Pastor’s Summer Message
Dear family and friends of Hilton Baptist Church,
One of my favorite activities on a summer evening is to sit on the deck facing our back yard and read a good book. Last fall I bought a 556-page book about Ulysses S. Grant and I knew it would take me a long time to read through it. I have been patiently waiting for summer to arrive so I could plop down on my deck chair, watch the grass grow and the sun set and read all about the man who led the Union army to victory in the Civil War.
I am certain for some of you the idea of spending your summer with General Grant isn’t exactly exciting. However, there are plenty of other good books that may stir your spirit and sharpen your mind.
I thought I would share a few of my favorite books with you that might uplift, challenge or inspire you this summer. The following books are not in any particular order of preference.
The Traveler’s Gift by Andy Andrews. A story about a man who meets various people from history who teach him important lessons on living a meaningful life.
Who Moved my Cheese? by Spencer Johnson. A parable about four characters who must adjust after someone moved their cheese. It teaches us how to deal with unexpected changes in life.
Rise to Greatness by David Von Drehle. One of my favorite books on Abraham Lincoln. It shares how Mr. Lincoln used his wisdom, cleverness and resolve to lead the nation out of the Civil War.
Here and Now by Henri Nouwen. I don’t think you can go wrong reading anything by Henri Nouwen but this book is one of my favorites. He stresses the importance of living in the present moment and listening to the Spirit of God as He gently moves in your daily life.
Love and Respect by Emerson Eggerichs. This is a book about having a healthy relationship with your husband or wife. I realize this book does not apply to everyone and you may not agree with everything the author shares. However, Karen and I have found this book beneficial in our relationship.
The Signature of Jesus by Brennan Manning. I recently re-discovered Brennan Manning and have read only a few of his books. So far I have not been disappointed as his insights and depth resonate with me. This book challenges us to be loved just as we are by Jesus and to risk living daily within that love.
Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John Maxwell. As an introvert, it is helpful for me to find tools to ‘connect’ with others. I read this book years ago and found many of his suggestions helpful to me as I interact with others.
Messy Spirituality by Michael Yaconelli. A book simply for those who know their faith and spirituality is messy. I don’t agree with everything the author shares but this is still one of my favorite go-to books when my faith feels confused, muddled and isn’t what I’d like it to be.
I hope you are able to find some time to relax and enjoy God’s gift of summer these next few months. If you are looking for a friend I’m sure one of these books would be happy to spend a few hours with you. As for me, I’ll be hanging out with Ulysses S. Grant.
Grace and Peace,
Dan
Categories: Pastors Message