to dig deeper into the love of God to read this book. A true gem and my favorite read of 2016!
704665
This sweet little book has brought me to my knees. I sat down to start reading it, and wound up reading it straight through in one sitting. Author Denise Voccola's voice shines. She is engaging, humorous, wise, candid, vulnerable, and uplifting. Her stories about her "ordinary" family and their "ordinary" life will leave you inspired and challenged to appreciate the tender moments God gives you with your own family, and to seek opportunities to create lasting memoriesnot by striving to do more, or be more, but to rest in God's all-sufficiency and His divine appointments. Buy this bookyou won't be disappointed.
2026812
The more I've heard about this book, the more I wanted to read it, and after just finishing it, the more I want to pass it along to friends.

It's an invitation to be a part of something more meaningful and intentional than chasing the seemingly perfect life. It's an invitation to believe that a flourishing life is possible, right where you are.

This book is such a refreshing read -- it's honest without being preachy, it's heartfelt without feeling cheesy, and it beautifully weaves gardening together with our lives of faith and the work we do both inward and outward. It has so many helpful questions and journaling spaces, which really add to the value of this book when it comes to what you can get out of it personally. I really, truly loved reading this one.
1203147
I love this book because before being about sexuality, or community, or even larger theological discourses, it is about the vocation to love which lies at the heart of the Catholic faith.  Tushnet does not use her story as a tool or weapon to deduce and impose truth.  Instead, she insightfully reflects upon her experiences to make sense of Church teachings, and to present an alternative to the vituperative rhetoric that tends to permeate both traditional and liberal camps.  She argues that her gay identity is not a negation of her sexuality but a true vocation that merits further reflection and recognition in the Church.

By presenting her own understanding of her vocation as a gay Catholic, Tushnet fills a gap that many (myself included) didn't even realize existed.  It is not enough to encourage gay Catholics to be celibate.  In one of her most brilliant insights that I quote on average thrice a week, she claims that God does not give us a vocation of no but a vocation of yes.  This is a profound truth relevant to all Catholics: we are called to life abundant (John 10:10).  Each gay, lesbian, bisexual, and trans* person is called to abundant life.  How will we, as the Church, help them reach it?

I sincerely hope that this book will induce a new wave of thought and action among Catholics.  We are in need of grace for a new spring time, and Tushnet gracefully presents an intellectual treasure with the capacity to significantly influence how the Church encourages LGBQ people to make sincere gifts of self (Gaudium et Spes).

Gay and Catholic is a celebration of vocation, love, and chastity.  It is a love story about a God who takes away so that He may give (Job 1:21).  What an imperative in a culture that paints Catholic teaching on sexuality as a negation of love.  In fact, love consists of a commitment which limits ones freedom  it is a giving of the self, and to give oneself means just that: to limit ones freedom on behalf of another (John Paul II, Love and Responsibility).
2222445
There are many published books that delve into the subject of stress.  I have yet to read one that addresses this all encompassing topic of stress, one that affects each of our lives, that captures a heart of true life change like this one.  Tracie Miles seemingly discusses it with the reader rooted in a heart of compassion and true empathy. She has walked this message out, she has done her research homework, she has studied the word of God, and she presents her findings just as a good friend would. These words are worth their weight in gold. This book holds many "highlights" for me.  It's worth the purchase, in fact, it's worth having one on hand for others to grow from and grow with.  Leading others to Christ is the heart of the author, and in turn, in the heart of the reader.
3829421
As one of many contributors to this book, I must admit some bias, but when I purchased my copy, I was most pleasantly surprised by the wisdom and depth of feeling that the (other) contributors demonstrated in their passionate expressions of the meaning of life. Nicolae Tanase asked about 1000 people to share their thoughts and ideas. The result is a meaningful exploration of that most-human topic. Responses range from bits of poetry to insightful prose. I was happy to see that some of the contributors are people whose paths have crossed mine over the last few years and whose opinions I value.
4298305
We all need a little more love, especially from fathers to their children. Intended to be both "miraculous and practical," Ed Tandy McGlasson, a former-NFL linesman turned conference speaker and author, has contributed yet another resource on fatherhood and the importance of fathers in society. Believing with passion that Malachi 4:6 will soon be a reality, he makes a passionate plea for children to maintain hope and for fathers to be available answers to the crying need in our tough society. It is interesting that McGlasson begins the book with a story of an orphanage and how they have been cared for by a spiritual father. While in a real way, there are many who may not be orphans literally, they may instead experience an absentee father. Statistics reveal that more than half of the children in America will sleep without their fathers at home, which is a shocking phenomenon, considering how strongly society places upon the importance of family. Weaved throughout the book is a subtle reminder that we too are spiritual orphans in need of our Heavenly Father.

This is a beautiful book to read as Father's Day approaches. McGlasson has woven together a book that is sensitive to the plight of children who live like orphans in this world. He has a broad understanding of the many different challenges in families, with absentee fathers, with people who have a broken childhood and many more. Gently, he guides readers toward seeking God, our Perfect Heavenly Father, who is there for us, even when we feel our earthly fathers have disappointed us. The multiperspectival use of the "father" image is especially helpful. Not only is the book for those to reminisce or to reflect upon their earthly fathers, it encourages us to seek out and receive the love of our Heavenly Father.  In the process, slowly but surely, we grow in the understanding of the importance of fathers in the family and society. We grow in appreciation of God the Father. We grow in understanding the role of fathers. Like a football coach pounding out exhortations "You can do it!" McGlasson sounds out the clarion call for all to become the fathers they are called to be. Someone has said that it is easier to become a father (biologically) than to be a father (responsibly). McGlasson encourages us to go forth not only to become the fathers we are called to be, but also to honour our fathers that God has called to be our dads. Great book!

conrade
This book is provided to me free by Baker Books and NetGalley without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
3689288
Some books, more so by the disciples , feels like an exaggeration and even aggressive promotion, although subtly, of their gurus making us question the intention of publishing such books. But certainly not this one that took me by surprise,as I was initially a little skeptical. The book touches the heart, and this I believe has been possible, only because it is genuinely a honest account of the disciples experiences. Although some events are beyond logical grasp, it is very much worth a read. My take away from the book was imbibing compassion and kindness can bring about remarkable positive changes in us and around us...
2300025
I didn't grow up in a liturgical church and have spent very little time in these traditions. So I wasn't sure if this book would feel relevant to me--but I was happy to be proven wrong. Harrison Warren makes a compelling case for why rituals matter and how they help imprint soul-nurturing practices and beliefs in us. I particularly appreciated how she connects our daily activities and choices, like how we talk to our families or the kinds of foods we buy and eat, to greater spiritual principles with global relevance. Harrison Warren's writing style is engaging and personable; it was comforting to sit down with this book each night and be gently taught and challenged to be more intentional about my daily life. This book actually made me want to spend more time in liturgical churches, as I feel like I may have been missing out all these years!
4181417
We go about our lives, interacting with loved ones, friends, colleagues, and strangers. Our actions impact others and, yet, we are not always conscious of that impact. Awakening World delivers the mechanism for becoming more mindful in our interactions with others. Sebastian Siegel poses a variety of questions to people from all walks of life. What is love? What is the purpose of life? What is hell? What is intimacy? What is heaven? I laughed, cried, and sometimes had to remember to breathe while watching this documentary. The answers were heartfelt and enlightening and, yet, differed significantly. Some of their words resonated much more deeply than I had expected.

I realized that there is no right or wrong answer; our thoughts about these matters are personal and result from our vantage points in life. As I watched this thought-provoking film and pondered my own answers to Sebastians questions, I found that, already, my own thoughts about each were changing. Not yet awakened, I am certainly well into the awakening phase. He has inspired me to become more mindful as I connect with others. I encourage you to take the first step and join him in this journey.

I have often shared books that positively impacted my life with my family, friends, and students. I will be sharing copies of Awakening World with them. Thanks, Sebastian, for being part of the reason that my life, once again, is changing for the better. I anxiously await the next installment, Spirit of Evolution.