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Thursday, June 23, 2011

Jesus, My Father, The CIA and Me A memoir of sorts by Ian Morgan Cron

How I can relate to the author's experience of his early church memories and his father. The author recounts his life from early childhood to adulthood, married with children of his own. Very open and honest, the author describes deep feelings of not belonging and wanting to fit in with his peers. The stunts he pulled to try to accomplish this. Moreover, the author details his relationship with his father as he grew up. It was not a good relationship and the author is brutally honest. I won't spoil it, but anyone who grew up in an alcoholic home can easily relate. I won't even hint at where the CIA comes in - you must read this passionate book.

The author doesn't pull any punches, either, as he describes the self-destructive ways he used to try to cope with his heartbreaking relationship with his father. The author honestly reveals his journey from childhood to adulthood and includes the good and the bad. More imoortantly, the author demonstrates how he regained his lost belief in Jesus.

I highly recommend this book to anyone, especially anyone who grew up in alcoholism. It's truly a great read. The author uses a lot of humor, which compelled my interest.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Third Day Make Your Move Concert

I attended the May 5, 2011 Louisville, KY concert. Opening act, Tenth Avenue, was very good. I was impressed as they performed very well. No comparison, however, to the Third Day concert. Yes, I am a bit biased, being a huge Third Day fan - even a Gomer! Third Day sung a great selection of songs while focusing on their current release, "Move". I recommend a Third Day concert for everyone - it's simply the best! I also believe it would be a great opportunity to take non-Christian friends to witness and have a great time! I've seen Third Day five or six times and I have never been disappointed. Third Day truly puts on an outstanding concert! Love Mac Powell's moments of prayer - really feel even more connected to God! Out of five stars, Third Day Concerts rate ten stars!

Check out Thirdday.com for free live concert streaming! Still it doesn't quite compare to the experience of actually being at a Third Day concert!

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Growing Up Amish, A memoir, by Ira Wagler

Have you ever wondered what Amish life is like? Have you ever wondered if Amish teenagers ever rebel? Can an Amish person leave the Amish life, and if so, what are the consequences? All of this and more is answered as Ira Wagler recounts his life story - growing up Amish.

Wagler's story is moving as he starts from early childhood and continues into his teenage years as he struggled, rebelled and left the Amish only to return a number of times. It's story of finding one's place in the world and the assurance of salvation in Jesus Christ. Wagler details his stuggles being torn between the world and the Amish belief that you must be Amish or you will be condemned to eternal hell.

It took Wagler ten years to find the peace he was so desperately searching for, while feeling "Confused. Half-scared. Trapped. Resigned. And, deep down desperately lost." Wagler recounts his decision to become a member of the Amish church; his regret; his excommunication; and his decision to return to the Amish church and have his excommunication lifted. Wagler discusses how his actions affected his family as well as the hardships he faced the times he left his family and the Amish. Yet, would Wagler remain Amish? You must read this book and find out. It is a great read and I highly recommend it. Every young person struggles with what road to take and their future. This memoir emphasizes such struggles in a unique way as Wagler struggles with being Amish. I highly recommend this book to everyone, especially young people.

Tyndale House Publishers sent me a complimentary copy of this book for me to review. This in no way influenced my review.