I've been a bookworm for as long as I can remember (yes, I literally started the addiction from picture books). Must be the smell of the pages... but more than that, I think that books are, as my friend once told me in my college days, "intellectual investments." Every book has some considerable value which goes beyond its price tag. Never mind the popular reads... but for me, there are only three types of books:
Class A- You must read this before you die! (Revolutionary.)
Class B- You should read this. (Highly recommended.)
Class C- You may read this. (Or not.)
I believe that books are indispensable, and there are some particularly memorable ones which have heavily influenced my way of thinking, mostly in my walk with the Lord. This is why I have made a list of the books which I hope that all people should read as soon as possible. So far, there are 27 titles in my list, but here, I will only be talking about nine... lest you'd want to spend a very long dinner with me to discuss each.
So! Not in order... here are my Top 9 (Class A) book selections, all published by OMF-
1. The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey-
Yancey's inquisitive nature has captured the sentiment of the world, including mine, I believe. His writings come off so genuine because he asks the raw questions that not too many believers would want to delve in. I think I was able to know more of the Lord's omnipotence AND humility by reading this book, which is a product of Yancey's personal search for God. It offers a closer (and I mean really CLOSER) look on the persona of Jesus- his godly and human attributes. If you're serious about knowing Jesus and you have (or you want to have) a personal relationship with him, then this is a very important book to read. Very heavy, but profoundly satisfying.
2. Eros Redeemed by John White-
Agape is the popular type, but in the popular culture, Eros is the mainstay. In a time when sexual liberation is becoming an accepted norm, White opens the discussion of Eros through this brilliant exposition. In this book, he boldly discusses sexual love as God's wonderful creation, and also dispels common and wrong beliefs about it. In detail, he talks about the gravity of sexual sin, and why it is indeed one of the worst sins to deal with. In a sex-crazed society, this is a much-needed read for a better perspective. I don't care if it's an old book- the issues presented within are still very much apparent in the modern day. I believe that my view of sex has improved through reading this book.
3. The Bondage Breaker by Neil Anderson-
I've read this for about 14 times, and I still think it rightly belongs to the shelves of the classics. Anderson comes up with a detailed list (yes, there is a list) of worldly elements which can be sources of bondages for people, Christian or non-Christian. Many books discuss about sin, but few contain straightforward points like the ones in this book. From this I learned that sin does not stop at just the act of sinning- there is more to it than just the "wrong" action, both in the natural and supernatural realms. Reading this more than once has deepened my understanding of strongholds, and, more importantly, of my freedom in Christ. If you want to know more about that, then this is the book to read.
4. What's So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancey-
Another self-searching book of Yancey, this attempts to explain the grace of God in a more detailed fashion. Yancey uses accounts of different people to show the transcendent power of grace and why everyone- and I mean every one of us- needs it. Having had my share of doubts regarding grace, I would gladly give this book to someone who wants to be assured of the mystery of God's finished work of salvation through Jesus. Mind-blowing (come on, it's a Yancey pick), but very sincere. I can feel the heart of "a man after God's own heart" beating through the pages.
5. I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris-
For the young ones and the young once, this proves to be a challenging read. Harris, having written this from his dating and non-dating experience, offers practical Bible-based views and solutions to honor God through a life of holiness. I had first read this when I was in high school, and I think it has substatially helped in shaping my attitude on relationships (including waiting on the Lord for my husband). I personally think that this is so controversial in the sense that the typical dater would not even think of the idea of "not dating" to meet God's destined partner. Even then, I fiercely agree with this guy. This book is full of wisdom concerning different aspects of romantic relationships and allowing God to take hold of them.
6. Love Must Be Tough by James Dobson-
I am not married, but my personal interest in the intricate workings of a godly marriage has often led me to read books about the subject. I must say that this book is the best one I've come across so far. Reading this has given me real hope that marriages can be beautiful (my parents got separated). Dobson, having been happily married for more than 50 years, draws from personal experience as he gives practical solutions for various types of conflicts in marriage. It is interesting to note that this book actually came under fire, since during the time it was published, the commonly accepted idea is that marital conflicts should be dealt with passively and silently (meaning the offended Christian partner ought to suffer quietly and just pray). Dobson disagrees with this traditional method and presents proactive and effective ways to handle such difficult matters. This is perfect for couples NOT under fire- although it can be a useful read for those who actually ARE- but this is something I'd recommend more for couples in the early stage of their relationships. Why? Early prevention is better than cure.
7. Do Hard Things by Alex and Brett Harris-
Honestly I had initially picked this up because of their association with Joshua Harris (their older brother). I had expected a Class B, self-help novel for teenagers, but it was not long before I was very much moved by the Rebelution, a movement (started by the twin brothers themselves) which dares teenagers to do more than what the contemporary society expects them to do. This is what the book is mostly about- that people should start doing hard things in their time of youth, not when they become adults. The book discusses key people who have stepped up early in their lives and successfully built their own legacies for the benefit of the world. I wish I had read this ten years ago. I had actually given my copy away to my younger cousin, as I thought that she would be empowered by such an optimistic perspective of the youth. A powerful and motivational read. Not for traditionalists.
8. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman-
Who wouldn't know Chapman? He has popularized the love languages concept for all of us. His study has immensely benefitted a lot of people in their dealings with love and relationships. In this book, he explains the various expressions of love and how to harness its powers for the enhancement of relationships. Suddenly, the cliche that everyone needs love has become clearer through this. I will always be thankful that I have read this book, since it has given me a very useful and real insight on what it means to give and receive love. Everyone who wants to understand love and how to improve relationships must read this book! Practical and handy in all interpersonal dealings.
9. Joyfully Single by Harold J. Sala-
The bookstore shelves have always been full of titles on marriage, and I think during the time when this book was published, books on the season of singlehood are a rarity. In this intriguing novel, Sala gives a refreshingly positive view of the nurturing life of a single and shouts once and for all that singlehood is not a curse- but a gift and a season to enjoy. This has given me a lot of encouragement, especially since I'm waiting on my husband in an unconventional way (that is, prayerfully waiting on the Lord, thanks to Harris' view). In the Philippine scene where being a single adult is an indication of being cursed with some serious characteristic defect, I think this is highly essential for us to keep trusting God as we continue to flourish- even as a single.
There you have it! And if I were to add two more titles, I'd say the Bible and Narnia. Bible is the Word. Narnia is a classic.
I hope to read more books! Nothing like a great read to chew on...
What about you? What's on your list?^^
Of Heroes and Hyperfans
While riding a jeepney on the way to Monumento this afternoon, I happened to notice the printed words on the back of the driver's red shirt. However faded it was, I still managed to read the words in bold format, "The Invincible Iron Man."
I smiled as I recalled the hype of Tony Stark, which had soared when his movies were shown internationally. His fame comes as of no surprise to the contemporary audience, most of whom are brought up in the days of super hero worship. I mean, who of this generation hasn't experienced playing Superman or Batman during his childhood days? We may be laughing as the memories of our pretend fighting days (complete with props and storylines) come to our minds, but it's true, right? An essential part of the role-plays we've been accustomed to is imitating the protagonists in spandex who rule primetime television. And yes, Iron Man, even without the spandex, is undeniably part of this legacy.
Heroes. The common equation they probably have is an ordinary, mundane life which transforms into the extraordinary through some special power or gift. Oh, and the popularity...
So where does this come from? I guess this concept of "hero-worship" is rooted in the basic need or tendency of humans to bow down to something, to look up to someone for hope that life is not just all that boring. (If this were not true, then Iron Man wouldn't have raked in so much renevue in the past few years.) I got this profound idea from Dr. James Kennedy's novel (What If Jesus Had Never Been Born?). This is why I personally laugh at the irony of atheism, because it goes against our very nature: our desire to worship something higher and bigger than we are.
The next question is, "Whom should we bow down to?" Sadly, many have answered this question with earthly possessions, shallow relationships, and even by their own capabilities (self-worship). And interesting enough, some have resorted to the fictional heroes, whom the advanced world has given so much value for. We probably do not notice it, as it has become part of our culture, but I believe that a society that feels more comfortable with discussing/fantasizing Iron Man than talking/meditating about God is having its priorities misplaced.
I am not saying that watching and admiring Iron Man as an entertainment figure is wrong, and there is nothing actually sinful about wearing a fan shirt, much like that of the jeepney driver's taste. But we ought to guard our minds as we reside in this temporal world. As Christians, we should not allow ourselves to get too attached to the things of this world that we lose our focus on the things of God. Yes, the many heroes that we know have their memorable one-liners, flashy costumes, and amazing superpowers, but those are only in the limits of our fantasy. In the real world, we only have The Invincible God. He is more than enough to satisfy our need for a higher power. And He alone deserves our worship.
And who says we can't be super? In the real world, we are made by God to lead extraordinary lives. We don't need costumes for that. Through Jesus, our ordinary, hapless being is transformed to a rich and meaningful existence. And to His children, God says,
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is- his good, pleasing, and perfect will."(Ro.12:2)
And because we already have our security in the Lord,
"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day." (2Cor4:16)
Beyond This Life: The Aftermath
Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere...(Ps.84:10)
One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple...(Ps.27:4)
Tonight, as I think about the wonderful events that took place on the weekend, I remember the intense joy of my encounter with the Lord through those two important days. I remember my encounter with the Lord in the baptism, in the Word, in the fellowship, and in the praise and worship sessions. I must say that yes, I have grown to know and love the Lord all the more just after 48 hours.
But now, as I am being forced to go back to my old workday routine, I sigh in frustration. Not that I have anything to complain about...the Lord has blessed me so immensely during the Victory weekend as it went way beyond my expectations. Yet here I am, wondering. I believe that superhuman moments like these are glimpses of heaven- gray-shaded, poor photocopies of what it feels like to be right there in eternity with the Lord. It may have a lot to do with the traces of spiritual high that I still got out of my God-indulgent weekend, but I find myself having an insatiable yearning for that wonderful feeling...that otherworldly experience wherein I feel free, that the world can fade away for all I care, as nothing else matters. I am wishing that everyday and every moment of my earthly existence would be filled with that mysterious joy that only the Lord can give. This strange desire now makes me realize more deeply that all of humanity is indeed made for a cosmic plan beyond our popular concept of a lifetime. *sigh* Truly, we are built for a realm beyond this old place we call our home planet.
Now I understand why David the Psalmist sang such lines during his earthly existence. Even though he lived as a powerful, anointed king of Israel, he had such a wise view of eternity that no amount of gold or number of women could obstruct his view of God's greatness. He knew because he focused and meditated of God's promises. He understood because he performed in faith.
I believe that, since I still need to work in advancing God's kingdom, I have yet to meet the Lord face to face. I won't be getting my heavenly wish soon. In time, I will- but not now. I just pray that I will always have that faith...that one day, yes, one day I will be there with God in heaven. I will experience the fullness of that otherworldly pleasure of being with him. *sigh* For now, I have to go with God's will and enjoy what great gifts (learnings, relationships, challenges) he has for me. I want to know and love God more while I'm still on earth...for the meantime.
(Honestly, I still have that dismal feeling...it almost brings me to tears...what a sad thing that such intense experiences are intermittent here on earth. But yes, it's time to go back and focus on the urgent tasks at hand...and yes, meditate on the Word and obey...which is nevertheless delightful...) ^^
One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple...(Ps.27:4)
Tonight, as I think about the wonderful events that took place on the weekend, I remember the intense joy of my encounter with the Lord through those two important days. I remember my encounter with the Lord in the baptism, in the Word, in the fellowship, and in the praise and worship sessions. I must say that yes, I have grown to know and love the Lord all the more just after 48 hours.
But now, as I am being forced to go back to my old workday routine, I sigh in frustration. Not that I have anything to complain about...the Lord has blessed me so immensely during the Victory weekend as it went way beyond my expectations. Yet here I am, wondering. I believe that superhuman moments like these are glimpses of heaven- gray-shaded, poor photocopies of what it feels like to be right there in eternity with the Lord. It may have a lot to do with the traces of spiritual high that I still got out of my God-indulgent weekend, but I find myself having an insatiable yearning for that wonderful feeling...that otherworldly experience wherein I feel free, that the world can fade away for all I care, as nothing else matters. I am wishing that everyday and every moment of my earthly existence would be filled with that mysterious joy that only the Lord can give. This strange desire now makes me realize more deeply that all of humanity is indeed made for a cosmic plan beyond our popular concept of a lifetime. *sigh* Truly, we are built for a realm beyond this old place we call our home planet.
Now I understand why David the Psalmist sang such lines during his earthly existence. Even though he lived as a powerful, anointed king of Israel, he had such a wise view of eternity that no amount of gold or number of women could obstruct his view of God's greatness. He knew because he focused and meditated of God's promises. He understood because he performed in faith.
I believe that, since I still need to work in advancing God's kingdom, I have yet to meet the Lord face to face. I won't be getting my heavenly wish soon. In time, I will- but not now. I just pray that I will always have that faith...that one day, yes, one day I will be there with God in heaven. I will experience the fullness of that otherworldly pleasure of being with him. *sigh* For now, I have to go with God's will and enjoy what great gifts (learnings, relationships, challenges) he has for me. I want to know and love God more while I'm still on earth...for the meantime.
(Honestly, I still have that dismal feeling...it almost brings me to tears...what a sad thing that such intense experiences are intermittent here on earth. But yes, it's time to go back and focus on the urgent tasks at hand...and yes, meditate on the Word and obey...which is nevertheless delightful...) ^^
Realization, Anticipation
I realize that I am so blessed with a bunch of Christians who support me in my decisions and who are there to encourage me. Through these fellows I realize more than ever that I am truly drenched in God's grace. Thank you Lord for the undeserved grace. I'd literally be dead without you. *swoon*
I do feel funny while anticipating the weekend. Perhaps this is more or less how excited a groom or bride feels before the wedding. I wouldn't know well... I just know I'll be experiencing another one of God's surprises through this upcoming b day.
I also realize that it's humbling that I am privileged to experience baptism, just like Jesus when he was still traveling on foot. I believe that's the strongest argument for baptism. If Christ willfully submitted himself to it, what makes me think I should refuse it?! I now realize how unwise that sounds... well, because now I know better. Thank you Lord.
Now I just have to follow the Lord's example.^^
Excited and nervous. Hm. Lord, reign in me!
I do feel funny while anticipating the weekend. Perhaps this is more or less how excited a groom or bride feels before the wedding. I wouldn't know well... I just know I'll be experiencing another one of God's surprises through this upcoming b day.
I also realize that it's humbling that I am privileged to experience baptism, just like Jesus when he was still traveling on foot. I believe that's the strongest argument for baptism. If Christ willfully submitted himself to it, what makes me think I should refuse it?! I now realize how unwise that sounds... well, because now I know better. Thank you Lord.
Now I just have to follow the Lord's example.^^
Excited and nervous. Hm. Lord, reign in me!
The WOW (walk on water) Experience
For the past nights my reading has been about the time when Jesus walked on the water (Jn 6:16-24). A few elements came to my mind while I was meditating on this:
First of all, it was a dark night when it happened.(v.16-17)
This does not seem a lot, but remember that at that time, there were no light houses and coast guards to ensure safety among the water travelers. The danger was apparent, even with a portable gas lamp.
Second, Jesus had not joined them when they set off across the lake.(v.17)
This was one of those times when they felt that they did not have Jesus with them. Their leader was absent. For a bunch of slow-witted disciples, this might have caused them a bit of stress.
Third, there was a storm.(v.18)
Physical absence of the leader plus darkness plus rough weather in the middle of the lake equals a lot of stress for the disciples.
I believe that there will be times when God will be silent. Those times may involve a lot of problems and difficulties. We may be left to feel like we are stranded helplessly on a small boat in the middle of an unstable lake. But as sure as the Lord provides and guides his children, he presents these instances to allow us to practice obedience, allow for a leap of faith, or in this context... a walk-on-the-water experience. And as the disciples had acted in terror when they saw Jesus, we will occasionally find ourselves face-to-face with the unexpected. But in the midst of all the raging waves of dilemma, we can reach new heights in faith and love for our great Father in heaven who works everything in accordance to the purpose of his will.
First of all, it was a dark night when it happened.(v.16-17)
This does not seem a lot, but remember that at that time, there were no light houses and coast guards to ensure safety among the water travelers. The danger was apparent, even with a portable gas lamp.
Second, Jesus had not joined them when they set off across the lake.(v.17)
This was one of those times when they felt that they did not have Jesus with them. Their leader was absent. For a bunch of slow-witted disciples, this might have caused them a bit of stress.
Third, there was a storm.(v.18)
Physical absence of the leader plus darkness plus rough weather in the middle of the lake equals a lot of stress for the disciples.
I believe that there will be times when God will be silent. Those times may involve a lot of problems and difficulties. We may be left to feel like we are stranded helplessly on a small boat in the middle of an unstable lake. But as sure as the Lord provides and guides his children, he presents these instances to allow us to practice obedience, allow for a leap of faith, or in this context... a walk-on-the-water experience. And as the disciples had acted in terror when they saw Jesus, we will occasionally find ourselves face-to-face with the unexpected. But in the midst of all the raging waves of dilemma, we can reach new heights in faith and love for our great Father in heaven who works everything in accordance to the purpose of his will.
To B or not to B...that is...not the question
Today I received my food rations for thought. I think it's consuming me...again, this mental torment is not a new case. But the menu is always fresh and foreign to my brain cells... way to go, Lord...
So! Why do I need to baptized? What is the significance of being immersed in pool water on some church-appointed day?
Truthfully, this is new terrain for me. I did say that to my dear mentor who taught me about it. Knowing that I know not much about the subject, I keep myself from formulating my certain opinion regarding this. Several have told me that it's only in the experience that anyone would ever truly understand it. Probably much like marriage. Or temptation. Or Shakey's Hawaiian thin crust pizza, which I just consumed four slices of prior to typing this. Hehe.
Kidding aside, I now ask: Why do Christians need Baptism? Why do I need to submit myself to Baptism? How does this differ from the Catholic rite of Baptism?
Comparably, the Roman Catholic baptism is given to infants, or as soon as possible, and there is a prescribed formula verbalized while water is being poured on the head of the one being baptized. The Christian baptism comes by decision, which is very much emphasized (at least that's how I understand it).
After asking around, I came up with this view:
Baptism is NOT a prerequisite to salvation- meaning that even though a person does not have it, he or she will still be saved by grace through faith in the Lord. It is more of an outward manifestation of one's personal faith in the Lord.
Baptism may well be compared to a wedding. The marriage of the two people (with God of course) is the main thing. But most couples opt to have a wedding ceremony, right? Why? Not because they need it to secure their marriage. The wedding is more of a celebration, which is a way of proclaiming to everyone that they are accepting one another in the holy work that God has called them to. Even without the wedding, they are finely married. But the wedding is a good opportunity to glorify God.
Anyway, I just say these out of knowledge. After about twelve days, I will finally understand by experience. For the meantime, God has granted me the excitement and anticipation that I need to look forward to it... accept this not as a necessary ritual, but as a celebration of faith in the Lord, who saves.
So! Why do I need to baptized? What is the significance of being immersed in pool water on some church-appointed day?
Truthfully, this is new terrain for me. I did say that to my dear mentor who taught me about it. Knowing that I know not much about the subject, I keep myself from formulating my certain opinion regarding this. Several have told me that it's only in the experience that anyone would ever truly understand it. Probably much like marriage. Or temptation. Or Shakey's Hawaiian thin crust pizza, which I just consumed four slices of prior to typing this. Hehe.
Kidding aside, I now ask: Why do Christians need Baptism? Why do I need to submit myself to Baptism? How does this differ from the Catholic rite of Baptism?
Comparably, the Roman Catholic baptism is given to infants, or as soon as possible, and there is a prescribed formula verbalized while water is being poured on the head of the one being baptized. The Christian baptism comes by decision, which is very much emphasized (at least that's how I understand it).
After asking around, I came up with this view:
Baptism is NOT a prerequisite to salvation- meaning that even though a person does not have it, he or she will still be saved by grace through faith in the Lord. It is more of an outward manifestation of one's personal faith in the Lord.
Baptism may well be compared to a wedding. The marriage of the two people (with God of course) is the main thing. But most couples opt to have a wedding ceremony, right? Why? Not because they need it to secure their marriage. The wedding is more of a celebration, which is a way of proclaiming to everyone that they are accepting one another in the holy work that God has called them to. Even without the wedding, they are finely married. But the wedding is a good opportunity to glorify God.
Anyway, I just say these out of knowledge. After about twelve days, I will finally understand by experience. For the meantime, God has granted me the excitement and anticipation that I need to look forward to it... accept this not as a necessary ritual, but as a celebration of faith in the Lord, who saves.
Proof
Just recently, a girl asked me how I got the unwavering trust in God. So I wondered there for a moment, "How do you get to that point wherein your trust in God is the surest thing there is for you?"
In my logician mind I pondered before answering. The girl who was asking me was a new believer. Should I shoot Biblical statements regarding Christian salvation? Should I answer from the doctrine?
There are many possible ways to answer this sudden question, but here's what I gave her so far:
If you're looking for a definitive proof of God's existence, then there is none. But I can tell you that there are moments when I sit back and think about my life. From the time when I had received the Lord to the recent times, I must say that I am truly better off...much better than before, than the last year, than the last month... I love God more oday than yesterday. Had God not been here, then I would not have lived this long.
She asked me, "Are you happy?"
Yes! Of course life is not perfect and there are problems. But the problems do not matter so much when I know God is taking care of me. I may even create the problems but as long as I am surrendering them all honestly to God, then I am growing. And I am all the more free and happy. And at peace. :)
"You really must have some self-control..."
I cannot ever be strong all by myself. It's all about God.
I realize that no matter how hard we search for irrefutable proof of God's existence, we may never find any, unless of course we look all around and connect the natural world to the supernatural world...and realize that this is all God's order of things.
And because we have no absolute proof for human perspective/logic, then all we have, is, humbly...our life testimony. For me, this is overly humbling, being chosen by God to represent...to be his ambassadors to unbelievers. It is an extraordinary mission to be sent by the Lord to continue what he has started. *sigh*
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