Joint Efforts….

Decades ago in the BC life, I used to covet a connection for joints. Now in my AD life, I look for good connections through joints. Joints as in

Ephesians 4:16
from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love. (NKJV)

Having traveled frequently in countries which do not have access to the flood of Christian materials that some of us enjoy, I decided to begin making a list of materials that have blessed me in a key manner. Resources that have impacted my life in a manner that is felt so significantly that I MIGHT even re-read it.
So, here goes:

WHAT’S SO AMAZING ABOUT GRACE? by Phillip Yancey Spanish: Gracia Divina vs. Condena Humana
I believe this will be the classic work of our age. Someone has rightly said: “The church was born in Jerusalem; it moved to Rome and became a religion; it moved to Europe and became a culture; it moved to the United States and became a big business.” In a mass produced, rubber stamped, window shopping society, we need the clarity of grace. We need a grace which is not just a hymn, doctrine, marquis decorator, or handy jargon for collectors of such; we need a sense of grace that messes with every relationship, exposure, and avenue that life can serve up. If you are feeling blitzed with the overwhelming amount of stuff out there, this one will truely pull your life into a pit stop for much needed rest.

THE RAGAMUFFIN GOSPEL by Brennan Manning Spanish: El Evangelio de los Andrajosos
For the pilgrim with a searching heart, Manning is the first string all-state varsity of the “been there done that” competition. He allows us to walk into his life of successes and failures, allowing us to use his self honesty as glasses, and, mirrors. For those who appreciate scholasticism and thought stretching writing, both intellectual and childlike at the same time, this is work is a standard setter.

TALES OF THE KINGDOM by David and Karen Mains
This is a banquet for those who love a good story and great pics to boot. An allegory, in which each tale ends with an insightful lesson for any spiritual level. My wife and I read these to our five children for years. No matter the ‘problem of the day’ they would all quiet down and listen when we dug into another tale, even after having heard the stuff multiple times. This book and its two sequals are so powerful that you will hear their voices for the rest of your journey.

RUTHLESS TRUST by Brennan Manning
It is possible that this book touched me with more impact than Ragamuffin. Manning’s willingness to lead us on a guided tour of his own heart is a gift to the church. Trying to cope with failure? Plug in.

BRANCHES OVER THE WALL by Quentin Miller
Hey! That’s me! No wonder I agree with everything he wrote. Its my take on the most incredible story in the Bible: Joseph.