Christianity Books

I must agree with a previous reviewer who claimed that this book challenges the reader to re-think almost everything they understand about "lost" Christianity. Needleman does not present another work on Gnosticism, Christian contemplation, esoteric teachings, or hidden gospels; instead he indicates that a change of heart (an almost ontological change, and not merely one in thought and emotion) is necessary for even the most rudimentary Christian teachings to take root and become REAL in a person's lived experience.

Professor Needleman's writing is superb, with insightful (DEEPLY insightful) comments abounding (in some places, I flagged one or two sentences per paragraph, which is rare). The only "drawback" is that it is up to the reader to find the spiritual guidance necessary to maintain the Question, to develop the unity of purpose needed to realize the Christian gospel (or any other wisdom teachings, for that matter). At least I have a clearer notion of what I am seeking and of what I need to make my Buddhist and Christian spiritual practices REAL.

I am definitely going to reread this book. Highly, highly recommended.

Jacob Needleman describes his pilgrimmage--mental and physical--to understand "where the beef" is in Christianity, that is, where are the practical teachings that would actually train someone to be able to "love one's enemies" and make the other tough moral choices that sound good but seem impossible. He finds his answer "by chance" in an unassuming, Eastern Orthodox priest. Needleman's development of the priest's, and a handful of others', insights into this "gnosis" is intriguing. It reads part like a good detective story and part like a deeply researched theological reflection. I found it a real page-turner, and it gave me hope for how the practice of Christianity might be revitalized to become more than just lip-service performed in a weekly ritual.

This book is a must read for people of any faith (or no faith, for that matter). Having read other books by this author, and having learned much from them, I decided to give it a read. Granted, there was some skepticism ("Another book on 'lost' Christianity?"). These reservations ceased within a few pages. This book changed everything I've ever thought about the Christian faith (and I've read many of the "classics" on Christian esotericism).

Jacob Needleman presents this book in two parts: part one, entitled "Three Christians" is devoted to examining the ideas of an Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and one other Christian. Part two is "The Lost Doctrine of the Soul" and covers many diverse areas of "intermediate Christianity".

There are not many books which have moved and led me to re-think everything I thought I "knew" about Christianity as this one by Jacob Needleman. Very highly recommended!

I have to give some personal background to situate myself. I am a Hare Krishna devotee exploring Christianity again. This book was valuable because of its orientation. It is focused simultaneously on Needleman's personal journey to find the answers to some key questions about Christianity, and the development of a practical orientation which, I firmly believe, the reader will take away, never forget, and use. Among the fascinating people one meets are an Eastern Orthodox cleric, a mysterious Christian monk evidently from Egypt, and a Western Catholic priest - each of whom is onto something no one else seems to be. No superficial book this; for people who are serious and uncompromising in their quest for spiritual development on an ongoing basis. Practical, private, powerful; not doctrine. Engrossing. Turned it around and began it again; ordered several copies for friends.

Needleman's praiseworthy investigation is, in some ways a contemporizing of the language of Gurdjieff's writings and teachings from the 3rd and 4th decades of the last century. Needleman's search arose in the late 60s as the spiritual search of youth consciousness trended towards Eastern religious practices. He questioned what was failing with the Christian practices that the East promised to fill. His mouthpiece for bringing Gurdjieffan perceptions closer to our times is an English monk, Father Sylvan, steeped in theology from all walks and attuned to a kaleidiscope of practices for 'soul formation' alien to status quo religion. Needleman disclaims Sylvan as his literary invention. Whether he is or not, it's his questions that drive the book. The concluding chapter,'The Lost religion of Love' is a 'pearler', whether you are a Christian or not(I don't claim as much).J G Bennett, in his voluminous publications and study groups, also set about transmitting Gurdjief's perceptions about'inner Christianity' and his writings and exercises are more expansive about energies and the 'two steams' of attention and dispersal. It's curious, given the commonality of their aims and Bennett's prodigious efforts, that he goes unmentioned in this book. Commentary on the writings of the Desert Fathers, on The Cloud of Unknowing, Loyola, Eckhart, Thomas Merton and others are offered in this thought arousing survey whose message of neighbourly love has lost none of its essential poignancy.

The Lost Key has proven to be well worth the wait. Like the Harry Potter books, Dewey's books just keep getting better and better. This book is a must read for all seekers. The key that is revealed is a major surprise, as the word sometimes carries a negative meaning. But JJ explains in very clear and vivid words why and how this key is crucial to our spiritual development, and why it is NOT negative. Truths are presented within such an exciting storyline, it is difficult to put it down. Buy it!! You will not be disappointed.

Note: Please see my review off JJ Deweys first book (Immortal I & II).

I also recommend that you read The Immortal I & II (one book) first before reading The Lost Key of the Buddha.

Final recommendation: Purchase both and read the Immortal I & II first! (grin), as Book 4 is in the process of being written!

All the foregoing recommendations aside, The Lost Key of the Buddha (Book 3) is no less full of the drama, intrique and knowledge than JJ Dewey's The Immortal I & II. It is both a continuation of the story, the quest, *and* the continued offering of additional "keys of knowledge" which can be practically and reasonably applied to a variety of situations encountered on a day-to-day basis.

It is simply more light shed along the path. So, if you are looking for more light to be shed on you as you journey along your path, then I suspect that you'll find The Lost Key of the Buddha a necessary source of that light.

This 3rd book in the Immortal Series is in a word, wonderful. It was recently given to me as a Christmas gift, as I have read the first 2 books. I am still quite new on the path of spiritual learning, and the concepts and ideas concerning the Middle Way are eye opening and make complete sense for life in today's world. Before these books I was pretty much in a spiritual void, but this book has changed that for good. The teachings presented here are profound and yet easily understood. I understand there are to be 12 books in this series...if the first 3 are any indication of what's to come, we are in for something very special indeed!

The author has a way of griping your attention through the ancient teachings of the Buddha all wrapped up in a wonderful story. While you follow the characters you are not only learning new teachings but also uncovering new truths of old teachings. Beyond expectations.

In a similar fashion of his earlier Books I&II of The Immortal series, author J.J. Dewey continues this "fictional" story of characters Joseph and Elizabeth's search for truth through the discovery and understanding of the Keys of Knowledge. As a testament to Mr. Dewey's great writing style and skills, a reader is easily left wondering whether this story could actually be non-fiction. Hmmm...I know I have!

Well, fictional or not (...and no need to get caught up in that aspect of it), what I found VERY REAL is that The Lost Key of the Buddha is a truly wonderful book that artfully brings together key Eastern (Buddhaic) and Western (Christian) thought, simply and beautifully. Have you ever wondered if the Buddha taught salvation, or if Jesus taught about Nirvana? In this Aquarian Age - the age of Disclosure, Awareness, and Understanding - this book lights the way like no other in a manner that anyone can easily understand. It's messages and teachings are timely, powerful, practical, and applicable truths for enriching the joy and happiness in our daily lives.

The bonus is that all this is wrapped by an engaging and entertaining story that's pretty hard to put down once started. Thank you J.J. Dewey for The Lost Key. I've recommended this to all my friends, and greatly look forward to your future installments of this series.

This is a unique work! Very insightful and easy to read. I was blessed tremendously by this book and it helped me move on from an unhealthy relationship. Your loved ones always want you to 'get over him (or her)' but it's not always that easy! Love hangover offers great and easy to remember (and apply) hints! Thanks to both the authors for such a helpful book!

I thoroughly enjoyed "Love Hangover." I highly recommend this book not only to those who have experienced a tumultuous break up, but also to Christian singles who are looking to venture down relationship lane. Although I was not going through a bad break up, I was able to relate to many of the feelings, situations, and dilemmas expressed by the authors. "Love Hangover" offers insightful scriptures geared towards opening the readers eyes to qualities and characteristics that should be evident in a healthy Christian relationship. In addition, the "medical perspective" offered by Dr. Hawkins was an excellent enhancement to this well written book. Kudos to both Shewanda and Germaine for providing me with a resource that I will most definitely reference in the future as a check point to confirm that my relationship building blocks are in order!!

"Love Hangover" has many helpful suggestions for those who are suffering from heartache. It is a well-written book that is delightful to read. I especially appreciate the Christian perspective which grounds the material in righteousness. As a fellow physician, I value the analytic perspective offered by the authors.

Love Hangover is a must read by every single person that has experienced or is experiencing a break-up. Shewanda Riley and Germaine Hawkins explains in detail the steps that are needed to "Get Over" that lost loved one. The steps are realistic and practical, such as recognizing signs of suffering and tips for recovery. Adding substance, Shewanda creatively uses Bible verses to accentuate the book's mission. Love Hangover will appeal to the individual who is looking to mend a broken heart as well as the devot Christian who believes that God will supply all of their needs.

I have been through a lot of things in my relationship and this book really help me understand WHY!! That question is asked a lot when you have been lied to or cheated on and you just want to know WHY me! This book really help me relate back to my bible and help with my feelings. I have come to realize that sometime you have to let go and put God first and he will work things out for you. It take two people in the relationship to really try to work things out and keep God first!

This love story of eternal beauty guides us in the natural evolution of our loving relationships. We are encouraged to consider the boundless possibilities of 'love' and 'relationship'. With that comes the profound responsibility to recognize how vastly important each individual is in the grand scheme of life. The combination of the scholarly and spiritual delving in this story is such a workout that I would suggest reading the book once for the love story, and again and again for an ever-deepening exploration of our relationship to one another, to the earth, and to whatever lies beyond. Of paramount importance we must learn to listen and open our hearts. Cynthia Bourgeault offers a way to follow this simple yet challenging path.

I happen to have known the author very well for several years. She is audacious in nature, and her spirituallity is mixed with great ambition. A careful look at her personal past, her three marriages, and intense desire for spiritual recognition all suggest care should be taken.

Essentially a powerfully moving love story of two aging individuals, Love Is Stronger Than Death: The Mystical Union Of Two Souls by resident teacher for the Contemplative Society and spiritual retreat authority Rev. Cynthia Bourgeault, is drawn from the life and experiences of Brother Raphael (Rafe) Robin, an Episcopalian priest, author and a Trappist hermit. The ability of human and spiritual love to transcend death and open the way to joyous bliss is superbly presented in this highly recommended and heartwarming tale of building an emotional, personal, and loving relationship for the future that transcends all earthly limitations.

There are few books to compare with this one. The nature of death and the power of love are explored from so many directions that, in the end, we are given a spiritual guide through life and beyond. Ms. Bourgeault shows us that we do not need to be limited by the generally accepted truths of the major spiritual traditions, nor by those of various esoteric teachings. Her personal experience speaks in every word so that, instead of an abstract treatise on inner work, we are shown a road map marked out by someone who has been there. This is the perfect book for anyone who has recently lost a life partner. It is also the perfect book for anyone who has just found a life partner.

Who could resist reading this book after seeing that awesome subtitle of "The Mystical Union of Two Souls?" Especially when it is told from a perspective of such compelling Theology as this intimacy of love between two persons! From the beginning of the "Preface to the Second Edition" by Cynthia Bourgeault and the Introduction by David Steindl-Rast, OSB, I became aware of her depth of this "Mystical Union of Two Souls!"

Nothing said by friends who recommended and loaned me their book even slightly prepared me for the powerful building blocks of this book! It kept me leaping from one level to another, almost as thrilling as shooting the rapids or going from low altitudes in a Jet Fighter Plane up to 35,000 feet level, without getting the bends! I ran through several examples of descriptions:

Chapter 3 on the "Mystical Completion of Souls": "These building blocks come mostly from the Christian esoteric (inner) tradition-- The Fourth Way of G.I. Gurdjieff--plus Christian hermeticism coming further from Jacob Boehme. The four building blocks are: 1) The union of souls 2) The idea of second body 3) The vow, or promise 4) "The wonders."

Later in the same chapter she describes "the time of bodily life the soul has earnestly pledged itself [to another] but has not forsworn that promise." During the last few weeks of Rafe's life before his death, he began "his crash course in enhancing his second body-- primarily through practice of "true resignation!" Although she describes theirs as a Physical Love story, it is totally without maudlin, syrupy-sweet, love scenes or the usual sexuality.

My understanding was a bit illuminated from reading from both Jacob Boehme and G.I.Gurdjieff. It came again from, "the laying down of one's personal will, in order to be unconditionally present to the will of God. [Not all-together new!]

After three short chapters in "Wrestling with an Angel" she uses a profound quote from a distinguished Psychaitrist, Helen Luke, saying, "Wholeness is born of the acceptance of the conflict of human and divine in the individual psyche." Immediately, she quotes Dylan Thomas: If the principal office of "love in this life is to unbolt the dark," to release its prisoners of shame, it seems that our wedding garments in eternity are spun... Here I glimpsed her hazy picture of that second body as a spiritual body close to the description of St Paul in I Corinthians!

Cynthia stretches us into her own understanding of "The Mystical Union of Two Souls," from her deepening spiritual love for her Hermit Monk, Raphael Robin. Joyfully, Retired Chaplain Fred W Hood

I read this after I lost my father. This book was oddly comforting and beautifully written.

I am a multiracial woman who discovered her Jewish roots when her mother explained that she was Jewish and that I was named for my Jewish family from Eastern Europe as a teenager. I am now finding my way back to Judaism and my heritage and I've encountered the same hostility with African-Americans to the point I no longer associate with the local community.

Its very hard to be multiracial, black, and Jewish. But like Lester, in the end, I just had to find the courage to be myself.

I thought this book was excellent. When I saw this book in the library, I didn't even realize that he is the author of one of my favorite books-To be a slave. I picked up the book because I'm a comparative religion major and I learn best from autobiographies and memoirs-they make me feels like I'm experiancing the religion first hand. Though I was able to reinforce what I knew about Judaism with a visual picture from his words, I was even more impressed with his writing style. I usually read books that will help towards my educational goal only. But this book is a good read, just for its writing style alone. The way he describes his experiances, you get a clear understanding of what he's saying and feel like you know him and converted to Judaism yourself. After reading, I had an urge to visit a synagogue and a trappist monastery ( 2 places he beautifully describes in the book) and I will. I just finished the book today (Wed). I started the book on Friday night and with 2 kids and alot of work managed to finish it so quickly. I don't have spare time to write reviews but I felt compelled to write this one. I have respect for people who reveal themselves so candidly: those who use the pen to strip themselves of a false image. I recommend this to anyone interested in religion especially writers.

Lester explores writes a revealing and deeply personal memoir of his spiritual searching and arrival at the Jewish faith. I west extremely moved by his candor as he describes his efforts to harmonize the various facets of his identity, as well as his honesty about the pitfalls he faced on the way.

Jews believe that those who choose judaism are not converting, but comming home. Lester's work is wonderful in that it lets the reader join him on this home coming. He willingly reveals the pain and the joy of this personal awakening.

A wonderful read for anyone who struggles with faith and a great message that there can be light at the end of that tunnel.

Mr. Lester is a great writer, and has the gift of objectivity about himself and his family, which is rare. His search for the way to connect to G'd is painfully slow, but joyful in its culmination.

Everyone knows of the general legend of Joan of Arc - a young and illiterate girl hears voices from God and leads France against the invading English. "Maid of Heaven: The Story of Saint Joan of Arc", however, tells the complete and through story of a sixteen year old girl who rose up to stand against insurmountable odds. Nonfiction, but written and reads like fiction, "Maid of Heaven: The Story of Saint Joan of Arc" is expertly composed and highly recommended to world history shelves and for anyone who wants a complete understanding of this enigmatic teenage girl who was anything but.

I've read many books about France's Partron Saint, Joan of Arc, but never seen one like 'Maid of Heaven' by Ben Kennedy. It is Joan's life portrayed through beautiful poetic form. Mr. Kennedy does an amazing job of putting such a lyrical story into capitivating lyrical form. It is the kind of book that catches your attentiion, and then never lets go. Once I started, I was compelled to continue to the very end. The poetry is lovely and well versed, and the historical perspecties reflect an accurate accounting of Joan's amazing story. Most importantly, Mr. Kennedy doesn't neglect to include the spiritaul perspectives and implications in his work, and we are all the better for it. I highly recommend this lovely and most original approach to Joan's life.

An epic flash back that water my eyes. I had read several books including condemnation files but Ben compiled the historic events in a magnificent poem. I did not expect this breathtaking story.

What an incredible way to cover the life of Joan of Arc. All of the history is there and I love the clever way he incorporates some of Joan's most famous quotes into the poem. The way it is written made me feel like I had traveled back in time and was right there with Joan. I like this book so much that I donated my copy to my church library so that everyone can read it and learn more about Joan of Arc. By far the best historical book I have ever read.

Jeanne the Maid is a bold, brave and brash figure who remains true to her calling. This book is true to her. It is a poem, not a scholarly work, but Kennedy has tried to present the true story of the Maid accurately and I think he succeeds. Those who love the Maid will be delighted. Those who don't may find themselves wanting to know more after reading this fine poem.

I am still reading this book but have found it enjoyable for the most part. It is easy reading and is good food for thought. There are a few things I am not sure I totally agree with but that is just a difference of opinion, and still gives you something to think about.

Having reached the 'empty nest' stage in my life I am finding this helpful just as a reminder to constantly be aware of my marriage, and my partner as a person. As we struggle to remember the initial attraction and rebuild the fire, this book is there to gently lead me to look in the right direction.

I would recommend it to others.

I heard the author on an edition of the Focus on the Family radio show. She talked about watching her husband, who was sitting on the couch without a shirt on, hunched over and clipping his toenails..... or something like that...... and her almost-repulsed thoughts about the "big lug who sleeps next to her at night." Not such a Prince Charming moment.

Have you ever wondered just how green the grass is on the other side? Maybe you've already hopped the fence; or maybe your feet are firmly planted in your own yard. Either way, if you are a married woman, your marriage will no doubt benefit with the flip of each page of this masterpiece. Paula Friedrichsen uses her personal experience of a "too-close relationship" and the wisdom she gained from it to help the rest of us. I can't say enough about it. This book will keep you in check and give you an attitude adjustment in your marriage. You'll want to have a highlighter in one hand as you read because there are so many "WOW" nuggets that you'll want to look back on. I am so thankful to Paula for reminding me and teaching me what a Christian marriage should be and how much it needs to be FOUGHT for! If every woman could only read this book and heed the biblically-based principles, our world would be in much better shape.

I think the last paragraph in her introduction does a great job in summing up the book:

"Along with the realization of this blessing that has been right under your nose all along, joy bubbles up from a place long dormant. You are renewed, and your marriage is renewed, too. With your new lens, you'll see that even in an imperfect world, with an imperfect guy, living out an imperfect marriage--you serve a perfect God. A God who delights in making all things new... who delights in reminding you of His blessings. A God who shows you plainly that the man you always wanted is the one you already have!"

THANK YOU, Paula, for helping me to see that the grass at my house is the greenest of all!

The Man You Always Wanted Is the One You Already Have is a wonderful book that all married women should read whether they think they are already married to their Prince Charming or not. Paula Friedrichsen shares from her own personal experience in her marriage and how a relationship that started out innocently at first soon became inappropriate, almost destroying her marriage. She was given a new "heavenly perspective" for her husband after everything was brought out into the open and shares some wonderful biblical insights on how we too can begin to see our husbands with new eyes so we can keep from going down the wrong path in our own marriages.

It is wonderful how the whole book helps us appreciate and view our husbands, imperfections and all, from a "heavenly perspective" because so much of everything else we read and watch tells us differently.

In this book Paula challenges us as Christian women to rise above our emotional response, and choose to do right by our husbands, by honoring God and what he has called us to as wives. It reads like a conversation with a good friend with honest stories, insightful personal trials, scripture and well put humor.

This book will give you the tools you need to help you grow into the wife God has called you to be, which will in turn bear the fruit of a blessed, lasting and happy marriage.

Paula Friedrichsen lays it out very clearly in this book about how, as Christian wives, we should look at, honor, and better serve our husbands. Her writing is filled with such tangible honesty that I found myself walking beside her, often holding my breath, as she took me through a series of events that changed her life. Her openness to share all the intimate details brought me right into her world and her fresh sense of humor made me laugh through it all. Whether you are newly married, married thirty years, or just hoping to be a wife one day, I would recommend you read this book. Paula's insight overflows with seeds of wisdom. Take them, plant them, and then glean from the harvest for years to come.

May I Walk You Home? by Melody Rossi did so much for me in terms of being able to share the Gospel with people who are in very difficult times.
The times when people need God the most can sometimes be the hardest to share with them because they are so upset, angry or simply closed off. Not only in the cases of terminal illness is this book a Soul saver. I had a friend who was suicidal and without hope while going through a painful divorce he didn't want. By using the steps and ways I experienced in the book, I was blessed to be able to get my friend into the most important relationship in his life in the most important time. He is now saved; in this life and forever.
Thank You and God Bless You Mrs. Rossi

Melody had me from page one. Her story--her losses, moved me to tears. I also cried from joy as she cared and ministered to her loved ones. This book should be in every Christian's library. This book encourages and teaches people how to step out in faith and take a risk. I related to Melody's fear and applaud her courage to do what she was asked to do. I know if I have the opportunity to be an instrument to bring someone dying to Jesus, I'm better prepared for reading this book.

Death isn't exactly something we enjoy talking about, and we tend to put off the discussion until circumstances force us to face its reality. All too often, by then it's too late, or very nearly so. That's why, as soon as a loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, we need to get the conversation started --- and that's when a book like Melody Rossi's MAY I WALK YOU HOME? becomes an indispensable and invaluable resource.

Divided into four sections that parallel the journey from the initial diagnosis to the grief that lives on long after the patient has died, the book wastes little time and few words. Rossi chooses to plunge right in and offer immediate support and guidance to those who are reeling from the impending loss of a loved one. And she's wise in doing so. When a loved one --- or anyone in your sphere of influence --- is dying, you need help, and you need it now. Rossi packs a great deal of information and encouragement into this well-organized, 100-page volume. Caregivers should have no problem finding the help they need at the moment they need it.

The first section describes Rossi's experiences with the deaths of her parents, her stepmother and a close friend, all within a short time span, and how life came to be defined in two segments: before and after each diagnosis. That, she says, is to be expected, and trying to live from any other perspective is a form of denial. But she believes the post-diagnosis segment also can be a time of tremendous spiritual opportunity, a time when the dying --- even those who had been hostile toward faith --- are frequently open to God's activity in their lives. They experience that activity in any number of ways, with one of the most effective ways being our willingness to serve them and try to meet their very real needs.

Part two offers the tools you'll need to care for your loved one (and yourself), and here Rossi makes the journey metaphor a tangible one by describing the equipment you'll need: a roadmap to help you keep the destination in mind, proper shoes for the rugged path you'll be walking, access to GPS (God's Positioning System) for course corrections along the way, emergency information (in a chapter that includes one of the best suggestions I've seen for organizing vital data) and "traveler's assistance," guidance on creating a support team that can include friends and family, Internet groups, local chapters of disease-specific organizations such as the American Cancer Society, and --- the one nearest to my heart --- nonprofit hospice services. Like Rossi, as a hospice volunteer, the only regret I've heard caregivers utter with regard to hospice is that they didn't avail themselves of the service sooner.

The third section includes an important chapter on spiritual warfare, something too often overlooked in other books on death and dying. Those who are dying sometimes undergo such extreme personality changes that they send their caregivers packing; a normally docile patient can become hateful and belligerent, using language that would have made them blush only months earlier. (Whether or not this is a spiritual problem, if spiritual warfare is what it takes to get you through it, then I say go for it.) Chapters in this section also cover endurance, with a critically important reminder that caregiving is a choice; a look at God's covenants and how they apply to care for the dying; and the main points to consider when making funeral arrangements.

Part four covers the death itself and the grief that follows. Two of the most important topics in the book appear here: one, the spiritual topic of forgiveness, and the second, the physical signs of imminent death. The first is vital, because any lingering unforgiveness between you and your loved one robs both of you of the peace that the patient needs now and that you will need for the rest of your life. The second will help you not only to prepare for the patient's death but also to make sense of the sometimes puzzling behavior of one who is dying.

It's unlikely that you'll pick up this book and read it unless someone near to you is terminally ill. But you may want to make note of the title --- because someday, you may be in the position of caring for someone who is dying, and when that day comes, you may find that MAY I WALK YOU HOME? has become your constant companion. For those now caring for the dying, it's well worth reading --- even if death is imminent.

--- Reviewed by Marcia Ford

melody writes with such simplicity and grace. this book gives you the practical information surrounding the dying process that nobody talks about! it also gives you the emotional support and guidance that you need as you journey through a very painful and uncertain time. the are no road maps that help you traverse through the dying process. there are alot of books that teach about the birthing process but there are not alot of books that tell us how to walk through the dying process with someone and navigate our way through our own emotions surrounding the death. this book is that road map! you will find much needed information and support in the pages of this beautiful book.

Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (6/07)

"May I Walk You Home?," by Melody Rossi, is a message written from firsthand experience. Ms. Rossi experienced the loss of her mother, her stepmother and father within a twenty-eight month span. God used Ms. Rossi and their fatal illnesses to guide all three in giving their hearts to Christ. Losing someone you love always hurts, but the pain is eased when you know he or she found peace with the Lord.

Ms. Rossi was given the opportunity to serve Christ and to serve her loved ones as they went through the dying process. She took them to "doctor appointments, ran errands, and made meals. She also showed them the love of Jesus Christ through her actions, prayer, and words." "Because Jesus came to the world as a servant, it makes total sense that He would use this technique as a powerful way to reach the lost."

This book is divided into four sections; each area is divided into chapters. The first section discusses the call to serve. We never know how God will use us or when. He uses the least likely. The second section is directions to lead you in your service. Having a loved one approach death will drain you spiritually, emotionally, and physically. The third section stresses that once you have begun this journey there is no turning back. You should think very seriously before you begin, for it will make demands on you. The last section discusses the "Journey's End." Ms. Rossi shares the physical, the spiritual and emotional changes that take place when death in imminent. There is a need to mend fences; there is an emotional acceptance and a physical letting go.

"May I Walk You Home?," by Melody Rossi, is simply written and easy to understand. Death is a topic most people avoid. However, Ms. Rossi offers practical guidance wrought through her own experiences. The cover is beautifully done with a leaf-strewn path. I learned much from this book and I am glad I read it. It is rewarding to know that Ms. Rossi used the knowledge she gained from the death of several loved ones to serve the Lord and assist others. I highly recommend this book to those working with Hospice, hospitals, nursing homes and those who know someone facing a terminal illness.

Kyle Strobel is conversant with the emerging church and with the classic church. He has high regard for the greats of spiritual formation books such as Richard Foster and Dallas Willard. Since I do too, I felt quite comfortable with this book, but challenged as well.

My Church is going through this life - changing experience together. I would recommend all to see that Jesus is a way of Life and NOT just something to do.

I knew I had to read this book when I read the author's invitation at the very beginning: "This book is an invitation to transformation...It is about a willingness to change our minds, our perspectives, and our vision of life, because how we see affects who we are and who we will become." He speaks about a journey of redemption as opposed to being a Christian who's "arrived". You have to leave your assumptions and presuppositions behind as you seek to be reformed and renewed by the transforming of your mind. The author describes in-depth the informers (tools) God uses to help us on our journey, which are the Bible, the Spirit, and community. I wish I'd had this book years ago, but at least I've read it in time to disciple my 5 children to have "Jesus as a way of life".

There is no shortage of books written to or about the Christian, yet there is a distinct lack of material that is honest, grounded in the reality of the church, and easy to understand without being oversimplistic. Kyle Strobel accomplishes just that. While reading I constantly found myself stopping and saying, "yes, this is it. This is what church and the Christian life is supposed to look like." It is clear that Kyle has thought deeply about these issues, studied them and has succeeded in presenting them in a humble, honest and accessible way. Well done.

In the introduction to this book, Kyle Strobel describes himself as both a "child of evangelicalism" and a "child of the emerging church." Unlike authors who find it impossible to move forward without killing their parents, however, Strobel describes a vision for spiritual formation and church life that is faithful to the best features of both of these perspectives.

Like many emergent thinkers, Strobel is convinced (and rightly so!) that the mere transmission of information cannot bring about the sort of inner change that should characterize the followers of Jesus. He invites us to understand the Christian life as a journey, to receive Jesus as our Lord and Master, indeed, to receive him "as a way of life." As he says on page 50, discipleship is not first and foremost "a call to right understanding" but "a call to right 'becoming.'" Strobel does not, however, reduce the Christian faith to a mere subjective experience or to a program for moral change. Rather, he argues that being formed in the image of Christ is a lengthy process of "worldview re-formation," a process that requires time and commitment. Most importantly, he argues, those who would follow Jesus must remain ever open to divine deconstruction of our assumptions and attitudes. "Jesus will take us on a journey through what we really believe about him, how we really think, and how much we depend on ourselves over him" (219).

This book really challenged me to re-evaluate my own life; I plan to read it again, more slowly, over the next few months. I would heartily recommend it to anyone who is thinking seriously about what it means to follow Christ in the 21st century. Its style makes it accessible to laypersons and pastors alike.

T. W. Hunt has done a good job of combining personal experiences with Biblical references to convey the process of attaining the mind of Christ.

I titled this review Expose because I think this is just what this book does. It exposes your inner nature. This is not for the NEW Christian. It would be a bit overwhelming.

As I went through the workbook I began to learn my pattern and ways of thinking. The book urges us or suggests ways that we can began to be more Christ-minded and it breaks down through scriptures Jesus Christ's ways of thinking. The author even gave some examples of his personal life experiences. There are activites in there that you can do to help you see your thought patterns. I think it made me more aware of how I really am. It's a growing tool for a Christian's walk, I would say, which is a lifetime process. Definitely a keeper that you can hold onto and refer to from time to time to re-evaluate where you stand and sort of check yourself.

I highly recommend if you are tired of drinking milk and are ready for solid food! Even for the seasoned saints out there, it really makes you check yourself if you allow yourself to be transformed and renewed.

This is a book that you need to take time/days/weeks/months to study, hand-in-hand with the bible. The Holy Spirit will convict you on what ever sins or weeds that need to be pulled from your garden.(mind) The lists that are recommended by Hunt, are an awesome tool to really get at those sinful thoughts and wants. Pray for courage to be fully honest with your thoughts and allow the Holy Spirit to do the awesome transformation of your mind and heart- to be closer to the our Savior.

This book is at the top of my "highly recommended" reading list. But, you don't just read this book - you get lost in it. The truths that are written within this book make you stop and pause in wonder. There is much to meditate and reflect on as you take in the words. A must read!

Like other reviewers, my copy of The Mind of Christ has been highlighted so many times, the pages look like they are in technicolor. Which is appropriate for how enlightening I found this book. T. W. Hunt uses examples from the lives of real people (including himself) to illustrate the life-changing principles taught, and lived, by Jesus. It helped me unlock not just the power of prayer, but the power of actually living the life of an empowered Christian. As a man thinketh in his heart, so also shall he live. I was particularly moved by Pastor Hunt's vivid description of the betrayal, trial, death and resurrection of Christ. Throughout his book, Pastor Hunt shows that our life won't always be fun and games, that real troubles come to one and all, but that having the Mind of Christ can help us successfully come through the rough (and good) times. Thank you for a helpful, inspirational book! Blessings to you!