Eckhart Tolle is an author some will recognize and some will not. You can listen to his message on tape or dig into his writings — either way he is definitely worth learning from. He has been around sharing his insights for some time…yet his message is timeless.
Both books opened up a new world of NOW for us. We like so many miss our nows and therefore miss a lot of life. This pair comes highly recommended.
This is the time of year that many of us look for a new devotional as the new year is just around the corner. Or maybe you are looking for a gift idea for someone special. Here is an idea for both.
LOVE IS A VERB by Gary Chapman is a devotional that will help the reader communicate love more effectively and in turn build lasting relationships. This all-new book with readings for every day of the year will show readers love in action. Each day’s reading includes a Scripture, real life story, along with the devotional thought from Dr. Chapman. The heart-tugging stories from everyday people displaying love in action encourage readers to give love a chance–or a second chance.
By: Biblica, Inc. 2011
Having read, studied, and heard many sermons from the Bible, this version written as a narrative has truly given the word new light and form. It is the Jesus’ story, but presented in a format that allows you to see through a new window. I highly recommend this version of scripture especially for those who are very familiar with other versions. The old becomes new. The narrative style can also be helpful for those who find the Bible overwhelming.
We invite you to add these two SUE’s to your summer reading list. Suzanne Staples and Sue Grafton.
Shabanu and Haveli are both wonderful reads by Suzanne Staples. I loved every moment of each of these books. If you want to be captured by an author…DO check both of these books out.
If a mystery is what you are looking for this summer, V is for Vengeance by Sue Grafton is the book for you. Sue Grafton is working her way through the ABC’s. She is a fun read and keeps you waiting for the next in her series.
by Cheryl Strayed
This National Bestseller tells the story of Cheryl Strayed and her search for something, anything that would help her sort through the death of her mother, the scattering of her family, and her marriage falling apart. Feeling there was nothing left to lose; Strayed decides to back pack alone into the wilderness. Her adventure presents opportunities for her to look deep within. What Strayed finds is her own personal strength, her sense of self-reliance and even a new found joy. A great read…ready to inspire anyone who opens its pages…..
by: Ann Patchett
Ann Patchett is a favorite author to many of us. She writes the kind of book you don’t want to put down but at the same time you don’t want it to end. “State of Wonder” may start a little slow for some of your tastes, but before you know it you will find yourself deeply intrigued by the story and the adventure that unfolds.
In June of 2009 Jill Bolte Taylor’s book, My Stroke of Insight, was published. The story told actually began thirteen years earlier when Taylor experienced a massive stroke in the left side of her brain. As a trained brain scientist, Taylor shares the observations of her brain deteriorating, what it was like to be responding to the world from her still active right brain, and her 8 year-long recovery journey.
If you have not read this book yet, now is the time. Start by giving yourself the pleasure of reading the last chapter first…..Tending the Garden. This brief chapter will give you a glimpse into Taylor’s insights that all people can benefit from. If as you begin to read, My Stroke of Insight, you find that the first part of the book is too………..(fill in your own blank) remember that having a sense of the big picture only enriches the treasures shared in the remainder of the book.
“Even negative events can be perceived as valuable life lessons, if I am willing to step to the right and experience the situation with compassion.” This is a great insight — but insight without action doesn’t get a person far. Taylor not only grabs you with her insights she challenges you to take action….
On your mark….get set…..READ!
Books can give us information and insights, make us laugh, take us new places, make us wonder, and keep our attention. They help us relax and can even help us to sleep. The next BOOK NOOK recommendation is Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picolt. Every book Jodi writes is a wonderful read. But a particular favorite is Nineteen Minutes. CCM’s founder, Marcia Thompson, believes that every parent and high school student would benefit from reading this book.
“It’s the difference between an endless chase and an eternal embrace!”
Author Sandy Wilson is a therapist and survivor of childhood sexual abuse. She is also the adult child of an alcoholic. She knows firsthand feelings of abandonment, betrayal, rejection and loneliness.
Sandy’s book is an invitation to the people who share a similar journey to her own, as well as to anyone who is searching for acceptance of themselves and for others. Sandy presents practical ideas on how to tap into God’s promise of love. She gives easy to follow suggestions on how to heal mind, body, and spirit through intimacy with God.
“All I know is that I am no longer afraid to take down my self-protective inner defenses and get to know myself — my real self.”
Give yourself the gift healing and of embracing your real self with the help of Into Abba’s Arms.
The book “To Heaven and Back” was written by Dr. Mary Neil who is a renowned board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon. She described her previous spiritual connection as one that had ebbed and flowed throughout most of her childhood and adulthood. That is, until the fateful day when her spirit took a journey well beyond most people’s comprehension.
As a very physically active individual, it was not surprising that Dr. Mary and her husband decided to join friends on a challenging kayaking trip to southern Chile. It was a decision that changed her life forever and more importantly – her relationship with God.
Neil vividly recounts the very moment she felt her spirit leave this earth and become present with angels. She describes detailed conversations which took place while her loved ones feverishly struggled to locate her body underwater and begin life saving resuscitation. It has been estimated that it was a frantic 10-15 minute period before Dr. Mary was pulled from the rushing water. Neil was told by the angels that her work on earth was not finished. Her difficult physical and emotional recovery took over 1 ½ years.
Dr. Mary Neil describes her intention in writing the book as “I want people to know that God’s unconditional love for each of us is intense, complete, and is reflected in all the heavens. Neil’s book will capture your attention and leave you searching for answers. Once started, you will find the book difficult to put down.
