I have read many books that entertained or educated or confirmed what I already thought, but these are the ones that changed me.
Infidel, by Ayaan Hirsi Ali
I read this book a couple years ago and still think about it. I used to have a typical American liberal pluralistic view of cultures: “all cultures are valuable and their differences should be respected and protected.” No more. Infidel clearly illustrates superior and inferior cultures, comparing Somalia, Saudi Arabia, Kenya, Ethiopia, and the Netherlands. Sure, every culture contains good and bad, but now I see that some have more bad and some have more good.
The Wright Brothers, by Quentin Reynolds
This is a children’s book I skimmed for Spirit Club. Wilbur and Orv had the coolest Mom ever. Susan Wright was skilled in Math (in the 1800s!) and taught her boys to “Dream it. Draw it. Make it.” from the age of five. Great parental role model and life motto.
Personal Bible Study Methods, by Rick Warren
Rick wrote this way before he got famous. I have enjoyed many delightful times of learning at the feet of God through these methods.
A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, by W. Phillip Keller
This old classic taught me how much God loves me and how he cares for us.
The Heavenly Man, by Brother Yun
Sounds like the book of Acts, but in our own time. Strengthened my faith in the power of the Spirit.
Ben and Jerry’s: The Inside Scoop, by Fred Lager
When at first you don’t succeed . . . try, try, try again. Also, made me laugh.
The Purpose Driven Church, by Rick Warren
Have a big vision . . . we serve a big God.
How to Make Big Money in Your Own Small Business, by Jeffrey Fox
Obviously, I’m not trying to make big money – I don’t even receive a salary. I picked this up at a recent library book sale since I like business books. Oops, I’m spending too much time on administration and too little time “selling” our church.
The Hiding Place, by Corrie Ten Boom and If I Perish, by Esther Kim
I don’t have to be afraid of anything because God will get me through it. Faith requires bold action and often leads to suffering.
Stranger at the Gate, by Mel White
Published in 1994, the first time I realized what it was like to be gay; also that this is the civil rights issue of our generation.
Do What You Are, by Tiegers and What Could He Be Thinking, by Michael Gurian
Despite some overgeneralizations, unlocked the mystery of why people are so different. Helps me love all of them!
Blood Brothers, by Elias Chacour and Bishop of Rwanda, by John Rucyahana
How to respond to injustice without violence or revenge. Beauty of forgiveness.
Quest, by Denise Linn and The Seat of the Soul, by Gary Zukav
Once you filter out some of the incompatible theology, Quest methods led me to great spiritual breakthroughs and wonderful times with God. Zukav has best list of behaviors and attitudes that lead to “bad karma” – good for personal reflection and soul cleansing.
