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5 Things I Like: 5 Books That Have Rocked My World
group magazine: September-October, 2011
by Brrit Windel A few books have really shaped me as a person and as a pastor. These five have not only transformed my life but continue to shape me today. 1 The Divine Conspiracy, by Dallas Willard—This book, a must-read for anyone in ministry, has given me freedom to question and a new perspective about God's kingdom and my part in it. Willard's insights have challenged my traditional upbringing and served as the launching point for my spiritual formation. When I was at my lowest low, this book resurrected my soul in ministry and in Christ. 2 The Practice of the Presence of God, by Brother Lawrence—This slim volume is simply about experiencing God in everything, every day. It's the heartfelt journey of a 17th-century monk who seeks God in every single moment. 3 Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak—Okay, so not all of my favorites are heady and theologically transforming. This childhood book has always stood out as speaking to my heart's passion to lead and do great things. It dives deep into the imagination of a hurt young man who's longing for something more. Only after his journey of "running away" does Max realize his heart is truly at rest when it's at home with the one who loves him. Wow! That's pretty heady and theological, if you ask me. 4 Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in Our Busy Lives, by Wayne Muller—Because I work for a church, I'm always on the go, always on call, and always teetering between exhaustion and exhilaration. I'm on a mission to find real rest for my life and soul. This book helps me realize that amid all the great work to be done, Jesus calls me to come and rest in the everyday. A great honorable mention is Wayne Cordeiro's Leading on Empty. 5 The Pilgrim's Progress, by John Bunyan—In this brilliant allegory, Bunyan writes from the standpoint of Christian, an "everyman" who journeys from death to new life. You'll connect with the characters and their thoughts, feelings, and struggles. Bunyan illustrates the war for our souls better than any author I've read. If you're a C.S. Lewis fan, a reading fan, or anyone with a heartbeat, check out this classic. Brit, a nine-year youth ministry veteran, is pastor of family life and spiritual formation at a church in Longmont, Colorado. FAVORITES Musicians: Jars of Clay, Josh Garrels, Jason Upton Food: Sonic's Orange & Cherry Cream Slush TV Show: Hoarders, American Pickers |
