Currently Reading...

I like to read. I have always enjoyed reading. In fact, I have always enjoyed reading almost anything. There are always about 3-5 books that I am making my way through. Do you remember having to do book reports in grade school? I never did understand those at the time. Interestingly enough, they may have been one of the best preparations I had going into graduate school. It sure does seem that higher one goes up the tier of education, the more one must educate oneself. This is where not only reading, but being able to analyze and synthesize what you read comes in handy. Therefore, hats off to you, 6th grade book report. You were invaluable.

I recently finished a very interesting book titled "By His Grace and For His Glory: An Historical, Theological, and Practical Study of the Doctrines of Grace in Baptist Life" by Nettles. While the thrust of the book dealt with the influence of Calvinistic teaching in the Southern Baptist Convention, the book also had great sections dealing with Baptists in general in an historical sense. I came away with a greater appreciation of my Baptist heritage. I also came away with a greater understanding, and appreciation, for Calvinistic thought. While I still am struggling with the whole issue of "Limited" or "Direct" Atonement, I would definitely classify myself as a staunch 4-point Calvinist at the conclusion of this book. I won't venture any further on this subject at this time. There are entire communities of blogs devoted solely to the critique or defense of Calvinism, and I have neither the time nor the wisdom to begin down that path in this posting.

I am about halfway through an interesting book on chronicling the globalization factor in our times. "The World is Flat" by Friedman, details the many factors that have come together in recent years to "flatten" the playing field between developed countries and much of the rest of the world. Friedman discusses technological innovations, business models, economic models, international trade issues, and Wal-Mart. At first glance, a book on these subjects might seem to be latest cure for insomnia, but Mr. Friedman quickly gets your attention and keeps it. He has a knack for taking these highly complex issues and making sense of them in a way that the average guy, like me, can understand. I am currently beginning a section of the book in which he discusses the changes that will need to occur in the way we educate in this country if we want to stay ahead of the game. If you think that the trend of outsourcing jobs overseas is an important issue you need to read this book. It will give you a new perspective to consider on this and many other issues that not only affect the U.S. economy but also the economy of your family.

For pleasure, I am beginning to read through the Chronicles of Narnia again. For this I must thank my wife. She brought Lewis' classic series home one day recently and I couldn't resist. I know that I must frustrate her because I am constantly stealing her book. I haven't read this series since I was about 13 or 14, and I am thoroughly enjoying the read. I might even get through Prince Caspian before the movie comes out later this year.

Finally, I am about to start a very small book titled, "The Cross Centered Life." I will keep you posted.