Chilly Winter Days

Cold, chilly winter days are settling in on Chicago. Sitting in front of a warm fire with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book becomes my outlet for relaxation. I’ve been reading through several books recently – one for sheer enjoyment, one for personal growth, and the other for insight that will be helpful to others.

I enjoy thrillers and suspense type novels; the more twists and turns the better. However, I seldom pick them up due to sexual content or foul language. There is an author I enjoy by the name of Ted Dekker. The first book I read of his was called Thr3e several years ago.

The author is a Christian, and writes with a bit of an edge, so he raises eyebrows in some Christian circles. I mention this, as he may not be everyone’s cup of tea. (Some were upset with me when I said I read The Shack.) He has a new book that came across my desk called Kiss, that will be released in January 2009. Kiss is the story of a woman who has a car accident and loses her memory, then acquires a mysterious mental ability. This one held my interest with action and suspense. The author also has a great way of introducing good and evil in his books, and how God’s light exposes darkness.

On a heavier note, last week I received a copy of Shattered Vows – Hope and Healing for Women Who Have Been Sexually Betrayed by Debra Laaser. She and her husband are the founders of Faithful and True Ministries. My husband and I had an opportunity to hear this couple speak at a retreat for our marriage ministry. I loved this book, as she not only shares her personal journey, she writes about other areas of marriage where we step into gray areas of betrayal. This book is geared toward women, but I believe any man would gain great insight too. If you are a man who has been the betrayer, it will provide a glimpse into what your wife might be feeling, and provide a deeper understanding of her healing process. This book is extremely well done.

Lastly, I started 40 Days Living The Jesus Creed by Scott McKnight this week for a new small group my husband and I are involved in. It is a day-by-day study built on loving God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. I am thoroughly enjoying this so far.

You have my permission to do nothing. Sit by a warm fire, relax, and read. It is good for restoring the soul.