10 in 2011: Books 5-7

Our "entertainment reading" is going well this year. I now am through seven books before the end of May, in addition to all my academic reading. We also have found that when you read something you like, you are much more likely to want someone else to read it. We keep sharing the books that we've read, asking for chapter-by-chapter updates and hoping that they enjoy it too. It's like having your own personal book club.

Book 5 - David Livingstone: Missionary and Explorer: This book was an overview of what has to be one of the more incredible journeys ever taken. David Livingstone worked long hours in a factory as a young boy, eventually saving enough to go to medical school. After medical school, he traveled by boat to Africa, and if I remember right, he only came back home to Scotland once more in his life, even though he married and had four children. He traveled Africa by ox and by foot for more than three decades, exploring areas previously unseen by Western eyes. There were no roads, there were wild animals and parasites, and the native tribes were hostile and merciless. Completing each stage of his journey required tremendous courage and patience, more than I think most of us would be willing to give. He also, of course, went through significant times of pain and self-doubt, but he never gave up, even though it meant sacrificing his safety and security. His story and sacrifice are amazing pictures of risk.


Book 6 - Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron: I actually enjoyed this book. That might surprise some who know I'm not a natural cat lover, but that's because this book is a lot more than just cats. It's not just purring and toy chasing and "rub me on my belly." No, it actually has a good story. It's about a woman dealing with hardships in her family and community, and the cat (Dewey) who just happens to be her one consistent joy in the storm. There was a lot of drama for a book with a furry cat on the cover. Well written.

Book 7 - Highest Calling by Larry Lea: This book does an outstanding job of explaining the Old Testament passages on priesthood and service. Working with several ministries over the years, I know how difficult these can be for people. The most common questions posed are: Do these books (Exodus, Numbers, Leviticus, etc.) have any relevance for today? How am I supposed to apply them to my life? Dr. Lea shows have valuable the priestly ministry was in those days, and how in Jesus the same calling applies to all believers. Everyone is called, and everyone has the same access to God that the high priest did in OT times. That access shapes how we approach God today. I thought his personal examples were excellent, and I wish he had even more. I plan to reread this book in the future.