Books I Once Read

At the suggestion of my friend Dave, I have made this post. This is a list of books that have affected me positively, but I will say nothing about the theological accuracy of the content because I have not always been the theological stalwart you know today (ha!). 

Noticeably absent will be the Bible. That is a given. 

There is no rhyme or reason to the organization of this list. I am told I can do what I want with a blog and so that is what I have done:

Mere Christianity by Clive Staples 

-This book was foundational for me and laid the groundwork for much of my way of thinking about the world. I read it when i was about 15.

The Sacred Romance by John Eldridge 

-I began to understand God's love for me while reading this book on a beach in Florida. I have never been the same.

The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning

-Grace seeps tangibly from this book. I read it one summer while at camp and it has influenced my understanding of the relentless pursuit of God more than most other books.

Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton

-Don't be put off by the title. This book is a quick, funny and enlightening read. It helped to give me categories for thinking about the world. 

Season of Life by Jeff Marx

-Rethink competition. About a pastor/NFL player/high school coach/mentor. Fantastic.

The God Who is There by Francis Schaeffer

-The founder of the Christian Worldview movement has profound things to say, as it turns out. His way of looking at art dramatically aided the enjoyment of my recent trip to Denver Art Museum.

The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame

-It's a fictional kids book. I've read it multiple times. As an adult. Sue me. It makes me feel happy inside.

The Source by James A. Michener

-A fictional, sweeping, mostly historical account of the history of Judaism. This helped me understand Jews and the history of their people profoundly.

Healing the Masculine Soul by Gordon Dalby and Wild at Heart by John Eldridge

-These books gave me permission to be a man.

Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes

-The first historical fiction novel from my childhood. It made me love history and reading fiction.

The Watermark by Travis Thrasher

-A beautiful novella about forgiveness. I read it one day and thought it poignant, mellow and beautiful.

I will close my laptop and think of more immediately. That's the way of these things.