"Calling in Context" (Susan Lynn Maros)

TITLE: Calling in Context: Social Location and Vocational Formation
AUTHOR: Susan Lynn Maros
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2022, (240 pages).

Calling is a much-talked-about topic whenever there is a life transition. The Bible says it. People use it. We live it. From looking for a life partner to trying to find a job; choosing a college to commit to making investments; the word "calling" has been used, misused, and sometimes abused. Some say calling is for those contemplating entering into a ministry, while others apply it specifically to schools, jobs, and various project assignments. The truth is, any specific calling needs to be seen in its proper contexts simply because we are all unique. Our participation in the working out of this calling is also unique. With hindsight, author and professor Susan Maros admit that a lot of instruction about calling in our world has been restricted to "well-intentioned, White, evangelical, individualistic" views. Gradually, after hearing stories from friends and colleagues from different cultural backgrounds, she grows to apply the concept of calling to a wider world. In this book, Maros shows us step by step how our understanding of calling is influenced by our social and cultural contexts. Calling our existing maps problematic, she takes us through mental maps which often become the lens with which we interpret our world. She then takes a few notches up the ladder of deconstruction to question the way we use "biblical models" in our mental maps. This alone should make many of us sit up and reconsider our own mental maps and our own definitions of what it means to think biblically about calling. Specifically, she identifies five key characteristics in most theological thinking:

"Thank You. I’m Sorry. Tell Me More." (Rod Wilson)

TITLE: Thank You. I’m Sorry. Tell Me More.: How to Change the World with 3 Sacred Sayings
AUTHOR: Rod Wilson
PUBLISHER: Colorado Springs, CO: Tyndale House Publishers, 2022, (208 pages).

As society becomes more fractured, fragile, and frantic, relationships become colder and more hostile. Without close friendships and healthy relationships, the world is poised to go from bad to worse. Without human relationships, the best technological advances and scientific prowesses cannot lead to human flourishing. This point has been noted by author and clinical psychologist Rod Wilson who observes how the Creator of the Universe singled out the need for relationships through his declaration that "It is not good for man to be alone." In the creation week, the LORD declared everything good and the creation of human beings as "very good." All of a sudden, in Genesis 3, He uses the negative clause to say that as far as companionship is concerned, it is "not good" for Adam to be alone. Instead of mere theories and concepts, Wilson shares many stories to highlight how the three phrases are critical to repairing, restoring, and redeeming our relationships. With a shrewd eye on modern culture and a deep insight into the state of human relationships today, he warns us about the tendencies of people to become engulfed by the cultural rains of "entitlement, victimization, and individualism." He then supplies a new umbrella of hope via gratitude, remorse, and care, respectively. Through stories, he leads us through the whys and the hows of these three actions to "change the world." 

"Breaking Ground" (Anne Snyder and Susannah Black, editors)

TITLE: Breaking Ground: Charting Our Future in a Pandemic Year
AUTHOR: (Anne Snyder and Susannah Black, editors)
PUBLISHER: Walden, NY: Plough Publishing House, 2022, (400 pages).

If there is any specific life-changing event at the turn of this decade, it would nonetheless be Covid-19. Never before have there been so many deaths, fears, disruptions to the local economy, and global repercussions for the general public, businesses, friends, families, and loved ones. From multinational corporations to non-profits like charities and churches, the arms of the pandemic have spread like wildfires affecting every continent, every country, and every culture. In early 2020, a group of thoughtful individuals came together to ask the question: "What would a post-pandemic world look like?" Refusing to accept a mere "Things will never be the same again," the contributors boldly attempt to see the future through renewed thinking of the many facets of life we have often taken for granted. That is not all. Even after removing the pandemic factor, there remains a deep-seated self-deception among people that they are presumed correct until proven otherwise. That sets the stage for arrogance and pride that refuses to learn, to the detriment of our future generations. We need a way to help us humbly learn from our mistakes and to break new ground for growth and human progress. This collection of essays is written by individuals who hail as cultural critics, scholars, speakers, businesspersons, professors, psychologists, philosophers, poets, political observers, professionals, researchers, venture capitalists, and many more. Written between June 2020 to June 2021, the writers explore issues pertaining to three types of needs, the need to:

"The Resurrection of Jesus Christ" (W. Ross Hastings)

TITLE: The Resurrection of Jesus Christ: Exploring Its Theological Significance and Ongoing Relevance
AUTHOR: W. Ross Hastings
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2022, (208 pages).
 

The Resurrection of Christ is the single most important reason for the Christian faith. Paul even says that without the Resurrection, our faith would have been in vain. Thankfully, because of the bodily resurrection of Jesus on the third day, not only do we have reason to hope for a better tomorrow in Christ, we are called to share this good news with all around us. Besides these expressions of hope and joy, what else can we learn about the theological significance of the greatest event on earth? A lot, says theologian and professor Ross Hastings. Readers can find how this truth is unpacked in this book that not only talks about but does so in an illuminating style. He addresses some questions arising out of this great salvation event:

• What is the theological significance of the resurrection?
• What is the historicity of the resurrection?
• How did the resurrection transform the early disciples?
• What has the resurrection got to do with salvation?
• What does the resurrection mean to participate in a community of Christ?
• What can the resurrection inform us about our calling and vocation?
• What is the relationship between Christ's resurrection and the bodily resurrection of believers?
• How does the resurrection declare Christ's supremacy?
• What can we learn from this resurrection event about creation?
• What about the second coming of Jesus?

Movie: American Underdog (Opening Christmas Day 2021)

I watched a preview of the movie "American Underdog" and was wowed by the quality of the acting. Based on the story of Kurt Warner's rise from a rejected football player to become the MVP at the NFL, the film inspires us not to give up on our dreams. The movie begins with statistics. Each year, over a million young boys dream of going to the NFL. Out of this pool, only 10% get a fair shot to be drafted. Out of this 10%, less than 1% is eventually drafted. What was amazing is that Warner was undrafted, and yet able to join the NFL eventually. How is the movie inspiring? Let me summarize it in three ways.

"The Path Out of Loneliness" (Dr. Mark Mayfield)

TITLE: The Path out of Loneliness: Finding and Fostering Connection to God, Ourselves, and One Another
AUTHOR: Dr. Mark Mayfield
PUBLISHER: Colorado, CO: Tyndale House Publishers, 2021, (208 pages).

Many people in the world are concerned about the pandemic. Rightly so. We should all do our part in ensuring that we get through this Covid-19 crisis together safely. Amid all the buzz and drama surrounding the variants and concerns over lockdowns, there is one danger lurking in the dark. Loneliness. The Bible has said right from the onset that it is not good for man to be alone. That can be applied to the entire human race, not just Adam. We are not created to live by ourselves or to be lonely. As social creatures, we need to be in a community of relationships. When we are lonely, we are disconnected from the rest of society. We feel unloved. With technology, things have gotten much worse. Even during opportunities where people can enjoy a sit-down meal at a restaurant have been dumbed down with individuals so absorbed in their own little phone devices that they are totally disengaged from the people near them. As some experts have said, we are indeed living in a loneliest generation. Technology is not the cause. It reveals at best or accelerates at worse the crisis we are all facing. Is this a factor in our society's deteriorating mental health? What about addiction and all the social ills around us?

"Where the Light Fell" (Philip Yancey)

TITLE: Where the Light Fell: A Memoir
AUTHOR: Philip Yancey
PUBLISHER: New York, NY: Convergent Books, 2021, (299 pages).
 

Growing up, he never knew how his father died, let alone the painful secrets about his eventual termination. Digging through his family history from an old scrapbook, he learns about the terrible polio disease that hits close to home.  Raised in a poor neighbourhood, who would have known that he would grow up to become one of the most cherished writers in the American evangelical world. While many writers and famous persons write their memoirs first before launching their writing careers, Yancey seems to reverse the trend. Most famous for his books such as "What's So Amazing About Grace" and "The Jesus I Never Knew," after a few decades of writing about spiritual matters, he devotes his latest book to share about his own life journey from boyhood to the present. With a sharp eye for poignant details, he reflects on his past with brutal honestly with subtle hints on how he would have lived any differently. With hindsight from the tragic loss of his dear kitten, he might have second thoughts about getting a pet. With a penchant for details and a creative prowess for storytelling, Yancey is able to help readers put themselves in his shoes. One humorous way is in how he describes a mealtime with food he disliked, such as eating tomatoes. He tells about his experiences living in the South and having first-hand witness of the ugliness of the racial tensions. Moreover, his very own family doctor was a high-ranking member of the KKK! These together with personal details about his family background give readers insights like never before about one of the most celebrated authors in the evangelical world. 

"Of the Earth" (Kim Cousins)

TITLE:  Of the Earth

AUTHOR: Kim Cousins
PUBLISHER: Eugene, OR: Resource Publications, 2021, (224 pages).

War, Authority, Rebellion, Power, Control, Peacekeepers, End-times. People who run and those who run after others. Fall of America. Veterans fighting another war. Miracles. A New World. Animals that talk. Daring escapes. Biblical references. These and many more fill the pages of this captivating fiction that combines creative story-telling peppered with biblical truths. Right from the first page, this action-packed thriller will keep readers glued to the pages. There are incidents of heroism and sacrifice for the sake of the community. The good residents worked together and ensured adequate provisions for one another.  The enemies schemed to eradicate all resistance without mercy. The resistance remained faithful to the end. Amid the tension and the constant threats of attacks from the Peacemakers, many of the heroic characters maintained their faith in God, with the help of prayers from pastors, encouragement from believers, and good deeds that warm hearts. 
On top of the wars happening, then come the plagues that ravage the population. Every chapter contains references to biblical images showing us that this book is not merely fiction. It comes with stark reminders that the story in the book has biblical underpinnings that we all need to be aware of. Such as God's love for the world; miracles; hope for a better world to come; betrayals among family members; the mark of the beast; the casting out of demons; and several more. It is like seeing how God's Word comes alive through the events and conversations among the characters. 

This book is a thriller that could keep us at the edges of our seats. I applaud the author for her ability to weave so many characters together. It takes a clear vision of the entire storyline to develop each character without losing track of the main plot. Having the animal conversations in italics also help readers to distinguish between human and animal speak. I must admit that it takes a while to get used to this animal talk, but readers would get used to it quite quickly. The list of characters is a giveaway as to the many characters readers need to keep track of. This is one good clean Christian fiction that should make a good gift this Christmas.

Kim Cousins is a retired academic advisor from the University of Minnesota Crookston. She is the author of Rule Keepers (2020) in potatosoupjournal.com and Evolving Interactions in Higher Education Change (2011) in National Association of Student Affairs Professions. Kim lives on a farm in Tennessee with her husband, Woodie, and an amusing group of animals. Her family includes five children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.

Conrade

"Miracles Today" (Craig S. Keener)

TITLE: Miracles Today: The Supernatural Work of God in the Modern World
AUTHOR: Craig S. Keener
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2021, (256 pages).
 

Miracles have always stumped people, both believers, and unbelievers alike. Both theists and atheists have been at opposing ends of the spectrum. The former maintains reasonable faith that does not contradict science. The latter insists that faith and science are incompatible. Author and professor Craig Keener is familiar with such arguments. From his wide interactions with atheists and unbelievers who are skeptical of the Christian gospel and the reality of miracles, the root of the problem is not the miracles per se, but the underlying philosophies stubbornly maintained. Such a mindset often leaves no room for things that are out of the ordinary or unexplained by science. Keener helps us understand the scope of science and the place of philosophy. Both should not be mutually exclusive. Part One is a foundational section on how we can think about miracles and supernatural happenings around the world. Having personally seen and experienced the presence of miracles in his life, the author is particularly keen on debunking David Hume's absolute disqualification of miracles. After helping us think through the "God vs Nature" debates and the presence of "credible witnesses," Keener gives us copious examples of eyewitness testimonies and the frequency of miracles. While it is interesting that many of these witnesses happen to be among Pentecostal and charismatic circles, it is quite eye-opening to have medical professionals trained in their respective specializations admit to supernatural interventions. Many of these testimonies could be found in the author's earlier and larger volume called "Miracles: The Credibility of the New Testament Accounts," published in 2011. In fact, that could arguably be Keener's magnum opus, going by the awards and recognition it has garnered so far. This book updates and supplements that compendium. 

"Your Words Your World" (Louise Bélanger)

TITLE: Your Words Your World
AUTHOR: Louise Bélanger
PUBLISHER: Independent, Louise Bélanger, 2021, (99 pages).
 

The past two years have been particularly challenging for many people all over the world. With much of the world still grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic, it will take a while before the world gets any semblance of the normalcy we are used to. As governments and health authorities continue to stress the need for vaccinations, healthcare professionals are preparing to deal with the next big crisis: Mental Health. Due to the lockdowns, quarantines, and prolonged periods of isolation, most people would find it a struggle without social well-being. After all, we are all social creatures. What if we could learn to listen to how God speaks to us through nature and creation at large? Inspired by the beauty of creation, Canadian poet Louise Bélanger shares with us many pretty photos followed by a short poem. The poems are brief, usually between 1 to 2 pages in length. She writes about the wonder of nature and the unique qualities embedded in creation. From Ordinary time to Christmas; she not only describes what is seen, but she also connects them with words of faith.  Frequently, we find Bible truths arising out of the poems. Truths like the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians, the Trinity, the futility of the world, Heaven, Prayer, God's creation narrative, Jesus' birth narrative, and many more. 

"Manifold Beauty of Genesis 1" (Gregg Davidson and Kenneth J. Turner)

TITLE: The Manifold Beauty of Genesis One: A Multi-Layered Approach
AUTHOR: Gregg Davidson and Kenneth J. Turner
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2021, (224 pages).
 

How do we interpret the Book of Genesis? Is it more than simply a narrative of creation? Is it a literary description or can we read it literally? How can anyone in the 21st Century understand the context of such an ancient manuscript? While most Christians agree that the Bible is inspired by God, there are wide variances in terms of understanding the meaning of infallibility and the degree of inspiration. Many relationships have been sorely tested due to disagreements over interpretation. That has led to conflicts and in some cases, divorces. Often, the disputes arise from a desire to find that one-size-fits-all interpretation. Such a paradigm locks one in a win-less situation that forsakes all other perspectives for the sake of one's preferred interpretation. What if we say Genesis 1 may contain "layers of Truth" instead of a mere one layer? Every layer reveals more of the Truth in God's Word. Professors Gregg Davidson and Ken Turner come together to propose seven layers of Truth when reading Genesis 1. They admit they would not be dogmatic about it, but welcomes our consideration of the manifold beauty of the text. They urge readers to avoid mixing up our cultural norms with the ancient contexts. Readers too need to be aware that a deeper understanding of the Word comes not from random or cursory readings but from years of study and reflection.

"Speaking By the Numbers" (Sean Palmer)

TITLE: Speaking by the Numbers: Enneagram Wisdom for Teachers, Pastors, and Communicators
AUTHOR: Sean Palmer
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2022, (192 pages).

According to the scholar Maurice Nicholl, we all have three "Centers of Intelligence: thinking, feeling, and doing." This is the key concept used in the development of the Enneagram tool, to help us understand more about our personality types and ourselves. From understanding the self, we are reminded of the core essence of life: Relationship and Community. For pastor and public speaker Sean Palmer, the Enneagram is a powerful tool for communications, and more importantly to understand ourselves and how we could play our roles in building the community we are in. Essentially, there are nine ways we could see the world. Yes, that's NINE! It is more than simply a mapping system. It is a lens to help us see what we react to different situations in life. As the saying goes: "We don't see the world as it is, we see it as we are." In other words, we are not what we are but what we see we are. The nine personality types are:

1. The Perfectionist: "What is wrong with the world?"
2. The Giver: "How can I help?"
3. The Performer: "What are my goals and accomplishments?"
4. The Tragic Romantic: "Why is life so disappointing?"
5. The Observer: "What data supports this trend?"
6. The Devil's Advocate: "What if Plan A doesn't work?"
7. The Epicure: "There is always hope!"
8. The Boss: "How do I keep the house in order?"
9. The Mediator: "What can I do to maintain peace?"

"Home for Christmas" (Various Authors)

TITLE: Home for Christmas: Stories for Young and Old
AUTHOR: Various Authors
PUBLISHER: Walden, NY: Plough Publishing House, 2021, (339 pages).
 

Twenty short stories. Twenty contributors. One theme. As many popular singers croon the Christmas song, "I'll Be Home For Christmas," this collection of stories warms the hearts as many people prepare for another busy Christmas season. Just like many of us remember well how a song goes, we too could remember stories better than mere theories or concepts. Stories like "Brother Robber" remind us about forgiveness. The "Three Young Kings" tells of the gospel touches us in spite of our mischiefs and misdeeds. Madeleine L'Engle writes about a "Sister Egg" whose name is often a conversation starter as she ministers to the homeless on the streets. Nikolai Lesskov shares the story of how one could be eloquent about the faith and yet unable to overcome the hurts over injustice. It takes a new revelation of the meaning of Christ's coming that unlocks the path toward healing. Pearl S Buck shares the story of a Christmas Day morning and how a son gave his father a lovely Christmas surprise. Henry Van Dyke begins the story of the three wise men before dropping in a surprise fourth "Wise Man." This man journeyed in faith, playing catch-up after failing to keep up with his three other friends. Adding some drama into the gaps between the birth of Jesus and the trial of Jesus, the story details how this man follows the Person and Life of Christ, to offer his gift of ministry. All the stories were told around what was revealed in Holy Scriptures. From the birth narrative of Jesus, the parables Jesus taught, to the life of Jesus' ministry, the twenty authors focus on a unique theme of the coming of Jesus to show us a compelling picture of the reason why Jesus came to earth. 

"Full Circle Parenting" (Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins)

TITLE: Full Circle Parenting: A Guide for Crucial Conversations (3 Circles)
AUTHOR: Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: B and H Publishing, 2021, (240 pages).

One of the most challenging life events is none other than parenting. Kids try parents in so many different ways. When young, they wear down parents physically. When they get into trouble, they create headaches. When they do not do their homework or necessary chores, the parents would have to either discipline them or show them tough love. When they turn teenagers, their emotional changes could drive parents up the wall. Yet, there are plenty of rewards for bringing up children. They give us joy and lots of memorable moments. Like what Proverbs 29:17 teach us, "Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire." Indeed, parenting requires a full range of skills that include discipline, devotion, dedication, determination, and delight. They are given to us for a reason and this reason is to love them well, that they may also love others well. Parenting is not for wimps. Well said. For there are no "fail-safe" methods. Neither are there easy equations to fill or formulas to follow. Most parents learn on the job. They experience the highs and lows. They encounter different behaviors at different times. They frequently need help at critical junctures of their children's growth. The authors of this book are experienced parents willing to share with us a guide to facilitate better communications and conversations with our children. Called the "3-Circles" tool, it helps parents initiate, navigate, interact, and sustain crucial conversations with their kids. 

"The Loneliness Epidemic" (Susan Mettes)

TITLE: The Loneliness Epidemic: Why So Many of Us Feel Alone--and How Leaders Can Respond
AUTHOR: Susan Mettes
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Brazos Press, 2021, (224 pages).

Is loneliness a problem? Consider the research data. A third of American adults admit they are frequently lonely. Within the past two decades, feelings of loneliness have more than doubled. Nearly half of all practicing Christian Millennials have experienced it too. Moreover, the problem is growing, not just in North America but globally. Come Winter, the problem deepens. Rates of depression and suicide continue to rise. Why is this happening? In short, it is due to a lack of meaningful relationships. In pre-pandemic days, loneliness has been a rising concern. In 2020 when the world goes into lockdown, everyone starts to talk about the challenges of loneliness and mental health. Research from the Barna group offers compelling evidence on the extent of the problem. This leads to several other problems such as the lack of intimacy, fewer trust relationships, isolated lives, and other crises pertaining to human relationships. So widespread is the problem that even churches are full of lonely people. So why are people lonely? How is it that even people of faith who go to Church can be lonely? What can we learn from the statistics gathered? How can we address this problem? Is loneliness a Western phenomenon or is it more global? In Part One, Author and Professor Susan Mettes defines loneliness as "the distress someone feels when their social connections don’t meet their need for emotional intimacy." She distinguishes this from "social isolation" and "solitude." The former is about circumstances often unforeseen. The latter is about being alone. In Part Two, Mettes goes into greater detail about factors influencing loneliness such as:

"Advent in Plain Sight" (Jill J. Duffield)

TITLE: Advent in Plain Sight: A Devotion through Ten Objects
AUTHOR: Jill J. Duffield
PUBLISHER: Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2021, (173 pages).

The weeks leading up to Christmas are deemed the Advent season. Even though many nowadays do not celebrate Christmas in church,  thanks to commercialization and popular culture, Christmas is that special time to usher in warm fuzzy feelings of giving, togetherness, family, and love. From public malls to private offices, department stores to individual homes, Christmas decorations can be found everywhere. Whether it is a Christmas tree or a candy cane, ornaments or pretty lights, these objects remind us about the coming of a significant annual event. Popularly called the "Christmas Spirit," different people would have varying opinions about what that means. Proverbs 8:17 reminds us that "I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me." What if we could redirect our attention from things to the Lord? What if we let the things of Christmas help us focus on Jesus and the reason He came to earth? "Be intentional," says author and minister Jill Duffield. Even as the world around us concentrates on the business of buying and selling stuff, believers should not be distracted by the hyperactive end-of-the-year commerce. Instead, let the ordinary things be used as launchpads to think more of Christ and the reason for the season. Throughout history, God has used messengers, sermons, narratives, prophecies, miracles, signs, testimonies, and so on, to call us back to Him. That is because the human race can often be forgetful, ignorant, or plain rebellious. We all need reminders and this book uses ten objects to help us observe Advent and Christmas intentionally. Let the ten objects we encounter be used to direct our attention and devotion to Christ. The ten objects are:

"When Everything's On Fire" (Brian Zahnd)

TITLE: When Everything's on Fire: Faith Forged from the Ashes
AUTHOR: Brian Zahnd
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 2021, (192 pages).
 

When the dark leads to emotional gloom and thoughts of doom, any light helps. For author and pastor Brian Zahnd, he notices how the pandemic has turned the world upside down. The economy is in upheaval. People's lives are uncomfortably rocked. Christians struggle with political views. Churches are mired in scandals. In times like these, it is easy to become discouraged amid the challenges of theological deconstruction. Yet, even when everything seems to be on fire, BZ reminds us that fire has one more quality: The purification of our faith. How do we recover from the ashes and be renewed in the Truth of living in the hope of the Resurrected Christ? Is Christian faith still viable in a secular age? BZ affirms that it is not only possible to survive, one can also flourish. Acknowledging the reality of skepticism, the challenges of cynicism, and the opposition of secularism is the first step to making sense of faith. Not only that, BZ identifies with the critics of past philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche, and in an imaginary conversation with the late German philosopher, BZ agrees with Nietzsche's sentiments but not necessarily the conclusions. BZ appreciates the struggles of life but not the dumbing down of faith. When everything is on fire for Nietzsche, the famed atheist declares that God is dead. BZ shows us that many critiques of Christendom while valid do not mean we should throw the baby out with the bathwater. Instead, Christians ought to learn how to critique so as to refine the faith, just like how fire refines. Otherwise, one might end up like a pastor who turned to atheism when he could not distinguish the historic Christianity faith from modern fundamentalist beliefs. One of BZ's key convictions is to nurture a culture of sustained belief for his grandchildren and their generation. Reasons to believe are not enough. The beauty of the gospel is better. BZ shares about an experience in Paris talking with a young man who had lost his faith, only to be renewed once he is able to see the beauty of Christ. 

"On Living Well" (Eugene H. Peterson)

TITLE: On Living Well: Brief Reflections on Wisdom for Walking in the Way of Jesus
AUTHOR: Eugene H. Peterson
PUBLISHER: New York, NY: Waterbrook Multnomah, 2021, (240 pages).

This book is an invitation to live well. Notice life and how people are living it, and learn from it. While ordinary life may seem to be nothing special to most people, learning to notice the meaning in ordinary life can have a special impact. In this never before published collection of reflections and spiritual thoughts from the late Eugene Peterson, we learn of how he manages to draw profound spiritual insights from ordinary life. Just like creation, he manages to focus on the Word as the beginning of all life and laments at how the world treats too casually the dignity of life. Peterson takes us to ponder on the significance of the beginning of the Word without which there is no beginning for any life. He connects birth to our second birth in Christ. Affirming our calling in Christ, we are reminded that spiritual warfare is real and requires believers to be constantly ready to shine for Christ. Yet, he reminds us that Christians are like round holes trying to fit into a square-pegged world. Written like a devotional, the book contains spiritual gems taken from Peterson's two decades of his weekly newsletter he circulated to his Church members at Christ Our King Presbyterian Church. Along with unpublished material from his archives and sermons, the publishers have compiled them into five headings:

"Following" (Jason Byassee and Andria Irwin)

TITLE: Following (Pastoring for Life: Theological Wisdom for Ministering Well)
AUTHOR: Jason Byassee and Andria Irwin
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2021, (208 pages).
 

Even with technological advances, there is almost always a constant divide between two poles. There are the Technological Luddites and the Technophiles. There are the modernists and the mystics. In a digital age, there are digital immigrants and digital natives. These are some of the distinctions between the old and the new forms of thinking. In a book written by a digital immigrant (Byassee) and a digital native (Irwin), we get a fascinating conversation about what discipleship means in a digital age. While getting online is easy, discerning what is going on is not so straightforward. In the area of discipleship, learning how to discern is increasingly important as many Christians go online and interact more on the Internet. Theologically, one of the biggest heresies throughout history was Gnosticism. This heresy is basically about dualistic views of life, seeing earthly things as evil and heavenly things as good. Salvation is thus a matter of running away from this world into the real good one. It is still occurring today to fuel any inclination toward escapism especially in times of trouble. Closely related to Gnosticism is Manicheism, something that had influenced St Augustine in his earlier days. This heresy is not as extreme as Gnosticism but still retains semblances of Gnostic beliefs into seeing some things as good and some things as evil. The Truth is, God has created creation as good, and right theology needs to discern what is good and fallen, against what the heresies claimed as inherently or naturally evil. The authors here seek to find a balance between the two heresies so as to make sense of what is theologically true and coherent with the human experience. In an age where the online environment is threatening to pull people toward any heretical extremes, they urge readers to learn to refrain, to restrain, and to rest from constant online engagement, without jettisoning the usefulness of technology. They also show us how to discern what are the things that can and cannot be done online. One of the key questions posed is:  "How might we use technology, perhaps despite its intentions, to trick ourselves into a more embodied life of discipleship?"

"7 Ways to Pray" (Amy Boucher Pye)

TITLE: 7 Ways to Pray: Time-Tested Practices for Encountering God
AUTHOR: Amy Boucher Pye
PUBLISHER: Colorado Springs, CO: Tyndale House Publishers, 2021, (192 pages)

Christianity is a relationship. Like any relationship, it needs regular communication. Prayer is that spiritual conversation that reflects the ongoing relationship between God and us. For most people, praying is simply asking for things when one is in need or seeking help when one is in trouble. Such a strategy comes from a Santa Claus theology of prayer, turning prayer into some kind of a spiritual invocation for a physical requisition. What if we move away from such a conventional manner of praying? What if we do less of asking for things and more of desiring God? If God is All-Knowing, surely He already knows all that we need. That being the case, our prayer life should orientate in a different way. Author Amy Boucher Pye offers us seven ways to pray. Using the wisdom of the spiritual masters of old, Pye leads us along seven paths of prayer. They are:

1. Letting Scripture Guide our Praying
2. Using the Lectio Divina
3. Practicing the Presence of God
4. Listening
5. Lamenting
6. Imagining
7. Remembering

"The Local Church" (Edward W. Klink III)

TITLE: The Local Church: What It Is and Why It Matters for Every Christian
AUTHOR: Edward W. Klink III
PUBLISHER: Wheaton, IL: Crossway Publishers, 2021, (176 pages).
 

The Church has been around for over 2000 years since the beginning of the first century. Despite the great persecution and martyrdom of many, the Church has not only survived, she has thrived. From a small community in Jerusalem, Christianity has also spread to many parts of the world.  With growth comes diversity; with diversity, disagreements; and with disagreements, conflicts. This is the inevitable part of living together, made worse by politicking and various forms of power plays by different groups within and without. In the midst of heated conflicts, people tend to forget what is the meaning of Church and what they ought to stand for. Doctrines, theologies, and biblical principles become secondary while personal interpretations of what is right and wrong become primary concerns. The trouble worsens when worldly perspectives color such primary concerns. In order to made the local Church faithful to the Truth of the Word of God, we need to be constantly reminded about what the Church is and why it matters for every Christian. This is where Edward Klink's book comes in. Written as a catechesis for learning what Church is, Klink offers us five fundamental questions:

"Aging Faithfully" (Alice Fryling)

TITLE: Aging Faithfully: The Holy Invitation of Growing Older
AUTHOR: Alice Fryling
PUBLISHER: Colorado Springs, CO: Tyndale House Publishers, 2021, (192 pages).
 

Many parts of the developed world are encountering the graying phenomenon. As the average life expectancy increases, there will be greater demands on healthcare, medical insurance, and the social safety net. Countries in North America, Western Europe, Japan, Australia, and many other developed countries constantly grapple with how current welfare infrastructure could be sustained into the future. On top of the social and economic challenges, there are also mental health issues that need to be addressed. Already, Covid-19 has wrecked many families who have lost loved ones in the vulnerable elderly age bracket. The central question in this book is this: How do we age faithfully? Author Alice Fryling starts off with some observations on how society view aging in general. The topic of aging tends to be discussed theoretically when we are in our 50s. When in our 60s, we begin to feel the symptoms of aging. In our 70s, we are forced to finally acknowledge that our bodies can no longer catch up with our mental wills. Beyond 80s, we would be facing increasingly significant physical and mental challenges, assuming we didn't get sick in the first place. Fryling affirms that even when we age, we can live with a purpose: "To understand the uniqueness, the complexities, the needs, and the potential" of our souls as we journey toward old age. 

"40 Questions About Roman Catholicism" (Gregg R. Allison)

TITLE: 40 Questions About Roman Catholicism
AUTHOR: Gregg R. Allison
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2021, (336 pages).

What do Roman Catholics believe? How do Protestants view the Roman Catholic Church and its beliefs? How can evangelicals relate to Roman Catholic believers? What is the history of the Roman Catholic Church? These questions and many more form the basis for this book. Continuing the topical series of 40 questions, Kregel Publications has decided to focus this book on some of the common questions about Roman Catholicism. 

Roman Catholicism is one of the largest religious groups in the world. From time to time, we hear of powerful leaders and famous figures who hail from the Roman Catholic Church. The current President of the United States and Prime Minister of Canada are all Roman Catholics. Stars like Mel Gibson, Nicole Kidman, Liam Neeson, and Stephen Colbert are all Roman Catholics. Wherever the Pope goes, the press and media follow along. 

The three categories of questions are:

1. Historical and Foundational Matters
2. Theological Matters
3. Contemporary and Personal Matters

"When Words matter Most" (Cheryl Marshall and Caroline Newheiser)

TITLE: When Words Matter Most: Speaking Truth with Grace to Those You Love
AUTHOR: Cheryl Marshall and Caroline Newheiser
PUBLISHER: Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2021, (224 pages).
 

Jesus has said that we shall know the Truth and the Truth shall set us free. This is in the context of God's Word, to abide in Jesus, and to follow Him. In a world that has been devastated by the coronavirus, many are not only struggling with basic needs, but they also needed a greater dose of human interaction and encouragement. Words matter and they matter even more in times of need. With many stories of how different people have impacted them, authors Marshall and Newheiser share with us stories of how family, friends, and fellow believers had blessed them with hope, strength, and faith. There was a mother of five who gave them a friendship anchored on transparency and unconditional love. There was a teacher with a servant's heart who engages them with Truth and loyalty. There was also one with a pillar of faith that even in the midst of difficulties, one can exuberate joy in service. Calling these people gifts, they share with us how in times of acute need, these people were there for them. With gratitude, the authors are expanding their scope of encouragement through this book of stories and Truth-Telling about how words can make a difference, especially during this pandemic. Written in two parts, Part One explains the impact of words, and how the Word of God reminds us about our calling to speak words of Truth to one another, especially in crucial moments we discerned in the Spirit. We are called to build up the body not with our human wisdom but with the counsel of God through His Word. We are given three goals when we interact with one another:

"Parenting Generation Screen" (Jonathan McKee)

TITLE: Parenting Generation Screen: Guiding Your Kids to Be Wise in a Digital World
AUTHOR: Jonathan McKee
PUBLISHER: Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2021, (208 pages).

Did you know that 10 is the average age a kid gets a phone in America? Did you know that the most common reason why parents give kids a smartphone so early is to anticipate emergencies? By the time a kid turns 13, nearly three-quarters of his contemporaries would already have a phone with a screen. How do you parent a young child in a smartphone era? Experts have said that parents ought to wait until kids are older and more mature before giving them the phones. Many caved in to their children's pleas while others simply do not know how to respond to the demand tsunami. Sadly, this has led to uncontrolled and unlimited use of the smartphones by children totally oblivious to the dangers of the Internet. So the key question for parents is this: What are we going to do? Author Jonathan McKee begins by cautioning us not to look for quick fixes. Instead, develop a connection with our kids before correction. Love needs to come before limits; bonding before boundaries; and communication before commandments. Urging us to pause before confiscating the devices, begin with conversation with our kids. That means learning not just to express our concerns but also to understand what our kids are going through. Then there is the question of what age is best to give our kids smartphones. With peer pressure and the torrent of requests, parents will find it increasingly difficult to deny this request. Plus, screen gadgets nowadays are everywhere. They are in computers, laptops, tablets, small gadgets, TV screens, and even in vehicles! If we say no to one, how do we consistently maintain our stance for the others? Perhaps, it is more important to show kids the reasons and the thinking process instead of plainly a yes or a no answer. We have heard scientific evidence about kids staying up late at night and how screens stimulate their brain activity. This in turn affects our children's mental health and sleep patterns which could lead to depression and emotional problems. Then there is social media and the seductive attraction to fame, game, and all kinds of exposure, including illicit ones. 

"Solomon Says" (Amy Parker and Sarah Humphrey)

TITLE: Solomon Says Devotional: 100 Days of Wisdom from the World's Wisest King
AUTHOR: Amy Parker and Sarah Humphrey
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing, 2021, (208 pages).
 

Did you know that many years ago, there was a man who was raking in about a billion dollars a year? Apart from being the most wealthy person at that time, he was also the wisest man on earth. He was also a man richly blessed by the LORD God. This man is none other than King Solomon of Israel. These historical facts would not only thrill the minds of young children, they open the little hearts to the many proverbs in the Bible. One might ask how an ancient document of deep concepts and spiritual truths be easily understood by little minds? Well, the truth is often hampered by difficult language. As long as we can translate or transmit these truths in a way that children understand, they will learn the deep biblical truths. Proverbs 1:4 includes this declaration: "for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young." In a nutshell, these proverbs are meant for all ages, and if that is so, we should do our part to impart these truths to those who are young. In this devotional written in a way for young children to comprehend, there are 100 devotionals that comprise a Proverb, a brief description, a prayer, and a page for writing down one's thoughts and feelings. There are also pointers to pre-address any concerns kids might have. On the activity page, children are encouraged to write a song, pen a poem, work on a suggested activity, or simply draw a picture of what they have heard or learned. 

"Designed to Heal" (Jennie A. McLaurin and Cymbeline Tancongco Culiat)

TITLE: Designed to Heal: What the Body Shows Us about Healing Wounds, Repairing Relationships, and Restoring Community
AUTHOR: Jennie A. McLaurin and Cymbeline Tancongco Culiat
PUBLISHER: Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale, 2021, (272 pages).
 

There is much we can learn from the workings of the human body. There is also much that we do not yet know. This does not mean we cannot benefit from the knowledge available to us, the interconnectedness of the body systems as well as how we can use this knowledge to apply to human relationships. Learning about how the body heals gives us profound insights into healing human relationships all around. At the same time, their shared Christian beliefs enable them to relate to healing far beyond the physical domain, especially pertaining to the repair of relationships in a community. McLaurin begins with a dramatic retelling of a serious that happened during a family ski trip. Her husband Andrew was badly wounded and had to be rushed to the hospital. It so happened that the physical wounds coincided with emotional hurts arising from Andrew's work situation. That was a significant moment that motivated McLaurin to apply what she knew about healing to a societal level. Co-author Bem also had her traumatic moments when her husband Julio developed polycythemia. In the midst of her family struggles, many friends and fellow believers flooded them with multiple acts of care and love, creating an environment that facilitates healing and recovery. Going through the four stages of physical healing, a physician and a geneticist share their expertise and knowledge about how the human body functions before and after a wound, and how it heals. The four stages (overlapping but distinct) of healing are:

"Fix Your Eyes" (Amy Gannett)

TITLE: Fix Your Eyes: How Our Study of God Shapes Our Worship of Him
AUTHOR: Amy Gannett
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing, 2021, (240 pages).

We cannot love someone that we do not know. In the same way, how could we worship someone we do not know? Thus, just as our love for God is linked to our knowledge of God, the more we know God, the better we will be in worshiping Him in our minds and hearts. Author Amy Gannett shares her theological insights in this book that connects worship with our knowledge of God. She affirms this as follows: "Worship is what happens when what we love shapes us—when we submit our character, choices, wills, and ways to God out of love and reverence for him." With the marriage of theology and worship, she launches into a fascinating theological journey to show us that worship is about fixing our eyes on Jesus, for He is the shape of what we need to know about theology. Chapter by chapter, Gannett demonstrates to us how the various head-based knowledge of God and His attributes to heartfelt realities. Readers might be curious to know how this could be done. Let me give one example from the book. The doctrine of the Trinity can be one of the most difficult or mysterious areas to study. In the chapter on this foundational doctrine, readers are invited into the author's househunting experience, where a house inspection report turns up a serious problem in the house foundation. Without this foundation, everything else in the house is in danger of collapse. Yet, in the mystery of unknowing, in the midst of analogies that fall short, we are motivated to learn more. More importantly, we are ushered into a realm where the only possible response is worship. Gannett takes us through the major branches of theological studies such as Christology, Pneumatology, Soteriology, Bibliology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology, giving us not only a primer on these theological branches but how we can worship God in His spirit and in his Truth. A knowledge of Christology reminds us of the physical witness we have in Jesus. Pneumatology enables us to invite the Holy Spirit into our midst to worship with awareness of the Spirit as the Third Person of the Trinity. Soteriology raises our heart of gratitude to the God who saves us. Bibliology anchors our worship based on the Word of God. Ecclesiology teaches us to worship as a Body of Christ. Eschatology prepares our hearts to worship the Coming King. 

"Following the Call" (Charles E. Moore)

TITLE: Following the Call: Living the Sermon on the Mount Together
AUTHOR: Charles E. Moore
PUBLISHER: Walden, NY: Plough Publishing House, 2021, (396 pages).

One of the most powerful teachings of Jesus is none other than the Sermon on the Mount. Even though many sermons have been preached on it, many books written about it, and many references made to it, these precious messages continue to astound us. If there is one theme about the Sermon on the Mount, it would be about the revelation of the Kingdom of God. This is where this book comes in, to help us learn from the different masters of reflection throughout the ages. Compiled from the writings and expositions from Early Church leaders like Irenaeus (2nd Century), Gregory of Nyssa (4th Century), and Jerome (4th Century); to modern writers like Wendell Berry, Stanley Hauerwas, Timothy Keller, Philip Yancey, and more, readers get to learn about kingdom character, kingdom commands, kingdom devotion, and kingdom priorities. Like having multiple preachers on selected sections of the Sermon on the Mount, we get many powerful perspectives on Jesus' teachings. E. Stanley Jones asserts that the Sermon is not about a Christian's duty but liberty to do all the good they can. On the beatitudes, Philip Yancey gives us a profound image of what it means to be poor in spirit, often making provocative observations about the virtues of poverty. There seems to be a correlation between the beatitudes discussed and the corresponding expertise or experience of the authors concerned. For instance, the beatitude on mourning brings together writers like Nicholas Wolterstorff who had experienced personal tragedies. The beatitude on purity engages Søren Kierkegaard's famous reflections on purity. The beatitude on persecution draws from the experience of Jerome and Oscar Romero, both of whom were persecuted because of how they practiced their faith convictions. Just reading the short reflections alone and a little knowledge of the contributors' backgrounds gives the reader a fascinating insight not only into the passage but also into the unique ways God has touched these individuals.

"The Monastic Heart" (Joan Chittister)

TITLE: The Monastic Heart: 50 Simple Practices for a Contemplative and Fulfilling Life
AUTHOR: Joan Chittister
PUBLISHER: New York, NY: Convergent Books, 2021, (288 pages).

How many times have we heard people say: "It's a crazy world out there?" Saying is one thing. Learning how to respond is yet another. With the ongoing pandemic and the constant challenges of life, we all need a better way forward, besides simply taking a break, going away on vacation, or for more serious cases, going to a therapist. Many people struggle with finding a fulfilling life, and they substitute this search for fulfillment by aiming for wrong targets. Things that ultimately do not satisfy. In a world that increasingly says that they are not religious but spiritual, we need to pin down what exactly does that reveal about us. Perhaps, if we could tweak our search, and to direct our efforts to something meaningful, something that is helpful for the soul, it would make our living on earth not only more bearable but fulfilling. The premise of the book is to mine the rich ancient wisdom from the monastic era. This is far better than to adopt conventional pep-talk that often are superficial. Phrases like: "Relax, things will get better," or "Just try to think positive" simply do not cut it. In a world that are mostly distracted by issues and multiple perspectives, our hearts are crying out for something more focused and single-hearted on the most important matters in life. Like what the ancient monastics have learned, it is one thing to withdraw from the world, it is yet another to deal with the inner turmoil happening inside our hearts. This book contains 50 monastic practices that we can adopt to help us in the single-hearted search for meaning and fulfillment. It is meant not just for Christians, but for anyone seeking to find not just meaning but our responsibility in life. 

"A Surprising God" (Thomas G. Long and Donyelle C. McCray)

TITLE: A Surprising God: Advent Devotions for an Uncertain Time
AUTHOR: Thomas G. Long and Donyelle C. McCray
PUBLISHER: Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2021, (112 pages).

One of the most popular questions Christians tend to ask is how the Bible of ancient times speaks to us in modern times. With a strong devotion to the Word and a desire to practice the Word, we ask general questions like "How relevant is the Bible today?" to specific questions surrounding contemporary life such as: "What would Jesus do in our situation?" or "What does the Bible has to say about politics, our friends, our current issues, or even our personal life?" Biblical scholars tend to be skeptical about such questions that begin with contemporary life instead of the Word of God first. In a marvelous preface, authors Thomas Long and Donyelle McCray believe that we need to do both "in the fray" (what it means then) as well as "above the fray" (what it means now). My first thought is: Easier said that done. Then authors Long and McCray surprise me with how they manage to write this Advent devotionals from three angles of relevance: Heavenly, Societal, and Personal.  Long and McCray alternate their devotions with the same format. Each day begins with a catchy title and short Bible passage. After a brief story or personal anecdote, we get to ponder upon the various surprises that defy our wildest imaginations. Even in the midst of troubles and turmoils around us, when the world around us seems to paint a bleak future, Jesus promises something totally unexpected: Redemption is coming! When doubts and uncertainties surround us with stories of doom and gloom, the Bible surprises us with the promise of eternal hope. Even when Revelation produces quite frightening images, we could still hang on to the promise that on Judgment Day, Jesus will rule with Justice and Mercy. This pattern of surprises come amid our current atmosphere of protest movement surrounding "Black Lives Matter," wars, political turmoil, economic struggles, poverty, etc. The authors want to prepare our hearts for the Hope of hopes, the Love of all loves, and the Surprise of all surprises: aka, the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

"Five Things Biblical Scholars Wish Theologians Knew" (Scot McKnight)

TITLE: Five Things Biblical Scholars Wish Theologians Knew
AUTHOR: Scot McKnight
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2021, (184 pages).

This review is a follow-up on the complementary volume from my previous review, that theology and biblical studies should complement rather than compete against each other. After all, they help the rest of us understand biblical truth more deeply. Theologian Hans Boersma's tongue-in-cheek foreword subtly maintains the supremacy of systematic theology over biblical theology. He even brands biblical scholars like Scot McKnight as more theological than what most people might have perceived. What he is saying is that McKnight's views put him on the same side as his own. In endorsing this book, Boersma is even saying that at the end of it all, both biblical and dogmatic theology affirms the fundamentals of orthodox Christianity: Christ is present sacramentally (theological) in the biblical texts (biblical scholarship). This sets the stage for a grand pushback by eminent biblical scholar, Scot McKnight. Arguing that the task of a biblical scholar is more difficult, McKnight points out the nature of biblical studies which is to take ourselves away from our contemporary viewpoints to immerse ourselves into the biblical texts. Such a task is immensely more challenging. His central point: "All theology must start at the exegetical level."  

"Five Things Theologians Wish Biblical Scholars Knew" (Hans Boersma)

TITLE: Five Things Theologians Wish Biblical Scholars Knew
AUTHOR: Hans Boersma
PUBLISHER: Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2021, (176 pages).

The disciplines of theology and biblical studies ought to complement each other in the study of Truth. Together, they help us form a more wholesome picture of what Scripture teaches us. With greater knowledge and insight, we have deepened our understanding of both systematic theology and biblical theology. Unfortunately, the bridges of understanding between the two disciplines have not grown correspondingly. This has led to unhealthy comparison and sometimes, willful playing down of each other by proponents of either party. While most professors and theologians see the disciplines as complementary, this is often more theoretical than in reality. Apart from the professional respect offered to one another, we need a third angle to help bridge the gaps that may exist. Who could best do that? This is where two eminent professors and authors from each of these disciplines could do. By bringing forth five major things they wish the other side would know, they not only highlight the unique strengths of the particular disciplines concerned, but they also form five bridges of understanding.  In the spirit of mutual encouragement, cross-disciplinary learning, sprinkled with dockets of humour, Professor Hans Boersma points out the purpose of theology, which is: "to use the Scriptures as a means of grace in drawing the reader to Jesus Christ." This Christocentric reading ought to circumvent the tendency to overemphasize historical studies. More importantly, this should lead us toward sacramental communion with God, in Jesus. Whether it is cheekily done or not, Boersma uses a common phrase "no Scripture" to highlight the key things before the biblical scholar's favorite distinction. He then lists the following five compelling things he wishes biblical scholars should know: 

"Made to Worship" (Phil Stacey)

TITLE: Made to Worship: Empty Idols and the Fullness of God
AUTHOR: Phil Stacey
PUBLISHER: Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2021, (272 pages).

He was set apart for a singing career. Yet, the very things that made him famous are also the very reason for breaking him down. Growing up in a family of singers, Phil Stacey has a gifted voice and a love for music. As a son of a pastor, Church is like his second home. He and his family thrived musically everywhere they went. For Phil, his music was what attracted people to him. It was the reality show, American Idol, that launched him to fame. This book is his memoir of faith, of his humble beginnings, his journey to American Idol, and the subsequent darkness that befell him in the midst of glittering images of fame. Writing about his fall from grace, he shares also about his return via the path of faith. He ends with a powerful note to proclaim that all his music, all of his experience, and all of his life are essentially made for worship. 

"Why You Matter" (Michael Sherrard)

TITLE: Why You Matter (Perspectives: A Summit Ministries Series): How Your Quest for Meaning Is Meaningless without God
AUTHOR: Michael Sherrard
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2021, (194 pages).

For every "what" there needs to be a "why." For some of us, we need more than simply an answer to the latter. For many of us, this is essentially a quest for meaning and significance of our lives. What makes life meaningful? How are we part of the grand plan of significance? The key thesis in this book is that God exists, and that is why we matter. With the ongoing pandemic, many people are dealing with disruptions, loneliness, deaths, sicknesses, health issues, in particular mental and spiritual well-being. These might lead them to question the meaning of life. Then comes racial issues which led to the rise of the "Black Lives Matter" as well as an "All Lives Matter" reaction by some quarters. Even in societies that pride on equality and freedom of expression, many people still go through crises of various types. Author and pastor Michael Sherrard focus on a "crisis of meaning" to probe behind the reasons why people insist their lives matter in the first place. Once we can understand that, the rest will come into place. He helps us go beyond mere feelings as a judge of our worth. For feelings are often too subjective to be reliable. Rather than letting our feelings, our skills, or our subjectivity determine our life's meaning and identity, why not go back to our Creator? How is that meaningful? In the quest for such answers, we start by observing the culture and society we are living in. Can our present situation of secularism and godless society bring everlasting meaning? What are the promises of atheism? What about morality? The author helps us take a critical look at the society we are in, on the emptiness of the "good life" we often assume we are in. Gradually, he switches gear to help us envision a world with God. Sherrard essentially says the following:  

"Rediscover Church" (Collin Hansen and Jonathan Leeman)

TITLE: Rediscover Church: Why the Body of Christ Is Essential (The Gospel Coalition and 9Marks)
AUTHOR: Collin Hansen and Jonathan Leeman
PUBLISHER: Wheaton, IL: Crossway Publishers, 2021, (160 pages).

Why do we need to rediscover Church? Isn't it enough to simply believe and practice our faith daily? With the rise of online church and how many people have become so familiar with watching Church services on YouTube, Zoom, or other online channels, surely we can maintain this new way of doing church? Well, authors Collin Hansen and Jonathan Leeman disagree. A Christian without a Church is a Christian in trouble. We still need to get back to the meaning of the Church and to live together as a Community in Christ. There are many reasons why believers stay away from Church. The conventional arguments against the church include things like limited authenticity, distasteful politics, politicizing of religion, negative publicity, lack of transparency, irrelevancy, and the age-old accusation: hypocrisy. With covid, this disinclination from physical church gatherings has been accelerated. On top of this electronic distance, there are also those who feel disillusioned about the lack of pastoral care and the inability of their pastors to match up to the charismatic preachers who draw people to their professional online offerings. With such overwhelming cultural disarray surrounding faith and Church, it is no wonder that many people are looking for a reason to go back to Church. This book comes at the right time to answer that very question. There is a need and a future for the Church. What is necessary now is to go back to the essence of what Church is and what it means to be Church in the 21st Century. Hansen and Leeman began with the metaphor of marriage where Christ is the groom while the Church is the bride. If Christ gave himself for the Church, shouldn't that alone speak volumes about the importance of Church? 

"First and Second Thessalonians" (Timothy A. Brookins)

TITLE: First and Second Thessalonians (Paideia: Commentaries on the New Testament)
AUTHOR: Timothy A. Brookins
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2021, (256 pages).

When studying the Bible, one of the key emphases is to interpret the texts in the right context. That usually means trying to understand the literary and cultural situations back in ancient times prior to applying them to our present world. This commentary series goes much further and deeper to build the "theological convictions and moral habits" of readers. Instead of verse-by-verse, the commentary moves in terms of "rhetorical units." Within each unit, readers learn about the introduction, the narrative flow, and the theological themes. The introduction includes matters such as the identity of the author, the intended audience, the background, and an overview of the letter. Noting how little attention has been paid to the nature of the 2 books as letters, author and professor Timothy Broookins pays special attention to the letter genre to make sense of its literary composition. Using the nature of the letter as an interpretive lens, to understand the ancient contexts, the authorial intent, audience, history, cultural backgrounds, and so on. He goes further to point out that Paul's letter in a "literary" one rather than a "nonliterary" or a "diplomatic" one. It gives us a glimpse of Paul's narrative, being forced out of Thessalonica by the opposition. It was a tumultuous time as Christians in the region continue to be persecuted. Taken together with Acts, one could roughly piece together the places Paul had gone. Questions remain whether the reasons for the letter were situational, social, political, doctrinal, or even "anti-imperial." Some of the theological themes are: