What’s on Your Nightstand Today?
At any given time, I make it a point to keep three different types of books in my hands: one novel, one explicitly Christian work, and one secular nonfiction title. Right now, I’m immersed in a classic novel by Willa Cather that tells the quiet, meandering tale of two Catholic clergymen working in the challenging landscape of 19th-century New Mexico. I have always been drawn to stories about ministry, even when the setting may differ greatly from my own experiences.
My current Christian read is a thoughtful exploration of leadership drawn from biblical standards. The book uses passages that define the qualifications for church elders and applies those insights broadly to the call of Christian leadership. Its familiar yet refreshing perspective makes it an ideal choice for both personal study and group discussion among church leaders or seminary students.
For my non-Christian nonfiction, I’m reading a recent work by a cultural critic who examines how our digital environment reshapes the way we experience the real world. Over the years, I have gained much from writings about technology’s impact on thought and experience. This particular book reflects on how digital culture can weaken our physical connection to life, inviting significant reflection on these changes.
Favorite Works of Fiction
I have long cherished several novels, including a suspenseful mystery series by Patricia Highsmith, C. S. Lewis’s imaginative vision in a thought-provoking novel, a modern classic by Donna Tartt, and Alexandre Dumas’s epic adventure. These stories have the remarkable ability to whisk me away to distant realms.
Living in the United Kingdom for a decade once sparked my nostalgia for the vast open landscapes of America. During that period, I found solace in novels set in the untamed American West—stories by celebrated writers who captured the rugged magnificence of that terrain. While films can offer a brief escape, the depth and endurance of a good novel leave an indelible impression on the reader’s mind.
Now that my family has returned to the United States and settled in Phoenix, I might soon rediscover my fondness for novels set in England as a way to reconnect with memories of my time there.
Biographies and Autobiographies That Have Left a Mark
A few life stories have particularly resonated with me, each for different reasons. One biography stands out for its sheer scope: an engrossing look at the life of a powerful yet unelected urban planner who shaped New York City over four decades. Although the subject might seem obscure at first, the author’s masterful storytelling brings his world and his ambitions vividly to life.
Then there is an autobiography by a master storyteller whose wanderlust-filled life reads like one of his best novels. His memoir is quirky and unconventional, capturing the spirit of adventure while offering intimate insights into the books and ideas that influenced him.
Finally, I find great edification in a comprehensive two-volume biography that portrays the life of a revered minister. Despite its length, the work is compelling in its detailed exploration of a man who believed that biblical preaching was the highest calling. Reading his story during my own period of ministry amid a bustling city proved immensely encouraging.
Books I Find Myself Revisiting
While I may not always reread an entire book from start to finish, I often return to the collected essays of a thoughtful writer who reflects on life, memory, and the deep satisfaction of engaging with literature. His incisive observations on the act of reading continue to resonate with me every time I flip through those pages.
Then there is the classic work by C. S. Lewis—a book I have truly read over and over. Its blend of profound insight and clever wit invites readers to reflect on topics ranging from the perils of material comfort to the true meaning of courage and joy. Its expansive vision continues to shape my own understanding of life’s complexities.
Books That Have Influenced My Ministry
Over the years, several works have significantly shaped the way I approach service and leadership. One notable title helped me embrace contentment in ministry, encouraging me to devote myself to the tasks at hand rather than constantly chasing new opportunities. Another book reshaped my vision of church life, grounding me in a biblical understanding of the church’s mission.
In my recent transition from local church service to the academic setting, I have also been inspired by a detailed history of a distinguished theological seminary. The stories of courageous and thoughtful leaders from that institution have reinforced for me that intellectual rigor and heartfelt devotion walk hand in hand. Their example has even prompted me to reflect on a fourth work—one that examines the true cost and commitment of discipleship—which rounds out the picture of what it means to serve faithfully.
A Book Every Pastor Should Read
I strongly believe that all pastors would benefit from reading a moving account of a father’s ministry in small congregations. This work not only highlights the challenges inherent in everyday pastoral work but also beautifully places these struggles within a larger biblical framework. By recognizing that even the routine aspects of ministry are vital, pastors are reminded that their efforts are never in vain.
Lessons on Life and Following Jesus
One of my most important takeaways in my walk of faith is that the journey is lived one day at a time. While it might be tempting to look far ahead, the promise is that each day comes with its own grace and provision. I am learning to embrace the present, finding assurance in the idea that as we step into the unknown, God remains with us, generously providing for our every need.
Rockin’ the faith, one verse at a time!
Growing up, the Bible’s stories deeply impacted me. Now, with over 15 years of preaching experience, I blend timeless teachings with modern technology, making them relevant for today’s world.
Bible Hub Verse is my platform to share historical insights and thought-provoking articles, exploring both familiar and uncommon Christian topics. My passion is building a welcoming online space for everyone to learn, grow in their faith, and discover the Bible’s enduring message.
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God bless you.
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