“Books” the Preacher announced just the other day, “are our friends, and we should never mind seeing them sitting around all over our home.” That bit of wisdom he quoted from his favourite scholarly writer. Len Sweet’s books (and he has written several dozen on the practice of preaching and faith today) seem to love living at our place. Rick has read every one.
I have only a few favourite authors, but lots of favourite books. Some of those friends are well-behaved, and sit on shelves, but far more stay neatly in the precise confines of my e-reader.
For the readers who tell me they actually read the books I recommend, here are a few I’ve enjoyed, in no particular order. Not all are books of faith, but they are all books of life, which unfailingly reminds us why we need faith so very much.
On my fiction list sits the Mitford series by Jan Karon – stories of the life and experiences of Father Tim, an Episcopalian priest in the town of Mitford. Ms. Karon’s humour and keen insight have resonated with me from my first read a dozen or more years ago. Begin with the first book, At Home in Mitford, to become familiar with the characters.
If you’re struggling with illness or old age, or simply need reassurance that God is present from birth into death, I suggest you read Glimpses of Heaven: True Stories of Hope and Peace at the End of Life’s Journey, by Trudy Harris. Her experiences as a palliative care nurse working with the dying and terminally ill show God’s constant presence and compelling love in even the most difficult times.
Years ago someone introduced me to author Alexander McCall Smith’s Ladies No. 1 Detective Agency series – a gentle look at life in the country of Botswana. The agency’s owner, Precious Ramotswe feels (and often expresses), “There is no problem so great it cannot be solved by a cup of bush tea.” Fun books, but never shallow.
I love a good memoir – especially one I can relate to. I found both in the charming They Left Us Everything, by Plum Johnson – a humourous recounting of a daughter’s thoughts, memories, and experiences while sifting through the family home of a half-century following the death of both parents.
Five hundred words leaves no room for more – and there are so many to share!
Of all books, the Bible has meant the most to me. God’s word sifts itself through both my sleeping and waking moments. I’ll never completely understand it, but because I love its author, I ask a lot of questions. Through study and prayer, I come a better understanding. Of all book friends, it’s the best one to leave sitting on your tables and bookshelves. But don’t just read it. Study it. Wrestle with it. Apply it. If your heart is open to hearing, God will speak to you through it.
Happy reading, friends.
