17 April 2006

Books I have been reading... (July 05 - April 06)

Man I have been chomping through the books lately, here's what I have been reading... (chronologically from latest to oldest)
The Da Vinci Code -- Dan Brown
I quite enjoyed this book, and finished it in 1 day. It has a twist near the end that takes a bit to get your head around, a lot of religious history that is interesting, thought provoking but also rather strange at the same time. Im not quite sure what to think about some of it's ideas, although I do think the author really only wants it to be fiction to provide a story. It makes you think about what you believe without testing it, only because it has been passed down to you. I think some further study in this kind of area maybe required. A great yarn, fast paced and cleverly written.
Plain Truth -- Jodi Picoult
This was a story based on an Amish farm. It was quite interesting to gain insight into the Amish worldview etc. but I found the plot rather disturbing and the ending a complete contradiction to the whole point of the book. It was a read that kept you going, and one you couldn't put down!
By the Light of a Thousand Stars -- Jamie Langston Turner
This was a fictional book based around a couple of families who were neighbours and how they interacted. Was very descriptive and also quite compelling as to how to really love your neighbour. Took a bit to get into, but was interesting none the less. Quite a good insight into how people think and act, especially good for mothers with kids!
Where is God on Mondays -- Alistair Mackenzie & Wayne Kirkland
This book really gets you thinking about commonly held views of work, and where it all fits in Biblically. A really good book to challenge and help you define what it is that God really wants us to accomplish in our lifetime on earth. It also has questions at the end of each chapter, so could be used for a study guide within a small group setting. Small chapters and easy to read with everyday examples.
On the Anvil -- Max Lucado
This book has some really good challenges, and really easy to read. The chapters are separate stories, little gems that I just read one of a day. Great author who has written stories and real life challenges that he has experienced. Great to be given a shove in the right direction and reminded of what is important.
Anger -- Tim La Haye
Although this book is quite theoretical, I found it quite helpful as I read it, although I would struggle to recall a lot of it now. Would be quite good as a resource.
The Robe --
This is a historical novel about the soldier who was in charge of the crucifixion. A very well written book and quite a compelling read. It clearly describes and portrays what it would have been like in Jesus time, and the impact he had on small town Israelites. Provides a fresh take on His life and the culture of the day. A great plot, exciting and suspenseful at times.
The Temple -- Matthew Riley
I also read this book in 1 day, as I couldn't put it down. Set in the history of the Incan trail in South America, and provides insight and background of those times. Although at times it was a little far-fetched, there were a few twists that had your mind reeling and some scary stuff that had your heart pumping. I really enjoyed it, and highly recommend it!
Out of the Comfort Zone -- George Verwer
This book has some great principles and challenges. Written by the founder of OM (Operation Mobilisation) it portrays a man who is 100% passionate about missions. There are some great parts in here to make you think about missions in general and you cant but help catch his enthusiasm.
Is that really you God? -- Loren Cunningham
This book really challenged and inspired me to dream big for God, and the power of prayer. This guy was the founder of YWAM (Youth with a mission) and was a pioneer of his time with ground breaking moves. Totally challenged by what he accomplished because of his faith in God, which was immense. A huge pillar of faith that has gone on before.
No Compromise -- Melody Green
Man this was the book that started me on next 2 that I read. I really found this book to be a great encouragement & was inspired by Keith's no compromise life. He also was a pioneer of his time, and stood up for what he believed no matter what. What he accomplished for God was awesome. The challenge here was do I really want this as my lifestyle or would I rather dream about it.

Share/Bookmark

6 April 2006

You can take my money but you can't take my...

A thought crossed my mind the other day (it was trying to get to the other side!) as I was walking down the street in Asuncion holding onto my handbag quite tightly & conscious of it not getting taken off me!
I thought to myself, you know if someone does grab it, and use my money & empty my credit card & bank account, yeah well that suxs, but they can never steal what I know, what I have in me as part of my person that will enable me to earn more money, get a job, have support from my friends and family and remain above the breadline and not become poverty stricken. That is tightly locked into my being, can never be taken & is something I had always taken for granted until now. Wow, what a comforting thought! You can take my money, but you cant take my... um its hard to say in one word, but you know what I mean!

Share/Bookmark

3 April 2006

Weird huh?


There are some things I may never get used to... like...
The horrible bugs that fly at my face.(And I scream!)
The awful squeaky noise that the frogs make all day everyday like whiny children. (Sounds like eoeooooooooo)
Putting the toilet paper in a bin beside the loo, rather than down it!
The power going off.
Stink internet connection!
Putting on insect repellent each morning.
No TV -- especially the sport, & very especially the rugby!
Handing over a $1000 note for a bottle of coke worth about 25c NZ!
Watching where I walk (looking out for red ants, spiders & snakes)
Singing hymns (from my childhood) at church in Spanish!(And heaps slower!)
Getting up for breakfast everyday before 8am (& eating it with my husband!)
Church starting at 8:30am!

Although there are some things I can definitely get used to... like...
A cooked meal at midday.
A 2 hour siesta after lunch.
Not being cold & wearing shorts & t-shirts or singlets all year round.
The cruisy culture (lots of sitting around, not worried about pointless things, not much stress!)
Lots of time to read.
Sweating lots & drinking lots (Im sure its good for my body!)
Not getting headaches.
Cheap food, being able to eat out more often.
Cheap clothes.
No winter (really)
 
Is it a matter of outweighing the good with the bad, or is it just priorities & what you get used to??
 
 
 
 

Share/Bookmark