What I’m Reading

Impact Books

These books have challenged me and continue to make an impact. Click on the titles for more information.

The Message Bible (Translated by Eugene Petersen) – After a “lifetime” of reading the KJV, NIV and NLT, The Message provides a fresh look in the context of my generation. I see something new and am challenged every time I read and meditate.

Jesus for President (Shane Claiborne and Chris Haw) – A thought-provoking look at what it means to be an American and a Christ follower. Shane and Chris’s treatise will be the subject of a contemplation for me in 2009.

The Irresistible Revolution: Living Life as an Ordinary Radical (Shane Claiborne) – I still remember reading half of this book sitting on a park bench at Corona Del Mar, California in February, 2007. The realities that Shane shares about living a radical, simple life have changed my life forever. The challenge of a radical life has taken me to Swaziland, brought me to Russia, and continue to shape the next chapters of my life.

Fields of the Fatherless (Tom Davis) – After two trips to orphanages in Russia, assisting Capital Church with the beginning of a child sponsorship program in Swaziland and in my current assignment in Russia, Tom’s insights into God’s heart for orphans, widows and the poor continue to reverberate in my life.

Red Letters: Living a Faith That Bleeds (Tom Davis) – My friend Tom personalizes the HIV/AIDS crisis in Africa and throws down some challenges to all of us.

The Practice of the Presence of God (Brother Lawrence) – Brother Lawrence’ life was uncompromising challenge to worship God the way He is meant to be worshiped.

The Jesus I Never Knew (Philip Yancy) – I’m about half-way through and Yancey is great. Good insights into the Sermon on the Mount.

Velvet Elvis and Sex God (Rob Bell) – Rob is sometimes controversial, but always challenging and innovative in thought. “The Dust of the Rabbi” from Velvet Elvis is has to be one of the most impacting chapters from any book that I have read.

Experiencing God (Henry Blackaby, Richard Blackaby, Claude King) – Asking God to reveal His will for my life is asking the wrong question. The question should be, “God, where are you working and how can I join you in your work?

Blue Like Jazz and Searching for God Knows What (Donald Miller) – Don is one of the better storytellers of my generation. His honesty and transparency are refreshing.

The Air I Breathe: Worship as a Way of Life (Louie Giglio) – The truth that my 24/7 life is either an act of worship to God or not has reshaped how I think about worship and how I worship.

Waking the Dead and Epic (John Eldredge) – John’s writing is so refreshing and encouraging. When I need a shot of encouragment and exhilaration, I re-read parts of these two books.

The LIST for 2009

If I make it through this list it will be a miracle! Check back for revisions and updates.

The Brothers Karamozov (Fyodor Dostoevsky)

Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis)

Miracles (C.S. Lewis)

The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism (Timothy Keller)

Walking With God (John Eldredge)

Butterfly in Brazil: How Your Life Can Make a World of Difference (Glenn Packiam)

Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger: Moving from Affluence to Generosity (Ron Sider)

Confessions of a Good Christian Guy (Tom Davis, Tammy Maltby)

Stories With Intent: A Comprehensive Guide to the Parables of Jesus (Klyne Snodgrass)

The Scandal of Evangelical Politics: Why are Christians Missing the Chance to Really Change the World? (Ron Sider)