A Torch Kept Lit by William F. Buckley, Jr.

This book is a collection of eulogies written by William F. Buckley, Jr., who is known as the godfather of modern American conservatism. His friends and acquaintances ranged from David Niven to Barry Goldwater to name a few. The eulogies are also written about those who were well known individuals and not so well known individuals of the 20th century.

The eulogies are divided into the categories of Presidents; Family; Arts and Letters; Generals, Spies and Statesmen; Friends; and finally Nemeses. Each offers a unique insight into the life of the individual and in most cases the person's relationship with Buckley.

The book is well written and informative for anyone interested in learning about a number of individuals as seen through the lens of the author.

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.      

Momentum by Colin S. Smith

Most of us are familiar with The Beatitudes, but do we really understand the meaning of each one and its application to our lives. In "Momentum," Pastor Colin Smith examines each Beatitude and gives practical guidelines to how each Beatitude can help you in your spiritual journey. Each of the first seven Beatitudes describes the life each Christian should pursue. The eighth Beatitude is different in that it describes the outcome of living the life described by the first seven.

What I really appreciated about this book is the Gaining Momentum in each chapter which gives practical ways to live out each Beatitude. This book greatly added to my understanding of The Beatitudes and would make for a great individual or group study.

I received this book from Moody Publishers for this honest review.  

Love, Henri by Henri J.M. Nouwen

"Love, Henri" is a collection of letter written by Henri Nouwen starting in 1973 and continuing up to the time of his death in 1996. Nouwen is the well known authors of many books including "The Return of the Prodigal Son" and "The Wounded Healer."

Nouwen shares spiritual wisdom and insight to the recipients of his letters. Through these letters you receive a glimpse into the longings of his heart and his authenticity in leading the Christian life. He shares his sorrows and joys during the time as a teacher, a visiting Trappist monk, a missionary in Latin America and finally as a pastor to a community with people with disabilities.

In reading the letters, you see that Henri Nouwen certainly had the gift of encouragement. His example in encouraging others in the faith is a good one to emulate. This is both a thought provoking and challenging book. One that will resonant with those who appreciate the works of Henri Nouwen.

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this honest review

Culture by A.W.Tozer

A.W. Tozer was a self-taught theologian who was also a pastor, teacher and writer. He died in 1963 and was called a modern day prophet for his deep conviction, Spirit-filled words, and challenging writings. This book is a compilation of his works that pertain to living as a Christian in a hostile culture. Much of what he says is timeless in its application.

He encourages the Christian to be in the world but not of the world; to not compromise Biblical truth and to expect trials and hardships for one's commitment to Christ. His words are both challenging and convicting. It is a worthwhile and thought provoking read.

I received this book from Moody Publishers for this review   

The Tunnels by Greg Mitchell

This is a engaging book focused on a brief period of time in 1962 as attempts were made to made tunnels under the Berlin Wall to help people escape from East Berlin into West Berlin. Some of these attempts were successful and some were not. What I don't believe is widely known is that both CBS and NBC financed some of the tunneling that went on during that time.

This is a well researched and interesting read about what was happening in Berlin during that time as well as in the United States as the fear of communism grew. NBC was successful in filming some of the tunneling and the film was eventually released after much opposition from the Kennedy administration.

A fascinating look at a period of history of which I was not aware. I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
 

31 Verses To Write On Your Heart

I always look forward to a book by Liz Curtis Higgs and I was not disappointed with this book. She shares 31 favorite Scripture verses in this book which could be used as a daily devotional for one month or as a group study. A study guide is included in the back of the book.   

Each verse is examined in depth which adds to the meaning behind each verse. Suggestions for using different translations of the Bible and tips on memorizing Scripture are also included. I would recommend this for any woman who wants to commit Scripture verses to memory or start a group to encourage others to join in doing the same.

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

On The Block by Doug Logan

For anyone involved in urban ministry or for anyone just desiring to reach out in their neighborhood,  this book is for you. It will both challenge you and encourage you. To begin with Doug Logan uses the examples of Adam, Nehemiah, Jesus and Paul to illustrate the steps needed in missional engagement. First we must go to engage the people on our block just as God reaches out to us as sinful people. Then like Nehemiah, we need to step into people's pain and grief and grieve with them before their hearts can be transformed. We also have to build teamwork in what is done and look to God for hope to rebuild a city. Following the example of Jesus we need to be sensitive to the culture of our neighborhood and understand that missional engagement is not just for pastors and missionaries, but for all followers of Christ. And then like Paul, we need to identify the idols of the culture, show the true nature of God, expose how the culture is absent of truth, show how the idols cannot represent God, and preach the resurrection of Jesus.

Doug Logan uses these principles as he shares his story of planting a church in Camden, New Jersey. Although the stories he shares take place in the urban setting, the principles he shares is applicable to anyone who wants to reach out in their own neighborhood. 

I received this book from Moody Publishers for this review.