Christian life
A selection of titles for your Living Faith.
{"id":14698629235068,"title":"Creative Ways to Tell a Bible Story: Techniques and tools for exploring the Bible with children and families","handle":"creative-ways-to-tell-a-bible-story-techniques-and-tools-for-exploring-the-bible-with-children-and-families-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis resource offers a treasure trove of ideas for opening up a Bible story (the way in), telling the story (the way through) and exploring the meaning of the story (the way out), including suggestions for reflecting on how to apply the story to our lives today. Also included are over 30 key words and phrases providing ways in which connecting threads might be explored, and a suggested yearʼs programme using the Bible stories explored in the book. A comprehensive index makes it easy to find material for a particular childrenʼs session, special event, workshop or all-age church service.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/MartynPayne-720_480x480.jpg?v=1676494572\" width=\"306\" height=\"306\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFormerly part of BRFʼs Barnabas Childrenʼs Ministry and Messy Church teams, Martyn Payne has a background in teaching, Bible storytelling and leading all-age worship, and is passionate about the blessing that comes when generations explore faith together. Currently pastor of a church in Essex, heʼs still telling stories!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis other books include \u003cem\u003eA-cross the World\u003c\/em\u003e (2004), \u003cem\u003eFootsteps to the Feast\u003c\/em\u003e (2007), \u003cem\u003eWhere in the World?\u003c\/em\u003e (2012), \u003cem\u003eThe Big Story\u003c\/em\u003e (2011) and \u003cem\u003eThe Barnabas Family Bible\u003c\/em\u003e (2014).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2023. Review by Rosie Medhurst\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI delayed reviewing this book because I used it all summer for holiday club and other activities. This is a resource for three stages in sharing a Bible story: the ‘way in’, whetting the appetite for the main elements; the ‘way through’, different ways of telling the story; and the ‘way out’, exploring and reflecting on the story. There are many drama games, ways to use props, and ways to use art , all with examples linked to Bible stories. Even if you already love using Godly Play or drama, you will find lots of excellent new ideas. Above all the practical ideas are in a framework: don’t just read a story – ponder first and then tell it. Use open-ended questions, and don’t rush in with an explanation – Jesus usually didn’t. The introduction celebrates the way the biblical authors ‘were…gifted to see greater truths than they could have imagined on their own’, and this book points us to inspired story-sharing with children and families. Why not adult small groups too?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rose Medhurst\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T12:52:16+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T12:51:05+00:00","vendor":"Martyn Payne","type":"eBook","tags":["Bibles","Centenary Classics","Centenary Collection","Children and family ministry","For children","Glassboxx","Jun-22"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602799452540,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800391550","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Creative Ways to Tell a Bible Story: Techniques and tools for exploring the Bible with children and families - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":140,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391550","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/168.png?v=1730134880","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/169.png?v=1730134937"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/168.png?v=1730134880","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923495080316,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/168.png?v=1730134880"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/168.png?v=1730134880","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923499700604,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/169.png?v=1730134937"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/169.png?v=1730134937","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis resource offers a treasure trove of ideas for opening up a Bible story (the way in), telling the story (the way through) and exploring the meaning of the story (the way out), including suggestions for reflecting on how to apply the story to our lives today. Also included are over 30 key words and phrases providing ways in which connecting threads might be explored, and a suggested yearʼs programme using the Bible stories explored in the book. A comprehensive index makes it easy to find material for a particular childrenʼs session, special event, workshop or all-age church service.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/MartynPayne-720_480x480.jpg?v=1676494572\" width=\"306\" height=\"306\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFormerly part of BRFʼs Barnabas Childrenʼs Ministry and Messy Church teams, Martyn Payne has a background in teaching, Bible storytelling and leading all-age worship, and is passionate about the blessing that comes when generations explore faith together. Currently pastor of a church in Essex, heʼs still telling stories!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis other books include \u003cem\u003eA-cross the World\u003c\/em\u003e (2004), \u003cem\u003eFootsteps to the Feast\u003c\/em\u003e (2007), \u003cem\u003eWhere in the World?\u003c\/em\u003e (2012), \u003cem\u003eThe Big Story\u003c\/em\u003e (2011) and \u003cem\u003eThe Barnabas Family Bible\u003c\/em\u003e (2014).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2023. Review by Rosie Medhurst\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI delayed reviewing this book because I used it all summer for holiday club and other activities. This is a resource for three stages in sharing a Bible story: the ‘way in’, whetting the appetite for the main elements; the ‘way through’, different ways of telling the story; and the ‘way out’, exploring and reflecting on the story. There are many drama games, ways to use props, and ways to use art , all with examples linked to Bible stories. Even if you already love using Godly Play or drama, you will find lots of excellent new ideas. Above all the practical ideas are in a framework: don’t just read a story – ponder first and then tell it. Use open-ended questions, and don’t rush in with an explanation – Jesus usually didn’t. The introduction celebrates the way the biblical authors ‘were…gifted to see greater truths than they could have imagined on their own’, and this book points us to inspired story-sharing with children and families. Why not adult small groups too?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rose Medhurst\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Creative Ways to Tell a Bible Story: Techniques and tools for exploring the Bible with children and families
£9.99
Digital eBook Only - This resource offers a treasure trove of ideas for opening up a Bible story (the way...
{"id":14698637623676,"title":"The BRF Book of 365 Bible Reflections: with contributions from BRF authors, supporters and well-wishers","handle":"the-brf-book-of-365-bible-reflections-with-contributions-from-brf-authors-supporters-and-well-wishers-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Bible is at the heart of BRF’s work, and this special anniversary collection is a celebration of the Bible for BRF’s centenary year. Bringing together a fantastically wide-ranging writing team of authors, supporters and well-wishers from all areas of BRF’s work, this resource is designed to help us go deeper into the story of the Bible and reflect on how we can share it in our everyday lives.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIncluding sections which lead us through the Bible narrative as well as thematic and seasonal sections, it is the perfect daily companion to resource your spiritual journey.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eContributors include: Ian Adams, John Bell, Inderjit Bhogal, Amy Boucher Pye, Stephen Cottrell, Steven Croft, Mark Greene, Isabelle Hamley, Bob Hartman, Bev Jullien, Krish Kandiah, Paul Kerensa, Ann Lewin, Bex Lewis, Chine McDonald, Lucy Moore, Rob Parsons, John Pritchard, Jennifer Rees Larcombe, Pam Rhodes, Margaret Silf, Jo Swinney, Stephen Timms, Graham Tomlin and Justin Welby.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry (digital version May 2022). Reviewed by David Sellick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eThe year 2022 celebrates the centenary of BRF’s famous notes encouraging Bible reading and supporting faith. The 365 reflections are grouped into five sections; Seeing God in the Bible, Journeying through the Bible, Journeying through the Christian year, Together through the generations, and How should we live? Only the ‘Christian Year’ section is chronologically tied; the other sections can be dipped into individually; this is facilitated by a page ‘Index of Bible references’ at the end of the book; Readers could use this to take them to a page where the Bible passage that had stimulated the writer’s ‘reflection’ is printed matches the passage that is part of a reading set for the day on which the Reader is due to preach. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe editors selected single ‘reflections’ from the invited writers – many of great eminence – so ‘the result is a glorious range of different perspectives on God’s word’. The Bible extracts are from every book in the Bible, and come from 17 different Bible translations. Some reflections are personal, some are moving, many are challenging and thought provoking; the compilation can be used as a resource or simply read as an illustration of how just a couple of Bible verses can stimulate such a wide range profound insights into faith and practice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by David Sellick \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Canon John Twisleton, December 2021\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA hundred years ago in January 2022 Revd Leslie Mannering of St Matthew’s Brixton circulated his first monthly leaflet of bible readings with commentaries ‘for the purpose of deepening the life of Prayer, Bible-reading and Holy Communion in each one of us’. So began what became the world-wide movement we know as BRF, the Bible Reading Fellowship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Centenary is being launched with publication of 365 bible reflections written by different contributors, including myself, geared to energise searching of scripture and submission of lives to the Word of God. As Sally Welch writes, ‘we are not a people of a book… we are children of God… we follow a person, not a page; the Word, not words’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe genius of BRF is its steering away from both biblical literalism and renegotiation of scripture to fit in with contemporary thinking. \u003cem\u003eThe BRF book of 365 Bible Reflections\u003c\/em\u003e is a series of windows to be opened daily providing ‘light to our paths’ (Psalm 119:105).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe variety of readings and contributors are structured around celebrating the transformative power of scripture and ‘BRF’s long history of coming alongside people at all stages of faith, encouraging Bible reading and everyday faith since 1922’. A third of the commentaries are constituted from daily readings journeying through Old and New Testament without Apocrypha. Another third journeys through the Christian year from Advent to Pentecost. Shorter sections include praying the Psalms, the Bible and old age and a final section linked to the marks of mission adopted by the Anglican Communion: tell, teach, tend, transform and treasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe theme of ‘Sharing the Story’ runs through the collection of one page reflections which end appropriately with the invitation in Romans to listen more deeply to the longings of creation and deepen environmental stewardship. The book is well geared for flexible use as, for examples, deciding to use it in a season like Lent or to follow a three month tour through Old and New Testament or spend a fortnight on what the Bible has to say to older people. Each day has different scripture and contributor and that makes for ongoing freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is no word of God without power. In this book BRF provides a variety of insight from hundreds of co-authors into the transforming power of the good news of Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Canon Dr John Twisleton \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was George Eliot who coined the phrase: ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWell, when it comes to \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe BRF Book of 365 Bible Reflections\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ethe cover is the starting point to a beautiful collection of daily readings to celebrate an organisation which has been sharing the story since 1922.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBRF reaches in to many different places in our communities and churches. From Messy Church and Parenting for Faith through to Holy Habits and Anna Chaplaincy. And still, one hundred years on, at the core of its overall ministry, alongside many other books, remains the provision of daily readings and reflections. And this book is no exception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGathering together contributions from BRF authors, supporters and well-wishers, we are taken through the Bible and the Christian year, enabled to consider five aspects of how we can live and to cross generational barriers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut this is no ordinary set of daily readings. And that is its genius.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor it is only in Advent where the readings are dated. Lent is split in to weeks but aside from that, those seasonal times are there for you as a reader to make your own way of encountering God through scripture. The rest of the book is completely undated: and that for me, although the editors describe it as ‘controversial’, is where that genius lies. For so many of us feel guilty when we ‘fall behind’ with our daily readings. Many of us may feel that in particular periods we want to move on to a different topic or set of passages but somehow feel tied to following the timetable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd there is one other aspect which is equally brilliant. Some of the contributors are well-known. Others, like your reviewer, less well. Some are living. Some are living in glory. And they are all listed. But there’s no index. So, it’s not possible to simply look up one’s favourites writers and read only them. And why is that genius? Because it enables us to give intentional attention to God and not to people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is those two factors, alongside an indexed list of Bible passages, which for me give this book the structure that enables us to encounter God in new ways every day of the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough its meaningful and thoughtful reflections, this book enables the reader to encounter the riches of the Bible in the complete freedom that God both allows and wants for us. It provides a wealth of biblical insights combined with practical reflections and suggestions for living out our faith in modern times. May it be a rich blessing to you as you encounter God’s love through it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T12:56:58+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T12:55:47+00:00","vendor":"Karen Laister and Olivia Warburton","type":"eBook","tags":["Centenary Collection","Devotional","For individuals","Glassboxx","oct-21","Prayer"],"price":1499,"price_min":1499,"price_max":1499,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602802925948,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800391734","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The BRF Book of 365 Bible Reflections: with contributions from BRF authors, supporters and well-wishers - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1499,"weight":770,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391734","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/170.png?v=1730134963","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/171.png?v=1730134936"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/170.png?v=1730134963","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923502879100,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/170.png?v=1730134963"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/170.png?v=1730134963","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923499602300,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/171.png?v=1730134936"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/171.png?v=1730134936","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Bible is at the heart of BRF’s work, and this special anniversary collection is a celebration of the Bible for BRF’s centenary year. Bringing together a fantastically wide-ranging writing team of authors, supporters and well-wishers from all areas of BRF’s work, this resource is designed to help us go deeper into the story of the Bible and reflect on how we can share it in our everyday lives.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIncluding sections which lead us through the Bible narrative as well as thematic and seasonal sections, it is the perfect daily companion to resource your spiritual journey.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eContributors include: Ian Adams, John Bell, Inderjit Bhogal, Amy Boucher Pye, Stephen Cottrell, Steven Croft, Mark Greene, Isabelle Hamley, Bob Hartman, Bev Jullien, Krish Kandiah, Paul Kerensa, Ann Lewin, Bex Lewis, Chine McDonald, Lucy Moore, Rob Parsons, John Pritchard, Jennifer Rees Larcombe, Pam Rhodes, Margaret Silf, Jo Swinney, Stephen Timms, Graham Tomlin and Justin Welby.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry (digital version May 2022). Reviewed by David Sellick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eThe year 2022 celebrates the centenary of BRF’s famous notes encouraging Bible reading and supporting faith. The 365 reflections are grouped into five sections; Seeing God in the Bible, Journeying through the Bible, Journeying through the Christian year, Together through the generations, and How should we live? Only the ‘Christian Year’ section is chronologically tied; the other sections can be dipped into individually; this is facilitated by a page ‘Index of Bible references’ at the end of the book; Readers could use this to take them to a page where the Bible passage that had stimulated the writer’s ‘reflection’ is printed matches the passage that is part of a reading set for the day on which the Reader is due to preach. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe editors selected single ‘reflections’ from the invited writers – many of great eminence – so ‘the result is a glorious range of different perspectives on God’s word’. The Bible extracts are from every book in the Bible, and come from 17 different Bible translations. Some reflections are personal, some are moving, many are challenging and thought provoking; the compilation can be used as a resource or simply read as an illustration of how just a couple of Bible verses can stimulate such a wide range profound insights into faith and practice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by David Sellick \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Canon John Twisleton, December 2021\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA hundred years ago in January 2022 Revd Leslie Mannering of St Matthew’s Brixton circulated his first monthly leaflet of bible readings with commentaries ‘for the purpose of deepening the life of Prayer, Bible-reading and Holy Communion in each one of us’. So began what became the world-wide movement we know as BRF, the Bible Reading Fellowship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Centenary is being launched with publication of 365 bible reflections written by different contributors, including myself, geared to energise searching of scripture and submission of lives to the Word of God. As Sally Welch writes, ‘we are not a people of a book… we are children of God… we follow a person, not a page; the Word, not words’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe genius of BRF is its steering away from both biblical literalism and renegotiation of scripture to fit in with contemporary thinking. \u003cem\u003eThe BRF book of 365 Bible Reflections\u003c\/em\u003e is a series of windows to be opened daily providing ‘light to our paths’ (Psalm 119:105).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe variety of readings and contributors are structured around celebrating the transformative power of scripture and ‘BRF’s long history of coming alongside people at all stages of faith, encouraging Bible reading and everyday faith since 1922’. A third of the commentaries are constituted from daily readings journeying through Old and New Testament without Apocrypha. Another third journeys through the Christian year from Advent to Pentecost. Shorter sections include praying the Psalms, the Bible and old age and a final section linked to the marks of mission adopted by the Anglican Communion: tell, teach, tend, transform and treasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe theme of ‘Sharing the Story’ runs through the collection of one page reflections which end appropriately with the invitation in Romans to listen more deeply to the longings of creation and deepen environmental stewardship. The book is well geared for flexible use as, for examples, deciding to use it in a season like Lent or to follow a three month tour through Old and New Testament or spend a fortnight on what the Bible has to say to older people. Each day has different scripture and contributor and that makes for ongoing freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is no word of God without power. In this book BRF provides a variety of insight from hundreds of co-authors into the transforming power of the good news of Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Canon Dr John Twisleton \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was George Eliot who coined the phrase: ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWell, when it comes to \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe BRF Book of 365 Bible Reflections\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ethe cover is the starting point to a beautiful collection of daily readings to celebrate an organisation which has been sharing the story since 1922.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBRF reaches in to many different places in our communities and churches. From Messy Church and Parenting for Faith through to Holy Habits and Anna Chaplaincy. And still, one hundred years on, at the core of its overall ministry, alongside many other books, remains the provision of daily readings and reflections. And this book is no exception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGathering together contributions from BRF authors, supporters and well-wishers, we are taken through the Bible and the Christian year, enabled to consider five aspects of how we can live and to cross generational barriers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut this is no ordinary set of daily readings. And that is its genius.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor it is only in Advent where the readings are dated. Lent is split in to weeks but aside from that, those seasonal times are there for you as a reader to make your own way of encountering God through scripture. The rest of the book is completely undated: and that for me, although the editors describe it as ‘controversial’, is where that genius lies. For so many of us feel guilty when we ‘fall behind’ with our daily readings. Many of us may feel that in particular periods we want to move on to a different topic or set of passages but somehow feel tied to following the timetable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd there is one other aspect which is equally brilliant. Some of the contributors are well-known. Others, like your reviewer, less well. Some are living. Some are living in glory. And they are all listed. But there’s no index. So, it’s not possible to simply look up one’s favourites writers and read only them. And why is that genius? Because it enables us to give intentional attention to God and not to people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is those two factors, alongside an indexed list of Bible passages, which for me give this book the structure that enables us to encounter God in new ways every day of the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrough its meaningful and thoughtful reflections, this book enables the reader to encounter the riches of the Bible in the complete freedom that God both allows and wants for us. It provides a wealth of biblical insights combined with practical reflections and suggestions for living out our faith in modern times. May it be a rich blessing to you as you encounter God’s love through it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The BRF Book of 365 Bible Reflections: with contributions from BRF authors, supporters and well-wishers
£14.99
Digital eBook Only - The Bible is at the heart of BRF’s work, and this special anniversary collection is a...
{"id":14698663248252,"title":"Finding God in a Culture of Fear: Discovering hope in God’s kingdom","handle":"finding-god-in-a-culture-of-fear-discovering-hope-in-god-s-kingdom-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHow can we live a little more hopefully each day? Fear, terrorism, corruption, fake news… it can be easy to become discouraged by the culture around us. Now more than ever, society needs hope in order to survive and flourish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis book takes us beyond comfort zones and easy answers, and towards a deeper understanding and practice of hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt offers reflections, stories and practical ways for individuals and groups to find hope in their lives through discovering more about God in their midst.Focusing on God’s intervention in biblical history, God’s presence in contemporary contexts and God’s promised hope for the future, Joanne Cox-Darling encourages us to live more confidently, noticing more of the Spirit in our daily lives, and with more compassion and – ultimately – hope in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/JoCox-Darling1_480x480.jpg?v=1676497258\" width=\"209\" height=\"261\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoanne Cox-Darling is a Methodist minister, mother, and want-to-be baker, currently living and working in the suburbs of London. She holds a doctorate from Durham University, and co-edited ‘The Call and the Commission’ (MK, Authentic, 2008). She has written for BRF Guidelines. She is passionate about contemporary culture, mission, and communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike many of the books that offer hope this starts from a position of realism in that life is not easy, taking the reader on a journey of hope that stems from a Jesus who has been there himself, who knows and understands our hopes and fears, and gives us the courage to believe in what is possible through Christ. I know the book will be a blessing to many.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDes Scott, Deputy Chief Executive, Church Army \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Winter 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA commonly-used mantra throughout this book is, ‘The worst thing is never the last thing’, which reminded me of the phrase quoted by Evelyn Greenslade (played by Judi Dench) in the film, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel: ‘Everything will be all right in the end. And if it’s not all right, then trust me, it’s not yet the end’. Book and film focus on hope as the key to combat the unknown, fear, and despair. In the book, God’s love and the presence of the Holy Spirit underpin this hope. The film scores highly on the ‘feel good factor’, the book somewhat less so. The ‘fear’ in the book predominantly focuses on the corporate and global, rather than the individual which I found slightly disappointing. It also presents a literary ‘smorgasbord’ of styles although it is still very readable. Its strengths include its (mostly) appropriate use of characters and events from the Old and New Testaments and making them relevant to today; and the ‘questions for reflection’ at the end of each chapter. Read it as a guide to further exploration of fear and trust in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Richard Appleton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReview by Dr Philip Barlow, May 2019\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA book clearly written from the heart and the inclusion of personal anecdotes makes it easier to identify with and understand. Stories from the Bible are made relevant to today’s challenges and problems and focus the mind on the main theme of the book which is hope for the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hope theme runs through the whole book but, as the author explains, hope is not a passive process but one that requires a pro-active approach. It is not sufficient to sit back and hope for the future, hope wants and needs action to make better things to come. Hope does not just rely on the current order but having a vision can change the future for the better. Martin Luther King’s speech of “having a dream” is referred to and sets an approach for us all to consider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHopelessness often makes us long for the “rose coloured” past but hope drives us forward and gives us a meaningful purpose. Adopting a proactive approach with a belief that the world can become a better place lessens our fear of the future. The author explains how hope can and does allow us to be more confident in recognising the potential for our own lives and the world around us. God’s presence in the ever changing world, even if at times this is hard to see, provides the hope we need to live and prosper in a world prevailing in a culture of fear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead this book as an antidote to the often over whelming and pessimistic world we live in or as a study book (and a series of reflection questions are provided) to think about in a group meeting that hopes for a brighter future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cem\u003eReviewed by Dr Philip Barlow\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T13:10:10+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T13:09:00+00:00","vendor":"Joanne Cox-Darling","type":"eBook","tags":["Bereavement","Devotional","Glassboxx","May-19"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602820194684,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466471","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Finding God in a Culture of Fear: Discovering hope in God’s kingdom - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":186,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466471","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/174.png?v=1730134967","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/175.png?v=1730134915"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/174.png?v=1730134967","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923503370620,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/174.png?v=1730134967"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/174.png?v=1730134967","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923497243004,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/175.png?v=1730134915"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/175.png?v=1730134915","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHow can we live a little more hopefully each day? Fear, terrorism, corruption, fake news… it can be easy to become discouraged by the culture around us. Now more than ever, society needs hope in order to survive and flourish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis book takes us beyond comfort zones and easy answers, and towards a deeper understanding and practice of hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt offers reflections, stories and practical ways for individuals and groups to find hope in their lives through discovering more about God in their midst.Focusing on God’s intervention in biblical history, God’s presence in contemporary contexts and God’s promised hope for the future, Joanne Cox-Darling encourages us to live more confidently, noticing more of the Spirit in our daily lives, and with more compassion and – ultimately – hope in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/JoCox-Darling1_480x480.jpg?v=1676497258\" width=\"209\" height=\"261\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoanne Cox-Darling is a Methodist minister, mother, and want-to-be baker, currently living and working in the suburbs of London. She holds a doctorate from Durham University, and co-edited ‘The Call and the Commission’ (MK, Authentic, 2008). She has written for BRF Guidelines. She is passionate about contemporary culture, mission, and communication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike many of the books that offer hope this starts from a position of realism in that life is not easy, taking the reader on a journey of hope that stems from a Jesus who has been there himself, who knows and understands our hopes and fears, and gives us the courage to believe in what is possible through Christ. I know the book will be a blessing to many.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDes Scott, Deputy Chief Executive, Church Army \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Winter 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA commonly-used mantra throughout this book is, ‘The worst thing is never the last thing’, which reminded me of the phrase quoted by Evelyn Greenslade (played by Judi Dench) in the film, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel: ‘Everything will be all right in the end. And if it’s not all right, then trust me, it’s not yet the end’. Book and film focus on hope as the key to combat the unknown, fear, and despair. In the book, God’s love and the presence of the Holy Spirit underpin this hope. The film scores highly on the ‘feel good factor’, the book somewhat less so. The ‘fear’ in the book predominantly focuses on the corporate and global, rather than the individual which I found slightly disappointing. It also presents a literary ‘smorgasbord’ of styles although it is still very readable. Its strengths include its (mostly) appropriate use of characters and events from the Old and New Testaments and making them relevant to today; and the ‘questions for reflection’ at the end of each chapter. Read it as a guide to further exploration of fear and trust in God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Richard Appleton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReview by Dr Philip Barlow, May 2019\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA book clearly written from the heart and the inclusion of personal anecdotes makes it easier to identify with and understand. Stories from the Bible are made relevant to today’s challenges and problems and focus the mind on the main theme of the book which is hope for the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hope theme runs through the whole book but, as the author explains, hope is not a passive process but one that requires a pro-active approach. It is not sufficient to sit back and hope for the future, hope wants and needs action to make better things to come. Hope does not just rely on the current order but having a vision can change the future for the better. Martin Luther King’s speech of “having a dream” is referred to and sets an approach for us all to consider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHopelessness often makes us long for the “rose coloured” past but hope drives us forward and gives us a meaningful purpose. Adopting a proactive approach with a belief that the world can become a better place lessens our fear of the future. The author explains how hope can and does allow us to be more confident in recognising the potential for our own lives and the world around us. God’s presence in the ever changing world, even if at times this is hard to see, provides the hope we need to live and prosper in a world prevailing in a culture of fear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead this book as an antidote to the often over whelming and pessimistic world we live in or as a study book (and a series of reflection questions are provided) to think about in a group meeting that hopes for a brighter future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cem\u003eReviewed by Dr Philip Barlow\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Finding God in a Culture of Fear: Discovering hope in God’s kingdom
£8.99
Digital eBook Only - How can we live a little more hopefully each day? Fear, terrorism, corruption, fake news… it can...
{"id":14698669965692,"title":"Grandparenting for Faith: Sharing God with the children you love the most","handle":"grandparenting-for-faith-sharing-god-with-the-children-you-love-the-most-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn this book, Becky Sedgwick explores how grandparents can proactively encourage and equip their grandchildren to meet and know God. Grandparenting brings new life and joy, and also the opportunity to walk spiritually alongside our grandchildren, offering tools and skills for the journey. Whatever your circumstances, God has positioned you to be a unique voice speaking into your grandchildren’s lives, helping to nurture them into the reality of a relationship with the God who loves them.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBulk buy packs or 5 and 10 also available \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/grandparenting-for-faith-bulk-buy\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecky Sedgwick\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"154\" width=\"154\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BeckySedgwick_480x480.jpg?v=1694516993\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-left: 20px; float: right;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBecky Sedgwick is the resources coordinator for Parenting for Faith. She has been resourcing and equipping parents for the past fifteen years, first as a local family worker in her church, and more recently as local church coordinator for Parenting for Faith.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘A great guide to the wonderful if bewildering responsibilities of being a Christian grandparent. Realistic, supportive and, above all, both helpful and hopeful.’ \u003cem\u003eRevd Canon J. John, evangelist and author\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Grandparents are among the most significant spiritual influences in children’s and teenagers’ lives. Becky Sedgwick’s brilliant book not only brings encouragement to grand- parents, but solid equipping. This book is hopeful, realistic and deeply relevant to every grandparent, whether their grandchildren are babies, or adults with babies of their own. Best spiritual grandparenting book I have ever read!’ \u003cem\u003eRachel Turner, founder of Parenting for Faith\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Grandparenting for Faith is a liberating, convicting and exciting work. It will empower grandparents in all types of family settings and dynamics to be part of their grandchildren’s lives and share their faith without damaging relationships with their adult children. Read and share this book, and learn how easy it is to answer God’s call to grandparent for faith.’ \u003cem\u003eMartha Flavell, children and family lead at Bible Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Grandparenting for Faith is packed full of practical ideas, and it breaks things down in a clear way that will leave grandparents encouraged by what they are already doing, equipped to be more intentional, and inspired that what they are doing will make a difference in the lives of their grandchildren.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eOlly Goldenberg, founder of Children Can\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Every grandparent should read this book! It has lots of easy, practical suggestions for showing and living your Christian faith – without being at all heavy or ‘preachy’. I’m now eager to work on some of the ideas with my own six grandchildren.’ \u003cem\u003ePenelope Swithinbank, priest, writer and grandmother\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Grandparenting for Faith is a much-needed and encouraging resource for all who desire to leave a legacy of faith for the next generation. I’m convinced there has never been a greater need for grandparents to take seriously the influence they can have in the lives of their grandchildren.’ \u003cem\u003eLinda Green, grandmother and co-author of He Gives More Grace\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘What a valuable book, whether your grandchildren live in Christian homes or are far from God. Becky writes with warmth and insight. She is always down to earth and full of practical wisdom. A book I shall return to frequently as I seek to play my part in discipling my eleven grandchildren.’ \u003cem\u003eBill Lattimer, principal of The Douglas Trust\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ‘What an inspiring and encouraging book for grandparents! Becky explains the significance of grandparenting for faith and gives lots of practical ideas in an accessible and non- judgemental way. She makes it relevant whether you have lots of contact with your grandchildren or none at all and everything in between. Such a helpful handbook to equip you in praying for your grandchildren throughout their lives.’ \u003cem\u003eCaroline Montgomery, pioneer of Refresh at St Stephen’s Church, Twickenham\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘In these times of significant pressures among families, limited family time, low confidence among grandparents, confusion about roles within families and limited avail- ability of support for families, this book is a very welcome tool. Beautifully written and very easy to read, it conveys a great awareness of the challenges of real life, while also prompting and encouraging grandparents to think beyond what they currently do and consider how they could develop their spiritual support of their grandchildren. I love this book. It is so much needed and I highly recommend it to all Christian grandparents who want to see their faith passed on to their children and grandchildren.’ \u003cem\u003eSarah Holmes, researcher and lecturer, Liverpool Hope University\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePresbyterian Herald May 2024\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOur churches are full of grandparents. They may bring their grandchildren to church because their children do not. They may sit with children and grandchildren in a multi-generational pew. They may lament the fact that their grandchildren are missing from church and show no interest in faith. They may speak with joy of grandchildren’s involvement in other places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eRachel Turner, founder of Parenting for Faith, has said, ‘Grandparents are among the most significant spiritual influence in children’s and teenager’s lives.’ That is what this book helps to unpack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBecky Sedgwick writes about the truths of grandparents, reminding all of us of the biblical and crucial role that grandparents can play in the lives of their grandchildren, wherever those grandchildren are on the faith spectrum. Understanding that grandparents are not surplus to requirements in a family but actually have a vital role to play in the sharing of faith, of telling stories and of praying for the grandchildren in their lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis book is not just about inspirational words to show grandparents that their role is important. It also contains a ‘grandparents’ toolkit’, a range of ideas that have been tried by other grandparents that might help with where to start or what to try next.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI love a book that both inspires and gives practical suggestions and this definitely has both. I think it is a needed book on a topic which is not considered enough. It would be a useful book for any grandparent to think about their legacy of faith for the next generations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 28.04.24. Review by Dennis Richards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt may once have been thought that grandparents had something of a “cushy” role. Not for them the daily grind of disciplining noisy children, who, more often than not, metamorphosed into grumpy adolescents. Have fun with the grandchildren, spoil them a bit, break a few parental rules, and then hand them back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot any more. The prevalence of divorce and the cost of childcare have made the part played by grandparents crucial to survival for many families. The opposite is also true. Some grandparents may find themselves sidelined, as their children move to increasingly distant places, in search of career opportunities or a different way of life. In such families, the grandchildren don’t even live on the same continent as their grandparents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis newly published volume, while unmistakably Evangelical in outlook, is also insightful and accessible in a way that would not alienate the general reader. Don’t forget, the author tells us, that children today will be picking up their ideas of God and Christianity from a variety of sources. School RE lessons and exams will come into play, as will films and television. Given the extensive “small group notes” section, there is every reason to recommend the volume to church or house-group leaders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tough questions are not avoided. What is the appropriate reaction if your new son- or daughter-in-law specifically asks the grandparents to avoid talking about God or religious belief altogether? or when the children are being brought by parents of different faiths? The chapter heading reads: 'No one said it would be easy.' You can say that again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Dennis Richards, a former head of St Aidan’s C of E High School, Harrogate, North Yorkshire.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLouise Morse: Pilgrims' Friend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'I’m recommending ‘Grandparenting for Faith’ in my E-Send going out next week, in my blog and on my social media pages. Becky Sedgwick has written an inspiring and immensely practical book. I like it very much. '\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee Louise's full article here: https:\/\/www.pilgrimsfriend.org.uk\/news-views\/grandparenting-for-faith \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T13:13:56+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T13:12:35+00:00","vendor":"BRFonline","type":"eBook","tags":["Children and family ministry","Glassboxx","Parenting","Parenting for Faith books","Parenting for Faith Resources"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602825732476,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800392052","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Grandparenting for Faith: Sharing God with the children you love the most - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":230,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800392052","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/176.png?v=1730134967","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/177.png?v=1730134898"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/176.png?v=1730134967","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923503337852,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/176.png?v=1730134967"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/176.png?v=1730134967","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923496325500,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/177.png?v=1730134898"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/177.png?v=1730134898","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn this book, Becky Sedgwick explores how grandparents can proactively encourage and equip their grandchildren to meet and know God. Grandparenting brings new life and joy, and also the opportunity to walk spiritually alongside our grandchildren, offering tools and skills for the journey. Whatever your circumstances, God has positioned you to be a unique voice speaking into your grandchildren’s lives, helping to nurture them into the reality of a relationship with the God who loves them.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBulk buy packs or 5 and 10 also available \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/grandparenting-for-faith-bulk-buy\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecky Sedgwick\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"154\" width=\"154\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/BeckySedgwick_480x480.jpg?v=1694516993\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-left: 20px; float: right;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBecky Sedgwick is the resources coordinator for Parenting for Faith. She has been resourcing and equipping parents for the past fifteen years, first as a local family worker in her church, and more recently as local church coordinator for Parenting for Faith.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘A great guide to the wonderful if bewildering responsibilities of being a Christian grandparent. Realistic, supportive and, above all, both helpful and hopeful.’ \u003cem\u003eRevd Canon J. John, evangelist and author\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Grandparents are among the most significant spiritual influences in children’s and teenagers’ lives. Becky Sedgwick’s brilliant book not only brings encouragement to grand- parents, but solid equipping. This book is hopeful, realistic and deeply relevant to every grandparent, whether their grandchildren are babies, or adults with babies of their own. Best spiritual grandparenting book I have ever read!’ \u003cem\u003eRachel Turner, founder of Parenting for Faith\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Grandparenting for Faith is a liberating, convicting and exciting work. It will empower grandparents in all types of family settings and dynamics to be part of their grandchildren’s lives and share their faith without damaging relationships with their adult children. Read and share this book, and learn how easy it is to answer God’s call to grandparent for faith.’ \u003cem\u003eMartha Flavell, children and family lead at Bible Society\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Grandparenting for Faith is packed full of practical ideas, and it breaks things down in a clear way that will leave grandparents encouraged by what they are already doing, equipped to be more intentional, and inspired that what they are doing will make a difference in the lives of their grandchildren.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eOlly Goldenberg, founder of Children Can\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Every grandparent should read this book! It has lots of easy, practical suggestions for showing and living your Christian faith – without being at all heavy or ‘preachy’. I’m now eager to work on some of the ideas with my own six grandchildren.’ \u003cem\u003ePenelope Swithinbank, priest, writer and grandmother\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Grandparenting for Faith is a much-needed and encouraging resource for all who desire to leave a legacy of faith for the next generation. I’m convinced there has never been a greater need for grandparents to take seriously the influence they can have in the lives of their grandchildren.’ \u003cem\u003eLinda Green, grandmother and co-author of He Gives More Grace\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘What a valuable book, whether your grandchildren live in Christian homes or are far from God. Becky writes with warmth and insight. She is always down to earth and full of practical wisdom. A book I shall return to frequently as I seek to play my part in discipling my eleven grandchildren.’ \u003cem\u003eBill Lattimer, principal of The Douglas Trust\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e ‘What an inspiring and encouraging book for grandparents! Becky explains the significance of grandparenting for faith and gives lots of practical ideas in an accessible and non- judgemental way. She makes it relevant whether you have lots of contact with your grandchildren or none at all and everything in between. Such a helpful handbook to equip you in praying for your grandchildren throughout their lives.’ \u003cem\u003eCaroline Montgomery, pioneer of Refresh at St Stephen’s Church, Twickenham\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘In these times of significant pressures among families, limited family time, low confidence among grandparents, confusion about roles within families and limited avail- ability of support for families, this book is a very welcome tool. Beautifully written and very easy to read, it conveys a great awareness of the challenges of real life, while also prompting and encouraging grandparents to think beyond what they currently do and consider how they could develop their spiritual support of their grandchildren. I love this book. It is so much needed and I highly recommend it to all Christian grandparents who want to see their faith passed on to their children and grandchildren.’ \u003cem\u003eSarah Holmes, researcher and lecturer, Liverpool Hope University\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePresbyterian Herald May 2024\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eOur churches are full of grandparents. They may bring their grandchildren to church because their children do not. They may sit with children and grandchildren in a multi-generational pew. They may lament the fact that their grandchildren are missing from church and show no interest in faith. They may speak with joy of grandchildren’s involvement in other places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eRachel Turner, founder of Parenting for Faith, has said, ‘Grandparents are among the most significant spiritual influence in children’s and teenager’s lives.’ That is what this book helps to unpack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBecky Sedgwick writes about the truths of grandparents, reminding all of us of the biblical and crucial role that grandparents can play in the lives of their grandchildren, wherever those grandchildren are on the faith spectrum. Understanding that grandparents are not surplus to requirements in a family but actually have a vital role to play in the sharing of faith, of telling stories and of praying for the grandchildren in their lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis book is not just about inspirational words to show grandparents that their role is important. It also contains a ‘grandparents’ toolkit’, a range of ideas that have been tried by other grandparents that might help with where to start or what to try next.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eI love a book that both inspires and gives practical suggestions and this definitely has both. I think it is a needed book on a topic which is not considered enough. It would be a useful book for any grandparent to think about their legacy of faith for the next generations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 28.04.24. Review by Dennis Richards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt may once have been thought that grandparents had something of a “cushy” role. Not for them the daily grind of disciplining noisy children, who, more often than not, metamorphosed into grumpy adolescents. Have fun with the grandchildren, spoil them a bit, break a few parental rules, and then hand them back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot any more. The prevalence of divorce and the cost of childcare have made the part played by grandparents crucial to survival for many families. The opposite is also true. Some grandparents may find themselves sidelined, as their children move to increasingly distant places, in search of career opportunities or a different way of life. In such families, the grandchildren don’t even live on the same continent as their grandparents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis newly published volume, while unmistakably Evangelical in outlook, is also insightful and accessible in a way that would not alienate the general reader. Don’t forget, the author tells us, that children today will be picking up their ideas of God and Christianity from a variety of sources. School RE lessons and exams will come into play, as will films and television. Given the extensive “small group notes” section, there is every reason to recommend the volume to church or house-group leaders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tough questions are not avoided. What is the appropriate reaction if your new son- or daughter-in-law specifically asks the grandparents to avoid talking about God or religious belief altogether? or when the children are being brought by parents of different faiths? The chapter heading reads: 'No one said it would be easy.' You can say that again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Dennis Richards, a former head of St Aidan’s C of E High School, Harrogate, North Yorkshire.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLouise Morse: Pilgrims' Friend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'I’m recommending ‘Grandparenting for Faith’ in my E-Send going out next week, in my blog and on my social media pages. Becky Sedgwick has written an inspiring and immensely practical book. I like it very much. '\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee Louise's full article here: https:\/\/www.pilgrimsfriend.org.uk\/news-views\/grandparenting-for-faith \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Grandparenting for Faith: Sharing God with the children you love the most
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{"id":14698673734012,"title":"Sensing the Divine: John's word made flesh","handle":"sensing-the-divine-johns-word-made-flesh-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis compelling, inspiring book is an invigorating rereading of the fourth gospel by a well-known spirituality writer who has lived some years in the Holy Land. Uniquely, it approaches John's gospel by exploring how he uses the senses, both physical and spiritual, in his encounter with Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. This refreshing appreciation of the gospel will activate and stimulate our own discoveries and spiritual quest, not only of the gospel, but also of God's world, ourselves and our mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Revd Canon Dr Andrew D. Mayes is Priest of St Barnabas, Limassol and the Spirituality Adviser for the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf. He is an international speaker and the author of several books on spirituality, including Journey to the Centre of the Soul (BRF, 2017).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Winter 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an ambitious, intriguing and enthusiastic book written by an expert and learned spiritual adviser. Mayes’ aim is to re-interpret the gospel of John and present it as a sensuous and tactile history – an emotional history of Jesus’ ministry that represents a quite radical re-appraisal. For example, strong links between John and the Song of Solomon are drawn out. The author balances each chapter with a parallel commentary on relevant spirituality. He uses a host of ancient (Hebrew), medieval and modern spiritual writings, concentrating especially on Celtic and Ignatian sources in order to promote spiritual reawakening and maturity of Christian practice. In my view the book does not quite succeed. The language is sometimes over-exuberant and, while the gospel analysis is thought-provoking, it is sometimes slightly shallow. The emotional and sensuous aspects of Jesus’ ministry are not exclusive to John, for example, though the book rather ignores this point. Nonetheless, there is much good, original material here, and this is a valuable read for private study or group teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Alice Burdett\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform July\/August 2019. Review by Susan Durber, Minister of Taunton URC, Somerset\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrew Mayes is Spirituality Advisor for the Anglican Diocese of Cyprus, and brings to his ministry and to this book a deep knowledge of the Middle East, especially the places where Jesus’ ministry took place. If John’s gospel has a reputation for being abstract and conceptual, this book helps any reader to see it as profoundly rooted in the realities of daily life, in a particular place and time. It dwells on time and place, on empirical experiences of taste, touch, sight, sound and smell, and how God is made known in such ways. The book urges us to ‘unfold the sensuous gospel’ and reminds us that this is the gospel in which the Word becomes flesh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book moves through the senses, exploring how they emerge in John’s gospel and adding varied and liberal quotations from Christian history on each of the senses too. There is plenty of material here for someone preparing a retreat, or the book could work as a kind of retreat for a lone reader too: it has questions for reflection as well as narrative and biblical study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book offers some fascinating insights into the gospel and, for me, these were the most helpful sections. There are so many distinctive things about John’s gospel – the Bethesda story, and miracle at Cana, and the many references to ‘the garden’, among them. It is good to notice how much Jesus goes on pilgrimage in this gospel and to reflect on all that might signify.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes points were perhaps stretched too far (do 30 references to touching really need a count?) and many quotations and exclamations marks sometimes distract from the distinctive contribution of the author. But this is certainly a useful book for providing a quiet day, or resourcing a church group. The book serves as a helpful inspiration to reflection, preaching and teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Susan Durber, Minister of Taunton URC, Somerset\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Canon John Twisleton, June 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’ve been puzzling over John’s Gospel all my life so I approached Andrew Mayes’s new book with hesitancy. I was rewarded by a commentary starting away from the spiritual and theological in space, time and the senses that somewhat disarmed my questioning. Andrew’s experience of the Holy Land coupled to that of the spiritual direction network equips him to approach John’s account of Christ from a novel perspective helpful to those who struggle with the literal. ‘Sensing the Divine’ has the sub-title ‘John’s word made flesh’. It starts with imaginative entry into the apostle John’s putting pen to scroll in Ephesus where ‘the very word ‘flesh’ took on a meaning that was visceral, earthy, full of passion’. It’s a great asset to this book that its author knows the ground John knew as well as ‘the intimacy and ultimacy of Jesus, his transcendence and tenderness’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn’s symbol is the eagle on account of the perceived sublimity of his Gospel. Augustine saw in it ‘teaching soar(ing) to heights far loftier than those attained by the other three evangelists, and it was his wish to carry our hearts with him on his flight… for John spoke of the divinity of our Lord as no other has ever spoken’. The author has a refreshingly different vantage point. ‘It is the contention of this book that the fourth gospel is rooted in the dust, dirt and beauty of the earth. It brims with sensuality, alerting and activating our senses, both bodily and spiritual… pervaded by a physicality, a materiality, shot through with transcendence, teeming with divine life’. To Mayes Irenaeus rather than Augustine captures the heart of John when he says ‘the glory of God is a human being fully alive’. Jesus Christ, Word made flesh, makes God real to our senses through vulnerability, word and sacrament and helps us into life in all its exuberance (John 10:10).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor John knowledge of God comes from relationship with Jesus Christ which goes beyond the contemporary intellectualism of Plato or Gnostic acquisition of secret ideas allied to despising the body. The book starts by celebrating the gospel of John's emphasis on space and time moving on to how it engages touching, seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling in reawakening life in all its fullness through knowing Jesus (John 17:3). Drawing on Ephrem (d.373) we are called to see Jesus: ‘Let our prayer be a mirror, Lord, placed before your face; then your fair beauty will be imprinted on its luminous surface’. Teresa of Avila is commentator on the listening in ‘subversive silence’ invited by St John. Building from the Cana miracle Mayes invites us with John to taste eternity at the Eucharist with a pithy, evocative summary of this rite at the heart of Christianity. The chapter on smell draws on Johannine scholar Raymond Brown’s observation that the use of myrrh ‘and aloes’ at Christ’s tomb evokes the eroticism of Song of Songs 4:9-16. In the last chapter we are reminded how John’s call to mission has three visceral images of washing one another’s feet, bearing fruit and the breath of the Spirit. The disciples mission ‘is communicated and received in the feel of cold water on sweaty feet, the visualisation of dangling succulent grapes, the experience of breath upon their faces’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI appreciated the weaving in of concise summaries on different schools of Christian spirituality like Ignatian meditation, Teresa of Avila, Benedictine tradition, lectio divina as well as the questions for reflection and prayer exercises provided after each chapter. ‘Sensing the Divine’ attempts and seems to succeed in earthing John’s gospel in contemporary human reality, for, to repeat one of its Merton quotes: ‘let the reality of what's real sink into you… for through real things we can reach him who is infinitely real’. Why? Because ‘the word was made flesh’ (John 1:14). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCanon John Twisleton 5 June 2019\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T13:16:18+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T13:15:17+00:00","vendor":"Andrew D. Mayes","type":"eBook","tags":["Apr-19","Biblical engagement","For individuals","Glassboxx","Spirituality"],"price":1099,"price_min":1099,"price_max":1099,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602831237500,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466594","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Sensing the Divine: John's word made flesh - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1099,"weight":1,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466594","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/178.png?v=1730134969","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/179.png?v=1730134919"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/178.png?v=1730134969","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923503599996,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/178.png?v=1730134969"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/178.png?v=1730134969","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923497505148,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/179.png?v=1730134919"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/179.png?v=1730134919","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis compelling, inspiring book is an invigorating rereading of the fourth gospel by a well-known spirituality writer who has lived some years in the Holy Land. Uniquely, it approaches John's gospel by exploring how he uses the senses, both physical and spiritual, in his encounter with Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. This refreshing appreciation of the gospel will activate and stimulate our own discoveries and spiritual quest, not only of the gospel, but also of God's world, ourselves and our mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Revd Canon Dr Andrew D. Mayes is Priest of St Barnabas, Limassol and the Spirituality Adviser for the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf. He is an international speaker and the author of several books on spirituality, including Journey to the Centre of the Soul (BRF, 2017).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Winter 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an ambitious, intriguing and enthusiastic book written by an expert and learned spiritual adviser. Mayes’ aim is to re-interpret the gospel of John and present it as a sensuous and tactile history – an emotional history of Jesus’ ministry that represents a quite radical re-appraisal. For example, strong links between John and the Song of Solomon are drawn out. The author balances each chapter with a parallel commentary on relevant spirituality. He uses a host of ancient (Hebrew), medieval and modern spiritual writings, concentrating especially on Celtic and Ignatian sources in order to promote spiritual reawakening and maturity of Christian practice. In my view the book does not quite succeed. The language is sometimes over-exuberant and, while the gospel analysis is thought-provoking, it is sometimes slightly shallow. The emotional and sensuous aspects of Jesus’ ministry are not exclusive to John, for example, though the book rather ignores this point. Nonetheless, there is much good, original material here, and this is a valuable read for private study or group teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Alice Burdett\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform July\/August 2019. Review by Susan Durber, Minister of Taunton URC, Somerset\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrew Mayes is Spirituality Advisor for the Anglican Diocese of Cyprus, and brings to his ministry and to this book a deep knowledge of the Middle East, especially the places where Jesus’ ministry took place. If John’s gospel has a reputation for being abstract and conceptual, this book helps any reader to see it as profoundly rooted in the realities of daily life, in a particular place and time. It dwells on time and place, on empirical experiences of taste, touch, sight, sound and smell, and how God is made known in such ways. The book urges us to ‘unfold the sensuous gospel’ and reminds us that this is the gospel in which the Word becomes flesh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book moves through the senses, exploring how they emerge in John’s gospel and adding varied and liberal quotations from Christian history on each of the senses too. There is plenty of material here for someone preparing a retreat, or the book could work as a kind of retreat for a lone reader too: it has questions for reflection as well as narrative and biblical study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book offers some fascinating insights into the gospel and, for me, these were the most helpful sections. There are so many distinctive things about John’s gospel – the Bethesda story, and miracle at Cana, and the many references to ‘the garden’, among them. It is good to notice how much Jesus goes on pilgrimage in this gospel and to reflect on all that might signify.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes points were perhaps stretched too far (do 30 references to touching really need a count?) and many quotations and exclamations marks sometimes distract from the distinctive contribution of the author. But this is certainly a useful book for providing a quiet day, or resourcing a church group. The book serves as a helpful inspiration to reflection, preaching and teaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Susan Durber, Minister of Taunton URC, Somerset\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Canon John Twisleton, June 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’ve been puzzling over John’s Gospel all my life so I approached Andrew Mayes’s new book with hesitancy. I was rewarded by a commentary starting away from the spiritual and theological in space, time and the senses that somewhat disarmed my questioning. Andrew’s experience of the Holy Land coupled to that of the spiritual direction network equips him to approach John’s account of Christ from a novel perspective helpful to those who struggle with the literal. ‘Sensing the Divine’ has the sub-title ‘John’s word made flesh’. It starts with imaginative entry into the apostle John’s putting pen to scroll in Ephesus where ‘the very word ‘flesh’ took on a meaning that was visceral, earthy, full of passion’. It’s a great asset to this book that its author knows the ground John knew as well as ‘the intimacy and ultimacy of Jesus, his transcendence and tenderness’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn’s symbol is the eagle on account of the perceived sublimity of his Gospel. Augustine saw in it ‘teaching soar(ing) to heights far loftier than those attained by the other three evangelists, and it was his wish to carry our hearts with him on his flight… for John spoke of the divinity of our Lord as no other has ever spoken’. The author has a refreshingly different vantage point. ‘It is the contention of this book that the fourth gospel is rooted in the dust, dirt and beauty of the earth. It brims with sensuality, alerting and activating our senses, both bodily and spiritual… pervaded by a physicality, a materiality, shot through with transcendence, teeming with divine life’. To Mayes Irenaeus rather than Augustine captures the heart of John when he says ‘the glory of God is a human being fully alive’. Jesus Christ, Word made flesh, makes God real to our senses through vulnerability, word and sacrament and helps us into life in all its exuberance (John 10:10).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor John knowledge of God comes from relationship with Jesus Christ which goes beyond the contemporary intellectualism of Plato or Gnostic acquisition of secret ideas allied to despising the body. The book starts by celebrating the gospel of John's emphasis on space and time moving on to how it engages touching, seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling in reawakening life in all its fullness through knowing Jesus (John 17:3). Drawing on Ephrem (d.373) we are called to see Jesus: ‘Let our prayer be a mirror, Lord, placed before your face; then your fair beauty will be imprinted on its luminous surface’. Teresa of Avila is commentator on the listening in ‘subversive silence’ invited by St John. Building from the Cana miracle Mayes invites us with John to taste eternity at the Eucharist with a pithy, evocative summary of this rite at the heart of Christianity. The chapter on smell draws on Johannine scholar Raymond Brown’s observation that the use of myrrh ‘and aloes’ at Christ’s tomb evokes the eroticism of Song of Songs 4:9-16. In the last chapter we are reminded how John’s call to mission has three visceral images of washing one another’s feet, bearing fruit and the breath of the Spirit. The disciples mission ‘is communicated and received in the feel of cold water on sweaty feet, the visualisation of dangling succulent grapes, the experience of breath upon their faces’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI appreciated the weaving in of concise summaries on different schools of Christian spirituality like Ignatian meditation, Teresa of Avila, Benedictine tradition, lectio divina as well as the questions for reflection and prayer exercises provided after each chapter. ‘Sensing the Divine’ attempts and seems to succeed in earthing John’s gospel in contemporary human reality, for, to repeat one of its Merton quotes: ‘let the reality of what's real sink into you… for through real things we can reach him who is infinitely real’. Why? Because ‘the word was made flesh’ (John 1:14). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCanon John Twisleton 5 June 2019\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Sensing the Divine: John's word made flesh
£10.99
Digital eBook Only - This compelling, inspiring book is an invigorating rereading of the fourth gospel by a well-known spirituality...
{"id":14698839835004,"title":"Turned by Divine Love: Starting again with God and with others","handle":"turned-by-divine-love-starting-again-with-god-and-with-others-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis book, the fruit of prayer, theological reflection and rich human experience, evokes fresh praying and thinking about all the key relationships in our lives, beginning with God. Drawing on the rich Christian traditions of both east and west, it speaks of theology and spirituality, to the head and the heart. It is a book of hope, encouraging us all to make a fresh start with God and, entering more fully into the relationship of love to which he invites us, to go out and to witness to this love. In this unique bringing together of the riches of the Christian east and west is the call to hear God's gracious voice today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a spirituality book which urges contemplation, stillness and a good, hard look at ourselves. The author draws on quotes from many different church traditions (eastern and western) to show that this is a global, biblical call rather than a cultural one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter has multiple spaces devoted to contemplation - 'Pause to pray' and 'Pause to ponder'. These can be made much of and give weight to the book's focus on stillness and the examination of your heart. Drawing inspiration and quotations from all walks of the Christian life, from all centuries, also gives it a truly ecumenical feel and approach - this is for everyone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book John Stroyan gives us something of immense beauty and energising hope drawn from the faith and spiritual vision of many centuries. He refreshes the old and gives new life to what has aged. That this is the gift of a contemplative teacher and a bishop in the church of our time is itself a source of hope and a wonderfully surprising cause to celebrate. Laurence Freeman OSB\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Stroyan is the Bishop of Warwick. He is the UK President of the Community of the Cross of Nails, Co-Chair of the Reuilly Contact Group and President of the Association for Promoting Retreats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by April McIntyre\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for a wise and inspirational book to draw you deeper into the loving mystery of God’s presence and enrich your ministry? This slim volume by Bishop John Stroyan may be just what you are looking for. It discusses our need to turn constantly back to God, as a sunflower turns its face to the sun, rather than rushing into activity and expecting God to bless the results. Written in short sections helpful for pondering and praying, the book draws on a wide variety of sources from eastern and western traditions: from saints and mystics, writers, poets and theologians, with numerous Bible quotations, contemporary anecdotes plus some stunning colour illustrations. I found it one of the most intelligent, affirming books I have read for a while, with helpful new insights derived from the author’s understanding of Hebrew and Greek texts. Though primarily an aid to the personal spiritual life and ideal for use on quiet days or retreats, there is also much that could be utilised in teaching and preaching, particularly on prayer, forgiveness, unity and, above all, love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by April McIntyre\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T14:49:42+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T14:48:34+00:00","vendor":"John Stroyan","type":"eBook","tags":["For individuals","Glassboxx","Mar-19","Spirituality"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602914926972,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857467577","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Turned by Divine Love: Starting again with God and with others - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857467577","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/180.png?v=1730134969","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/181.png?v=1730134939"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/180.png?v=1730134969","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923503731068,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/180.png?v=1730134969"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/180.png?v=1730134969","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923500421500,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/181.png?v=1730134939"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/181.png?v=1730134939","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis book, the fruit of prayer, theological reflection and rich human experience, evokes fresh praying and thinking about all the key relationships in our lives, beginning with God. Drawing on the rich Christian traditions of both east and west, it speaks of theology and spirituality, to the head and the heart. It is a book of hope, encouraging us all to make a fresh start with God and, entering more fully into the relationship of love to which he invites us, to go out and to witness to this love. In this unique bringing together of the riches of the Christian east and west is the call to hear God's gracious voice today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a spirituality book which urges contemplation, stillness and a good, hard look at ourselves. The author draws on quotes from many different church traditions (eastern and western) to show that this is a global, biblical call rather than a cultural one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter has multiple spaces devoted to contemplation - 'Pause to pray' and 'Pause to ponder'. These can be made much of and give weight to the book's focus on stillness and the examination of your heart. Drawing inspiration and quotations from all walks of the Christian life, from all centuries, also gives it a truly ecumenical feel and approach - this is for everyone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book John Stroyan gives us something of immense beauty and energising hope drawn from the faith and spiritual vision of many centuries. He refreshes the old and gives new life to what has aged. That this is the gift of a contemplative teacher and a bishop in the church of our time is itself a source of hope and a wonderfully surprising cause to celebrate. Laurence Freeman OSB\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Stroyan is the Bishop of Warwick. He is the UK President of the Community of the Cross of Nails, Co-Chair of the Reuilly Contact Group and President of the Association for Promoting Retreats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by April McIntyre\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for a wise and inspirational book to draw you deeper into the loving mystery of God’s presence and enrich your ministry? This slim volume by Bishop John Stroyan may be just what you are looking for. It discusses our need to turn constantly back to God, as a sunflower turns its face to the sun, rather than rushing into activity and expecting God to bless the results. Written in short sections helpful for pondering and praying, the book draws on a wide variety of sources from eastern and western traditions: from saints and mystics, writers, poets and theologians, with numerous Bible quotations, contemporary anecdotes plus some stunning colour illustrations. I found it one of the most intelligent, affirming books I have read for a while, with helpful new insights derived from the author’s understanding of Hebrew and Greek texts. Though primarily an aid to the personal spiritual life and ideal for use on quiet days or retreats, there is also much that could be utilised in teaching and preaching, particularly on prayer, forgiveness, unity and, above all, love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by April McIntyre\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":14698895802748,"title":"At the End of the Day: Enjoying life in the departure lounge","handle":"at-the-end-of-the-day-enjoying-life-in-the-departure-lounge-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn octogenarian takes a wryly humorous look at what it's like to be old in an era of the relentlessly new. Turning to the Bible, he explores its store of timeless wisdom, encouragement and reassurance about what it has always meant to grow old and be old. The book is structured around a series of fascinating biblical pictures, from the legendary Methuselah to the feisty Sarah and the great leader Moses, from the picture of inevitable decline as the Preacher saw it in Ecclesiastes to the glorious Nunc Dimittis of old Simeon in the temple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'At the end of the day' is a well-worn phrase - yet seeing life as a single day, with dawn, noon, sunny afternoon, twilight and then darkness and sleep, provides a sort of contracted chronology of a journey we are all taking. Those who are at, or beyond, tea-time - as well as their friends and family - may find this book offers an essentially optimistic, positive and attractive picture of both the present and the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Winter introduces \u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI wrote \u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day\u003c\/em\u003e because I wanted to address this situation not as a problem (which is how sociologists, politicians and media commentators seem to see it) but simply as yet another life experience. All through life we move more or less seamlessly from one stage to another, from childhood to adolescence, from that to young adulthood, from that to middle age, and from that to the retirement years. This book is an attempt to record what it is like finally to move into the departure lounge of life, awaiting the call to board our flight from this life to whatever it is that God has planned for us at its end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe departure lounge is not as bad as it may look in prospect. Believe it or not, being old can be fun. Of course there are problems - aches and pains, sluggish memory and so on. But there are also enormous compensations in old age, including the freedom to be ourselves without any pressure to achieve or justify our existence. I was surprised to discover (when I got there myself) that the elderly don't endlessly discuss death. Compared with teenagers, young adults and even the middle-aged, they are not living with plans for the future but with the richness of the here and now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day \u003c\/em\u003etakes a quizzical look at some of the wonderful old men and women whose stories are part of the Hebrew and Christian scriptures. Surprisingly, perhaps, their experiences seem to match many of ours. We look at them, of course, through the long perspective of time and also through the prism of our modern experiences, but there is wisdom, fulfilment and encouragement in those biblical records.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is not a 'heavy' book. How could it be when the elderly spend so much time laughing at themselves and at the whole business of being old! Nor is it depressing - again, how could it be, when we are seated in that departure lounge awaiting the final great adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI wrote it not just for those who are already old, although I hope they'll find it both amusing and encouraging, but also for all those who want to know what it's going to be like to join our ranks. They may be surprised to find that the poet Robert Browning got it right when he said, 'The best is yet to be.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube-nocookie.com\/embed\/kP4wFKmvMmg\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter is one of the UK's most popular and long-established Christian writers and broadcasters. He has written many books over the last sixty years, including Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light, Pilgrim's Way, Journey to Jerusalem and With Jesus in the Upper Room for BRF. He also writes for New Daylight and was a regular contributor to Radio 4's Thought for the Day from 1989 to 2012.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter has written a book for the elderly; those in their twilight years. With 1.4 million people in the U.K now over 85, this partly auto-biographical book is humorous and down to earth, taking a practical look at the benefits and pit-falls of old age. He looks at a number of Bible characters who are in or approaching old age, linking these with his own experiences and those of others known to him. With some delightful insights into the positive aspects of old age, and 'that (I love this line!) nothing is beyond redemption and no situation irretrievably hopeless' It can speak to those who feel their lives are worthless and aimless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe looks honestly at the downsides of old age, its fears, doubts and regrets and the problem of loneliness and physical limitations. With its useful headings, the reader can `dip back` as and when needed. The book might have benefited from more detail of how to enjoy a deeper relationship with Jesus, and for non church goers, a simple explanation of the basic Gospel message would have been useful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI would give a recommendation to buy this well researched, topical book as it is easy to read, has plenty of humour and no Christian Jargon. As a person approaching `the departure lounge` I found this little book very interesting and full of hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Gill Mason for Preach Magazine September 28, 2014\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter, now in his 80s, will be well known to many as a Christian writer, retreat leader and broadcaster. Readers should not be put off by the sub - title of his book, 'Enjoying life in the departure lounge', which is illustrative of the wry humour evident throughout. In fact, I have never laughed so much while reading a book on ageing. In his very personal introduction he declares that he no longer attempts a geriatric and breathtaking sprint when trying to catch a bus: 'After all, there will be another one in 30 minutes, and what's that in the eyes of eternity?' \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the early chapters Winter confronts the prevailing culture of what he terms 'geraphobia', against which he pitches the enormous value of life experience which provides the sap for a fruitful old age. The remainder of the book is structured around a succession of biblical characters, from Methusaleh via (among others) Sarah and Abraham, Moses and the Psalmists to Simeon and Anna, the Holy Family and St Paul in the New Testament. What I expected might be old - hat turned out to be truly enlightening and to have real contemporary relevance. En route, he raises a number of issues that tend to be overlooked or played down: the tension between a desirable serenity and 'the tantrums of the terrible 80s'; waiting as expectancy rather than passivity; the need for wisdom to be tinged with humility. He is particularly helpful on the mood swings of old age which can cloud our vision of God and on loneliness. He acknowledges the value for older people of modern technology, such as emails and Skype, but captures the bewilderment of many when asked for 'passwords you've forgotten, customer numbers you never knew you had, overdraft facility figures you've never used - and all before you get to speak to a human being'. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe final two chapters touch upon ultimate issues. He is perhaps right in suggesting that older people, living in the shadow of morality, do not in fact have death constantly in their thoughts nor are they over - concerned with the details of heaven. His concept of 'resurrection' and the after - life is movingly illustrated by the death of his wife which left him with the strong sense that she had not ceased to exist. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI found this short book personally helpful and pastorally valuable. It is an honest testimony of the author's life and faith journey. Any older person will read it with profit and younger people with a greater understanding of their elders. And, yes, he does quote from Browning's 'Rabbi ben Ezra'. We can be encouraged that the best is indeed yet to be. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Albert Jewell for The Methodist Recorded 21 Feb 2014\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T15:19:29+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T15:18:32+00:00","vendor":"David Winter","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Nov-13","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Retired and inspired","Torch Trust"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602937012604,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857461445","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"At the End of the Day: Enjoying life in the departure lounge - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":151,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857461445","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347.png?v=1730713212","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/348.png?v=1730713212"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347.png?v=1730713212","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62986091037052,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347.png?v=1730713212"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/347.png?v=1730713212","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62986091004284,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/348.png?v=1730713212"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/348.png?v=1730713212","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn octogenarian takes a wryly humorous look at what it's like to be old in an era of the relentlessly new. Turning to the Bible, he explores its store of timeless wisdom, encouragement and reassurance about what it has always meant to grow old and be old. The book is structured around a series of fascinating biblical pictures, from the legendary Methuselah to the feisty Sarah and the great leader Moses, from the picture of inevitable decline as the Preacher saw it in Ecclesiastes to the glorious Nunc Dimittis of old Simeon in the temple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'At the end of the day' is a well-worn phrase - yet seeing life as a single day, with dawn, noon, sunny afternoon, twilight and then darkness and sleep, provides a sort of contracted chronology of a journey we are all taking. Those who are at, or beyond, tea-time - as well as their friends and family - may find this book offers an essentially optimistic, positive and attractive picture of both the present and the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDavid Winter introduces \u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI wrote \u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day\u003c\/em\u003e because I wanted to address this situation not as a problem (which is how sociologists, politicians and media commentators seem to see it) but simply as yet another life experience. All through life we move more or less seamlessly from one stage to another, from childhood to adolescence, from that to young adulthood, from that to middle age, and from that to the retirement years. This book is an attempt to record what it is like finally to move into the departure lounge of life, awaiting the call to board our flight from this life to whatever it is that God has planned for us at its end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe departure lounge is not as bad as it may look in prospect. Believe it or not, being old can be fun. Of course there are problems - aches and pains, sluggish memory and so on. But there are also enormous compensations in old age, including the freedom to be ourselves without any pressure to achieve or justify our existence. I was surprised to discover (when I got there myself) that the elderly don't endlessly discuss death. Compared with teenagers, young adults and even the middle-aged, they are not living with plans for the future but with the richness of the here and now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAt the End of the Day \u003c\/em\u003etakes a quizzical look at some of the wonderful old men and women whose stories are part of the Hebrew and Christian scriptures. Surprisingly, perhaps, their experiences seem to match many of ours. We look at them, of course, through the long perspective of time and also through the prism of our modern experiences, but there is wisdom, fulfilment and encouragement in those biblical records.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is not a 'heavy' book. How could it be when the elderly spend so much time laughing at themselves and at the whole business of being old! Nor is it depressing - again, how could it be, when we are seated in that departure lounge awaiting the final great adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI wrote it not just for those who are already old, although I hope they'll find it both amusing and encouraging, but also for all those who want to know what it's going to be like to join our ranks. They may be surprised to find that the poet Robert Browning got it right when he said, 'The best is yet to be.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube-nocookie.com\/embed\/kP4wFKmvMmg\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter is one of the UK's most popular and long-established Christian writers and broadcasters. He has written many books over the last sixty years, including Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light, Pilgrim's Way, Journey to Jerusalem and With Jesus in the Upper Room for BRF. He also writes for New Daylight and was a regular contributor to Radio 4's Thought for the Day from 1989 to 2012.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter has written a book for the elderly; those in their twilight years. With 1.4 million people in the U.K now over 85, this partly auto-biographical book is humorous and down to earth, taking a practical look at the benefits and pit-falls of old age. He looks at a number of Bible characters who are in or approaching old age, linking these with his own experiences and those of others known to him. With some delightful insights into the positive aspects of old age, and 'that (I love this line!) nothing is beyond redemption and no situation irretrievably hopeless' It can speak to those who feel their lives are worthless and aimless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe looks honestly at the downsides of old age, its fears, doubts and regrets and the problem of loneliness and physical limitations. With its useful headings, the reader can `dip back` as and when needed. The book might have benefited from more detail of how to enjoy a deeper relationship with Jesus, and for non church goers, a simple explanation of the basic Gospel message would have been useful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI would give a recommendation to buy this well researched, topical book as it is easy to read, has plenty of humour and no Christian Jargon. As a person approaching `the departure lounge` I found this little book very interesting and full of hope.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Gill Mason for Preach Magazine September 28, 2014\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter, now in his 80s, will be well known to many as a Christian writer, retreat leader and broadcaster. Readers should not be put off by the sub - title of his book, 'Enjoying life in the departure lounge', which is illustrative of the wry humour evident throughout. In fact, I have never laughed so much while reading a book on ageing. In his very personal introduction he declares that he no longer attempts a geriatric and breathtaking sprint when trying to catch a bus: 'After all, there will be another one in 30 minutes, and what's that in the eyes of eternity?' \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the early chapters Winter confronts the prevailing culture of what he terms 'geraphobia', against which he pitches the enormous value of life experience which provides the sap for a fruitful old age. The remainder of the book is structured around a succession of biblical characters, from Methusaleh via (among others) Sarah and Abraham, Moses and the Psalmists to Simeon and Anna, the Holy Family and St Paul in the New Testament. What I expected might be old - hat turned out to be truly enlightening and to have real contemporary relevance. En route, he raises a number of issues that tend to be overlooked or played down: the tension between a desirable serenity and 'the tantrums of the terrible 80s'; waiting as expectancy rather than passivity; the need for wisdom to be tinged with humility. He is particularly helpful on the mood swings of old age which can cloud our vision of God and on loneliness. He acknowledges the value for older people of modern technology, such as emails and Skype, but captures the bewilderment of many when asked for 'passwords you've forgotten, customer numbers you never knew you had, overdraft facility figures you've never used - and all before you get to speak to a human being'. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe final two chapters touch upon ultimate issues. He is perhaps right in suggesting that older people, living in the shadow of morality, do not in fact have death constantly in their thoughts nor are they over - concerned with the details of heaven. His concept of 'resurrection' and the after - life is movingly illustrated by the death of his wife which left him with the strong sense that she had not ceased to exist. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI found this short book personally helpful and pastorally valuable. It is an honest testimony of the author's life and faith journey. Any older person will read it with profit and younger people with a greater understanding of their elders. And, yes, he does quote from Browning's 'Rabbi ben Ezra'. We can be encouraged that the best is indeed yet to be. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Rev Albert Jewell for The Methodist Recorded 21 Feb 2014\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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At the End of the Day: Enjoying life in the departure lounge
£7.99
Digital eBook Only - An octogenarian takes a wryly humorous look at what it's like to be old in an...
{"id":14698910220668,"title":"Come, Let Us Age!: An invitation to grow old boldly","handle":"come-let-us-age-an-invitation-to-grow-old-boldly-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn this unique book, Wanda Nash, a well-established writer on spirituality in her late seventies, reflects on growing old with faith and a positive spirit. This compelling invitation to grow old boldly - full of her own experiences and insights - includes Wanda's reflection on her encounter later in life with terminal cancer, and her thoughts on coping with the daily challenges of living a Christian life in her illness and in ageing. Demonstrating a profound sense of the value and purposefulness of 'old age', the author's indomitable spirit is matched only by her fresh vision of the love of God in Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCome, let us age! An invitation to grow old boldly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 The preliminary scene\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 What is old age for?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Would God like an empty space which only he can refill?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 How on earth can we do this?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Some of the consequences of being old\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Some conclusions about being very old\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCome, let us play!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 God laughing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The magnitude of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Alongside the pain and the hurt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Feeling awful and playing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Jesus and optimism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 Jesus and his needs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 Being pierced, but still being welcoming\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExtracts from Wanda Nash's journals\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 Being old and ill: where is God?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 Awareness of God's presence in illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Using illness: ministry through illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17 Coping with illness in order to use it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e18 The best is yet to come\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e19 Finale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUntil her death in June 2015, Wanda Nash was an author and speaker on a range of subjects including stress and spirituality. Having been the UK Chair of the International Stress Management Association, she authored a number of significant books, including, Christ, Stress and Glory (1997), At Ease with Stress (1998), Come, Let us Play! (1999), Simple Tools for Stillness (2005) and Silence as a Meeting Place (2010).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Rank Centre Resources. Review by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small book - less than 100 pages - but the subject matter is huge: how to approach ageing and dying gracefully and with joy. Wanda Nash, a well-known writer on stillness and contemplation, began this book in her late 70s. While she was writing it she was diagnosed with terminal cancer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book meets the subjects of ageing and death head on; both are to be embraced. Wanda doesn't duck the problems of getting old but looks at them differently, suggesting that if we can no longer rush about filling our days with doing then we must make the most of being. That being takes place in the presence of a God who helps us to not only make sense of what is happening but to use it to minister to others. Ageing is to be embraced and celebrated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA book like this could be very worthy and dull but instead it is suffused with a sense of fun and enjoyment of life. Even at the worst moments she sees an opportunity to play. Wanda is convinced of the reality of life after death and is 'looking forward to the other side', believing, like Julian of Norwich, that: 'All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an inspiring, challenging but comforting book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T15:27:57+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T15:26:48+00:00","vendor":"Wanda Nash","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Jul-17","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Retired and inspired"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602940486012,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465597","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Come, Let Us Age!: An invitation to grow old boldly - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":699,"weight":112,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465597","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/184.png?v=1730134968","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/185.png?v=1730134926"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/184.png?v=1730134968","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923503501692,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/184.png?v=1730134968"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/184.png?v=1730134968","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923498750332,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/185.png?v=1730134926"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/185.png?v=1730134926","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn this unique book, Wanda Nash, a well-established writer on spirituality in her late seventies, reflects on growing old with faith and a positive spirit. This compelling invitation to grow old boldly - full of her own experiences and insights - includes Wanda's reflection on her encounter later in life with terminal cancer, and her thoughts on coping with the daily challenges of living a Christian life in her illness and in ageing. Demonstrating a profound sense of the value and purposefulness of 'old age', the author's indomitable spirit is matched only by her fresh vision of the love of God in Jesus Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eContents\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCome, let us age! An invitation to grow old boldly\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 The preliminary scene\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 What is old age for?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Would God like an empty space which only he can refill?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 How on earth can we do this?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Some of the consequences of being old\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Some conclusions about being very old\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCome, let us play!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 God laughing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 The magnitude of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Alongside the pain and the hurt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Feeling awful and playing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e11 Jesus and optimism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e12 Jesus and his needs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e13 Being pierced, but still being welcoming\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExtracts from Wanda Nash's journals\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e14 Being old and ill: where is God?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15 Awareness of God's presence in illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16 Using illness: ministry through illness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e17 Coping with illness in order to use it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e18 The best is yet to come\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e19 Finale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUntil her death in June 2015, Wanda Nash was an author and speaker on a range of subjects including stress and spirituality. Having been the UK Chair of the International Stress Management Association, she authored a number of significant books, including, Christ, Stress and Glory (1997), At Ease with Stress (1998), Come, Let us Play! (1999), Simple Tools for Stillness (2005) and Silence as a Meeting Place (2010).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArthur Rank Centre Resources. Review by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small book - less than 100 pages - but the subject matter is huge: how to approach ageing and dying gracefully and with joy. Wanda Nash, a well-known writer on stillness and contemplation, began this book in her late 70s. While she was writing it she was diagnosed with terminal cancer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book meets the subjects of ageing and death head on; both are to be embraced. Wanda doesn't duck the problems of getting old but looks at them differently, suggesting that if we can no longer rush about filling our days with doing then we must make the most of being. That being takes place in the presence of a God who helps us to not only make sense of what is happening but to use it to minister to others. Ageing is to be embraced and celebrated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA book like this could be very worthy and dull but instead it is suffused with a sense of fun and enjoyment of life. Even at the worst moments she sees an opportunity to play. Wanda is convinced of the reality of life after death and is 'looking forward to the other side', believing, like Julian of Norwich, that: 'All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an inspiring, challenging but comforting book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Revd Elizabeth Clark, National Rural Officer for the Methodist and United Reformed Churches\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Come, Let Us Age!: An invitation to grow old boldly
£6.99
Digital eBook Only - In this unique book, Wanda Nash, a well-established writer on spirituality in her late seventies, reflects...
{"id":14698915463548,"title":"Jesus said, 'I am': Finding life in the everyday","handle":"jesus-said-i-am-finding-life-in-the-everyday-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDrawing on the imagery of the Hebrew scriptures, Jesus identifies himself as the 'I am' of Israel's narrative. Through sensitive retelling, thoughtful discussion and creative exercises, Andrea Skevington shows the transforming power of Jesus' words. Each chapter focuses on a different 'I am' saying and offers ideas for reflection and response, including suggestions for further study, prayer and meditation, creative response, 'life and service' practical outreach, music suggestions and further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus said, 'I am' integrates faith and imagination, story and study, helping reader towards a well-grounded and more profound faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrea Skevington lives in Suffolk with her family. She writes for both adults and children, winning the Christian Book of the Year award (Speaking Volumes) for her retelling, The Lion Classic Bible (Lion Hudson, 2011). She also preaches and leads Bible studies and children's groups, creative writing workshops and retreats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read Andrea's lockdown blog and read some of her lockdown poems click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/writer-poet-and-blogger-andrea-skevington-reflects-on-jesus-i-am-sayings-in-light-of-lockdown\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry digital edition 2. Review by Rosemary Walters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled ‘Finding Life in the Everyday’\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e, \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003enearly all the chapters in this book are built on specific ‘I Am’ sayings of Jesus. Its great strength is the combination in each chapter of contextual and theological analysis, reflections for study and contemplation and a variety of creative ideas. This makes it valuable in a variety of settings: retreats, study days, weekly courses based on each chapter, as well as Fresh Expressions and Messy Church. The theological background in each chapter is concise yet informative and the study questions are challenging. The emphasis in the creative response sections invites reflection and action based on personal experience and the prayer resources could equally well be used in formal and informal liturgical settings. The scope of reference is wide, poets, philosophers and a variety of theological material, helpful for those preaching as well as group and individual contexts. Andrea Skevington says in her introduction that writing this book has changed the way she sees following Jesus. Her vision for the book, that it will take the reader deeper into the adventure of discovering who Jesus is, and who they are as individuals comes alive from the very start when she begins exploring the implications of the phrase ‘I am’. The connections between Old Testament history and concepts of God and the teachings of Jesus moves naturally in each chapter to links with contemporary experience and opportunity for action. This book is a valuable resource for ministry and personal reflection. It lives up to its subtitle of ‘Finding Life in the Everyday’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Rosemary Walters \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWoman Alive: WA Book Club April 2019. Review by Amy Boucher-Pye\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis month I'm reading ...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love having a book that I really want to share with you. Some months I flail around, starting a novel and discarding it before moving on to a life story or an exploration of Christian discipleship. But sometimes a wonderful book comes along that I can highlight unreservedly, such as Andrea Skevington's\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJesus said, 'I am'.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn it she delves into the 'I am' sayings of Jesus according to John's Gospel. In the Greek Jesus says\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eego eimi\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e24 times, seven of which have become the 'I am' sayings. Andrea explores these (from 'I am the bread of life' to 'I am the good shepherd' to 'I am the true vine') and also the interesting story of the woman at the well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love how she splits her chapters into halves. First she digs into the particular story, unpacking the context of what Jesus experienced. The second half moves to reflection and response, including searching questions for individual pondering or group discussion. She also suggests various creative responses, such as writing, photography,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003electio divina,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eand other exercises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo give you a flavour, let's look at the story of the woman at the well (John 4). Andrea sets the story in its context - that of conflict, not only between the Jews and the Samaritans, but also between Jesus and the Pharisees. Jesus stops at the well that Jacob gave to Joseph, which reminds the reader of the long history of God's people. Here Jesus acts as a peacemaker in the midst of conflict. He speaks to one ostracised by society - a woman who has had many husbands. We might judge this woman, but as Andrea observes, in that day, men easily acquired divorces and early death was common.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus humbly asks the woman for a drink. He recognises her as made in the image of God as he cuts through her layers of shame and hiding. Seeing her for who she is, he sets her free. She in turn leaves behind the water jug and goes forth joyfully to share the good news with those who were shaming her. Perhaps that jug, Andrea observes, symbolises the old life left behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter exploring the story (with more depth than I've conveyed here), Andrea leads us into some questions, including, 'Are there people you would be reluctant to talk to and drink with? If so, why?' I particularly like her creative response of choosing a striking phrase from the Bible story; hers is 'the well is deep'. We sit with that phrase, playing with it through poetry or prose, writing a story or jotting down some thoughts about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for a book to deepen your faith and love for Jesus, give this one a try. You'll be enriched and encouraged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Amy Boucher-Pye, Editor WA Book Club\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, April 2019. Review by Catherine Ball\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hebrew scriptures record God’s revelation of the name of the Godhead to Moses as: ‘I am who I am.’ Jesus was the long-awaited Jewish Messiah, but not the type of Messiah expected by his contemporaries. He was not a rich and powerful prince or a trained priest in the temple of Jerusalem. His ministry was not to lead an army to attack and overthrow Rome, but to lay down his life for the world. Yet, he could only accomplish this if the legal and religious authorities did not realise who he was and what he had come to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo those who had ears to hear and eyes to see, Andrea Skevington argues, Jesus reveals himself as the Son of Man and Son of God in a most original and startling way in his famous ‘I am’ sayings: ‘I am the bread of life.’ ‘I am the light of the world.’ ‘I am the good shepherd.’ ‘I am the gate for the sheep.’ ‘I am the resurrection and the life.’ ‘I am the way, the truth and the life.’ ‘I am the true vine.’ As Skevington says, ‘I am’ is such a common construction in every language; it is how we define ourselves, but it is also a very deep mystery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter of this book explores one of the stories in which Jesus says, ‘I am…’ It looks at its context and characters and shows the transforming power of Jesus’ words for his listeners. Skevington goes beyond the classic seven ‘I am’ statements, also including Jesus’ words to the woman at the well and what he said when he was confronted by soldiers in the garden of Gethsemane: ‘I am he for whom you are looking.’ Each time, Skevington includes a prayer and meditation and gives suggestions for further study and some creative responses in service and practical outreach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book could be used by individuals for their own personal faith development or used as a study guide for group discussions. It would make an excellent Lent course!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatherine Ball is Minister of the Free Church, St Ives and Fenstanton United Reformed Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e ______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview on https:\/\/monasteriesoftheheart.org\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a unique look at the things Jesus says about himself. It has a few pages of retelling and discussion of each passage, followed by a huge quantity of suggestions for responses -questions to invite thinking, prayer and meditation and creative ideas, with drawing, writing and making, getting out and about in creation and suggestions for activism, service and worship. It is such a rich resource that in one small book there is enough to return to again and again. A real delight of practical theology. Andrea has a blog where you can explore sections from her work as a gift. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times Round up May 2019. Review by Pieter J Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthor and amateur-theologian Skevington presents nine chapters of material on the ‘I am’ sayings of Jesus in John’s Gospel. She deals with Jesus as the bread of life (chapter 3), the light of the world (4), the good shepherd and the gate (together in 5), the resurrection and the life (6), the way, the truth and the life (7), and the true vine (8). The short ninth and final chapter is about Jesus’ saying ‘I am he’ in John 18:5.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapter 1 discusses the revelation of God’s name ‘I Am’ (Yahweh) to Moses in Exodus 3 and chapter 2 is about Jesus and the women at the well, to whom he says that he is the Messiah, using the same words ‘I am’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first part of each chapter contains the full text of the Scripture passage and a study of it, the second part offers numerous suggestions for ‘reflection and response’: questions, references to similar passages with questions about them, prayers, suggestions for activities, suggestions for further reading, and much more. For example, after ‘I am the bread of life’ we are invited to bake bread, to reflect on avoiding waste and to consider fasting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkevington’s explanations of Scripture are attractive and generally to the point, although occasionally driven by association rather than by strict interpretation. She fills some Greek words with more meaning than they have in themselves. The suggested responses are naturally more diverse and the ideas for further study touch on the entire Christian life. This means that in the end this positive book reaches far and wide. It will surely help attentive readers in their life of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore about the author and her books can be found on her website. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/andreaskevington.com\/\"\u003ehttps:\/\/andreaskevington.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Dr Pieter J. Lalleman teaches Bible at Spurgeon's College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T15:30:48+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T15:29:42+00:00","vendor":"Andrea Skevington","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","For individuals","Glassboxx","Jan-19","Spirituality"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602941698428,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465689","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Jesus said, 'I am': Finding life in the everyday - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":180,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465689","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/186.png?v=1730134970","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/187.png?v=1730134957"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/186.png?v=1730134970","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923503698300,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/186.png?v=1730134970"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/186.png?v=1730134970","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923502158204,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/187.png?v=1730134957"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/187.png?v=1730134957","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDrawing on the imagery of the Hebrew scriptures, Jesus identifies himself as the 'I am' of Israel's narrative. Through sensitive retelling, thoughtful discussion and creative exercises, Andrea Skevington shows the transforming power of Jesus' words. Each chapter focuses on a different 'I am' saying and offers ideas for reflection and response, including suggestions for further study, prayer and meditation, creative response, 'life and service' practical outreach, music suggestions and further reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus said, 'I am' integrates faith and imagination, story and study, helping reader towards a well-grounded and more profound faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrea Skevington lives in Suffolk with her family. She writes for both adults and children, winning the Christian Book of the Year award (Speaking Volumes) for her retelling, The Lion Classic Bible (Lion Hudson, 2011). She also preaches and leads Bible studies and children's groups, creative writing workshops and retreats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read Andrea's lockdown blog and read some of her lockdown poems click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/writer-poet-and-blogger-andrea-skevington-reflects-on-jesus-i-am-sayings-in-light-of-lockdown\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry digital edition 2. Review by Rosemary Walters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled ‘Finding Life in the Everyday’\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e, \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003enearly all the chapters in this book are built on specific ‘I Am’ sayings of Jesus. Its great strength is the combination in each chapter of contextual and theological analysis, reflections for study and contemplation and a variety of creative ideas. This makes it valuable in a variety of settings: retreats, study days, weekly courses based on each chapter, as well as Fresh Expressions and Messy Church. The theological background in each chapter is concise yet informative and the study questions are challenging. The emphasis in the creative response sections invites reflection and action based on personal experience and the prayer resources could equally well be used in formal and informal liturgical settings. The scope of reference is wide, poets, philosophers and a variety of theological material, helpful for those preaching as well as group and individual contexts. Andrea Skevington says in her introduction that writing this book has changed the way she sees following Jesus. Her vision for the book, that it will take the reader deeper into the adventure of discovering who Jesus is, and who they are as individuals comes alive from the very start when she begins exploring the implications of the phrase ‘I am’. The connections between Old Testament history and concepts of God and the teachings of Jesus moves naturally in each chapter to links with contemporary experience and opportunity for action. This book is a valuable resource for ministry and personal reflection. It lives up to its subtitle of ‘Finding Life in the Everyday’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Rosemary Walters \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWoman Alive: WA Book Club April 2019. Review by Amy Boucher-Pye\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis month I'm reading ...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love having a book that I really want to share with you. Some months I flail around, starting a novel and discarding it before moving on to a life story or an exploration of Christian discipleship. But sometimes a wonderful book comes along that I can highlight unreservedly, such as Andrea Skevington's\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eJesus said, 'I am'.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn it she delves into the 'I am' sayings of Jesus according to John's Gospel. In the Greek Jesus says\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eego eimi\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e24 times, seven of which have become the 'I am' sayings. Andrea explores these (from 'I am the bread of life' to 'I am the good shepherd' to 'I am the true vine') and also the interesting story of the woman at the well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love how she splits her chapters into halves. First she digs into the particular story, unpacking the context of what Jesus experienced. The second half moves to reflection and response, including searching questions for individual pondering or group discussion. She also suggests various creative responses, such as writing, photography,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003electio divina,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eand other exercises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo give you a flavour, let's look at the story of the woman at the well (John 4). Andrea sets the story in its context - that of conflict, not only between the Jews and the Samaritans, but also between Jesus and the Pharisees. Jesus stops at the well that Jacob gave to Joseph, which reminds the reader of the long history of God's people. Here Jesus acts as a peacemaker in the midst of conflict. He speaks to one ostracised by society - a woman who has had many husbands. We might judge this woman, but as Andrea observes, in that day, men easily acquired divorces and early death was common.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus humbly asks the woman for a drink. He recognises her as made in the image of God as he cuts through her layers of shame and hiding. Seeing her for who she is, he sets her free. She in turn leaves behind the water jug and goes forth joyfully to share the good news with those who were shaming her. Perhaps that jug, Andrea observes, symbolises the old life left behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter exploring the story (with more depth than I've conveyed here), Andrea leads us into some questions, including, 'Are there people you would be reluctant to talk to and drink with? If so, why?' I particularly like her creative response of choosing a striking phrase from the Bible story; hers is 'the well is deep'. We sit with that phrase, playing with it through poetry or prose, writing a story or jotting down some thoughts about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for a book to deepen your faith and love for Jesus, give this one a try. You'll be enriched and encouraged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Amy Boucher-Pye, Editor WA Book Club\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, April 2019. Review by Catherine Ball\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hebrew scriptures record God’s revelation of the name of the Godhead to Moses as: ‘I am who I am.’ Jesus was the long-awaited Jewish Messiah, but not the type of Messiah expected by his contemporaries. He was not a rich and powerful prince or a trained priest in the temple of Jerusalem. His ministry was not to lead an army to attack and overthrow Rome, but to lay down his life for the world. Yet, he could only accomplish this if the legal and religious authorities did not realise who he was and what he had come to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo those who had ears to hear and eyes to see, Andrea Skevington argues, Jesus reveals himself as the Son of Man and Son of God in a most original and startling way in his famous ‘I am’ sayings: ‘I am the bread of life.’ ‘I am the light of the world.’ ‘I am the good shepherd.’ ‘I am the gate for the sheep.’ ‘I am the resurrection and the life.’ ‘I am the way, the truth and the life.’ ‘I am the true vine.’ As Skevington says, ‘I am’ is such a common construction in every language; it is how we define ourselves, but it is also a very deep mystery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter of this book explores one of the stories in which Jesus says, ‘I am…’ It looks at its context and characters and shows the transforming power of Jesus’ words for his listeners. Skevington goes beyond the classic seven ‘I am’ statements, also including Jesus’ words to the woman at the well and what he said when he was confronted by soldiers in the garden of Gethsemane: ‘I am he for whom you are looking.’ Each time, Skevington includes a prayer and meditation and gives suggestions for further study and some creative responses in service and practical outreach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book could be used by individuals for their own personal faith development or used as a study guide for group discussions. It would make an excellent Lent course!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCatherine Ball is Minister of the Free Church, St Ives and Fenstanton United Reformed Church\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e ______________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview on https:\/\/monasteriesoftheheart.org\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a unique look at the things Jesus says about himself. It has a few pages of retelling and discussion of each passage, followed by a huge quantity of suggestions for responses -questions to invite thinking, prayer and meditation and creative ideas, with drawing, writing and making, getting out and about in creation and suggestions for activism, service and worship. It is such a rich resource that in one small book there is enough to return to again and again. A real delight of practical theology. Andrea has a blog where you can explore sections from her work as a gift. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBaptist Times Round up May 2019. Review by Pieter J Lalleman\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthor and amateur-theologian Skevington presents nine chapters of material on the ‘I am’ sayings of Jesus in John’s Gospel. She deals with Jesus as the bread of life (chapter 3), the light of the world (4), the good shepherd and the gate (together in 5), the resurrection and the life (6), the way, the truth and the life (7), and the true vine (8). The short ninth and final chapter is about Jesus’ saying ‘I am he’ in John 18:5.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapter 1 discusses the revelation of God’s name ‘I Am’ (Yahweh) to Moses in Exodus 3 and chapter 2 is about Jesus and the women at the well, to whom he says that he is the Messiah, using the same words ‘I am’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first part of each chapter contains the full text of the Scripture passage and a study of it, the second part offers numerous suggestions for ‘reflection and response’: questions, references to similar passages with questions about them, prayers, suggestions for activities, suggestions for further reading, and much more. For example, after ‘I am the bread of life’ we are invited to bake bread, to reflect on avoiding waste and to consider fasting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkevington’s explanations of Scripture are attractive and generally to the point, although occasionally driven by association rather than by strict interpretation. She fills some Greek words with more meaning than they have in themselves. The suggested responses are naturally more diverse and the ideas for further study touch on the entire Christian life. This means that in the end this positive book reaches far and wide. It will surely help attentive readers in their life of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore about the author and her books can be found on her website. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/andreaskevington.com\/\"\u003ehttps:\/\/andreaskevington.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd Dr Pieter J. Lalleman teaches Bible at Spurgeon's College\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Jesus said, 'I am': Finding life in the everyday
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Digital eBook Only - Drawing on the imagery of the Hebrew scriptures, Jesus identifies himself as the 'I am' of...
{"id":14698926440828,"title":"Journey to the Centre of the Soul: A handbook for explorers","handle":"journey-to-the-centre-of-the-soul-a-handbook-for-explorers-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis unique and ground-breaking book is a summons to a subterranean spiritual adventure, an odyssey of the soul. If you let it, it will invigorate and inspire a search for something deeper in the spiritual life, and will link you with trusted spiritual guides to support you as you progress in a journey of discovery. \u003cem\u003eJourney to the Centre of the Soul\u003c\/em\u003e mines the rich seams of Christian spirituality, risks the depths, faces the darkness and make astonishing, transformative discoveries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Reading the geology of the soul: your spiritual history\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Entering the cave of the heart: going deeper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Plunging beneath the waters: the hidden river of prayer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Carving out cisterns: resources and reserves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Tunnelling beneath the rock: developing communications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Plummeting into the abyss: descending into the depths of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 Facing the dragons: the dark side\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 Mining buried treasure: unearthing hidden gems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Calling from below: subversive prophetic voices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Treading lightly - and moving forwards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI warmly commend Andrew Mayes' 'Journey to the Centre of the Soul' having always enjoyed his writings and derived much encouragement from them. Andrew is able to draw together the wisdom of the ages, from the Fathers, through Byzantium and the Middle Ages, up to the Modern Age. He also infuses this sweep of history with his own imagination and gives readers rich insights as contemporary spiritual needs come into focus.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Bishop Christopher Chessun, Bishop of Southwark \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book on spirituality, but not the fashionable kind: in the author's words, 'narcissistic, self-centred and all about self-empowerment.' Andrew Mayes offers a radical alternative, to be found in a costly journey into the very depths of humanity. Through silence, solitude, detachment and receptivity that journey leads to what he calls 'prophetic spirituality' and an encounter with the 'imprint of divine teaching'. It's not an easy read, but it unlocks some stubborn doors on the way to wonderful possibilities. An important book and possibly unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Canon David Winter \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Journey to the Centre of the Soul' is no invitation to introspection. The journey it's about is God's to the caves of Bethlehem, the Mount of Olives and Christ's empty tomb lightening our darkness. As God is all present seeking him in things below rather than above is a creative ploy by Andrew Mayes in tackling superficiality, the curse of our age. An experienced spiritual director versed in Christian authors, Fr Mayes is well equipped by his knowledge of the Holy Land to bring Scripture alive in contexts which reach the unreachable parts of us. There are ten chapters each ending with questions for reflection useful for groups as well as individuals, and a prayer exercise. The handbook is imaginative, well structured and easy to read.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Canon John Twisleton \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Revd Canon Dr Andrew D. Mayes is the Spirituality Adviser for the Diocese of Chichester, where he previously served as director of clergy and lay training. He is an international speaker and teaches at the London Centre for Spirituality, as well as leading retreats across the UK. He is also the author of several books on spirituality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by Rona Orme\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis may be a spiritual book for explorers, as it is subtitled, but it certainly is not for beginners. It is for those well-versed in the scriptures and with a rudimentary knowledge of some mystical writers. A degree of comfort with theological vocabulary will also help. Not a quick or easy read, this book will reward slow, reflective reading. As an extended metaphor of underground landscape to encourage spiritual awareness, it is original and stimulating. Some may find there is too much geological information. The prayer exercises in each chapter are imaginative and varied. The book could be used as the basis for a retreat or with an experienced home group. Spiritual directors and those looking for fresh imagery for the work of the Spirit will find much of value here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Rona Orme\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times review by Peter McGeary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past few months, I have had to lead quiet days for different groups of men and women preparing for ordination. Not having done much of this kind of thing, I was aware that, in my inexperience, I was using far too many words to communicate far too many things. I only hope that they got something out of it all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrew Mayes uses plenty of words in his book, but he does so in a much more focused way than I did, to get the reader to concentrate more closely on particular aspects of the spiritual life. He is an experienced retreat-giver, and knows that any words he uses are there to instil prayer and reflection in the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRather than throw out lots of ideas to see if some of them will stick, he uses each chapter to drill down and distil reflection on an aspect of the spiritual life: one's spiritual history, resources that can help, confronting darkness in prayer, being open to surprising things, and so on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMayes spent several years living and working in the Holy Land, and this experience gives shape to the text: each chapter comes out from the ground, so to speak, as an observation on some aspect of the geology or geography of a place leads to reflections on the spiritual life and what we can learn. This is, I suppose, a kind of 'contextual spirituality'. Each chapter ends with questions to ponder and an exercise to do, which helps to make the book usable by groups as well as individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible has bequeathed to us an inheritance of imagery which Christians cannot help but believe: the ground and what is below is the place of burial, death, the underworld, damnation. To apprehend God, we need to look up and ascend. And many are the writers who have helped this imagery along, with their circles of hell or their spiritual mountains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMayes is rightly not content with this: digging down, going underground, is to do here with profundity, truthfulness, and substance: the journey that can be exhilarating, frightening, and difficult, but which leads to transformation and true enrichment, bringing one closer to the One who is beyond all images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd Peter McGeary is the Vicar of St Mary's Cable Street, in East London and a Priest-Vicar at Westminster Abbey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Canon John Twisleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI read this book on pilgrimage to Lourdes so its theme of God revealing himself in caves chimed in with my experience there though the book is built around Holy Land pilgrimage. The title 'Journey to the Centre of the Soul' is not primarily an invitation to introspection. The journey it's about is God's to the caves of Bethlehem, the Mount of Olives and Christ's empty tomb lightening our darkness. As God is all present, seeking him in things below rather than above is a refreshing 'subterranean spiritual adventure, an odyssey of the soul' led by the ever-creative Andrew Mayes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperficiality is the curse of our age, the author declaims as he opens up rich seams of Christian spirituality to assist our transformation from the inside out. An experienced spiritual director versed in Christian authors, Fr Mayes is well equipped by his knowledge of the Holy Land to bring Scripture alive in contexts which reach the unreachable parts of us. As I viewed the Lourdes Grotto where Bernadette unearthed the healing stream I found myself, in Andrew Mayes' words, 'slipping into the abyss of God's love... for... Christ is abiding, residing at the centre of being. \u003cem\u003eHe\u003c\/em\u003e is in fact the very centre of the soul!'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Journey to the Centre of the Soul' has ten chapters each ending with questions for reflection, useful for groups as well as individuals, and a prayer exercise. I liked the Eckhart quote about the Spirit of God as a great underground river and the question: 'What is the evidence, outer or inner, in your life that indicates the hidden, secret presence of the Spirit deep within?'. The associated prayer exercise builds expectation on Jesus as giver of the Spirit. The chapter on 'Facing the dragons: the dark side' ends with a meditation on the demoniac of Mark 5:1-20 and what it is to 'live among the tombs' with a reflection on a Richard Rohr quotation: 'The path of descent is the path of transformation. Darkness, failure, relapse, death and woundedness are our primary teachers, rather than ideas or doctrines.'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe power of the book is its rooting of Christian spirituality in the bible and provocative spatial images with appeal to wisdom across traditions 'from Hadewijch to Soelle, Rolle to Rohr, Meister Eckhart to Moltmann and Angela of Toligno to Roman Williams' (BRF press release). It ends with a helpful and typically provocative examination of spirituality itself tackling the persistent dualism between the holy and the profane, the other-worldly and the worldly. As a spiritual handbook it is imaginative, well structured and easy to read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCanon John Twisleton, Haywards Heath\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T15:38:38+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T15:36:13+00:00","vendor":"Andrew D. Mayes","type":"eBook","tags":["For individuals","Glassboxx","Jun-17","Spirituality"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602944778620,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465856","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Journey to the Centre of the Soul: A handbook for explorers - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":197,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465856","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/188.png?v=1730134961","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/189.png?v=1730134957"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/188.png?v=1730134961","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923502518652,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/188.png?v=1730134961"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/188.png?v=1730134961","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923502354812,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/189.png?v=1730134957"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/189.png?v=1730134957","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis unique and ground-breaking book is a summons to a subterranean spiritual adventure, an odyssey of the soul. If you let it, it will invigorate and inspire a search for something deeper in the spiritual life, and will link you with trusted spiritual guides to support you as you progress in a journey of discovery. \u003cem\u003eJourney to the Centre of the Soul\u003c\/em\u003e mines the rich seams of Christian spirituality, risks the depths, faces the darkness and make astonishing, transformative discoveries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 Reading the geology of the soul: your spiritual history\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 Entering the cave of the heart: going deeper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3 Plunging beneath the waters: the hidden river of prayer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e4 Carving out cisterns: resources and reserves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 Tunnelling beneath the rock: developing communications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 Plummeting into the abyss: descending into the depths of God\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e7 Facing the dragons: the dark side\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 Mining buried treasure: unearthing hidden gems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e9 Calling from below: subversive prophetic voices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10 Treading lightly - and moving forwards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI warmly commend Andrew Mayes' 'Journey to the Centre of the Soul' having always enjoyed his writings and derived much encouragement from them. Andrew is able to draw together the wisdom of the ages, from the Fathers, through Byzantium and the Middle Ages, up to the Modern Age. He also infuses this sweep of history with his own imagination and gives readers rich insights as contemporary spiritual needs come into focus.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Bishop Christopher Chessun, Bishop of Southwark \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book on spirituality, but not the fashionable kind: in the author's words, 'narcissistic, self-centred and all about self-empowerment.' Andrew Mayes offers a radical alternative, to be found in a costly journey into the very depths of humanity. Through silence, solitude, detachment and receptivity that journey leads to what he calls 'prophetic spirituality' and an encounter with the 'imprint of divine teaching'. It's not an easy read, but it unlocks some stubborn doors on the way to wonderful possibilities. An important book and possibly unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Revd Canon David Winter \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Journey to the Centre of the Soul' is no invitation to introspection. The journey it's about is God's to the caves of Bethlehem, the Mount of Olives and Christ's empty tomb lightening our darkness. As God is all present seeking him in things below rather than above is a creative ploy by Andrew Mayes in tackling superficiality, the curse of our age. An experienced spiritual director versed in Christian authors, Fr Mayes is well equipped by his knowledge of the Holy Land to bring Scripture alive in contexts which reach the unreachable parts of us. There are ten chapters each ending with questions for reflection useful for groups as well as individuals, and a prayer exercise. The handbook is imaginative, well structured and easy to read.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Canon John Twisleton \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Revd Canon Dr Andrew D. Mayes is the Spirituality Adviser for the Diocese of Chichester, where he previously served as director of clergy and lay training. He is an international speaker and teaches at the London Centre for Spirituality, as well as leading retreats across the UK. He is also the author of several books on spirituality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Summer 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReview by Rona Orme\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis may be a spiritual book for explorers, as it is subtitled, but it certainly is not for beginners. It is for those well-versed in the scriptures and with a rudimentary knowledge of some mystical writers. A degree of comfort with theological vocabulary will also help. Not a quick or easy read, this book will reward slow, reflective reading. As an extended metaphor of underground landscape to encourage spiritual awareness, it is original and stimulating. Some may find there is too much geological information. The prayer exercises in each chapter are imaginative and varied. The book could be used as the basis for a retreat or with an experienced home group. Spiritual directors and those looking for fresh imagery for the work of the Spirit will find much of value here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Rona Orme\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times review by Peter McGeary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past few months, I have had to lead quiet days for different groups of men and women preparing for ordination. Not having done much of this kind of thing, I was aware that, in my inexperience, I was using far too many words to communicate far too many things. I only hope that they got something out of it all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAndrew Mayes uses plenty of words in his book, but he does so in a much more focused way than I did, to get the reader to concentrate more closely on particular aspects of the spiritual life. He is an experienced retreat-giver, and knows that any words he uses are there to instil prayer and reflection in the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRather than throw out lots of ideas to see if some of them will stick, he uses each chapter to drill down and distil reflection on an aspect of the spiritual life: one's spiritual history, resources that can help, confronting darkness in prayer, being open to surprising things, and so on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMayes spent several years living and working in the Holy Land, and this experience gives shape to the text: each chapter comes out from the ground, so to speak, as an observation on some aspect of the geology or geography of a place leads to reflections on the spiritual life and what we can learn. This is, I suppose, a kind of 'contextual spirituality'. Each chapter ends with questions to ponder and an exercise to do, which helps to make the book usable by groups as well as individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible has bequeathed to us an inheritance of imagery which Christians cannot help but believe: the ground and what is below is the place of burial, death, the underworld, damnation. To apprehend God, we need to look up and ascend. And many are the writers who have helped this imagery along, with their circles of hell or their spiritual mountains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMayes is rightly not content with this: digging down, going underground, is to do here with profundity, truthfulness, and substance: the journey that can be exhilarating, frightening, and difficult, but which leads to transformation and true enrichment, bringing one closer to the One who is beyond all images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Revd Peter McGeary is the Vicar of St Mary's Cable Street, in East London and a Priest-Vicar at Westminster Abbey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Canon John Twisleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI read this book on pilgrimage to Lourdes so its theme of God revealing himself in caves chimed in with my experience there though the book is built around Holy Land pilgrimage. The title 'Journey to the Centre of the Soul' is not primarily an invitation to introspection. The journey it's about is God's to the caves of Bethlehem, the Mount of Olives and Christ's empty tomb lightening our darkness. As God is all present, seeking him in things below rather than above is a refreshing 'subterranean spiritual adventure, an odyssey of the soul' led by the ever-creative Andrew Mayes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperficiality is the curse of our age, the author declaims as he opens up rich seams of Christian spirituality to assist our transformation from the inside out. An experienced spiritual director versed in Christian authors, Fr Mayes is well equipped by his knowledge of the Holy Land to bring Scripture alive in contexts which reach the unreachable parts of us. As I viewed the Lourdes Grotto where Bernadette unearthed the healing stream I found myself, in Andrew Mayes' words, 'slipping into the abyss of God's love... for... Christ is abiding, residing at the centre of being. \u003cem\u003eHe\u003c\/em\u003e is in fact the very centre of the soul!'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'Journey to the Centre of the Soul' has ten chapters each ending with questions for reflection, useful for groups as well as individuals, and a prayer exercise. I liked the Eckhart quote about the Spirit of God as a great underground river and the question: 'What is the evidence, outer or inner, in your life that indicates the hidden, secret presence of the Spirit deep within?'. The associated prayer exercise builds expectation on Jesus as giver of the Spirit. The chapter on 'Facing the dragons: the dark side' ends with a meditation on the demoniac of Mark 5:1-20 and what it is to 'live among the tombs' with a reflection on a Richard Rohr quotation: 'The path of descent is the path of transformation. Darkness, failure, relapse, death and woundedness are our primary teachers, rather than ideas or doctrines.'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe power of the book is its rooting of Christian spirituality in the bible and provocative spatial images with appeal to wisdom across traditions 'from Hadewijch to Soelle, Rolle to Rohr, Meister Eckhart to Moltmann and Angela of Toligno to Roman Williams' (BRF press release). It ends with a helpful and typically provocative examination of spirituality itself tackling the persistent dualism between the holy and the profane, the other-worldly and the worldly. As a spiritual handbook it is imaginative, well structured and easy to read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCanon John Twisleton, Haywards Heath\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Journey to the Centre of the Soul: A handbook for explorers
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Digital eBook Only - This unique and ground-breaking book is a summons to a subterranean spiritual adventure, an odyssey of...
{"id":14698948329852,"title":"The BRF Book of 100 Prayers: Resourcing your spiritual journey","handle":"the-brf-book-of-100-prayers-resourcing-your-spiritual-journey","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn illustrated collection of prayers by Martyn Payne. Prayer is at the heart of BRFʼs work, and this special illustrated anniversary collection is a celebration of prayer for BRFʼs centenary year. It can be used in a range of different settings, from individual devotions to corporate worship. Including sections on prayers of preparation, seasonal prayers, and themed prayers for special times and hard times, it is the perfect daily companion to resource your spiritual journey.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 1: Approaching God\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePart 2: Prayers for the journey\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePart 3: Seasons of the Christian year\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePart 4: Together through the generations\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePart 5: How should we live?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8IEyVK5wrZI\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFormerly part of BRFʼs Messy Church team, Martyn Payne is BRFʼs prayer advocate and a gifted storyteller whose previous books The Big Story (2011) and Creative Ways to Tell a Bible Story (2012) demonstrate the variety of approaches he uses to bring the Bible alive for children and adults alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Summer 2023. Review by Liz Pacey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those of us who regularly write prayers, this book has immediate appeal. A celebration of BRF’s centenary year, the slim, attractively bound volume is a joy to hold. Most prayers were written and shared online during the pandemic, and it is very special to reflect on words of encouragement from those difficult times. The book also covers a wider timespan, containing prayers and excerpts written at the beginning of the BRF ministry. It is wonderful to look back and see how prayer has truly shaped a ministry and made it bloom. The book has five categories: Approaching God; Prayers for the Journey; Seasons of the Christian Year; Together through the generations; How should we live? Each short daily prayer is accompanied by a thought, many of which are quotations from a wide variety of spiritual leaders, past and present. It encourages us to take the space to pray, meditate and wonder on our own, and then be prepared to be catapulted into the heady joy of sharing. A book to keep and, maybe, buy an extra copy as a gift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Liz Pacey \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCountry Way Autumn 2022\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\"\u003eThis is a small hardback book with a ribbon book mark. It would easily fit into a small back or not take up much space in a rucksack. This book has been published to commemorate the centenary of the Bible Reading Foundation to ‘Resource Your Spiritual Journey’. In the foreword, it reminds us that the world was fighting a pandemic in 1918, just as we were fighting our own pandemic in 2020 and tells us that nearly all of the prayers written in this book were done so during the lockdown of Covid-19. The prayers are divided into five sections which can be used in either a church setting or by individuals. What I liked best about this book is that not only do you have the prayers, but there are also little quotes or thoughts and occasionally a bible verse, written on each page. These little messages helped me to think more deeply about what had been written in the prayers and definitely guided me on my journey. This book would make a lovely gift for a friend or loved one, whether they are just starting out on their spiritual journey or are well travelled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eMethodist Recorder 26.08.22. Review by Judith Lampard\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eIn order to celebrate its centenary, BRF has published this treasury of prayers. Appropriately, The BRF Book of 100 Prayers: Resourcing your Spiritual Journey by Martin Payne begins with its Centenary Prayer thanking God for the growth of the work, from its local beginnings to its worldwide reach today. The Rev Leslie Mannering’s challenging words to his congregation in Brixton, south London, 100 years ago are remembered: ‘How can St Matthew’s become a spiritual force?… Only if our congregation as a solid whole realises that prayer and intercession is their supreme work as Christians.’ This is still BRFs’ vision today. Currently BRF has four areas of ministry: Anna Chaplaincy, offering spiritual care in older life; Living Faith; Messy Church and Parenting for Faith. Many readers will be aware of the regular prayer resources the charity produces. This book is a most welcome addition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eMartyn Payne reminds readers that at the end of the First World War, the so-called Spanish flu killed around 50 million people. A century later the coronavirus pandemic spread rapidly around the world, again causing millions of deaths. Many of these prayers were composed at the time of this pandemic, some appearing initially on social media. With the similarity of emotions of fear, anxiety and loss, at both the start and close of this centenary, BRF is again encouraging people to ‘get a move on’ spiritually, as the need for prayer is as urgent today as it was a century ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThese 100 new prayers are intended for private and public use and are divided into five sections: Approaching God, Prayers for the journey, Seasons of the year, Together through the generations, and How should we live? The text is accessible, concise, with well-chosen language and illustrations to complement the words. In addition to the numbered prayers, there are thoughts, comments and biblical quotes offering inspiration, hope and encouragement to readers on their personal spiritual journeys.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe BRF Book of 100 Prayers, in addition to the useful, excellent, content, comes with an attractive cover and a ribbon marker and would be very suitable as a gift on significant occasions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eReviewed by Judith Lampard, a local preacher in the City Road circuit.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T15:49:05+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T15:48:16+00:00","vendor":"Martyn Payne","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Centenary Collection","Devotional","Glassboxx","Prayer"],"price":1299,"price_min":1299,"price_max":1299,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602954969468,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800391697","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The BRF Book of 100 Prayers: Resourcing your spiritual journey - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1299,"weight":200,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391697","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/194.png?v=1730134967","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/196.png?v=1730134948"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/194.png?v=1730134967","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923503468924,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/194.png?v=1730134967"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/194.png?v=1730134967","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923501535612,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/196.png?v=1730134948"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/196.png?v=1730134948","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn illustrated collection of prayers by Martyn Payne. Prayer is at the heart of BRFʼs work, and this special illustrated anniversary collection is a celebration of prayer for BRFʼs centenary year. It can be used in a range of different settings, from individual devotions to corporate worship. Including sections on prayers of preparation, seasonal prayers, and themed prayers for special times and hard times, it is the perfect daily companion to resource your spiritual journey.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart 1: Approaching God\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePart 2: Prayers for the journey\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePart 3: Seasons of the Christian year\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePart 4: Together through the generations\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePart 5: How should we live?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8IEyVK5wrZI\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFormerly part of BRFʼs Messy Church team, Martyn Payne is BRFʼs prayer advocate and a gifted storyteller whose previous books The Big Story (2011) and Creative Ways to Tell a Bible Story (2012) demonstrate the variety of approaches he uses to bring the Bible alive for children and adults alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Summer 2023. Review by Liz Pacey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those of us who regularly write prayers, this book has immediate appeal. A celebration of BRF’s centenary year, the slim, attractively bound volume is a joy to hold. Most prayers were written and shared online during the pandemic, and it is very special to reflect on words of encouragement from those difficult times. The book also covers a wider timespan, containing prayers and excerpts written at the beginning of the BRF ministry. It is wonderful to look back and see how prayer has truly shaped a ministry and made it bloom. The book has five categories: Approaching God; Prayers for the Journey; Seasons of the Christian Year; Together through the generations; How should we live? Each short daily prayer is accompanied by a thought, many of which are quotations from a wide variety of spiritual leaders, past and present. It encourages us to take the space to pray, meditate and wonder on our own, and then be prepared to be catapulted into the heady joy of sharing. A book to keep and, maybe, buy an extra copy as a gift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Liz Pacey \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCountry Way Autumn 2022\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\"\u003eThis is a small hardback book with a ribbon book mark. It would easily fit into a small back or not take up much space in a rucksack. This book has been published to commemorate the centenary of the Bible Reading Foundation to ‘Resource Your Spiritual Journey’. In the foreword, it reminds us that the world was fighting a pandemic in 1918, just as we were fighting our own pandemic in 2020 and tells us that nearly all of the prayers written in this book were done so during the lockdown of Covid-19. The prayers are divided into five sections which can be used in either a church setting or by individuals. What I liked best about this book is that not only do you have the prayers, but there are also little quotes or thoughts and occasionally a bible verse, written on each page. These little messages helped me to think more deeply about what had been written in the prayers and definitely guided me on my journey. This book would make a lovely gift for a friend or loved one, whether they are just starting out on their spiritual journey or are well travelled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eMethodist Recorder 26.08.22. Review by Judith Lampard\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eIn order to celebrate its centenary, BRF has published this treasury of prayers. Appropriately, The BRF Book of 100 Prayers: Resourcing your Spiritual Journey by Martin Payne begins with its Centenary Prayer thanking God for the growth of the work, from its local beginnings to its worldwide reach today. The Rev Leslie Mannering’s challenging words to his congregation in Brixton, south London, 100 years ago are remembered: ‘How can St Matthew’s become a spiritual force?… Only if our congregation as a solid whole realises that prayer and intercession is their supreme work as Christians.’ This is still BRFs’ vision today. Currently BRF has four areas of ministry: Anna Chaplaincy, offering spiritual care in older life; Living Faith; Messy Church and Parenting for Faith. Many readers will be aware of the regular prayer resources the charity produces. This book is a most welcome addition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eMartyn Payne reminds readers that at the end of the First World War, the so-called Spanish flu killed around 50 million people. A century later the coronavirus pandemic spread rapidly around the world, again causing millions of deaths. Many of these prayers were composed at the time of this pandemic, some appearing initially on social media. With the similarity of emotions of fear, anxiety and loss, at both the start and close of this centenary, BRF is again encouraging people to ‘get a move on’ spiritually, as the need for prayer is as urgent today as it was a century ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThese 100 new prayers are intended for private and public use and are divided into five sections: Approaching God, Prayers for the journey, Seasons of the year, Together through the generations, and How should we live? The text is accessible, concise, with well-chosen language and illustrations to complement the words. In addition to the numbered prayers, there are thoughts, comments and biblical quotes offering inspiration, hope and encouragement to readers on their personal spiritual journeys.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003eThe BRF Book of 100 Prayers, in addition to the useful, excellent, content, comes with an attractive cover and a ribbon marker and would be very suitable as a gift on significant occasions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNoSpacing\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eReviewed by Judith Lampard, a local preacher in the City Road circuit.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"x_MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The BRF Book of 100 Prayers: Resourcing your spiritual journey
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Digital eBook Only - An illustrated collection of prayers by Martyn Payne. Prayer is at the heart of BRFʼs work, and...
{"id":14698952294780,"title":"Heaven's Morning: Rethinking the destination","handle":"heavens-morning-rethinking-the-destination-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Bible - especially the New Testament - has plenty to say about resurrection and heaven, but many Christians struggle to make sense of what it actually means in practice. David Winter's accessible book explores the biblical teaching on what happens after death and considers what difference this can make to our lives here and now. He also shows how we can present what we believe about eternity as a source of hope to our sceptical, anxious world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter is one of the UK's most popular and long-established Christian writers and broadcasters. He has written many books over the last sixty years, including Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light, Pilgrim's Way, Journey to Jerusalem and With Jesus in the Upper Room for BRF. He also writes for New Daylight and was a regular contributor to Radio 4's Thought for the Day from 1989 to 2012.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePobl Dewi, December 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter has written a helpful and accessible book about what happens to human beings when we die. He declares his purpose early in the script: having assessed the spirit of the age as one 'which finds the whole business of death a painful reminder that no matter how clever we may be technologically and medically, this is how it inevitably ends', he goes on to say that the book is 'an attempt to address the issues raised by that situation'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn setting out his stall in that way, Winter gives his readers the opportunity to evaluate how well he is able to respond. About halfway through, he tells his readers that the book is essentially about 'an eventual destiny for human beings, a place we have called heaven' and that is the nature of the movement which the author develops. The book is well written, positive in its approach and seeks to engage with our life experiences and common questions about issues of destiny by a review of the biblical materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReaders are introduced to biblical writers' use of metaphor and vision 'which are at the heart of biblical language about heaven'\u003cem\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003eWinter brings the discussion of heaven as our destiny down to earth in an interesting review of the accounts of bereaved people, indicating the continuity of life (at least in some way or other) of those whom they have lost. In a helpful chapter he considers this issue through the lens of the resurrection accounts of Jesus in the four Gospels. He also includes an interesting discussion of Paul's writing about the nature of the resurrection body in the later part of chapter 15 of his first letter to the Corinthians. This is timely, especially in the light of the current discussion following the contribution of Bishop NT Wright on the subject.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is much good stuff in the book. Although he cannot tie all the loose ends together (as he candidly admits), Winter has written a book which definitely repays the commitment of reading it. It will be of interest to many readers, whether regular worshippers in church or not, and particularly those who could be described as being of advancing years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter is clearly a man of faith. However, I do not know how much importance he ascribes to faith in the heavenly destiny. While there is much helpful teaching in the book, I was left with the impression that the writer is of the school which holds that faith is caught, not taught. Read the book and come to your own conclusion!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Patrick Mansel Lewis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 28 October 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe destination: death and then the end of everything, or heaven and the realisation of the human aspiration to live forever?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter is an experienced pastor, and his book \u003cem\u003eHeaven's Morning\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e: Rethinking the destination\u003c\/em\u003e has the principal merit of being essentially pastoral in its delicate and insightful commentary on the moment of death and unfurling of destiny.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis own experience stands him in good stead: he knows that, all too often, people's concerns about the afterlife are framed in simplistic questions: 'Will my cat\/dog be there?', 'What about playing golf?' or, as he has come to hear more recently, 'Will there be shopping?'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis claim that, 'We believe in eternal life, not everlasting existence', immediately locates the discussion in a new place. A post-space-age theology can no longer comfortably see heaven in physical terms as being 'up there': the old metaphors no longer work but, rather than be driven to despair, Winter returns to the scriptures for a new reading of what the Bible actually has to say on our ultimate fate. He is determined to 'rebuild a credible doctrine of life after death', and, to do that, he has to 'do a demolition job on ideas which try to lock eternity into the language of earth'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis means examining where the notions of the resurrection of the dead and 'Kingdom of God' were first laid down and how they were later used by Jesus. It means 'moving from the physical world of atoms and molecules into the spiritual world of God' and acknowledging that 'heaven is where God is'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinter is fearless: he examines the resurrection of Jesus, notions of hell, eternal life, judgement and heaven, leaving nothing out and always confidently explaining what it means to be 'gloriously, powerfully, spiritual'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a short book, an unassuming book, but it deserves to do incredibly well and to be read both by people who mourn and by those who minister to them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLavinia Byrne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Together Magazine January - February 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt only 109 pages of comfortable print this is an excellent book for looking at the biblical teaching of death and what happens after it. It is a blend of good Bible Study and topical modern research set out in what is, as you'd expect from David Winter, an easy-to-read style of short paragraphs and chapters that clearly spell out in absorbed sections what we can perhaps best expect as Christians for all the materials and ideas out there cluttering up our world and theology. This would be a good book for using as a study with an interested group (although there are no questions included in it). It is also a handy book perhaps to pass on to someone who has suffered a bereavement or worried about the nature of death and dying - gentle and insightful as it is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Melanie Carroll\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Door - Diocese of Oxford, May 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou will have heard David Winter on the radio so know that what he says is sensible, personal and wise. His writing is just the same. Certainly, in \u003cem\u003eHeaven's Morning\u003c\/em\u003e, he writes simply and well; accessible stuff that covers not only whether there are cats in heaven (he thinks not: boo!), but also the whole story contained in the Old and New Testaments (fascinating). To write about what happens to us after death is, of course, impossible for no-one knows. David Winter is as honest about that as he is about understanding the raising of Lazarus. And it is because he is so open that this book is comforting and useful; it avoids being abstruse and academic, instead preferring to offer possibilities and hopes. '...a fleeting experience but... a foretaste of the glories to come.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key theme is a gentle analysis of the difference between 'everlasting' and 'eternal'. Too often we use the two interchangeably, however here we are urged to remember that 'everlasting' is a word based in time. Since time does not exist in heaven, there can be no such thing as 'everlasting life'. Life in heaven is 'eternal'. To explain just what he means, the author uses one of his own experiences, but one which will surely resonate with his readers: time stood still for him, there was no time, when, as a teenager, he first heard the slow movement of Beethoven's Seventh Symphony: a fleeting experience but, as he writes, a foretaste of the glories to come.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough much of what Winter writes is comforting and positive, he has his fiercer moments too. There will be judgement, so, scarily, he lists the five 'Things that will not be in heaven' and the ten 'Things that will be in heaven'. They are intriguing and perhaps controversial lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo support his own case, he uses the book of \u003cem\u003eRevelation\u003c\/em\u003e. Indeed, throughout \u003cem\u003eHeaven's Morning\u003c\/em\u003e, Winter frequently refers to the Bible. Not obscure passages, but ones that are familiar: all part of his engaging style that affirms, rather than baffles, the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInevitably, he is at a loss to define precisely life after death, heaven. Yet he confirms that, as we have a gracious God, there will be resurrection, the resurrection that God, throughout the Bible, offers each one of us. What is that really like? God knows! Hallelujah!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by the Revd Tony Lynn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T15:51:03+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T15:50:14+00:00","vendor":"David Winter","type":"eBook","tags":["Glassboxx","Jul-16","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Retired and inspired","Torch Trust"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53602956968316,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857464774","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Heaven's Morning: Rethinking the destination - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":137,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857464774","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/197.png?v=1730134921","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/198.png?v=1730134895"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/197.png?v=1730134921","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923497767292,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/197.png?v=1730134921"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/197.png?v=1730134921","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923496096124,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/198.png?v=1730134895"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/198.png?v=1730134895","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Bible - especially the New Testament - has plenty to say about resurrection and heaven, but many Christians struggle to make sense of what it actually means in practice. David Winter's accessible book explores the biblical teaching on what happens after death and considers what difference this can make to our lives here and now. He also shows how we can present what we believe about eternity as a source of hope to our sceptical, anxious world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter is one of the UK's most popular and long-established Christian writers and broadcasters. He has written many books over the last sixty years, including Facing the Darkness and Finding the Light, Pilgrim's Way, Journey to Jerusalem and With Jesus in the Upper Room for BRF. He also writes for New Daylight and was a regular contributor to Radio 4's Thought for the Day from 1989 to 2012.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePobl Dewi, December 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter has written a helpful and accessible book about what happens to human beings when we die. He declares his purpose early in the script: having assessed the spirit of the age as one 'which finds the whole business of death a painful reminder that no matter how clever we may be technologically and medically, this is how it inevitably ends', he goes on to say that the book is 'an attempt to address the issues raised by that situation'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn setting out his stall in that way, Winter gives his readers the opportunity to evaluate how well he is able to respond. About halfway through, he tells his readers that the book is essentially about 'an eventual destiny for human beings, a place we have called heaven' and that is the nature of the movement which the author develops. The book is well written, positive in its approach and seeks to engage with our life experiences and common questions about issues of destiny by a review of the biblical materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReaders are introduced to biblical writers' use of metaphor and vision 'which are at the heart of biblical language about heaven'\u003cem\u003e. \u003c\/em\u003eWinter brings the discussion of heaven as our destiny down to earth in an interesting review of the accounts of bereaved people, indicating the continuity of life (at least in some way or other) of those whom they have lost. In a helpful chapter he considers this issue through the lens of the resurrection accounts of Jesus in the four Gospels. He also includes an interesting discussion of Paul's writing about the nature of the resurrection body in the later part of chapter 15 of his first letter to the Corinthians. This is timely, especially in the light of the current discussion following the contribution of Bishop NT Wright on the subject.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is much good stuff in the book. Although he cannot tie all the loose ends together (as he candidly admits), Winter has written a book which definitely repays the commitment of reading it. It will be of interest to many readers, whether regular worshippers in church or not, and particularly those who could be described as being of advancing years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter is clearly a man of faith. However, I do not know how much importance he ascribes to faith in the heavenly destiny. While there is much helpful teaching in the book, I was left with the impression that the writer is of the school which holds that faith is caught, not taught. Read the book and come to your own conclusion!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Patrick Mansel Lewis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 28 October 2016\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe destination: death and then the end of everything, or heaven and the realisation of the human aspiration to live forever?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDavid Winter is an experienced pastor, and his book \u003cem\u003eHeaven's Morning\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e: Rethinking the destination\u003c\/em\u003e has the principal merit of being essentially pastoral in its delicate and insightful commentary on the moment of death and unfurling of destiny.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis own experience stands him in good stead: he knows that, all too often, people's concerns about the afterlife are framed in simplistic questions: 'Will my cat\/dog be there?', 'What about playing golf?' or, as he has come to hear more recently, 'Will there be shopping?'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis claim that, 'We believe in eternal life, not everlasting existence', immediately locates the discussion in a new place. A post-space-age theology can no longer comfortably see heaven in physical terms as being 'up there': the old metaphors no longer work but, rather than be driven to despair, Winter returns to the scriptures for a new reading of what the Bible actually has to say on our ultimate fate. He is determined to 'rebuild a credible doctrine of life after death', and, to do that, he has to 'do a demolition job on ideas which try to lock eternity into the language of earth'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis means examining where the notions of the resurrection of the dead and 'Kingdom of God' were first laid down and how they were later used by Jesus. It means 'moving from the physical world of atoms and molecules into the spiritual world of God' and acknowledging that 'heaven is where God is'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinter is fearless: he examines the resurrection of Jesus, notions of hell, eternal life, judgement and heaven, leaving nothing out and always confidently explaining what it means to be 'gloriously, powerfully, spiritual'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a short book, an unassuming book, but it deserves to do incredibly well and to be read both by people who mourn and by those who minister to them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLavinia Byrne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Together Magazine January - February 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt only 109 pages of comfortable print this is an excellent book for looking at the biblical teaching of death and what happens after it. It is a blend of good Bible Study and topical modern research set out in what is, as you'd expect from David Winter, an easy-to-read style of short paragraphs and chapters that clearly spell out in absorbed sections what we can perhaps best expect as Christians for all the materials and ideas out there cluttering up our world and theology. This would be a good book for using as a study with an interested group (although there are no questions included in it). It is also a handy book perhaps to pass on to someone who has suffered a bereavement or worried about the nature of death and dying - gentle and insightful as it is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Melanie Carroll\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Door - Diocese of Oxford, May 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou will have heard David Winter on the radio so know that what he says is sensible, personal and wise. His writing is just the same. Certainly, in \u003cem\u003eHeaven's Morning\u003c\/em\u003e, he writes simply and well; accessible stuff that covers not only whether there are cats in heaven (he thinks not: boo!), but also the whole story contained in the Old and New Testaments (fascinating). To write about what happens to us after death is, of course, impossible for no-one knows. David Winter is as honest about that as he is about understanding the raising of Lazarus. And it is because he is so open that this book is comforting and useful; it avoids being abstruse and academic, instead preferring to offer possibilities and hopes. '...a fleeting experience but... a foretaste of the glories to come.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key theme is a gentle analysis of the difference between 'everlasting' and 'eternal'. Too often we use the two interchangeably, however here we are urged to remember that 'everlasting' is a word based in time. Since time does not exist in heaven, there can be no such thing as 'everlasting life'. Life in heaven is 'eternal'. To explain just what he means, the author uses one of his own experiences, but one which will surely resonate with his readers: time stood still for him, there was no time, when, as a teenager, he first heard the slow movement of Beethoven's Seventh Symphony: a fleeting experience but, as he writes, a foretaste of the glories to come.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough much of what Winter writes is comforting and positive, he has his fiercer moments too. There will be judgement, so, scarily, he lists the five 'Things that will not be in heaven' and the ten 'Things that will be in heaven'. They are intriguing and perhaps controversial lists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo support his own case, he uses the book of \u003cem\u003eRevelation\u003c\/em\u003e. Indeed, throughout \u003cem\u003eHeaven's Morning\u003c\/em\u003e, Winter frequently refers to the Bible. Not obscure passages, but ones that are familiar: all part of his engaging style that affirms, rather than baffles, the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInevitably, he is at a loss to define precisely life after death, heaven. Yet he confirms that, as we have a gracious God, there will be resurrection, the resurrection that God, throughout the Bible, offers each one of us. What is that really like? God knows! Hallelujah!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by the Revd Tony Lynn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Heaven's Morning: Rethinking the destination
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{"id":14699116560764,"title":"Comfortable Words: a call to restoration: Reflections on Isaiah 40–55","handle":"comfortable-words-a-call-to-restoration-reflections-on-isaiah-40-56","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e‘Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God…’ Through nine reflections, Steven Croft examines what these ‘comfortable words’ have to say to us. Each reflection begins from a passage of scripture taken from Isaiah 40—55: the song of an unnamed prophet who sings at the end of the exile to call God’s people home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe prophet sings of love and forgiveness, of new hope and strength in God, to rekindle courage in the hearts of God’s people. The prophet sings of a new kind of leadership, based on humility and gentleness. The prophet sings to tell us not to be afraid even in the face of death. These are comfortable words the whole world needs to hear afresh in this season.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft is the Bishop of Oxford. He has a passion for mission and evangelism and for finding creative ways of sharing the gospel, and is the co-author of the Emmaus and Pilgrim courses, both of which seek to help people engage with the Christian faith.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Winter 2021. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith direct regard for our locked-down world and our emergence from it, this book, based on Isaiah 40-55, is right up-to-date. Croft has written nine compelling reflections on some of Isaiah’s warmest and most yearning prophetic messages. Beginning with ‘Comfort, comfort my people’, Croft follows the prophet through the words written some 2,500 years ago as God’s message to a subdued and exiled people whose identity had been stripped away, but whom God was calling to return and rebuild. The people then needed strength renewed, fears faced, hearts refreshed, and vision expanded. Croft brings light to these prophecies as they applied to the people of the exile, and, because the prophecies point to Jesus, to us – people of the Covid lockdown. The author’s style is inspirational and heart-warming. As I read it, I felt a sense of identity with Isaiah’s original readers, and that I wanted to respond for today. It is a fine read for any disciple, and will be a valuable resource to anyone preaching from these chapters of Isaiah. Recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Donato Tallo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Benedictine Oblate, Lectio Divina plays an important part in my life, and I recently chose to read these Isaiah 40-55 reflections, written by the Bishop of Oxford during the first lockdown of 2020. The original podcasts were published by BRF in the spring of 2021.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book of the prophet Isaiah is not one of the easiest to digest but Bishop Steven's short and meaningful reflections on key sections between chapters 40-55 are excellent. He relates these passages directly to the Covid-19 situation as it was during the first lockdown but also writes with a forward-looking perspective for the world, for the church and for individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking a few weeks to read this book enabled the text of the prophet himself and the reflections and thoughts offered by the Bishop of Oxford to really sink in. While reading the Holy Bible is important it is even more important to ponder on scripture and listen to what the text is really saying, and the Bishop has helped to bring important sections of the book of Isaiah to life. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLove, forgiveness, comfort and not being fearful are all key themes in Isaiah 40-55; chapter 40 famously opens with the word ‘comfort’. Comfortable words are needed now more than ever and, as the bishop points out, many of the problems faced by the world and indeed the church before the pandemic have been exacerbated. The humility of servant leadership is another theme in Isaiah, and if the church is to be the face of Christ on earth and support a society recovering from the impact of Covid-19, humility, courage and God-focused approaches will all be necessary and are all concepts explored effectively in these reflections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe opening words of Isaiah 43 of Isaiah remind us that God is always with us: a comfort that is very much needed in these difficult times. This delightful book gives the reader much to think about and many suggestions for how to turn reflections into actions to help support individuals and communities as they recover from the pandemic. I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone wanting to deepen their knowledge of the book of Isaiah, but I recommend it particularly to people in leadership positions across all denominations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an extremely timely publication. Originally written and delivered as a series of podcasts for the Diocese of Oxford in Autumn 2020, Bishop Steven Croft offers nine reflections on the songs of the unnamed prophet who we know as Isaiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith references as diverse at Emeli Sandé and John Denver, Dad’s Army and Pilgrim’s Progress, Steven Croft explores Isaiah 40-55 and the message of comfort the songs of the prophet bring for each of us and our world at this time of pandemic. ‘These songs are such a good place to begin to recentre our calling and to find strength and hope again,’ he writes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Comfort, O comfort my people.’ And what comfort we need today. As the comforter, the Holy Spirit brings both the strength for living and the ability not to be afraid. We are God’s servants, chosen ones and friends, Bishop Steven writes. We live as servants ‘grounded in a call of God’: and the author calls upon the church to raise up servant leaders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeath, such a painful feature of Covid times, is tackled head on – we are to face the reality and the prospect of dying and prepare for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe word comfort means ‘with strength’ and Steven Croft reminds us that in these times of both difficulty and emergence, we are invited to return to the Lord and go out with joy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘With all my heart,’ Bishop Steven writes, ‘I want to say to you: have the courage in this time to go deeper into God and deeper into your faith and draw on the great reservoirs of courage God gives to people in these seasons.’ Amen to that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T17:12:51+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T17:12:51+00:00","vendor":"Steven Croft","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","Glassboxx"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603061825916,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800391086","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":71603600916860,"product_id":14699116560764,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-10-28T17:02:48+00:00","updated_at":"2024-10-28T17:02:50+00:00","alt":null,"width":1303,"height":2000,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/160.png?v=1730134970","variant_ids":[53603061825916]},"available":true,"name":"Comfortable Words: a call to restoration: Reflections on Isaiah 40–55 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391086","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":62923503894908,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/160.png?v=1730134970"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/160.png?v=1730134970"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/160.png?v=1730134970","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923503894908,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/160.png?v=1730134970"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/160.png?v=1730134970","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e‘Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God…’ Through nine reflections, Steven Croft examines what these ‘comfortable words’ have to say to us. Each reflection begins from a passage of scripture taken from Isaiah 40—55: the song of an unnamed prophet who sings at the end of the exile to call God’s people home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe prophet sings of love and forgiveness, of new hope and strength in God, to rekindle courage in the hearts of God’s people. The prophet sings of a new kind of leadership, based on humility and gentleness. The prophet sings to tell us not to be afraid even in the face of death. These are comfortable words the whole world needs to hear afresh in this season.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Rt Revd Dr Steven Croft is the Bishop of Oxford. He has a passion for mission and evangelism and for finding creative ways of sharing the gospel, and is the co-author of the Emmaus and Pilgrim courses, both of which seek to help people engage with the Christian faith.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Winter 2021. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith direct regard for our locked-down world and our emergence from it, this book, based on Isaiah 40-55, is right up-to-date. Croft has written nine compelling reflections on some of Isaiah’s warmest and most yearning prophetic messages. Beginning with ‘Comfort, comfort my people’, Croft follows the prophet through the words written some 2,500 years ago as God’s message to a subdued and exiled people whose identity had been stripped away, but whom God was calling to return and rebuild. The people then needed strength renewed, fears faced, hearts refreshed, and vision expanded. Croft brings light to these prophecies as they applied to the people of the exile, and, because the prophecies point to Jesus, to us – people of the Covid lockdown. The author’s style is inspirational and heart-warming. As I read it, I felt a sense of identity with Isaiah’s original readers, and that I wanted to respond for today. It is a fine read for any disciple, and will be a valuable resource to anyone preaching from these chapters of Isaiah. Recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Donato Tallo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Benedictine Oblate, Lectio Divina plays an important part in my life, and I recently chose to read these Isaiah 40-55 reflections, written by the Bishop of Oxford during the first lockdown of 2020. The original podcasts were published by BRF in the spring of 2021.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book of the prophet Isaiah is not one of the easiest to digest but Bishop Steven's short and meaningful reflections on key sections between chapters 40-55 are excellent. He relates these passages directly to the Covid-19 situation as it was during the first lockdown but also writes with a forward-looking perspective for the world, for the church and for individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking a few weeks to read this book enabled the text of the prophet himself and the reflections and thoughts offered by the Bishop of Oxford to really sink in. While reading the Holy Bible is important it is even more important to ponder on scripture and listen to what the text is really saying, and the Bishop has helped to bring important sections of the book of Isaiah to life. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLove, forgiveness, comfort and not being fearful are all key themes in Isaiah 40-55; chapter 40 famously opens with the word ‘comfort’. Comfortable words are needed now more than ever and, as the bishop points out, many of the problems faced by the world and indeed the church before the pandemic have been exacerbated. The humility of servant leadership is another theme in Isaiah, and if the church is to be the face of Christ on earth and support a society recovering from the impact of Covid-19, humility, courage and God-focused approaches will all be necessary and are all concepts explored effectively in these reflections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe opening words of Isaiah 43 of Isaiah remind us that God is always with us: a comfort that is very much needed in these difficult times. This delightful book gives the reader much to think about and many suggestions for how to turn reflections into actions to help support individuals and communities as they recover from the pandemic. I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone wanting to deepen their knowledge of the book of Isaiah, but I recommend it particularly to people in leadership positions across all denominations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an extremely timely publication. Originally written and delivered as a series of podcasts for the Diocese of Oxford in Autumn 2020, Bishop Steven Croft offers nine reflections on the songs of the unnamed prophet who we know as Isaiah.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith references as diverse at Emeli Sandé and John Denver, Dad’s Army and Pilgrim’s Progress, Steven Croft explores Isaiah 40-55 and the message of comfort the songs of the prophet bring for each of us and our world at this time of pandemic. ‘These songs are such a good place to begin to recentre our calling and to find strength and hope again,’ he writes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Comfort, O comfort my people.’ And what comfort we need today. As the comforter, the Holy Spirit brings both the strength for living and the ability not to be afraid. We are God’s servants, chosen ones and friends, Bishop Steven writes. We live as servants ‘grounded in a call of God’: and the author calls upon the church to raise up servant leaders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeath, such a painful feature of Covid times, is tackled head on – we are to face the reality and the prospect of dying and prepare for it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe word comfort means ‘with strength’ and Steven Croft reminds us that in these times of both difficulty and emergence, we are invited to return to the Lord and go out with joy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘With all my heart,’ Bishop Steven writes, ‘I want to say to you: have the courage in this time to go deeper into God and deeper into your faith and draw on the great reservoirs of courage God gives to people in these seasons.’ Amen to that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Comfortable Words: a call to restoration: Reflections on Isaiah 40–55
£7.99
Digital eBook Only - ‘Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God…’ Through nine reflections, Steven Croft examines what these ‘comfortable words’...
{"id":14699209949564,"title":"When You Pray: Daily Bible reflections on the Lord's Prayer","handle":"when-you-pray-daily-bible-reflections-on-the-lords-prayer-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn this updated edition of a classic text, Joanna Collicutt shows how growing as a Christian is rooted in the prayer Jesus gave us. As we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we express our relationship with God, absorb gospel values and are also motivated to live them out. As we pray to the Father, in union with the Son, through the power of the Spirit, so we begin to take on the character of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Canon Dr Joanna Collicutt is Karl Jaspers Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon. She is also an associate minister in an Oxfordshire parish. Her other books include \u003cem\u003eThe Psychology of Christian Character Formation\u003c\/em\u003e (SCM, 2015), \u003cem\u003eThinking of You: A resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2017) and \u003cem\u003eSeriously Messy: Making space for families to talk about death and life together\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2019).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Her literary style is delightfully unstuffy, tight, direct, and humorous. Collicutt comes across as a familiar friend, a fellow traveller who understands and empathises with the human condition, boldly walking with you to draw you to your true home.’\u003cbr\u003eDavid Wilbourne, former Assistant Bishop of Llandaff\u003cbr\u003ePreviously published as a BRF Lent Book.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-28T18:03:18+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-28T18:03:18+00:00","vendor":"Joanna Collicutt","type":"eBook","tags":["Devotional","For individuals","Glassboxx","Prayer"],"price":1099,"price_min":1099,"price_max":1099,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603091808636,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468680","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":71603692536188,"product_id":14699209949564,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-10-28T17:02:25+00:00","updated_at":"2024-10-28T17:02:27+00:00","alt":null,"width":1303,"height":2000,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/166.png?v=1730134947","variant_ids":[53603091808636]},"available":true,"name":"When You Pray: Daily Bible reflections on the Lord's Prayer - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1099,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468680","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":62923501306236,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/166.png?v=1730134947"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/166.png?v=1730134947","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/167.png?v=1730134921"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/166.png?v=1730134947","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":62923501306236,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/166.png?v=1730134947"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/166.png?v=1730134947","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":62923497636220,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/167.png?v=1730134921"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/167.png?v=1730134921","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn this updated edition of a classic text, Joanna Collicutt shows how growing as a Christian is rooted in the prayer Jesus gave us. As we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we express our relationship with God, absorb gospel values and are also motivated to live them out. As we pray to the Father, in union with the Son, through the power of the Spirit, so we begin to take on the character of Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRevd Canon Dr Joanna Collicutt is Karl Jaspers Lecturer in Psychology and Spirituality at Ripon College Cuddesdon. She is also an associate minister in an Oxfordshire parish. Her other books include \u003cem\u003eThe Psychology of Christian Character Formation\u003c\/em\u003e (SCM, 2015), \u003cem\u003eThinking of You: A resource for the spiritual care of people with dementia\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2017) and \u003cem\u003eSeriously Messy: Making space for families to talk about death and life together\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2019).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Her literary style is delightfully unstuffy, tight, direct, and humorous. Collicutt comes across as a familiar friend, a fellow traveller who understands and empathises with the human condition, boldly walking with you to draw you to your true home.’\u003cbr\u003eDavid Wilbourne, former Assistant Bishop of Llandaff\u003cbr\u003ePreviously published as a BRF Lent Book.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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When You Pray: Daily Bible reflections on the Lord's Prayer
£10.99
Digital eBook Only - In this updated edition of a classic text, Joanna Collicutt shows how growing as a Christian...
{"id":14776994824572,"title":"Day by Day with God January - April 2025: Rooting women's lives in the Bible","handle":"day-by-day-with-god-january-april-2025-rooting-womens-lives-in-the-bible-1","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDay by Day with God is a collection of Bible reading notes specifically written for women by women. The entries for each day contain a suggested Bible reading, with the key verse written out in full, a helpful comment that engages heart and mind and a short reflection or prayer. Whatever your situation, you will be inspired and encouraged by these notes.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn this issue: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eMalachi: adjusting our view of God\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLyndall Bywater \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEphesians: images of the church\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiz Hogarth\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe gift of creativity\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCatherine Larner \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJeremiah: the troubled prophet\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSara Batts-Neale \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eSaul: his fears and his fall\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTanya Marlow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSilence and solitude\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDi Archer \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTrue love: 1 Corinthians 13\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJane Walters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWomen in the early church\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNaomi Aidoo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJeremiah: the prophecies\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSara Batts-Neale \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eThe Servant Songs and Jesus’ fulfilment of the\u003cbr\u003eprophecies\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaine Storkey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJesus is risen!\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch5 class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eEditor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJackie Harris is married to Ray and lives in Worthing. A freelance editor, Jackie was previously editor of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eWoman Alive\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the magazine for today's Christian woman, and also edited \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eWomen of the Word\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (BRF), a collection of Bible studies written by a team of writers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T08:19:21+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T08:18:11+00:00","vendor":"Jackie Harris","type":"eBook","tags":["2024","Bible reading notes","BRN eBook","Day by Day with God","Devotional","Discipleship","Glassboxx"],"price":499,"price_min":499,"price_max":499,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603366240636,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393851","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Day by Day with God January - April 2025: Rooting women's lives in the Bible - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":499,"weight":110,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393851","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/198_1626f92c-d888-4895-85ce-ccea3976bd91.png?v=1730980374","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/199.png?v=1730980380"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/198_1626f92c-d888-4895-85ce-ccea3976bd91.png?v=1730980374","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001498222972,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/198_1626f92c-d888-4895-85ce-ccea3976bd91.png?v=1730980374"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/198_1626f92c-d888-4895-85ce-ccea3976bd91.png?v=1730980374","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001500123516,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/199.png?v=1730980380"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/199.png?v=1730980380","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDay by Day with God is a collection of Bible reading notes specifically written for women by women. The entries for each day contain a suggested Bible reading, with the key verse written out in full, a helpful comment that engages heart and mind and a short reflection or prayer. Whatever your situation, you will be inspired and encouraged by these notes.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn this issue: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eMalachi: adjusting our view of God\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLyndall Bywater \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEphesians: images of the church\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiz Hogarth\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe gift of creativity\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCatherine Larner \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJeremiah: the troubled prophet\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSara Batts-Neale \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eSaul: his fears and his fall\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTanya Marlow\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSilence and solitude\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDi Archer \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTrue love: 1 Corinthians 13\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJane Walters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWomen in the early church\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNaomi Aidoo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJeremiah: the prophecies\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSara Batts-Neale \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eThe Servant Songs and Jesus’ fulfilment of the\u003cbr\u003eprophecies\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaine Storkey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJesus is risen!\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch5 class=\"preserve-white-space\"\u003eEditor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJackie Harris is married to Ray and lives in Worthing. A freelance editor, Jackie was previously editor of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eWoman Alive\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the magazine for today's Christian woman, and also edited \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eWomen of the Word\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e (BRF), a collection of Bible studies written by a team of writers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Day by Day with God January - April 2025: Rooting women's lives in the Bible
£4.99
Digital eBook Only - Day by Day with God is a collection of Bible reading notes specifically written for women by...
{"id":14777003540860,"title":"New Daylight January-April 2025: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible","handle":"new-daylight-january-april-2025-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds. New Daylight covers a varied selection of Old and New Testament passages, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T08:24:01+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T08:22:54+00:00","vendor":"BRFonline","type":"eBook","tags":["Bible reading notes","Biblical engagement","BRN eBook","Devotional","Discipleship","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx","New Daylight"],"price":499,"price_min":499,"price_max":499,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603367059836,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800393790","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"New Daylight January-April 2025: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":499,"weight":107,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800393790","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/202.png?v=1730980338","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/203.png?v=1730980318"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/202.png?v=1730980338","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001489834364,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/202.png?v=1730980338"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/202.png?v=1730980338","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001485541756,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/203.png?v=1730980318"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/203.png?v=1730980318","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEach issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team of contributors drawn from a range of church backgrounds. New Daylight covers a varied selection of Old and New Testament passages, biblical themes, characters and seasonal readings.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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New Daylight January-April 2025: Sustaining your daily journey with the Bible
£4.99
Digital eBook Only - Each issue of New Daylight provides four months of daily Bible readings and comment, with a regular team...
{"id":14777094832508,"title":"Augustine's Life of Prayer, Learning and Love: Lessons for Christian living","handle":"augustines-life-of-prayer-learning-and-love-lessons-for-christian-living-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWhat can we learn from Augustine? \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere are many books that tell the life story of Augustine and how he has been fundamental in shaping Western Christian theology and practice. This is not one of them. This book is about how he became a Christian – the problems he faced; the doubts he struggled with. It is about how he made sense of his belief in God, and shared it with other people. It is about how he learned to read the Bible, and to pray. And it is about the word which is at the heart of his Christian life – love. It concludes with moments of prayer from Augustine’s life, in which he glimpses visions of God, encouraging the reader to take their own next steps in discipleship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor Information\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"347\" width=\"260\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/CallyHammond_480x480.jpg?v=1676495070\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCally Hammond studied ancient history and literature before becoming ordained in 1998. After serving as a parish priest in Bedfordshire, she was appointed Dean of Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, where she teaches New Testament Greek and early Christian history. She has published a trilogy of books on prayer, and her new edition and translation of the Confessions of St Augustine was published in 2014–16. Cally was one of the judges for the Church Times 100 Best Christian Books selection.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis engaging and handy little book is a great gift to every person who is trying to give the Christian life a go. It is brilliant, sensible catechesis to guide us through the ups and downs, the joys and frustrations, of life with God (and with each other) - at times helpfully frank, at times exposing the textures of complexity. In Cally Hammond's writing we are guided by one who has clearly lived, breathed, studied, and prayed with St Augustine's words and ideas, and found in his own struggles and paradoxes windows into our contemporary condition - as humans, as Christians, as a Church in progress. This book deserves a long life indeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd James Crockford, Dean of Chapel and Fellow, Jesus College, Cambridge\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eAn extraordinary book, beautiful in its eloquence and simplicity, it resonates at a deep level. What I admire most is the author’s ability not to look over her shoulder to the scholarly community, but to address the ordinary reader without diminishing or simplifying the depth and complexity of Augustine’s ideas. Next semester, when I teach the Confessions again, I'd like to incorporate this book in some form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eProfessor Tarmo Toom\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI am so grateful for this delightful and accessible introduction to Augustine, one of the most fascinating figures of Christian history. Here is the wonder and challenge of the Christian faith through Augustine's most personal of writings, skilfully interpreted to show how our most human struggles and longings can bring us to the love of God.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRevd Angela Tilby, Canon Emeritus of Christ Church, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2020. Review by Hugh Morley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond has written a trilogy of books on prayer and recently published her new edition and translation of Augustine’s Confessions. She has studied ancient history and literature and now teaches New Testament Greek and early Christian history at Cambridge. The result is an intriguing book with each chapter following a similar format, analysing parts of Augustine’s life, interspersed with quotations from his works, followed by a ‘Bible passage for reflection’, questions for discussion and a prayer drawn from his writings. The nine chapters take us on a journey through Augustine’s life where the author explores issues such as his faith, conversion, teaching, prayer, his deep devotional life and the struggle he experienced in faith. This book is packed with insights into the great man’s life. Many books have been written about Augustine, but here is one which will encourage us to delve deeper into his Confessions in a new way: a book for personal interest that could well be used in small groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Hugh Morley\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Church Times 13.9.19. Review by John Binns\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new book brings Augustine into the present, says John Binns \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSt Augustine was one of the Early Church’s great theologians. He left a huge collection of writings, on theology, biblical commentary, society, and politics, including hundreds of sermons. Among them was a book that has become known as the \u003cem\u003eConfessions.\u003c\/em\u003e Most of it is autobiographical, and it can be described as the first Christian autobiography. In it, he reveals his inner thoughts, struggles, and temptations as he slowly comes to faith, and then as he continues to think, pray and teach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond has recently published a major two-volume edition and translation of the \u003cem\u003eConfessions\u003c\/em\u003e, which addresses historical, theological and critical issues. Here she returns to the \u003cem\u003eConfessions\u003c\/em\u003e, but with a very different approach. She wants us to understand Augustine’s faith journey and to discover that the things that concerned him are the same as those which concern us. So the faith that Augustine discovers and builds can shape and support us in our journey as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are nine sections, each discussing a theme of faith, such as how we come to faith, how we should read the Bible, how we grow in faith after baptism, why there are conflicts and divisions within the Church, and how we can best worship in a community and pray privately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are frequent extracts from the \u003cem\u003eConfessions\u003c\/em\u003e, in Hammond’s own lively and engaging translation; she then shows the thinking behind them and grounds them in a contemporary setting by placing her own stories and experiences alongside. She firmly avoids all academic and critical comment, not even providing references to the extracts that she chooses. Each section finishes with a Bible passage, some questions for discussion and a prayer. This locates the book very firmly within the Christian life of the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book brings one of the great thinkers of the past vividly into the present. I found many thoughts and ideas that made sense to me and will form part of my own faith. It is a wonderful book, which can be used for individual study and could also be an absorbing discussion-starter for a group work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Revd Dr John Binns is Visiting Professor at the Institute for Orthodox Christian Studies, Cambridge.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you thought that all St Augustine ever talked about was ‘original sin’ then this book will enrich your mind. As the author Cally Hammond puts it, ‘In public, Augustine was bishop, a leader in the church and in society, an intellectual giant.’ Yet, like so many of us, he was, she says ‘in private, often needy of reassurance, guidance and affirmation.’ And that is key to this excellent book – amidst his greatness, Augustine of Hippo was just like so many of us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving written her own translation of the 13 books of Augustine’s autobiographical \u003cem\u003eConfessions \u003c\/em\u003e(which she draws upon for much of this book), as well as being Dean of a Cambridge University college, one would be forgiven for expecting an academic treatise. But Cally Hammond’s writing is far from that. It is accessible, engaging and reflects her own response to the joy and wonder which Augustine experiences in his journey of faith. It is a compelling and uplifting read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond opens up many aspects of Augustine’s life and relates them not only to the context in which he lived but also to our modern day, 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e century joys and difficulties. She explains how Augustine struggled with parts of the Bible, argued with others, fought to overcome heresy and schism, and enjoyed doing something that was wrong: ‘I was loathsome and I loved it,’ he wrote at one point. As he grew older, his views changed, and his faith developed a deeper understanding of God. His life was about faith seeking understanding, as ours is to be.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond explains how as a preacher, teacher and Bible scholar, Augustine provides a model for today’s leaders: ‘His task was to preach Christ, not himself,’ she writes. ‘And it was no good, he knew, preaching to people in a way that went over their heads.’ We also learn how Augustine developed a life of prayer both with others and by himself. One chapter includes fascinating accounts of the visions he received in which he experienced the joy and wonder of knowing God. Cally Hammond’s accounts of these are particularly compelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book or surprises: the most unexpected and beautiful of which is the poetry written by this great man of God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo what of original sin? Once again, Cally Hammond explains very clearly what Augustine meant and what he didn’t: ‘Augustine would have agreed completely that life in this world exposes us to all sorts of sin. But he knew that the only reason sin affects us is our inborn inability to resist doing wrong. And that is not something we just pick up as life goes along; it is fundamental to who we are… Augustine did not shy away from teaching a doctrine just because it was hard.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe see painted a picture of man who was, like many people, often very different on the public-facing, outside than on the private, God-facing inside. Yet they all go to make up the man who Augustine of Hippo. But this awareness provides a valuable learning point also: ‘This is something I always encourage people to reflect on and remember,’ writes Cally Hammond, ‘that it is a mistake… to compare the outside of other people’s lives with the inside of our own life.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond has given us a very accessible and easy to read book about one of the great, early church figures. She demonstrates how all of us can not only learn from him and but also experience some of what he experienced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e______________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T09:16:15+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T09:13:52+00:00","vendor":"Cally Hammond","type":"eBook","tags":["For individuals","Glassboxx","Jul-19","Prayer","Spirituality"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603409592700,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857467140","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Augustine's Life of Prayer, Learning and Love: Lessons for Christian living - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":200,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857467140","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/204.png?v=1730980375","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/205.png?v=1730980373"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/204.png?v=1730980375","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001498550652,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/204.png?v=1730980375"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/204.png?v=1730980375","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001497829756,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/205.png?v=1730980373"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/205.png?v=1730980373","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWhat can we learn from Augustine? \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere are many books that tell the life story of Augustine and how he has been fundamental in shaping Western Christian theology and practice. This is not one of them. This book is about how he became a Christian – the problems he faced; the doubts he struggled with. It is about how he made sense of his belief in God, and shared it with other people. It is about how he learned to read the Bible, and to pray. And it is about the word which is at the heart of his Christian life – love. It concludes with moments of prayer from Augustine’s life, in which he glimpses visions of God, encouraging the reader to take their own next steps in discipleship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAuthor Information\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"347\" width=\"260\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/CallyHammond_480x480.jpg?v=1676495070\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCally Hammond studied ancient history and literature before becoming ordained in 1998. After serving as a parish priest in Bedfordshire, she was appointed Dean of Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, where she teaches New Testament Greek and early Christian history. She has published a trilogy of books on prayer, and her new edition and translation of the Confessions of St Augustine was published in 2014–16. Cally was one of the judges for the Church Times 100 Best Christian Books selection.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis engaging and handy little book is a great gift to every person who is trying to give the Christian life a go. It is brilliant, sensible catechesis to guide us through the ups and downs, the joys and frustrations, of life with God (and with each other) - at times helpfully frank, at times exposing the textures of complexity. In Cally Hammond's writing we are guided by one who has clearly lived, breathed, studied, and prayed with St Augustine's words and ideas, and found in his own struggles and paradoxes windows into our contemporary condition - as humans, as Christians, as a Church in progress. This book deserves a long life indeed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Revd James Crockford, Dean of Chapel and Fellow, Jesus College, Cambridge\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 12.0pt; color: black;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eAn extraordinary book, beautiful in its eloquence and simplicity, it resonates at a deep level. What I admire most is the author’s ability not to look over her shoulder to the scholarly community, but to address the ordinary reader without diminishing or simplifying the depth and complexity of Augustine’s ideas. Next semester, when I teach the Confessions again, I'd like to incorporate this book in some form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eProfessor Tarmo Toom\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI am so grateful for this delightful and accessible introduction to Augustine, one of the most fascinating figures of Christian history. Here is the wonder and challenge of the Christian faith through Augustine's most personal of writings, skilfully interpreted to show how our most human struggles and longings can bring us to the love of God.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRevd Angela Tilby, Canon Emeritus of Christ Church, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2020. Review by Hugh Morley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond has written a trilogy of books on prayer and recently published her new edition and translation of Augustine’s Confessions. She has studied ancient history and literature and now teaches New Testament Greek and early Christian history at Cambridge. The result is an intriguing book with each chapter following a similar format, analysing parts of Augustine’s life, interspersed with quotations from his works, followed by a ‘Bible passage for reflection’, questions for discussion and a prayer drawn from his writings. The nine chapters take us on a journey through Augustine’s life where the author explores issues such as his faith, conversion, teaching, prayer, his deep devotional life and the struggle he experienced in faith. This book is packed with insights into the great man’s life. Many books have been written about Augustine, but here is one which will encourage us to delve deeper into his Confessions in a new way: a book for personal interest that could well be used in small groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Hugh Morley\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Church Times 13.9.19. Review by John Binns\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new book brings Augustine into the present, says John Binns \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSt Augustine was one of the Early Church’s great theologians. He left a huge collection of writings, on theology, biblical commentary, society, and politics, including hundreds of sermons. Among them was a book that has become known as the \u003cem\u003eConfessions.\u003c\/em\u003e Most of it is autobiographical, and it can be described as the first Christian autobiography. In it, he reveals his inner thoughts, struggles, and temptations as he slowly comes to faith, and then as he continues to think, pray and teach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond has recently published a major two-volume edition and translation of the \u003cem\u003eConfessions\u003c\/em\u003e, which addresses historical, theological and critical issues. Here she returns to the \u003cem\u003eConfessions\u003c\/em\u003e, but with a very different approach. She wants us to understand Augustine’s faith journey and to discover that the things that concerned him are the same as those which concern us. So the faith that Augustine discovers and builds can shape and support us in our journey as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are nine sections, each discussing a theme of faith, such as how we come to faith, how we should read the Bible, how we grow in faith after baptism, why there are conflicts and divisions within the Church, and how we can best worship in a community and pray privately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are frequent extracts from the \u003cem\u003eConfessions\u003c\/em\u003e, in Hammond’s own lively and engaging translation; she then shows the thinking behind them and grounds them in a contemporary setting by placing her own stories and experiences alongside. She firmly avoids all academic and critical comment, not even providing references to the extracts that she chooses. Each section finishes with a Bible passage, some questions for discussion and a prayer. This locates the book very firmly within the Christian life of the reader.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book brings one of the great thinkers of the past vividly into the present. I found many thoughts and ideas that made sense to me and will form part of my own faith. It is a wonderful book, which can be used for individual study and could also be an absorbing discussion-starter for a group work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Revd Dr John Binns is Visiting Professor at the Institute for Orthodox Christian Studies, Cambridge.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Richard Frost\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you thought that all St Augustine ever talked about was ‘original sin’ then this book will enrich your mind. As the author Cally Hammond puts it, ‘In public, Augustine was bishop, a leader in the church and in society, an intellectual giant.’ Yet, like so many of us, he was, she says ‘in private, often needy of reassurance, guidance and affirmation.’ And that is key to this excellent book – amidst his greatness, Augustine of Hippo was just like so many of us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving written her own translation of the 13 books of Augustine’s autobiographical \u003cem\u003eConfessions \u003c\/em\u003e(which she draws upon for much of this book), as well as being Dean of a Cambridge University college, one would be forgiven for expecting an academic treatise. But Cally Hammond’s writing is far from that. It is accessible, engaging and reflects her own response to the joy and wonder which Augustine experiences in his journey of faith. It is a compelling and uplifting read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond opens up many aspects of Augustine’s life and relates them not only to the context in which he lived but also to our modern day, 21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e century joys and difficulties. She explains how Augustine struggled with parts of the Bible, argued with others, fought to overcome heresy and schism, and enjoyed doing something that was wrong: ‘I was loathsome and I loved it,’ he wrote at one point. As he grew older, his views changed, and his faith developed a deeper understanding of God. His life was about faith seeking understanding, as ours is to be.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond explains how as a preacher, teacher and Bible scholar, Augustine provides a model for today’s leaders: ‘His task was to preach Christ, not himself,’ she writes. ‘And it was no good, he knew, preaching to people in a way that went over their heads.’ We also learn how Augustine developed a life of prayer both with others and by himself. One chapter includes fascinating accounts of the visions he received in which he experienced the joy and wonder of knowing God. Cally Hammond’s accounts of these are particularly compelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a book or surprises: the most unexpected and beautiful of which is the poetry written by this great man of God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo what of original sin? Once again, Cally Hammond explains very clearly what Augustine meant and what he didn’t: ‘Augustine would have agreed completely that life in this world exposes us to all sorts of sin. But he knew that the only reason sin affects us is our inborn inability to resist doing wrong. And that is not something we just pick up as life goes along; it is fundamental to who we are… Augustine did not shy away from teaching a doctrine just because it was hard.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe see painted a picture of man who was, like many people, often very different on the public-facing, outside than on the private, God-facing inside. Yet they all go to make up the man who Augustine of Hippo. But this awareness provides a valuable learning point also: ‘This is something I always encourage people to reflect on and remember,’ writes Cally Hammond, ‘that it is a mistake… to compare the outside of other people’s lives with the inside of our own life.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCally Hammond has given us a very accessible and easy to read book about one of the great, early church figures. She demonstrates how all of us can not only learn from him and but also experience some of what he experienced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/life-with-st-benedict-the-rule-re-imagined-for-everyday-living\"\u003eLife with St Benedict\u003c\/a\u003e and writes a blog at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/workrestpray.com\/\"\u003eworkrestpray.com\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e______________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Augustine's Life of Prayer, Learning and Love: Lessons for Christian living
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Digital eBook Only - What can we learn from Augustine? There are many books that tell the life story of...
{"id":14777102336380,"title":"Prayer in the Making: Trying it, talking it, sustaining it","handle":"prayer-in-the-making-trying-it-talking-it-sustaining-it-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFrom the author of \u003cem\u003eFaith in the Making. \u003c\/em\u003eBooks on prayer can so often make us feel challenged but guilty. Not this one! \u003cem\u003ePrayer in the Making\u003c\/em\u003e is a book for everyone wanting to pray more confidently. Because we are all different, we need to find the prayer life that fits with who God made us to be. Lyndall Bywater explores twelve different types of prayer, helping us to find the ones which best suit us and our lifestyles. She certainly challenges us, but leaves us ready to talk confidently with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead Lyndall's Lockdown blog \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/lyndall-bywater-author-of-prayer-in-the-making-and-faith-in-the-making-learn-a-lot-from-her-least-favourite-bible-verse-in-her-lockdown-reflection\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/lyndall-bywater-author-of-prayer-in-the-making-and-faith-in-the-making-learn-a-lot-from-her-least-favourite-bible-verse-in-her-lockdown-reflection\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLyndall Bywater is a freelance speaker and writer, specialising in the subject of prayer. Having worked for ten years as The Salvation Army's UK prayer coordinator, she is now part of Connecting the Isles and works with the Europe team of 24-7 Prayer. She also heads up Canterbury Boiler Room, an interdenominational prayer community, and contributes to BRF's Day by Day with God Bible reading notes. She is married to Phil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Richard Appleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChristian lives are about relationships – with neighbours, friends, family and God. Healthy relationships demand healthy communication. Our route of communication with God is with prayer, both structured and spontaneous. As with any genre of communication, prayer is not always easy, and guidance is often needed. This book provides a scripturally-themed and practical guide to help us improve our prayer lives. It uses twelve different prayer topics: Encounter, Worship, Listening, Stillness, Action, Intercession, Strategy, Restoration, Voice and body, Scripture, Warfare, and Resilience, each with a dedicated chapter in a practicable format for both individual and groups. Readers will be enriched by many or all of these chapters. Two phrases stand out: ‘Stop trying to make yourself a different shape when you pray’, a theme mirrored in the chapter on resilience; and ‘Remember he made you just the way you are. He doesn’t want you to emulate someone else’s prayer rhythm’. Another phrase, ‘Let prayer permeate everything we do’, echoes Paul’s striking exhortation to ‘Pray continually’ (1 Thessalonians 5: 17) – an exhortation which should mould our communication and strengthen our personal relationship with God. This book will help us achieve this, but only with God’s grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Richard Appleton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e___________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Alistair Barton, Director of Pray for Scotland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have read my fair share of books on prayer – about ways of praying, the power of prayer, answers to prayer, praise and prayer – and more. When I started reading Lyndall’s new book I did wonder if I would find anything new, so I was intrigued by Roy Searle’s introduction, and in particular this comment: 'B\u003cem\u003eut if you are looking for a practical and encouraging book on how we might pray, this book will be very helpful.'\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’m pleased to say Lyndall’s book lives up to Roy’s description. Over 12 chapters she covers a wide variety of types of prayer and methods of praying in a straightforward yet very profound way, with practical examples and personal testimony to support the ‘theory’. Her aim is to encourage us, wherever we are on our prayer journey, to keep going, to persevere, knowing that no matter how short or long, how eloquent or stuttering, every prayer is valuable and every prayer is heard and appreciated by Father God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs one who constantly deals with the challenge of creating space to pray in the busyness of life and often uses ‘arrow prayers’, I particularly appreciated Chapter 7 on Strategy, but there are many other ‘nuggets of gold’ to be unearthed in Lyndall’s book. I encourage you to go prospecting and find your own in its pages!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Alistair Barton, Director, Prayer for Scotland \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jani Rubery, Trustee of 24-7 Prayer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those interested in how to go deeper in prayer, this book will build confidence and excitement about the possibility of what can be achieved through prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf your aim is to be an instrument of prayer, that helps transform, rebuild and reform our world, nation, communities, churches and families - then this is the book for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrayer in the Making\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eis like being given a DIY toolkit for helping us create a more effective and fulfilling prayer life. For some, the tools will be familiar but the methods outlined in the book will help you to use them in ways which are possibly new, innovative and grounded. For those who may be somewhat familiar with the tools, but have not known how to use them, then Lyndall's insights will help you explore and experiment in order to become more comfortable using different ways of praying personally as well as corporately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI highly recommend\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrayer in the Making\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor use as an individual, small group or wider church community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Jani Rubery, Trustee of 24-7 Prayer, executive coach and spiritual mentor\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ehave known Lyndall for years through Connecting the Isles and always appreciated her clarity of thought and expression. I wouldn't normally rush to buy or read a book on prayer. However, having read this one I find myself both encouraged and inspired. I really appreciated the practical aids that are found in every chapter and the sense of grounded reality. I liked it a lot.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eDaphne Godwin, The Ffald-y-Brenin Trust\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI am delighted to endorse Lyndall Bywater's book, Prayer in the Making. Lyndall lives and practices what she preaches; the messenger incarnates the message.\u003cbr\u003eSo many books about prayer lead to a confusion regarding what our personal prayer life is supposed to look like. Condemnation quickly weighs on our hearts. But here, Lyndall writes from the heart about relationship, not performance. Love, not law. Grace to be ourselves and enter into the discovery of how and where God might meet us in our own personal, unique way. Acceptance by Jesus beats failure and condemnation any day. Read this book and enjoy being a Life in the Making.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eRoy Godwin Executive Director, The Ffald-y-Brenin Trust\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T09:23:44+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T09:18:31+00:00","vendor":"Lyndall Bywater","type":"eBook","tags":["For individuals","Glassboxx","Group reading","Jan-19","Prayer"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603410280828,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468024","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Prayer in the Making: Trying it, talking it, sustaining it - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":181,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468024","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/206.png?v=1730980387","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/207.png?v=1730980258"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/206.png?v=1730980387","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001502024060,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/206.png?v=1730980387"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/206.png?v=1730980387","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001471877500,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/207.png?v=1730980258"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/207.png?v=1730980258","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFrom the author of \u003cem\u003eFaith in the Making. \u003c\/em\u003eBooks on prayer can so often make us feel challenged but guilty. Not this one! \u003cem\u003ePrayer in the Making\u003c\/em\u003e is a book for everyone wanting to pray more confidently. Because we are all different, we need to find the prayer life that fits with who God made us to be. Lyndall Bywater explores twelve different types of prayer, helping us to find the ones which best suit us and our lifestyles. She certainly challenges us, but leaves us ready to talk confidently with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead Lyndall's Lockdown blog \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/lyndall-bywater-author-of-prayer-in-the-making-and-faith-in-the-making-learn-a-lot-from-her-least-favourite-bible-verse-in-her-lockdown-reflection\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/lyndall-bywater-author-of-prayer-in-the-making-and-faith-in-the-making-learn-a-lot-from-her-least-favourite-bible-verse-in-her-lockdown-reflection\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLyndall Bywater is a freelance speaker and writer, specialising in the subject of prayer. Having worked for ten years as The Salvation Army's UK prayer coordinator, she is now part of Connecting the Isles and works with the Europe team of 24-7 Prayer. She also heads up Canterbury Boiler Room, an interdenominational prayer community, and contributes to BRF's Day by Day with God Bible reading notes. She is married to Phil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Richard Appleton\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChristian lives are about relationships – with neighbours, friends, family and God. Healthy relationships demand healthy communication. Our route of communication with God is with prayer, both structured and spontaneous. As with any genre of communication, prayer is not always easy, and guidance is often needed. This book provides a scripturally-themed and practical guide to help us improve our prayer lives. It uses twelve different prayer topics: Encounter, Worship, Listening, Stillness, Action, Intercession, Strategy, Restoration, Voice and body, Scripture, Warfare, and Resilience, each with a dedicated chapter in a practicable format for both individual and groups. Readers will be enriched by many or all of these chapters. Two phrases stand out: ‘Stop trying to make yourself a different shape when you pray’, a theme mirrored in the chapter on resilience; and ‘Remember he made you just the way you are. He doesn’t want you to emulate someone else’s prayer rhythm’. Another phrase, ‘Let prayer permeate everything we do’, echoes Paul’s striking exhortation to ‘Pray continually’ (1 Thessalonians 5: 17) – an exhortation which should mould our communication and strengthen our personal relationship with God. This book will help us achieve this, but only with God’s grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Richard Appleton\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e___________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Alistair Barton, Director of Pray for Scotland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have read my fair share of books on prayer – about ways of praying, the power of prayer, answers to prayer, praise and prayer – and more. When I started reading Lyndall’s new book I did wonder if I would find anything new, so I was intrigued by Roy Searle’s introduction, and in particular this comment: 'B\u003cem\u003eut if you are looking for a practical and encouraging book on how we might pray, this book will be very helpful.'\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’m pleased to say Lyndall’s book lives up to Roy’s description. Over 12 chapters she covers a wide variety of types of prayer and methods of praying in a straightforward yet very profound way, with practical examples and personal testimony to support the ‘theory’. Her aim is to encourage us, wherever we are on our prayer journey, to keep going, to persevere, knowing that no matter how short or long, how eloquent or stuttering, every prayer is valuable and every prayer is heard and appreciated by Father God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs one who constantly deals with the challenge of creating space to pray in the busyness of life and often uses ‘arrow prayers’, I particularly appreciated Chapter 7 on Strategy, but there are many other ‘nuggets of gold’ to be unearthed in Lyndall’s book. I encourage you to go prospecting and find your own in its pages!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Alistair Barton, Director, Prayer for Scotland \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jani Rubery, Trustee of 24-7 Prayer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those interested in how to go deeper in prayer, this book will build confidence and excitement about the possibility of what can be achieved through prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf your aim is to be an instrument of prayer, that helps transform, rebuild and reform our world, nation, communities, churches and families - then this is the book for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrayer in the Making\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eis like being given a DIY toolkit for helping us create a more effective and fulfilling prayer life. For some, the tools will be familiar but the methods outlined in the book will help you to use them in ways which are possibly new, innovative and grounded. For those who may be somewhat familiar with the tools, but have not known how to use them, then Lyndall's insights will help you explore and experiment in order to become more comfortable using different ways of praying personally as well as corporately.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI highly recommend\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrayer in the Making\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor use as an individual, small group or wider church community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Jani Rubery, Trustee of 24-7 Prayer, executive coach and spiritual mentor\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ehave known Lyndall for years through Connecting the Isles and always appreciated her clarity of thought and expression. I wouldn't normally rush to buy or read a book on prayer. However, having read this one I find myself both encouraged and inspired. I really appreciated the practical aids that are found in every chapter and the sense of grounded reality. I liked it a lot.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eDaphne Godwin, The Ffald-y-Brenin Trust\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI am delighted to endorse Lyndall Bywater's book, Prayer in the Making. Lyndall lives and practices what she preaches; the messenger incarnates the message.\u003cbr\u003eSo many books about prayer lead to a confusion regarding what our personal prayer life is supposed to look like. Condemnation quickly weighs on our hearts. But here, Lyndall writes from the heart about relationship, not performance. Love, not law. Grace to be ourselves and enter into the discovery of how and where God might meet us in our own personal, unique way. Acceptance by Jesus beats failure and condemnation any day. Read this book and enjoy being a Life in the Making.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eRoy Godwin Executive Director, The Ffald-y-Brenin Trust\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Prayer in the Making: Trying it, talking it, sustaining it
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Digital eBook Only - From the author of Faith in the Making. Books on prayer can so often make us...
{"id":14777126420860,"title":"Home by Another Route: Reimagining today's church","handle":"home-by-another-route-reimagining-todays-church-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePaul Bradbury believes that a movement of the Holy Spirit is beginning to renew and reform today's church - a church marginalised and 'in exile'. Following on from Stepping into Grace, Bradbury takes the prophet's powerful image of dry skeletal human remains coming to life through the miraculous work of the Spirit of God to encourage and inspire the contemporary church to seek renewal through the Spirit. This is a compelling and prophetic book - a must-read for today's church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury is a pioneer minister in the Church of England. He leads a missional community, based in Poole, with a vision to connect with unchurched people and support and train others involved in new forms of church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read Paul's lockdown blog click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/paul-bradbury-guest-blog\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is powerful stuff from Paul Bradbury holding out Ezekiel as an example for leadership and pioneer ministry in our times. He draws wonderful insights from this old Bible prophet for a church that has essentially been exiled. His writing is really well crafted with lovely turns of phrase and it's a book that is both a fairly easy read but also runs deep. I found it inspiring and challenging in equal measure.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJonny Baker, Director of Mission Education, CMS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHome by Another Route uses the metaphor of exile to describe the place of the 21st Century Church in a post Christendom world. It argues that a new ecclesial narrative can be found by understanding who we were, the acceptance of what we have lost and through this the discovery of who we might be. This book offers a valuable framework for those seeking to pioneer a future expression of church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Ed Olsworth-Peter, National Adviser for Pioneer Development\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy creatively using metaphors of exile and home, along with insights from Ezekiel, Paul explores how exile can encourage our imaginations to rethink and retool what church might look like. I found this book to be challenging and hopeful for the place of the church in our world, encouraging a humble and decentered posture that might just make church more attractive to a generation that craves authenticity and integrity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCathy Ross, Lecturer in Contextual Theology, Ripon College, Cuddesdon, and MA Coordinator for Pioneer Leadership Training at CMS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 13 March 2020. Review by the Rt Rev Paul Bayes, the Bishop of Liverpool\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury has a vision for the future of the Church. His account recognises and accepts the reality of the chaotic, fluid culture of the West. In such a context, he says, ‘Perhaps… the most fruitful way to explore our place as the Church in the maelstrom of the world is to play with story.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible is a good resource for playing with story – this complicated library of books which, certainly in the case of the Hebrew scriptures, has nothing direct to say about the preferred shape of the Christian Church. In its stories it is possible to find many echoes and pre-echoes of the way we might want to do things today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, similar reflections have found their home in the Book of Nehemiah, which can be read as a series of helpful hints on building a Church as well as building a wall. Managerial and devotional lessons – vision, perseverance, prayer, teamwork – can be found in Nehemiah for the Churches and their leaders, if you can skate over some of the less politically correct stories in that interesting book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBradbury, on the other hand, draws on bleaker stories – in particular the image of the valley of dry bones in Ezekiel 37. He seeks to discern the Spirit moving among the bones today. As he does so, he shapes an attractive vision of the Church – a light, innovative, relational community, counter-cultural in its radical sharing, critical of consumerism and of an instrumental obsession with growth and prosperity. He finds in Ezekiel both the motivation for his own preferred way of being the Church, and the reassurance that God’s inspired word prefigures the choices that he and his community have made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBradbury’s approach rhymes interestingly with that of more conservative defenders of the inherited parish system, those who ask us simply to hold our nerve in hope, faithful to that which we have received, not changing a thing, waiting for the bones to reconnect. Like them, Bradbury is critical of an anxious Church that simply wants to find a winning formula and clone it. Unlike them, he sees the need to explore a radical ‘re-imagination’ of the ways things are, and could be, when Christians gather.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis book will therefore rattle many bones among those of us who explore and debate the renewing and reforming of the Church. For this reason, I recommend it gladly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by the Rt Rev Paul Bayes, the Bishop of Liverpool\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Rosemary Medhurst\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDoes contemporary British Christianity, and the loss of influence of the church as an institution, have much in common with the experience of exile? This comparison focuses on Ezekiel, and particularly the vision of dry bones. ‘Can these bones live?’ is the question, and Ezekiel watches them restored. But God is doing a new thing, then beyond the structures of monarchy and temple, now beyond the structures of inherited church. Bradbury encourages us to venture out to participate in God’s initiatives – ‘missio dei’ – rather than continuing to try to pull people in. He warns provocatively against denial, even against overvaluing large busy churches, and promotes nurturing the various fresh expressions along the spectrum away from traditional church. This is a short book, but well supported by references, many from Brueggemann, including the health warning that ‘the usefulness of a metaphor for rereading our own context is that it is not claimed to be a one-to-one match’. Indeed, but an encouragement to share Ezekiel’s step into the unknown with the response: ‘Sovereign Lord, you alone know’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rosemary Medhurst\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, May 2019. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Ruth Maxey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury is an Anglican pioneer minister who started a fascinating fresh expression in Poole – a missional community called ‘Reconnect’ that is living out a new way of being Church. He therefore brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to the topic of ‘reimagining today’s Church’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a misleadingly thin book, as the content is anything but thin! It’s heart is an in-depth analysis of the exilic period, with a particular focus on Ezekiel’s vision of the dry bones in Ezekiel 37. From this detailed biblical and historical analysis, Bradbury draws parallels with the context the Church finds itself in today. As Christian communities, we are also in exile, often looking back longingly and trying to recreate and maintain our old ways in a foreign land. We are often either in despair at the loss of the past, or looking to some kind of assimilation. Bradbury maintains that we need to see the creative opportunities that our present context offers us, as we allow the Spirit to work through us in new and exciting ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe phrase ‘home by another route’ comes from the story of the journey of the magi in Matthew’s Gospel. The magi do return home, but they are changed by their encounter and return by another route. The Church is also called to ‘return by another route’, we cannot simply try to do the old things better, we need to find another route. Bradbury rightly claims that ‘recreating Jerusalem in the landscape of Babylon is not an option’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs someone who is part of a community that is seeking to reimagine the Church, I was very much drawn to the topic. But this is not a practical ‘how to’ book, it is one to take time with, to chew over, to re-read. It is not a book for someone looking for simple answers on how to reimagine the Church today. This is a book for those who are prepared to think deeply and theologically about the context in which we find ourselves, and to look to the wealth of biblical tradition for wisdom and inspiration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRuth Maxey is a pioneer minister at Church without Walls, Milton Keynes\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInspire, March 2019. Review by John Woods\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a readable reflection on Ezekiel’s Dry Bones passage in Ezekiel Chapter 37. The author sees the prophet as a pioneer, who has a fresh God-given take on what can be done on the present and the future. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePaul Bradbury leads what he calls a missional community attached to the Church of England; he views the UK Church as a community in exile. By this the author means that the Church should operate within a society where Christianity does not provide the primary language or narrative for most people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBradbury finds a breath-taking hope of a homecoming in Ezekiel’s message to the exiles. Yet this homecoming, if it is to occur, might involve coming back by another route.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author provides a useful spectrum for assessing the nature of church leadership: Church Replicators, who repeat that which has always been done; Pioneer Adaptors, who use things like Messy Church and Café Church to create fresh zones for people to explore Christianity, and Pioneer Innovators who use more explorative, low-key ways to get alongside those who are seeking to make sense of life, God and the universe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found this book to be a stimulating read but wondered if at times it fell between the stools of being an academic or a popular treatment. I think I would also have liked a little bit more meat on the bones concerning how Pioneer innovators “venture into the edges of postmodern culture”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat said here is a timely invitation to reimagine the way we do church, that is open to the breath of the Spirit and seeks to be shaped to come alongside those beyond the “usual suspects”!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJohn Woods is pastor of Lancing Tabernacle in West Sussex\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIrish Methodist Newsletter. Review by Stephen Skuce, \u003cspan\u003eDistrict Superintendent, North Western District\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe world has changed significantly over the past 50 years. The church has not necessarily changed as much. Consequently, the two are a bit more disconnected than they previously were. This isn’t a breaking news story but it’s how we understand and respond to this that is crucial. Paul Bradbury reflects on this with an understanding that the church today finds itself in exile, albeit that society has moved on and the church is somewhat marooned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEzekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones is the thread that holds this book together. Each chapter takes a different aspect of the prophet’s vision, with the recurring questions as to whether the bones (or church) can live again. Based on his experience as a pioneer minister, Bradbury avoids platitudes or somewhat mechanical solutions. He views the problem as primarily a spiritual problem that needs a spiritual answer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book’s title recognises that the church is not able to return to what it was. The visit of the Wise Men to Jesus changed their lives and following God’s warning, they went home by a different route. Bradbury argues that church restoration and renewal of the past is no longer for today, and we as the church need to find another route to our home, or place of peace, safety and prosperity. ‘Recreating Jerusalem in the landscape of Babylon is not an option’ (p.85). Those in exile start to understand how God is with them, not in the ways of the past which are gone, but in the new strange world they find themselves a bit reluctantly in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday people are still interested in spirituality and understanding who God is. They no longer focus this search on the church but rather follow numerous alternative ways. Indeed, perhaps this is now the norm and the church is one of the alternatives. This is all part of the uncomfortable place that is exile. Bradbury reflects on his pioneer ministry with the Church of England in Poole in southern England. I don’t think this shows us a model as to how to respond. It does show us one response and challenges us to find our own ways to respond to living in exile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUltimately ‘all our efforts at refounding, renewal, reform will be nothing unless they are built on a renewal of our reliance on God’ (p105). That is both our challenge and direction\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Rev’d Dr Stephen Skuce, District Superintendent, North Western District\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T09:28:41+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T09:27:32+00:00","vendor":"Paul Bradbury","type":"eBook","tags":["Church life","Feb-19","For churches","For individuals","Glassboxx","Spirituality"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603551740284,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466327","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Home by Another Route: Reimagining today's church - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":151,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466327","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/210.png?v=1730980396","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/211.png?v=1730980384"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/210.png?v=1730980396","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001504219516,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/210.png?v=1730980396"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/210.png?v=1730980396","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001501303164,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/211.png?v=1730980384"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/211.png?v=1730980384","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePaul Bradbury believes that a movement of the Holy Spirit is beginning to renew and reform today's church - a church marginalised and 'in exile'. Following on from Stepping into Grace, Bradbury takes the prophet's powerful image of dry skeletal human remains coming to life through the miraculous work of the Spirit of God to encourage and inspire the contemporary church to seek renewal through the Spirit. This is a compelling and prophetic book - a must-read for today's church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury is a pioneer minister in the Church of England. He leads a missional community, based in Poole, with a vision to connect with unchurched people and support and train others involved in new forms of church.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo read Paul's lockdown blog click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/paul-bradbury-guest-blog\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is powerful stuff from Paul Bradbury holding out Ezekiel as an example for leadership and pioneer ministry in our times. He draws wonderful insights from this old Bible prophet for a church that has essentially been exiled. His writing is really well crafted with lovely turns of phrase and it's a book that is both a fairly easy read but also runs deep. I found it inspiring and challenging in equal measure.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJonny Baker, Director of Mission Education, CMS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHome by Another Route uses the metaphor of exile to describe the place of the 21st Century Church in a post Christendom world. It argues that a new ecclesial narrative can be found by understanding who we were, the acceptance of what we have lost and through this the discovery of who we might be. This book offers a valuable framework for those seeking to pioneer a future expression of church.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRevd Ed Olsworth-Peter, National Adviser for Pioneer Development\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy creatively using metaphors of exile and home, along with insights from Ezekiel, Paul explores how exile can encourage our imaginations to rethink and retool what church might look like. I found this book to be challenging and hopeful for the place of the church in our world, encouraging a humble and decentered posture that might just make church more attractive to a generation that craves authenticity and integrity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCathy Ross, Lecturer in Contextual Theology, Ripon College, Cuddesdon, and MA Coordinator for Pioneer Leadership Training at CMS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times, 13 March 2020. Review by the Rt Rev Paul Bayes, the Bishop of Liverpool\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury has a vision for the future of the Church. His account recognises and accepts the reality of the chaotic, fluid culture of the West. In such a context, he says, ‘Perhaps… the most fruitful way to explore our place as the Church in the maelstrom of the world is to play with story.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bible is a good resource for playing with story – this complicated library of books which, certainly in the case of the Hebrew scriptures, has nothing direct to say about the preferred shape of the Christian Church. In its stories it is possible to find many echoes and pre-echoes of the way we might want to do things today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, similar reflections have found their home in the Book of Nehemiah, which can be read as a series of helpful hints on building a Church as well as building a wall. Managerial and devotional lessons – vision, perseverance, prayer, teamwork – can be found in Nehemiah for the Churches and their leaders, if you can skate over some of the less politically correct stories in that interesting book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBradbury, on the other hand, draws on bleaker stories – in particular the image of the valley of dry bones in Ezekiel 37. He seeks to discern the Spirit moving among the bones today. As he does so, he shapes an attractive vision of the Church – a light, innovative, relational community, counter-cultural in its radical sharing, critical of consumerism and of an instrumental obsession with growth and prosperity. He finds in Ezekiel both the motivation for his own preferred way of being the Church, and the reassurance that God’s inspired word prefigures the choices that he and his community have made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBradbury’s approach rhymes interestingly with that of more conservative defenders of the inherited parish system, those who ask us simply to hold our nerve in hope, faithful to that which we have received, not changing a thing, waiting for the bones to reconnect. Like them, Bradbury is critical of an anxious Church that simply wants to find a winning formula and clone it. Unlike them, he sees the need to explore a radical ‘re-imagination’ of the ways things are, and could be, when Christians gather.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis book will therefore rattle many bones among those of us who explore and debate the renewing and reforming of the Church. For this reason, I recommend it gladly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by the Rt Rev Paul Bayes, the Bishop of Liverpool\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Rosemary Medhurst\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDoes contemporary British Christianity, and the loss of influence of the church as an institution, have much in common with the experience of exile? This comparison focuses on Ezekiel, and particularly the vision of dry bones. ‘Can these bones live?’ is the question, and Ezekiel watches them restored. But God is doing a new thing, then beyond the structures of monarchy and temple, now beyond the structures of inherited church. Bradbury encourages us to venture out to participate in God’s initiatives – ‘missio dei’ – rather than continuing to try to pull people in. He warns provocatively against denial, even against overvaluing large busy churches, and promotes nurturing the various fresh expressions along the spectrum away from traditional church. This is a short book, but well supported by references, many from Brueggemann, including the health warning that ‘the usefulness of a metaphor for rereading our own context is that it is not claimed to be a one-to-one match’. Indeed, but an encouragement to share Ezekiel’s step into the unknown with the response: ‘Sovereign Lord, you alone know’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Rosemary Medhurst\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, May 2019. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Ruth Maxey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury is an Anglican pioneer minister who started a fascinating fresh expression in Poole – a missional community called ‘Reconnect’ that is living out a new way of being Church. He therefore brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to the topic of ‘reimagining today’s Church’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a misleadingly thin book, as the content is anything but thin! It’s heart is an in-depth analysis of the exilic period, with a particular focus on Ezekiel’s vision of the dry bones in Ezekiel 37. From this detailed biblical and historical analysis, Bradbury draws parallels with the context the Church finds itself in today. As Christian communities, we are also in exile, often looking back longingly and trying to recreate and maintain our old ways in a foreign land. We are often either in despair at the loss of the past, or looking to some kind of assimilation. Bradbury maintains that we need to see the creative opportunities that our present context offers us, as we allow the Spirit to work through us in new and exciting ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe phrase ‘home by another route’ comes from the story of the journey of the magi in Matthew’s Gospel. The magi do return home, but they are changed by their encounter and return by another route. The Church is also called to ‘return by another route’, we cannot simply try to do the old things better, we need to find another route. Bradbury rightly claims that ‘recreating Jerusalem in the landscape of Babylon is not an option’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs someone who is part of a community that is seeking to reimagine the Church, I was very much drawn to the topic. But this is not a practical ‘how to’ book, it is one to take time with, to chew over, to re-read. It is not a book for someone looking for simple answers on how to reimagine the Church today. This is a book for those who are prepared to think deeply and theologically about the context in which we find ourselves, and to look to the wealth of biblical tradition for wisdom and inspiration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRuth Maxey is a pioneer minister at Church without Walls, Milton Keynes\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInspire, March 2019. Review by John Woods\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a readable reflection on Ezekiel’s Dry Bones passage in Ezekiel Chapter 37. The author sees the prophet as a pioneer, who has a fresh God-given take on what can be done on the present and the future. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePaul Bradbury leads what he calls a missional community attached to the Church of England; he views the UK Church as a community in exile. By this the author means that the Church should operate within a society where Christianity does not provide the primary language or narrative for most people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBradbury finds a breath-taking hope of a homecoming in Ezekiel’s message to the exiles. Yet this homecoming, if it is to occur, might involve coming back by another route.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author provides a useful spectrum for assessing the nature of church leadership: Church Replicators, who repeat that which has always been done; Pioneer Adaptors, who use things like Messy Church and Café Church to create fresh zones for people to explore Christianity, and Pioneer Innovators who use more explorative, low-key ways to get alongside those who are seeking to make sense of life, God and the universe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found this book to be a stimulating read but wondered if at times it fell between the stools of being an academic or a popular treatment. I think I would also have liked a little bit more meat on the bones concerning how Pioneer innovators “venture into the edges of postmodern culture”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat said here is a timely invitation to reimagine the way we do church, that is open to the breath of the Spirit and seeks to be shaped to come alongside those beyond the “usual suspects”!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJohn Woods is pastor of Lancing Tabernacle in West Sussex\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIrish Methodist Newsletter. Review by Stephen Skuce, \u003cspan\u003eDistrict Superintendent, North Western District\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe world has changed significantly over the past 50 years. The church has not necessarily changed as much. Consequently, the two are a bit more disconnected than they previously were. This isn’t a breaking news story but it’s how we understand and respond to this that is crucial. Paul Bradbury reflects on this with an understanding that the church today finds itself in exile, albeit that society has moved on and the church is somewhat marooned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEzekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones is the thread that holds this book together. Each chapter takes a different aspect of the prophet’s vision, with the recurring questions as to whether the bones (or church) can live again. Based on his experience as a pioneer minister, Bradbury avoids platitudes or somewhat mechanical solutions. He views the problem as primarily a spiritual problem that needs a spiritual answer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book’s title recognises that the church is not able to return to what it was. The visit of the Wise Men to Jesus changed their lives and following God’s warning, they went home by a different route. Bradbury argues that church restoration and renewal of the past is no longer for today, and we as the church need to find another route to our home, or place of peace, safety and prosperity. ‘Recreating Jerusalem in the landscape of Babylon is not an option’ (p.85). Those in exile start to understand how God is with them, not in the ways of the past which are gone, but in the new strange world they find themselves a bit reluctantly in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday people are still interested in spirituality and understanding who God is. They no longer focus this search on the church but rather follow numerous alternative ways. Indeed, perhaps this is now the norm and the church is one of the alternatives. This is all part of the uncomfortable place that is exile. Bradbury reflects on his pioneer ministry with the Church of England in Poole in southern England. I don’t think this shows us a model as to how to respond. It does show us one response and challenges us to find our own ways to respond to living in exile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUltimately ‘all our efforts at refounding, renewal, reform will be nothing unless they are built on a renewal of our reliance on God’ (p105). That is both our challenge and direction\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Rev’d Dr Stephen Skuce, District Superintendent, North Western District\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Home by Another Route: Reimagining today's church
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{"id":14777141330300,"title":"A Better Song to Sing: Finding life again through the invitations of Jesus","handle":"a-better-song-to-sing-finding-life-again-through-the-invitations-of-jesus-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMany sincere followers of Jesus are secretly disappointed, dissatisfied and quietly desperate for more than they are currently experiencing. That more is found as we respond to the invitations of Jesus, which hold out to us the hope of dynamic change, of a truly vibrant, transformed life – a better song to sing. Each chapter explores one specific invitation, drawing out its possible implications for our lives, and suggests a spiritual practice or reflection to help us ground that invitation in our present-day reality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/MagsinFergusFalls_480x480.jpg?v=1676493905\" width=\"142\" height=\"189\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags was a missionary in Asia for over 20 years before returning to the UK and joining the faculty at Redcliffe College where she lectured on Spiritual Formation and on Soul Care. A retreat leader and spiritual director, she is passionate about helping others nurture their relationship with God in life-giving, life-sustaining ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer critically acclaimed first book is \u003cem\u003eGod among the Ruins\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2018).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead Mags' Lockdown blog \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/mags-duggan-author-of-the-best-selling-god-among-the-ruins-and-the-soon-to-be-published-a-better-song-to-sing-muses-on-what-shes-achieved-during-lockdown\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTony Horsfall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersonal transformation is at the heart of discipleship yet so many experience only superficial change. Here is a book to take you deeper in the journey to wholeness and Christlikeness and blow away your spiritual blues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags Duggan first helps us to understand the call of Jesus to experience the abundant life he offers. Then she asks us to look inwards, gently inviting us to face up to the issues preventing us from real change. Finally, with much grace, and sharing examples from her own life, she gives us practical tools by which we can find freedom, healing and release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small book but it packs a big punch. \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e will strike the right note for many who long to find greater fulfilment in their walk with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2021. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not about hymns or worship songs. It is a book for those of us who know, deep down, that there must be more to life as a disciple than we are experiencing right now. Mags Duggan has clearly been there herself, and writes about searching for ‘a better song to sing’ in life through the invitations of Jesus – life in all its fullness, release from the grave, water for the thirsty, fulfilment of our deep desires, trusting and being at home with him. I was especially moved by the last chapter, where the author writes of Jesus inviting me to be at home with him – a place of heartfelt welcome and ease where I may sit down with him, love and be loved. Mags Duggan writes with grace. The theology is winning, thoughtful and intelligent, not academic. There are personal stories of success and failure, and ideas to try. We need more books like this. I recommend it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIrish Methodist Newsletter. Review by Stephen Skuce\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I have listened to many sincere followers of Jesus as they’ve shared with me how worn out, bored, disappointed and frustrated they feel about the life they are living – and how ashamed and guilty they are for feeling this way’. We do not always experience life in all its fullness, and Mags Duggan writes to such as us to offer us counsel and pointers in how to follow the nudging of the Holy Spirit that there is indeed much more than many of us are experiencing. ‘Our lives can be full of good and helpful things, our time may be spent well and productively, and yet we can feel like our hearts, our souls, the very core of who we are, are sometimes achingly empty’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuggan offers us four spiritual practices that can assist our journeys. She points us to prayers for release, to praying with and through the gospels, to stopping, and circle or Caim prayers that many of us will be familiar with as part of our Celtic Christian heritage. As I read this book I was reminded of Andrew Roberts’ \u003cem\u003eHoly Habits.\u003c\/em\u003e There are a number of such resources that remind us of the practices or habits that support and enhance our faith. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e Duggan is helping us think specifically about when we have somehow lost the joy of our faith. It's far from a superficial ‘quick fix’ manual, but a text that is challenging as it causes us to look within, and find God’s strength to better emerge out. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer comments on ‘stopping’ particularly resonated with me and are based on Mark 6:31-32 where Jesus and the disciples head away to be alone, to find a still point in their day. I have cultivated a daily still point. Part of my fairly minimal contribution to the smooth running of the Skuce household is doing the dishes. There is a dishwasher, but it just sits and stares with reproach at me. I don’t care. When I do the dishes I switch off. I do a simple action that has a start, middle and end. I’ll do it again in the near future, but those particular few dishes are completed. I need to do the dishes on my own but that is likely part of my many personality issues. In the simple task I find stillness, and I know I need to find stillness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike a lot of recent BRF books, \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e is a fairly quick read, is straightforward but has depth. This is well worth reading for more than just encouragement in our faith, but pointers to what actually nourishes us. In the struggles of life that the pandemic has brought, our wellbeing has come a bit more to the fore. This is just the sort of book to help our faith better help our whole being.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Revd Dr Stephen Skuce, District Superintendent, North Western District\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCatherine Young, \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDirector, Global Language and Development Services\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e International Language Services \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSIL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe opening pages of this book recount a memorable scene from \u003cem\u003e'Educating Rita\u003c\/em\u003e' when Rita’s mother sobs 'There must be better songs to sing than this,' and my heart lurched because that has, on numerous occasions, been the cry of my heart – there must be more to life than what feels mundane and pedestrian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI follow the living God and I crave 'life in all its fullness'. Mags Duggan's book spoke to my heart, my soul and will, I trust, enable me to confidently, enthusiastically, willing and without fear put my trust in the One who has invited me to step to the edge and fly. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe invitations of Jesus, spread through the New Testament, encourage me to draw close to Him and grow in trust of the One who loves me and remind me that I am precious to Him. He yearns for me to respond. Why do I hesitate, I wonder? Each chapter of this book examines a different Biblical invitation and, in a wonderfully accessible style, challenges me to wholeness and new vibrancy in my walk with Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags’ writing – beautifully rich with metaphor - integrates rigorous theological reflection, reflections from her own extensive cross-cultural experience and references to popular culture which emphasises the holistic nature of the call to wholeness. I particularly appreciated the spiritual exercises that are included at the end of each chapter. They caused me to take each chapter and reflect – to consume each chapter carefully in small bites rather than guzzle the complete book hungrily in a few short sittings. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe image of the desert in Chapter 3 was particularly meaningful to me: the unproductive expanse that needs to be watered in order to yield the harvest that was intended. I feel thirsty, I know I am thirsty but I need to intentionally and deliberately drink to experience the 'hydrated soul' through which life and energy can flow to bring refreshment to the parched spirit of others. The final chapter brings the message of the book to a resounding crescendo underscoring that there is risk in commitment – but also joy, hope and freedom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Catherine Young\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T09:35:07+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T09:33:39+00:00","vendor":"Mags Duggan","type":"eBook","tags":["For individuals","Glassboxx","Jul-20","Pastoral care","Prayer","Spirituality","Women"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603641950588,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468772","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":{"id":71653022269820,"product_id":14777141330300,"position":1,"created_at":"2024-11-07T11:53:15+00:00","updated_at":"2024-11-07T11:53:18+00:00","alt":null,"width":1303,"height":2000,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/214.png?v=1730980398","variant_ids":[53603641950588]},"available":true,"name":"A Better Song to Sing: Finding life again through the invitations of Jesus - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":600,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468772","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":63001504448892,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/214.png?v=1730980398"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/214.png?v=1730980398","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/215.png?v=1730980393"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/214.png?v=1730980398","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001504448892,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/214.png?v=1730980398"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/214.png?v=1730980398","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001503596924,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/215.png?v=1730980393"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/215.png?v=1730980393","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMany sincere followers of Jesus are secretly disappointed, dissatisfied and quietly desperate for more than they are currently experiencing. That more is found as we respond to the invitations of Jesus, which hold out to us the hope of dynamic change, of a truly vibrant, transformed life – a better song to sing. Each chapter explores one specific invitation, drawing out its possible implications for our lives, and suggests a spiritual practice or reflection to help us ground that invitation in our present-day reality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAbout the author\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/MagsinFergusFalls_480x480.jpg?v=1676493905\" width=\"142\" height=\"189\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags was a missionary in Asia for over 20 years before returning to the UK and joining the faculty at Redcliffe College where she lectured on Spiritual Formation and on Soul Care. A retreat leader and spiritual director, she is passionate about helping others nurture their relationship with God in life-giving, life-sustaining ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer critically acclaimed first book is \u003cem\u003eGod among the Ruins\u003c\/em\u003e (BRF, 2018).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead Mags' Lockdown blog \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/blogs\/collections\/mags-duggan-author-of-the-best-selling-god-among-the-ruins-and-the-soon-to-be-published-a-better-song-to-sing-muses-on-what-shes-achieved-during-lockdown\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTony Horsfall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersonal transformation is at the heart of discipleship yet so many experience only superficial change. Here is a book to take you deeper in the journey to wholeness and Christlikeness and blow away your spiritual blues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags Duggan first helps us to understand the call of Jesus to experience the abundant life he offers. Then she asks us to look inwards, gently inviting us to face up to the issues preventing us from real change. Finally, with much grace, and sharing examples from her own life, she gives us practical tools by which we can find freedom, healing and release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small book but it packs a big punch. \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e will strike the right note for many who long to find greater fulfilment in their walk with God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Spring 2021. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not about hymns or worship songs. It is a book for those of us who know, deep down, that there must be more to life as a disciple than we are experiencing right now. Mags Duggan has clearly been there herself, and writes about searching for ‘a better song to sing’ in life through the invitations of Jesus – life in all its fullness, release from the grave, water for the thirsty, fulfilment of our deep desires, trusting and being at home with him. I was especially moved by the last chapter, where the author writes of Jesus inviting me to be at home with him – a place of heartfelt welcome and ease where I may sit down with him, love and be loved. Mags Duggan writes with grace. The theology is winning, thoughtful and intelligent, not academic. There are personal stories of success and failure, and ideas to try. We need more books like this. I recommend it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIrish Methodist Newsletter. Review by Stephen Skuce\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I have listened to many sincere followers of Jesus as they’ve shared with me how worn out, bored, disappointed and frustrated they feel about the life they are living – and how ashamed and guilty they are for feeling this way’. We do not always experience life in all its fullness, and Mags Duggan writes to such as us to offer us counsel and pointers in how to follow the nudging of the Holy Spirit that there is indeed much more than many of us are experiencing. ‘Our lives can be full of good and helpful things, our time may be spent well and productively, and yet we can feel like our hearts, our souls, the very core of who we are, are sometimes achingly empty’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuggan offers us four spiritual practices that can assist our journeys. She points us to prayers for release, to praying with and through the gospels, to stopping, and circle or Caim prayers that many of us will be familiar with as part of our Celtic Christian heritage. As I read this book I was reminded of Andrew Roberts’ \u003cem\u003eHoly Habits.\u003c\/em\u003e There are a number of such resources that remind us of the practices or habits that support and enhance our faith. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e Duggan is helping us think specifically about when we have somehow lost the joy of our faith. It's far from a superficial ‘quick fix’ manual, but a text that is challenging as it causes us to look within, and find God’s strength to better emerge out. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHer comments on ‘stopping’ particularly resonated with me and are based on Mark 6:31-32 where Jesus and the disciples head away to be alone, to find a still point in their day. I have cultivated a daily still point. Part of my fairly minimal contribution to the smooth running of the Skuce household is doing the dishes. There is a dishwasher, but it just sits and stares with reproach at me. I don’t care. When I do the dishes I switch off. I do a simple action that has a start, middle and end. I’ll do it again in the near future, but those particular few dishes are completed. I need to do the dishes on my own but that is likely part of my many personality issues. In the simple task I find stillness, and I know I need to find stillness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike a lot of recent BRF books, \u003cem\u003eA Better Song to Sing\u003c\/em\u003e is a fairly quick read, is straightforward but has depth. This is well worth reading for more than just encouragement in our faith, but pointers to what actually nourishes us. In the struggles of life that the pandemic has brought, our wellbeing has come a bit more to the fore. This is just the sort of book to help our faith better help our whole being.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Revd Dr Stephen Skuce, District Superintendent, North Western District\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCatherine Young, \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDirector, Global Language and Development Services\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e International Language Services \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSIL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe opening pages of this book recount a memorable scene from \u003cem\u003e'Educating Rita\u003c\/em\u003e' when Rita’s mother sobs 'There must be better songs to sing than this,' and my heart lurched because that has, on numerous occasions, been the cry of my heart – there must be more to life than what feels mundane and pedestrian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI follow the living God and I crave 'life in all its fullness'. Mags Duggan's book spoke to my heart, my soul and will, I trust, enable me to confidently, enthusiastically, willing and without fear put my trust in the One who has invited me to step to the edge and fly. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe invitations of Jesus, spread through the New Testament, encourage me to draw close to Him and grow in trust of the One who loves me and remind me that I am precious to Him. He yearns for me to respond. Why do I hesitate, I wonder? Each chapter of this book examines a different Biblical invitation and, in a wonderfully accessible style, challenges me to wholeness and new vibrancy in my walk with Christ.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMags’ writing – beautifully rich with metaphor - integrates rigorous theological reflection, reflections from her own extensive cross-cultural experience and references to popular culture which emphasises the holistic nature of the call to wholeness. I particularly appreciated the spiritual exercises that are included at the end of each chapter. They caused me to take each chapter and reflect – to consume each chapter carefully in small bites rather than guzzle the complete book hungrily in a few short sittings. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe image of the desert in Chapter 3 was particularly meaningful to me: the unproductive expanse that needs to be watered in order to yield the harvest that was intended. I feel thirsty, I know I am thirsty but I need to intentionally and deliberately drink to experience the 'hydrated soul' through which life and energy can flow to bring refreshment to the parched spirit of others. The final chapter brings the message of the book to a resounding crescendo underscoring that there is risk in commitment – but also joy, hope and freedom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Catherine Young\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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A Better Song to Sing: Finding life again through the invitations of Jesus
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{"id":14777190252924,"title":"A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15","handle":"a-fruitful-life-abiding-in-christ-as-seen-in-john-15-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'It is my desire through these pages to point you back to the simplicity of a life lived out of relationship with Jesus Christ. A life of intimacy, of abiding in him, is the source and spring of all other activity and endeavour. The branch bears fruit because it abides in the vine.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn A Fruitful Life we ponder the teaching of Jesus in John chapter 15, the famous 'vine' passage. He is preparing his disciples for his departure and describing how they can be effective witnesses in a hostile world. Just as his instructions revolutionised their lives, so a proper understanding of what he is saying can revolutionise our lives also. It is the heart of the gospel message: the only way to live the Christian life is to allow Jesus to live his life in us and through us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book includes material for individual reflection and also questions for group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"199\" width=\"132\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/TonyHorsfall_2014_480x480.png?v=1676494125\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer with a passion to help individuals deepen their relationship with God. He is an elder of his local church in West Yorkshire and a graduate of London School of Theology, and regularly travels abroad leading retreats and quiet days, road-testing the material in this book in Singapore. He has written a number of other books, including Song of the Shepherd and A Fruitful Life for BRF, and also writes for New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe need of the hour is for Spirit-filled, Christ-centred, Father-glorifying, Bible-based, fruitful individuals and churches. This book can only help towards that goal.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteve Brady, Moorlands College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost, August 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus said, ‘I am the vine.’ John 15.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s exploration of this well-known passage begins with a stark yet realistic picture of Christianity and the church in 21st Century, post-Christian Britain. Yet he reminds us that it was into such a ‘hostile world’ that Jesus gave this core teaching to his disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, this book’s relevance for us is clear. And the author’s key question is also clear: ‘What does it mean to be a Christian?’ His answer, in part, is that the purpose of our lives is to give glory to God – it is our destiny to bear fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall challenges the reader not to see bringing people to faith as the main fruit. We are to focus on the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and how they are to grow (and to be seen to grow) in our lives through our personal attributes and responses to the needs of others. Within that growth we see God working which leads us to worship which then gives glory to God: which is, as already stated, the purpose of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMuch of what Tony Horsfall writes will be familiar to many but in this book he also offers fresh insights into this key teaching from Jesus. He explores the symbolism of the vine in the Bible as a whole and suggests that Jesus is not just addressing us as individuals but also the nature of the church – a theme to which he returns later. His exploration of looking after a vineyard is particularly helpful – considering all the different words that are used in various translations of the passage. God is the gardener, vine dresser, husbandman, farmer – all have the unique qualities, all are present in the Father.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimilarly, the way he explains the actual cultivation and growth of grapes from the vine draws very helpful parallels with our life in Christ – albeit including tough and difficult chapters on cleansing and pruning. But they too are potentially necessary in order to address sin and unhelpful practice so that further growth is enabled, not prevented. ‘Letting go of what is precious to us is very much the human side of divine pruning,’ he writes. And quoting Selwyn Hughes, ‘Always remember that no matter how often the secateurs snip, or how painful pruning, your life is in good hands: it is your Father who is the gardener.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe core theme of the passage on abiding in Christ in the knowledge we can do nothing without him is explored in depth. Tony Horsfall approaches this from a particular viewpoint which some readers will be familiar with. He offers five ‘disciplines’ to help receive the life-giving sap that enables the vine to bear fruit:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDependency on God through prayer and allowing God to be in control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReading, studying and meditating on the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnowing oneself to be loved and to receive that love\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eObedience to God and surrendering ourselves to him – or to put it another way: listening to God and following his lead\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeveloping intimacy and friendship with God by spending time with him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this leads to a life of prayer, joy and community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterspersed with reflective poetry, questions for individuals and groups, A Fruitful Life offers a helpful perspective on very familiar words – watering solid ground to enable further growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of Life with St Benedict and writes a blog at workrestpray.com\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom: \u003cem\u003eThe Methodist Recorder\u003c\/em\u003e - 07 June 07\u003c\/strong\u003e The 15th chapter of St John's Gospel - the familiar 'vine' passage - has been inspirational to many down the years. In his book, \u003cem\u003eA Fruitful Life\u003c\/em\u003e, Tony Horsfall takes us through this chapter looking at each verse with the aim of helping us fully appreciate what a life lived abiding in Christ really means. Why do we need to abide? Because 'apart from him we can do nothing'. Each section offers material for individual reflection and also sensible questions for group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T10:02:08+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T10:01:16+00:00","vendor":"Tony Horsfall","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Group reading","Jun-19","Torch Trust"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603669901692,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857468857","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15 - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":141,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857468857","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/216.png?v=1730980392","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/217.png?v=1730980387"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/216.png?v=1730980392","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001503367548,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/216.png?v=1730980392"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/216.png?v=1730980392","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001501958524,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/217.png?v=1730980387"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/217.png?v=1730980387","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e'It is my desire through these pages to point you back to the simplicity of a life lived out of relationship with Jesus Christ. A life of intimacy, of abiding in him, is the source and spring of all other activity and endeavour. The branch bears fruit because it abides in the vine.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn A Fruitful Life we ponder the teaching of Jesus in John chapter 15, the famous 'vine' passage. He is preparing his disciples for his departure and describing how they can be effective witnesses in a hostile world. Just as his instructions revolutionised their lives, so a proper understanding of what he is saying can revolutionise our lives also. It is the heart of the gospel message: the only way to live the Christian life is to allow Jesus to live his life in us and through us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book includes material for individual reflection and also questions for group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"199\" width=\"132\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/TonyHorsfall_2014_480x480.png?v=1676494125\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 15px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall is a freelance trainer with a passion to help individuals deepen their relationship with God. He is an elder of his local church in West Yorkshire and a graduate of London School of Theology, and regularly travels abroad leading retreats and quiet days, road-testing the material in this book in Singapore. He has written a number of other books, including Song of the Shepherd and A Fruitful Life for BRF, and also writes for New Daylight Bible reading notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe need of the hour is for Spirit-filled, Christ-centred, Father-glorifying, Bible-based, fruitful individuals and churches. This book can only help towards that goal.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSteve Brady, Moorlands College\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Richard Frost, August 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJesus said, ‘I am the vine.’ John 15.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall’s exploration of this well-known passage begins with a stark yet realistic picture of Christianity and the church in 21st Century, post-Christian Britain. Yet he reminds us that it was into such a ‘hostile world’ that Jesus gave this core teaching to his disciples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, this book’s relevance for us is clear. And the author’s key question is also clear: ‘What does it mean to be a Christian?’ His answer, in part, is that the purpose of our lives is to give glory to God – it is our destiny to bear fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTony Horsfall challenges the reader not to see bringing people to faith as the main fruit. We are to focus on the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and how they are to grow (and to be seen to grow) in our lives through our personal attributes and responses to the needs of others. Within that growth we see God working which leads us to worship which then gives glory to God: which is, as already stated, the purpose of our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMuch of what Tony Horsfall writes will be familiar to many but in this book he also offers fresh insights into this key teaching from Jesus. He explores the symbolism of the vine in the Bible as a whole and suggests that Jesus is not just addressing us as individuals but also the nature of the church – a theme to which he returns later. His exploration of looking after a vineyard is particularly helpful – considering all the different words that are used in various translations of the passage. God is the gardener, vine dresser, husbandman, farmer – all have the unique qualities, all are present in the Father.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimilarly, the way he explains the actual cultivation and growth of grapes from the vine draws very helpful parallels with our life in Christ – albeit including tough and difficult chapters on cleansing and pruning. But they too are potentially necessary in order to address sin and unhelpful practice so that further growth is enabled, not prevented. ‘Letting go of what is precious to us is very much the human side of divine pruning,’ he writes. And quoting Selwyn Hughes, ‘Always remember that no matter how often the secateurs snip, or how painful pruning, your life is in good hands: it is your Father who is the gardener.’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe core theme of the passage on abiding in Christ in the knowledge we can do nothing without him is explored in depth. Tony Horsfall approaches this from a particular viewpoint which some readers will be familiar with. He offers five ‘disciplines’ to help receive the life-giving sap that enables the vine to bear fruit:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDependency on God through prayer and allowing God to be in control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReading, studying and meditating on the Bible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnowing oneself to be loved and to receive that love\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eObedience to God and surrendering ourselves to him – or to put it another way: listening to God and following his lead\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeveloping intimacy and friendship with God by spending time with him\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll this leads to a life of prayer, joy and community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterspersed with reflective poetry, questions for individuals and groups, A Fruitful Life offers a helpful perspective on very familiar words – watering solid ground to enable further growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRichard Frost is the author of Life with St Benedict and writes a blog at workrestpray.com\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom: \u003cem\u003eThe Methodist Recorder\u003c\/em\u003e - 07 June 07\u003c\/strong\u003e The 15th chapter of St John's Gospel - the familiar 'vine' passage - has been inspirational to many down the years. In his book, \u003cem\u003eA Fruitful Life\u003c\/em\u003e, Tony Horsfall takes us through this chapter looking at each verse with the aim of helping us fully appreciate what a life lived abiding in Christ really means. Why do we need to abide? Because 'apart from him we can do nothing'. Each section offers material for individual reflection and also sensible questions for group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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A Fruitful Life: Abiding in Christ as seen in John 15
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Digital eBook Only - 'It is my desire through these pages to point you back to the simplicity of a...
{"id":14777218990460,"title":"Being God's Child: A Parent's Guide","handle":"being-gods-child-a-parents-guide-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn exploration of ten different ways in which parents can learn or re-learn how to connect with God as his child, written by Parenting for Faith’s ministry lead Anna Hawken.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGod makes us the most unbelievable offer... to be our parent.\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, even when we’re all grown up and have children of our own! But many of us don’t live experiencing the connection, guidance and support that’s on offer. Why? Because we’ve forgotten how to be a child.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn this easy-to-read guide, Anna Hawken explores ten different ways to rediscover our ‘child side’. She uses the living, breathing examples of the children in our lives to inspire and challenge us, by looking at things that we sometimes struggle with but they are great at, like:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e• asking lots of questions\u003cbr\u003e• messing up without giving up\u003cbr\u003e• sharing their emotions\u003cbr\u003e• asking for help and what they need\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRead it on your own or with others, using the individual reflections, questions and small group notes to guide you. These simple ideas will help even the busiest parent to draw closer to God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is it for?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChristian parents, with a particular focus on those who are new to faith, exploring, or who feel their faith journey has changed significantly since becoming a parent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParents who attend Messy Church \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParents who have come to church through bringing their child for infant baptism \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChurch leaders, children's and family workers and toddler group leaders\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/AnnaHawken_480x480.jpg?v=1692792195\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 20px; float: right;\" width=\"232\" height=\"302\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/AnnaHawken_480x480.jpg?v=1692792195\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAnna Hawken is the Parenting for Faith Ministry \u003c\/span\u003eLead at BRF. She has worked in children’s and family ministry since 2010 and speaks at churches and events around the UK. She hosts the Parenting for Faith podcast and presents the Parenting for Faith Babies and Toddlers course. She lives in Milton Keynes with her husband and three children. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Summer 2024. Review by Jane Slinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;\"\u003eHow do you feel about being God’s child? If you are a busy parent, how do you find time to connect with God? These questions are explored at length in this fascinating book showing how, even amongst the busiest of days, parents can come into a better relationship with God by observing and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;\"\u003einteracting with their children. Although aimed at parents, anyone reading this book could not help but come closer to God by learning how to experience God as his child. The author goes deeper into our spirituality and demonstrates ten innovative ideas to enable us to include God in our busy everyday lives and thus deepen our relationship with him. There are Bible references and stories and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;\"\u003eideas that would be excellent for use in small groups. Towards the end of the book there are ‘Next Steps’ and ‘Ideas to use with your Children’, exploring in various ways how any child can enjoy a closer relationship with God. I recommend this book as an interesting, helpful and enlightening read.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jane Slinger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T10:11:59+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T10:11:01+00:00","vendor":"Anna Hawken","type":"eBook","tags":["Children and family ministry","Discipleship","Glassboxx","Messy Church","Parenting","Parenting for Faith books"],"price":699,"price_min":699,"price_max":699,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603834265980,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800391994","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Being God's Child: A Parent's Guide - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":699,"weight":125,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800391994","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/222.png?v=1730980376","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/223.png?v=1730980315"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/222.png?v=1730980376","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001498845564,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/222.png?v=1730980376"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/222.png?v=1730980376","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001484788092,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/223.png?v=1730980315"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/223.png?v=1730980315","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn exploration of ten different ways in which parents can learn or re-learn how to connect with God as his child, written by Parenting for Faith’s ministry lead Anna Hawken.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGod makes us the most unbelievable offer... to be our parent.\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, even when we’re all grown up and have children of our own! But many of us don’t live experiencing the connection, guidance and support that’s on offer. Why? Because we’ve forgotten how to be a child.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn this easy-to-read guide, Anna Hawken explores ten different ways to rediscover our ‘child side’. She uses the living, breathing examples of the children in our lives to inspire and challenge us, by looking at things that we sometimes struggle with but they are great at, like:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e• asking lots of questions\u003cbr\u003e• messing up without giving up\u003cbr\u003e• sharing their emotions\u003cbr\u003e• asking for help and what they need\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRead it on your own or with others, using the individual reflections, questions and small group notes to guide you. These simple ideas will help even the busiest parent to draw closer to God.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho is it for?\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChristian parents, with a particular focus on those who are new to faith, exploring, or who feel their faith journey has changed significantly since becoming a parent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParents who attend Messy Church \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParents who have come to church through bringing their child for infant baptism \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChurch leaders, children's and family workers and toddler group leaders\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/AnnaHawken_480x480.jpg?v=1692792195\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 20px; float: right;\" width=\"232\" height=\"302\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/AnnaHawken_480x480.jpg?v=1692792195\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAnna Hawken is the Parenting for Faith Ministry \u003c\/span\u003eLead at BRF. She has worked in children’s and family ministry since 2010 and speaks at churches and events around the UK. She hosts the Parenting for Faith podcast and presents the Parenting for Faith Babies and Toddlers course. She lives in Milton Keynes with her husband and three children. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Summer 2024. Review by Jane Slinger\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;\"\u003eHow do you feel about being God’s child? If you are a busy parent, how do you find time to connect with God? These questions are explored at length in this fascinating book showing how, even amongst the busiest of days, parents can come into a better relationship with God by observing and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;\"\u003einteracting with their children. Although aimed at parents, anyone reading this book could not help but come closer to God by learning how to experience God as his child. The author goes deeper into our spirituality and demonstrates ten innovative ideas to enable us to include God in our busy everyday lives and thus deepen our relationship with him. There are Bible references and stories and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;\"\u003eideas that would be excellent for use in small groups. Towards the end of the book there are ‘Next Steps’ and ‘Ideas to use with your Children’, exploring in various ways how any child can enjoy a closer relationship with God. I recommend this book as an interesting, helpful and enlightening read.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"margin-bottom: 0cm; line-height: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #231f20; mso-font-kerning: 0pt;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jane Slinger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e"}
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Being God's Child: A Parent's Guide
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{"id":14777367527804,"title":"Living Differently to Make a Difference: The beatitudes and countercultural lifestyle","handle":"living-differently-to-make-a-difference-the-beatitudes-and-countercultural-lifestyle-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFew would doubt that we live in a wounded and broken world. But God has sent a Saviour, Jesus Christ, who calls us, in the beatitudes, to live an authentic, countercultural lifestyle. By being different we can make a difference, becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Through living the beatitudes, we could make the world a better place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/l-woNgQmdBA\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving been in parish ministry for 25 years, Will Donaldson is Chaplain and Senior Welfare Officer of St Edmund Hall, Oxford University. He is also Area Dean of Oxford and Director of Pastoral Care at St Aldates Church. He is the author of Word and Spirit (BRF, 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJulian Meetings Magazine, April 2019. Review by Felicity Bayne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn his foreword Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford, writes that ‘There are signs that the beatitudes are coming back into focus in the life of the church as a text for the 21st century.’ Will Donaldson suggests that all our social, political and technological problems connect to the same root cause – chronic lifestyle dysfunction – and then explores a solution based on Jesus’ teaching in the beatitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter sets one of the beatitudes in its biblical context, particularly as it relates to Isaiah 61, the Old Testament passage that Jesus read in the synagogue at Nazareth to announce the arrival of the Messiah. In each chapter one beatitude is put alongside a current or historical character or context, before leading the reader into considering how that beatitude might apply in their own lives, to the benefit of the world. Chapters 8 and 9 lead us to reflect on Jesus’ words of encouragement to his followers to be salt and light in the world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapters end with thoughtful, helpful questions, and suggestions for reflection alone, or within a small group. This would work well for a Lent group, taking two chapters each week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDonaldson’s writing is both informative and challenging: an opportunity for serious study and reflection. He provides a pithy guide to Christians who wish their faith in Jesus to make a difference, becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world, a step at a time. It’s not always a comfortable read, but practising our faith in line with the beatitudes is always an uncomfortable, but hopefully creative, challenge towards building the church of the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Felicity Bayne \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by Ben Brown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe beatitudes are the series of teachings by Jesus at the start of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's gospel. They are sayings where the hierarchies of the world and the hierarchies of the heart are turned upside down. We are called to become people who are poor, meek (or gentle), merciful and pure in heart. Will Donaldson has written a passionate and engaging study of how we are called to live the beatitudes in a world where the idols of power and status are prevalent. The book has some probing questions to ask of aspects of our modern society and our modern selves. Why are we fixated on ideals of success? Why is so much modern culture obsessed with revenge? Donaldson shows how living out of the beatitudes, embracing vulnerability and spiritual poverty in our lives, embodies a joyful alternative to our cultural norms. Occasionally I found the presentation a little moralistic. His interpretation, for example that being pure in heart meant simply living with integrity struck me as reductive. Being pure can also mean being uncluttered and therefore able to see the divine more clearly. But this is a book which makes you ask transformative questions of yourself and your society and gives you, or a reading group, the opportunity to take Christi's teaching personally and embark on the daily adventure of following him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Ben Brown\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiocese of Oxford. Review by Kate Seagrave\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.oxford.anglican.org\/living-differently-to-make-a-difference\/\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.oxford.anglican.org\/living-differently-to-make-a-difference\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt would appear to be a brave undertaking to write a book on such a famous passage as the beatitudes and on such topics that so many have tackled before, but Will does so with originality and confidence. This easy to read book follows the standard mixed format of so many of BRF's publications, being a combination of an individual devotional read, a small group Bible study, and an introductory guide to this famous passage of scripture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis extensive experience in pastoral care and discipleship shines through his approach and his challenge to the reader to a more distinctively and holistic Christian life. Topics covered challenge both our inner lives and 'secret' attitudes as well as our more outward and visible actions and service. The structure of each chapter stands alone, which makes dipping in and out as well as selecting chapters of particular interest entirely possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe format makes this a quick and easy read, with plenty of illustrations from history, politics, culture, sport and literature. The individual devotions and group discussion questions provide ample invitation and space for pausing and thinking, even when read outside of a more intentional devotional or group study setting. The group questions are particularly accessible and appropriate to a group which had never done a similar study before, with a range of suggested options catering to timings from 15 minutes to an hour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe strength of this book is in the pastoral experience of the writer. His intuitive understanding and deep conviction that the presence of inner faith must be accompanied by a transformational impact upon the world around us (however big or small that world may be) shapes the way that he guides the reader through the chapters. If you are looking for an approach to the beatitudes which is easy to read, yet challenges you to pause and think and examine the lifestyle choices we make day to day, then this is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Revd Kate Seagrave, Mission Priest at the Community of St Frideswide in Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePresbyterian Herald, October 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book, Will Donaldson, a chaplain in Oxford University, explores the beatitudes taught by Jesus during his sermon on the mount, and suggests ways in which we can apply them today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat struck me about this book is that every chapter is so well researched and, as a result, Donaldson is able to explain each beatitude in the context of our history and the world in which we exist today. Scripture is woven throughout each chapter and the author draws heavily from Isaiah 61 throughout the book, as the Old Testament basis of the beatitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter concludes with prompts for personal reflection, prayerful response and discussion for small groups, including a starter (questions to be considered over a 15-minute period), a main course (allowing for a 60-minute discussion) and concluding with dessert (another 15 minutes of discussion). While I used this book to aid my own time of devotion, I believe it would be an excellent basis for a book group or discipleship group to study the beatitudes together and decipher what the application of them looks like in their daily lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found this to be a very challenging and beneficial read. It reinforced that as Christians, it is not for us to conform to the cultural narrative but rather to be 'set apart' for God, as has always been his desire for his people. This book is one of the most helpful books I have read for a long time.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:29:31+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:27:46+00:00","vendor":"Will Donaldson","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Glassboxx","Group reading","May-18","Mission"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603949543804,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466723","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Living Differently to Make a Difference: The beatitudes and countercultural lifestyle - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":166,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466723","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/224.png?v=1730980359","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/225.png?v=1730980294"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/224.png?v=1730980359","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001494520188,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/224.png?v=1730980359"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/224.png?v=1730980359","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001481412988,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/225.png?v=1730980294"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/225.png?v=1730980294","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFew would doubt that we live in a wounded and broken world. But God has sent a Saviour, Jesus Christ, who calls us, in the beatitudes, to live an authentic, countercultural lifestyle. By being different we can make a difference, becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Through living the beatitudes, we could make the world a better place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/l-woNgQmdBA\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving been in parish ministry for 25 years, Will Donaldson is Chaplain and Senior Welfare Officer of St Edmund Hall, Oxford University. He is also Area Dean of Oxford and Director of Pastoral Care at St Aldates Church. He is the author of Word and Spirit (BRF, 2011).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJulian Meetings Magazine, April 2019. Review by Felicity Bayne\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn his foreword Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford, writes that ‘There are signs that the beatitudes are coming back into focus in the life of the church as a text for the 21st century.’ Will Donaldson suggests that all our social, political and technological problems connect to the same root cause – chronic lifestyle dysfunction – and then explores a solution based on Jesus’ teaching in the beatitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter sets one of the beatitudes in its biblical context, particularly as it relates to Isaiah 61, the Old Testament passage that Jesus read in the synagogue at Nazareth to announce the arrival of the Messiah. In each chapter one beatitude is put alongside a current or historical character or context, before leading the reader into considering how that beatitude might apply in their own lives, to the benefit of the world. Chapters 8 and 9 lead us to reflect on Jesus’ words of encouragement to his followers to be salt and light in the world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapters end with thoughtful, helpful questions, and suggestions for reflection alone, or within a small group. This would work well for a Lent group, taking two chapters each week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDonaldson’s writing is both informative and challenging: an opportunity for serious study and reflection. He provides a pithy guide to Christians who wish their faith in Jesus to make a difference, becoming the salt of the earth and the light of the world, a step at a time. It’s not always a comfortable read, but practising our faith in line with the beatitudes is always an uncomfortable, but hopefully creative, challenge towards building the church of the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Felicity Bayne \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Spring 2019. Review by Ben Brown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe beatitudes are the series of teachings by Jesus at the start of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's gospel. They are sayings where the hierarchies of the world and the hierarchies of the heart are turned upside down. We are called to become people who are poor, meek (or gentle), merciful and pure in heart. Will Donaldson has written a passionate and engaging study of how we are called to live the beatitudes in a world where the idols of power and status are prevalent. The book has some probing questions to ask of aspects of our modern society and our modern selves. Why are we fixated on ideals of success? Why is so much modern culture obsessed with revenge? Donaldson shows how living out of the beatitudes, embracing vulnerability and spiritual poverty in our lives, embodies a joyful alternative to our cultural norms. Occasionally I found the presentation a little moralistic. His interpretation, for example that being pure in heart meant simply living with integrity struck me as reductive. Being pure can also mean being uncluttered and therefore able to see the divine more clearly. But this is a book which makes you ask transformative questions of yourself and your society and gives you, or a reading group, the opportunity to take Christi's teaching personally and embark on the daily adventure of following him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Ben Brown\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiocese of Oxford. Review by Kate Seagrave\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.oxford.anglican.org\/living-differently-to-make-a-difference\/\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.oxford.anglican.org\/living-differently-to-make-a-difference\/\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt would appear to be a brave undertaking to write a book on such a famous passage as the beatitudes and on such topics that so many have tackled before, but Will does so with originality and confidence. This easy to read book follows the standard mixed format of so many of BRF's publications, being a combination of an individual devotional read, a small group Bible study, and an introductory guide to this famous passage of scripture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis extensive experience in pastoral care and discipleship shines through his approach and his challenge to the reader to a more distinctively and holistic Christian life. Topics covered challenge both our inner lives and 'secret' attitudes as well as our more outward and visible actions and service. The structure of each chapter stands alone, which makes dipping in and out as well as selecting chapters of particular interest entirely possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe format makes this a quick and easy read, with plenty of illustrations from history, politics, culture, sport and literature. The individual devotions and group discussion questions provide ample invitation and space for pausing and thinking, even when read outside of a more intentional devotional or group study setting. The group questions are particularly accessible and appropriate to a group which had never done a similar study before, with a range of suggested options catering to timings from 15 minutes to an hour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe strength of this book is in the pastoral experience of the writer. His intuitive understanding and deep conviction that the presence of inner faith must be accompanied by a transformational impact upon the world around us (however big or small that world may be) shapes the way that he guides the reader through the chapters. If you are looking for an approach to the beatitudes which is easy to read, yet challenges you to pause and think and examine the lifestyle choices we make day to day, then this is for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by the Revd Kate Seagrave, Mission Priest at the Community of St Frideswide in Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePresbyterian Herald, October 2018\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this book, Will Donaldson, a chaplain in Oxford University, explores the beatitudes taught by Jesus during his sermon on the mount, and suggests ways in which we can apply them today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat struck me about this book is that every chapter is so well researched and, as a result, Donaldson is able to explain each beatitude in the context of our history and the world in which we exist today. Scripture is woven throughout each chapter and the author draws heavily from Isaiah 61 throughout the book, as the Old Testament basis of the beatitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter concludes with prompts for personal reflection, prayerful response and discussion for small groups, including a starter (questions to be considered over a 15-minute period), a main course (allowing for a 60-minute discussion) and concluding with dessert (another 15 minutes of discussion). While I used this book to aid my own time of devotion, I believe it would be an excellent basis for a book group or discipleship group to study the beatitudes together and decipher what the application of them looks like in their daily lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found this to be a very challenging and beneficial read. It reinforced that as Christians, it is not for us to conform to the cultural narrative but rather to be 'set apart' for God, as has always been his desire for his people. This book is one of the most helpful books I have read for a long time.\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Living Differently to Make a Difference: The beatitudes and countercultural lifestyle
£8.99
Digital eBook Only - Few would doubt that we live in a wounded and broken world. But God has sent...
{"id":14777394463100,"title":"Comfort in Uncertain Times","handle":"comfort-in-uncertain-times-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eUncertainty and change can be hard, and even more so for a child. Feelings of confusion, powerlessness and insecurity may be overwhelming. Scripture is full of people just like our children who had to cope with uncertainty and transition and flourished as they saw God’s hand and presence within it all. Designed as a series of stories and discussions for families, this book lays a Biblical foundation for who God is in uncertain times and how to stay connected to him.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/RachelTurner_480x480.jpg?v=1676495221\" width=\"252\" height=\"252\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRachel Turner is an author, speaker and the Parenting for Faith pioneer for BRF. Untill March 2022, she led the Parenting for Faith team at BRF, and she presents the Parenting for Faith course, a video-based resource for church groups and individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003ePraise for \u003cem\u003eComfort in the Darkness\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'What is not to love about this book?16 stories from the Bible are skilfully retold with just the right amount of drama, suspense and awe - perfect for a shared story!' Ali Campbell, The Resource 'It's simple, it's clever and it's profound. I found my own perspective on night-time changing along with my children's.' \u003cstrong\u003eVictoria Beech, Godventure. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Autumn 2022. Reviewed by Cavan Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled ‘Helping children draw close to God through Biblical stories of anxiety, loss and transition’, never has a book been more needed in a post-Covid world where lockdown caused massive rises in mental health issues among young and old alike. The author rightly says it is the job of parents to help their children deal with the problems of change and bereavement. Her approach is to re-tell key biblical stories by putting the emphasis on our involvement in the narrative. There are sections on how to connect with God by prayer and by spiritual practices. As with many things designed to help children, this will also be a rich resource for churches tackling these issues with older members of the congregation. This is a book that enables us to see that being human will involve feelings of uncertainty and that although we have an unchangeable God, He is not immune to the pain and the confusion of His children. A valuable resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Cavan Wood \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Paul Beasley-Murray \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/us12.campaign-archive.com\/?e=3cc647e01f\u0026amp;u=a45b3e6fc109e00f067477a28\u0026amp;id=5664bb31b8\"\u003eBooks for Today\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBRF of Abingdon continues to provide a range of superb resources for those engaged in children’s work. One such is \u003cem\u003eComfort in Uncertain Times\u003c\/em\u003e. This book will be of great help to many as we all begin to emerge from the pandemic. Each of the fifteen chapters tells a Bible story, and then provides conversation starts and end with suggestions on how to ‘connect with God’. Written for use by parents, it also can be used with great profit within a church setting by leaders of groups for children and young people. \u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:43:09+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:42:09+00:00","vendor":"Rachel Turner","type":"eBook","tags":["Children and family ministry","Glassboxx","Parenting","Parenting for Faith books"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603958718844,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390485","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Comfort in Uncertain Times - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":185,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390485","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/232.png?v=1730980394","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/233.png?v=1730980328"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/232.png?v=1730980394","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001503924604,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/232.png?v=1730980394"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/232.png?v=1730980394","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001487540604,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/233.png?v=1730980328"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/233.png?v=1730980328","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eUncertainty and change can be hard, and even more so for a child. Feelings of confusion, powerlessness and insecurity may be overwhelming. Scripture is full of people just like our children who had to cope with uncertainty and transition and flourished as they saw God’s hand and presence within it all. Designed as a series of stories and discussions for families, this book lays a Biblical foundation for who God is in uncertain times and how to stay connected to him.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor information\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/RachelTurner_480x480.jpg?v=1676495221\" width=\"252\" height=\"252\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRachel Turner is an author, speaker and the Parenting for Faith pioneer for BRF. Untill March 2022, she led the Parenting for Faith team at BRF, and she presents the Parenting for Faith course, a video-based resource for church groups and individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003ePraise for \u003cem\u003eComfort in the Darkness\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e'What is not to love about this book?16 stories from the Bible are skilfully retold with just the right amount of drama, suspense and awe - perfect for a shared story!' Ali Campbell, The Resource 'It's simple, it's clever and it's profound. I found my own perspective on night-time changing along with my children's.' \u003cstrong\u003eVictoria Beech, Godventure. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry Autumn 2022. Reviewed by Cavan Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtitled ‘Helping children draw close to God through Biblical stories of anxiety, loss and transition’, never has a book been more needed in a post-Covid world where lockdown caused massive rises in mental health issues among young and old alike. The author rightly says it is the job of parents to help their children deal with the problems of change and bereavement. Her approach is to re-tell key biblical stories by putting the emphasis on our involvement in the narrative. There are sections on how to connect with God by prayer and by spiritual practices. As with many things designed to help children, this will also be a rich resource for churches tackling these issues with older members of the congregation. This is a book that enables us to see that being human will involve feelings of uncertainty and that although we have an unchangeable God, He is not immune to the pain and the confusion of His children. A valuable resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Cavan Wood \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Paul Beasley-Murray \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/us12.campaign-archive.com\/?e=3cc647e01f\u0026amp;u=a45b3e6fc109e00f067477a28\u0026amp;id=5664bb31b8\"\u003eBooks for Today\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBRF of Abingdon continues to provide a range of superb resources for those engaged in children’s work. One such is \u003cem\u003eComfort in Uncertain Times\u003c\/em\u003e. This book will be of great help to many as we all begin to emerge from the pandemic. Each of the fifteen chapters tells a Bible story, and then provides conversation starts and end with suggestions on how to ‘connect with God’. Written for use by parents, it also can be used with great profit within a church setting by leaders of groups for children and young people. \u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
Comfort in Uncertain Times
£8.99
Digital eBook Only - Uncertainty and change can be hard, and even more so for a child. Feelings of confusion,...
{"id":14777399771516,"title":"Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made","handle":"unveiled-women-of-the-old-testament-and-the-choices-they-made","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSome women of the Hebrew scriptures are well known, but many others are barely remembered. Even when they are, we often don’t pause on them long enough to think about what we might learn from them. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, written with frankness and humour and illustrated with striking artwork from a young Oxford-based artist, explores the stories of 40 women in 40 days. Each reflection ends with a short application to everyday life, guidance for further thought and a prayer. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zkfUWYTJkd0\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWatch our series of short videos on biblical women by author Clare Hayns on YouTube\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFollow the link: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\" title=\"Unveiled Series by Clare Hayns\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/garden-song-exploring-the-psalms-through-paintings-reflections-and-prayers\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/garden_song.png?v=1721593535\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eClare Hayns is College Chaplain at Christ Church, Oxford. She grew up in rural Buckinghamshire, her childhood more Pony Club than church youth group. Pre-ordination she was a social worker and then ran an events company. She is married to John, an entertainer, and has three creative sons, the eldest of whom is the illustrator of this book.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBorn in 1997, Micah Hayns is a contemporary classical painter from Oxford. He takes the classical techniques and tradition of the old masters, whom he studied at the Florence Academy of Art, and infuses them with a contemporary aesthetic, inspired by street art, abstract expressionism and collage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices issue 42 September 2022. Review by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully produced, delightfully chunky little book and although the theology is conservative, I have to admit I loved it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare and Micah are a mother and son, writer and artist team. Each short chapter features a different woman (or occasionally group) from the Hebrew Bible and is headed with one of Micah’s accomplished and thoughtful illustrations. A short Bible excerpt is followed by exegesis and reflection, trying to imagine all that is not said, explain the context, and relate it to the lives of women today. Each ends with a short prayer, which are varied and well chosen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe project started as a blog for every day of Lent. So there are forty short chapters, themed into groups (such as Women at Work, #ThemToo and ‘Strident’ Women) Each chapter has a soubriquet summing up the woman in question; for example, Athaliah: The Vengeful Queen and (she couldn’t resist!) Delilah: why, why why?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough I knew who Miriam was, there are certainly women featured here of whom I’ve never heard – some are so overlooked that they are not even named, except, perhaps, as someone’s wife, but all have played a role significant enough to make them worthy of mention in the Bible. And one of the beauties of the book is the way Clare brings these women back from out of the shadows and shines a sympathetic light on them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also reminds us how bizarre, brutal and downright bonkers some of the Hebrew Bible tales are to a modern sensibility. Rape, murder, love, lust, infertility, poverty, bereavement, wisdom and the supernatural – all are here and all are given their due. I learnt stores I didn’t know, I was entertained and made to think by Clare’s contributions, and Micah’s artwork takes this volume to a whole other level. Very enjoyable and useful little book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry spring\/summer 2022. Review by Clare Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI can thoroughly recommend this lovely book. It tells the stories of 40 women in the Old Testament, highlighting the choices that they made in often very limiting circumstances. Each of the women is beautifully illustrated by the author’s son. Micah Hayns studied art in Florence but brings a contemporary feel to his drawings which sensitively reflect the characters of these women, several of whom I had never noticed in the Bible before - Jochebed and Rizpah being two. Clare Hayns is Chaplain at Christ Church College, Oxford. She is a great storyteller and she adds a reflection after each story, and prayers, which come from a great variety of sources. These make this a book a fine way of enlivening your Bible study and of getting to know the Old Testament better, either alone or in a group. It deals quite thoughtfully with the problems some of these old stories raise for us and suggests some ways of understanding them. This book would make a lovely gift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Clare Disbrey \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jules Middleton: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003eApples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e 18.11.21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is the kind of book I wish I had written. Highlighting \u0026amp; exploring some of the women of the Old Testament, Clare brings to the fore women we have heard of and those given only the briefest of mentions, that we have probably all glossed over. \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is a beautiful reflection of women of the Old Testament, drawing the reader across passages and books of the bible to the wider narrative, alongside contemporary connections. Together with the beautiful illustrations from professional artist Micah Hayns (who also happens to be Clare’s son) this book is a rich resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e focuses on 40 women of the Old Testament, divided into sections focussing on themes like motherhood, prophetic women, bad girls and more. For each woman there is a passage of scripture, a section about her and her narrative, followed by a short reflection and a prayer. These are accompanied by Micah’s illustrations which are contemporary and yet culturally sensitive and really bring the women’s stories to life, enabling the reader to picture how they might have looked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare seeks to lift the veil enabling us to see into the lives of these women as real women, with all their positive characteristics and their flaws. She gives us the background info that we may not have known, the context in which these women lived out their daily lives, points to their faith – or lack of, and she doesn’t shy away from some of the more difficult stories like that of Dinah or Tamar, in the #MeToo section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not just for women either, it would be a welcome accompaniment to anyone’s journey of Christian faith, helping the reader to have a deeper understanding of some of the Old Testament stories and people. Clare asks questions to challenge the reader on their own understanding and faith, calling us to reflect some of the attributes of the women she highlights; like courage, faith and compassion for example. Originally written as a Lent challenge, looking at a woman a day for 40 days, the book would lend itself well to a Lent study but is a wonderful book in its own right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’ve worked my way through this book over the last few weeks but I know I’ll be dipping into it again and again. It would also make a great Christmas present!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jules Middleton on her blog: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003ePicking Apples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Julia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is arresting. Clare and Micah weave a rich tapestry of inspiring words and striking images to bring the women of the Old Testament to life in all their beauty, curiosity and strangeness. Each character portrait draws us in to dwell on their contextual reality as well as forging connections and resonances with the present day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a bold and beautiful book, which enables the reader to reflect deeply on the complexity and questions of life, not just for these Old Testament women but for all people today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy bringing to light long-forgotten female figures of the Old Testament, Clare and Micah renew our passion and wonder at the wildness of the women of the Bible and God's love for them, us and all people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJulia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Helen Barnes, team rector Cherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI originally read Unveiled as a daily blog throughout Lent in 2020. I’m not a person who is spiritually organised and I struggle with regular prayer times, or study times, preferring to deepen my faith as the Spirit leads me. However, and it’s a big however, I read this every day. Not only did I read it every day, but I looked forward to reading it every day. I’ve never done that before. On reflection it is not just because it is about women, it is because it is because most of the women in Unveiled were almost inconsequential. Yet Clare looks deeper into what little we know about them and makes them intrinsic to the story of God in the bible. We all know that each of us is important to God, but Unveiled provides the proof that even the most seemingly unimportant people have a major place in God’s heart. I cannot recommend this book enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by \u003cem\u003eRevd Helen C. Barnes \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eTeam Rector \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eCherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush, Tutor in Pastoral Theology, Rippon College Cuddesdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful book in which to re-encounter in word and image the familiar faces from the Hebrew Scriptures as well as discover less familiar women, named and unnamed. I found new insights into those better-known women such as Sarah, Naomi and Delilah through the imaginative representations in art and the beautiful prayers and insightful reflections. The connections between those eyes which look out at us from the page and our current lived experience were particularly striking. I have enjoyed dipping in at random as well as seeking out those women about whom I want to know more. This would be a great daily devotional for Lent or for another season whether your knowledge of scripture is small or great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Megan Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI loved reading \u003cem\u003eUnveiled. \u003c\/em\u003eIt turns out, the Old Testament is packed full of wonderful women. Who knew? \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e allows readers to spend time with biblical women, getting to know their stories and learning from their lives. From Eve to Miriam, Abigail to Jezebel - Clare's words and Micah's artworks remind us of these women's realness and relevance. They were powerful, resilient influential and beautiful. They were also imperfect, overlooked, mistreated and discontent. Sound familiar? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome chapters helped me to look at familiar stories in fresh ways - to see the book of Ruth primarily as a story of intergenerational female friendship rather than a romance, for example. Other chapters told me stories I had forgotten or perhaps never knew, such as Mrs Samson's disastrous wedding. In an accessible way, this book encourages deep thought about how these women's stories can bring us closer to God. Looking at Micah's paintings feels like seeing into souls. Clare's words expound this. Together they facilitate and focus reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:45:22+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:44:37+00:00","vendor":"Clare Hayns","type":"eBook","tags":["For individuals","Glassboxx","oct-21","Spirituality","Women"],"price":1499,"price_min":1499,"price_max":1499,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603960226172,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800390737","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":1499,"weight":500,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800390737","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/5_7851d03f-46bb-4604-9173-7d1bdf6d40a8.png?v=1730992117","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/6_9461127f-657b-4674-b67f-c1f5077c5f63.png?v=1730992117"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/5_7851d03f-46bb-4604-9173-7d1bdf6d40a8.png?v=1730992117","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63003111915900,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/5_7851d03f-46bb-4604-9173-7d1bdf6d40a8.png?v=1730992117"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/5_7851d03f-46bb-4604-9173-7d1bdf6d40a8.png?v=1730992117","width":1080},{"alt":null,"id":63003111752060,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"width":1080,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/6_9461127f-657b-4674-b67f-c1f5077c5f63.png?v=1730992117"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1080,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/6_9461127f-657b-4674-b67f-c1f5077c5f63.png?v=1730992117","width":1080}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSome women of the Hebrew scriptures are well known, but many others are barely remembered. Even when they are, we often don’t pause on them long enough to think about what we might learn from them. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, written with frankness and humour and illustrated with striking artwork from a young Oxford-based artist, explores the stories of 40 women in 40 days. Each reflection ends with a short application to everyday life, guidance for further thought and a prayer. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zkfUWYTJkd0\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWatch our series of short videos on biblical women by author Clare Hayns on YouTube\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFollow the link: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\" title=\"Unveiled Series by Clare Hayns\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BRFcharity\/videos\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/products\/garden-song-exploring-the-psalms-through-paintings-reflections-and-prayers\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/garden_song.png?v=1721593535\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eClare Hayns is College Chaplain at Christ Church, Oxford. She grew up in rural Buckinghamshire, her childhood more Pony Club than church youth group. Pre-ordination she was a social worker and then ran an events company. She is married to John, an entertainer, and has three creative sons, the eldest of whom is the illustrator of this book.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBorn in 1997, Micah Hayns is a contemporary classical painter from Oxford. He takes the classical techniques and tradition of the old masters, whom he studied at the Florence Academy of Art, and infuses them with a contemporary aesthetic, inspired by street art, abstract expressionism and collage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgressive Voices issue 42 September 2022. Review by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a beautifully produced, delightfully chunky little book and although the theology is conservative, I have to admit I loved it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare and Micah are a mother and son, writer and artist team. Each short chapter features a different woman (or occasionally group) from the Hebrew Bible and is headed with one of Micah’s accomplished and thoughtful illustrations. A short Bible excerpt is followed by exegesis and reflection, trying to imagine all that is not said, explain the context, and relate it to the lives of women today. Each ends with a short prayer, which are varied and well chosen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe project started as a blog for every day of Lent. So there are forty short chapters, themed into groups (such as Women at Work, #ThemToo and ‘Strident’ Women) Each chapter has a soubriquet summing up the woman in question; for example, Athaliah: The Vengeful Queen and (she couldn’t resist!) Delilah: why, why why?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough I knew who Miriam was, there are certainly women featured here of whom I’ve never heard – some are so overlooked that they are not even named, except, perhaps, as someone’s wife, but all have played a role significant enough to make them worthy of mention in the Bible. And one of the beauties of the book is the way Clare brings these women back from out of the shadows and shines a sympathetic light on them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book also reminds us how bizarre, brutal and downright bonkers some of the Hebrew Bible tales are to a modern sensibility. Rape, murder, love, lust, infertility, poverty, bereavement, wisdom and the supernatural – all are here and all are given their due. I learnt stores I didn’t know, I was entertained and made to think by Clare’s contributions, and Micah’s artwork takes this volume to a whole other level. Very enjoyable and useful little book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jenny Jacobs\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransforming Ministry spring\/summer 2022. Review by Clare Disbrey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI can thoroughly recommend this lovely book. It tells the stories of 40 women in the Old Testament, highlighting the choices that they made in often very limiting circumstances. Each of the women is beautifully illustrated by the author’s son. Micah Hayns studied art in Florence but brings a contemporary feel to his drawings which sensitively reflect the characters of these women, several of whom I had never noticed in the Bible before - Jochebed and Rizpah being two. Clare Hayns is Chaplain at Christ Church College, Oxford. She is a great storyteller and she adds a reflection after each story, and prayers, which come from a great variety of sources. These make this a book a fine way of enlivening your Bible study and of getting to know the Old Testament better, either alone or in a group. It deals quite thoughtfully with the problems some of these old stories raise for us and suggests some ways of understanding them. This book would make a lovely gift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Clare Disbrey \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Jules Middleton: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003eApples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e 18.11.21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is the kind of book I wish I had written. Highlighting \u0026amp; exploring some of the women of the Old Testament, Clare brings to the fore women we have heard of and those given only the briefest of mentions, that we have probably all glossed over. \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is a beautiful reflection of women of the Old Testament, drawing the reader across passages and books of the bible to the wider narrative, alongside contemporary connections. Together with the beautiful illustrations from professional artist Micah Hayns (who also happens to be Clare’s son) this book is a rich resource.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e focuses on 40 women of the Old Testament, divided into sections focussing on themes like motherhood, prophetic women, bad girls and more. For each woman there is a passage of scripture, a section about her and her narrative, followed by a short reflection and a prayer. These are accompanied by Micah’s illustrations which are contemporary and yet culturally sensitive and really bring the women’s stories to life, enabling the reader to picture how they might have looked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClare seeks to lift the veil enabling us to see into the lives of these women as real women, with all their positive characteristics and their flaws. She gives us the background info that we may not have known, the context in which these women lived out their daily lives, points to their faith – or lack of, and she doesn’t shy away from some of the more difficult stories like that of Dinah or Tamar, in the #MeToo section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is not just for women either, it would be a welcome accompaniment to anyone’s journey of Christian faith, helping the reader to have a deeper understanding of some of the Old Testament stories and people. Clare asks questions to challenge the reader on their own understanding and faith, calling us to reflect some of the attributes of the women she highlights; like courage, faith and compassion for example. Originally written as a Lent challenge, looking at a woman a day for 40 days, the book would lend itself well to a Lent study but is a wonderful book in its own right.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI’ve worked my way through this book over the last few weeks but I know I’ll be dipping into it again and again. It would also make a great Christmas present!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Jules Middleton on her blog: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.pickingapplesofgold.com\/unveiled-book-review\"\u003ePicking Apples of Gold\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Julia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e is arresting. Clare and Micah weave a rich tapestry of inspiring words and striking images to bring the women of the Old Testament to life in all their beauty, curiosity and strangeness. Each character portrait draws us in to dwell on their contextual reality as well as forging connections and resonances with the present day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a bold and beautiful book, which enables the reader to reflect deeply on the complexity and questions of life, not just for these Old Testament women but for all people today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy bringing to light long-forgotten female figures of the Old Testament, Clare and Micah renew our passion and wonder at the wildness of the women of the Bible and God's love for them, us and all people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJulia Baldwin, Chaplain, Brasenose College, Oxford\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Helen Barnes, team rector Cherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI originally read Unveiled as a daily blog throughout Lent in 2020. I’m not a person who is spiritually organised and I struggle with regular prayer times, or study times, preferring to deepen my faith as the Spirit leads me. However, and it’s a big however, I read this every day. Not only did I read it every day, but I looked forward to reading it every day. I’ve never done that before. On reflection it is not just because it is about women, it is because it is because most of the women in Unveiled were almost inconsequential. Yet Clare looks deeper into what little we know about them and makes them intrinsic to the story of God in the bible. We all know that each of us is important to God, but Unveiled provides the proof that even the most seemingly unimportant people have a major place in God’s heart. I cannot recommend this book enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReviewed by \u003cem\u003eRevd Helen C. Barnes \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eTeam Rector \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eCherwell Valley Benefice\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush, Tutor in Pastoral Theology, Rippon College Cuddesdon\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful book in which to re-encounter in word and image the familiar faces from the Hebrew Scriptures as well as discover less familiar women, named and unnamed. I found new insights into those better-known women such as Sarah, Naomi and Delilah through the imaginative representations in art and the beautiful prayers and insightful reflections. The connections between those eyes which look out at us from the page and our current lived experience were particularly striking. I have enjoyed dipping in at random as well as seeking out those women about whom I want to know more. This would be a great daily devotional for Lent or for another season whether your knowledge of scripture is small or great.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Sarah Brush\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Megan Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI loved reading \u003cem\u003eUnveiled. \u003c\/em\u003eIt turns out, the Old Testament is packed full of wonderful women. Who knew? \u003cem\u003eUnveiled\u003c\/em\u003e allows readers to spend time with biblical women, getting to know their stories and learning from their lives. From Eve to Miriam, Abigail to Jezebel - Clare's words and Micah's artworks remind us of these women's realness and relevance. They were powerful, resilient influential and beautiful. They were also imperfect, overlooked, mistreated and discontent. Sound familiar? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome chapters helped me to look at familiar stories in fresh ways - to see the book of Ruth primarily as a story of intergenerational female friendship rather than a romance, for example. Other chapters told me stories I had forgotten or perhaps never knew, such as Mrs Samson's disastrous wedding. In an accessible way, this book encourages deep thought about how these women's stories can bring us closer to God. Looking at Micah's paintings feels like seeing into souls. Clare's words expound this. Together they facilitate and focus reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e"}
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Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made
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{"id":14777406718332,"title":"This Crown of Comfort: God’s seven calls to women in distress","handle":"this-crown-of-comfort-god-s-seven-calls-to-women-in-distress","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGod loves women. He deeply cares for those of us who are broken and hurt. And just as he helped his beloved Jerusalem find healing in her brokenness, he does the same for us. For he cried out seven double imperatives to her in the book of Isaiah, seven steps to restore her to wholeness, and he cries out the same to us. But he doesn’t begin by scolding us; instead, he comforts. His first double imperative is, ‘Comfort, comfort,’ despite what has happened in our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn This Crown of Comfort, Eva Leaf shares stories from her own life and from the lives of other women of how God met them in their brokenness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/cwM5gQbkiI4?si=HQcCMOpHpSxVQVNR\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/UkXt_VjH0a0?si=LG9XcXiaufbUQSZd\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEva Leaf became a Christian at the age of 14 and attended a Canadian Bible College in her twenties. For the last 32 years, she has been a Navigator rep and has just stepped down from leading the Navigators publications team. She lives in Warwickshire, is married and has four grown-up children. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements \u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘This is a compelling read; a book to be read slowly and reflectively – although I sometimes struggled to do that as I found myself eager to read the next chapter! The stories Eva recounts from her own life and from the lives of others are often heartbreakingly sad – but her focus isn’t on the heartbreak but on the hope and encouragement which she has gleaned from a life soaked in the truth of Scripture. I found familiar passages from Isaiah’s prophecy coming alive in fresh and transformative ways as Eva unwrapped their relevance for our lives. The opportunity for more focused reflection at the end of each chapter also helps ground what we’ve read within the reality of our own circumstances. I’m already looking forward to reading this book again – even more slowly, more reflectively.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMags Duggan, author, retreat leader and speaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eThis Crown of Comfort\u003c\/em\u003e conveys seven powerful messages from Isaiah about God’s tender heart towards Jerusalem. The author skillfully intertwines her many personal stories with the messages to illuminate God’s unfailing love to his people. This book is an easy read yet rich with insights, comfort and encouragement – a must for anyone who seeks healing and desires to experience God afresh.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnissa Chung, UKCP registered psychotherapist and supervisor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eThis Crown of Comfort\u003c\/em\u003e is the wondrous feast that God prepares for us in the presence of our enemies, a feast that David speaks of in Psalm 23. How full the table is – a rich and delicious harvest that Eva Leaf has gathered from the book of Isaiah. No matter how broken we are or how hurt, God knows, and he calls us to come to him and receive and savour his love and care so that we can share that love and care with other women. A wonderful book for women to read and study together.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLee Merrill Byrd, author, publisher and editor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Both reflective and instructive, Eva takes us on a deeply personal journey that comforts and reassures. No matter how broken or hurt we are, we are given in this excellent book the tools or ‘the calls of God’ to build a bridge to healing and wholeness. This book reminds us of God’s deep love for us in our time of greatest need and provides a spiritual balm for every situation.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDawn Braithwaite, solicitor and consultant\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Who would you go to in a difficult situation or time of distress? Well, I would most certainly consider Eva Leaf. A trusted friend, a confidant with life experience and biblical insight, she provides readers with great insight to the very God of comfort that we all so need – men and women. While written to women, this is a treasure trove coming from the seven calls of God found in Isaiah. Thank you, Eva, for being courageous enough to live this… and then to so very thoughtfully share!’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDon Pape, literary agent, Pape Commons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Eva takes you on a valuable journey to see life’s inexplicable and sometimes relentless pains, from God’s viewpoint. Her journey is set in the landscape of God’s beautiful promises for comfort, for restoration and ultimately for transformation. These scriptures are illuminated sensitively by life stories. Each chapter provides the option for a personal reflection, encounter and healing. There is much to linger over and explore along the way, in order to gain new vistas and perspectives, that bring both life and hope.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFiona Oommen, business general manager and leadership coach\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Crown of Comfort readers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I began reading this book at a pace, as the stories and insights are riveting, but I knew I wanted to go through it again at a slower pace, processing what God was saying to me. I began journalling using the questions at the end of each chapter. My friend said she was having the same experience, so we agreed to go through the questions together. I have just sent a copy to another friend who is feeling lost but has recently experienced God’s comfort. We're going to read and discuss it together too!’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘I am so thankful to have experienced God’s comfort as I read the words of truth and wisdom on each page of this book. I have been able to relearn truth of how God views me and who He says I am. The book is written in such a way that it helped me to process and reflect and I was then able to move forward on the journey of being able to forgive with God’s help whilst receiving comfort only God can give. It is a book that has massively shaped and transformed the past few months of my life as I grieve many hurts. It has really helped me to experience God as a God who comforts whilst walking through pain. I will be sure to pass on this book to those I come alongside who also need that gentle reminder of a God who is with them in life’s hurt and pain.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTransforming Ministry January 2024. Review by Liz Pacey\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is written about women and primarily (but not exclusively) for women. It takes us chapter by chapter through the seven double imperatives (e.g., ‘comfort, comfort my people’) that God issues to a broken Jerusalem in the book of Isaiah. There is a progression through these calls: Comfort; Awake, rise up; Awake, get dressed; Depart; Build up; Pass through; Build up. Each chapter contains reflections on the Bible verses, alongside illustrations from the author’s personal experience and that of many others. We are blessed by being allowed to share in such powerful experiences and insights; and there is much practical advice about moving on. This is a book that addresses deep distress and needs and promises even deeper solutions and hope. In the reflections at the end of each chapter it becomes ‘close and personal’. We are encouraged to look deeply into our troubles and ourselves, to write our thoughts and reflect through the day. Whether we are hurting ourselves or seeking to share comfort with those around, there is plenty here to touch our hearts – as God touched Jerusalem.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Liz Pacey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-29T11:50:18+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-29T11:48:36+00:00","vendor":"Eva Leaf","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","Devotional","For individuals","For Women","Glassboxx","Pastoral care","Women"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53603962651004,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9781800392090","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"This Crown of Comfort: God’s seven calls to women in distress - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":185,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9781800392090","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/238.png?v=1730980392","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/239.png?v=1730980389"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/238.png?v=1730980392","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001503302012,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/238.png?v=1730980392"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/238.png?v=1730980392","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001502351740,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/239.png?v=1730980389"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/239.png?v=1730980389","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eGod loves women. He deeply cares for those of us who are broken and hurt. And just as he helped his beloved Jerusalem find healing in her brokenness, he does the same for us. For he cried out seven double imperatives to her in the book of Isaiah, seven steps to restore her to wholeness, and he cries out the same to us. But he doesn’t begin by scolding us; instead, he comforts. His first double imperative is, ‘Comfort, comfort,’ despite what has happened in our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn This Crown of Comfort, Eva Leaf shares stories from her own life and from the lives of other women of how God met them in their brokenness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/cwM5gQbkiI4?si=HQcCMOpHpSxVQVNR\" height=\"315\" width=\"560\" allowfullscreen=\"\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" frameborder=\"0\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/UkXt_VjH0a0?si=LG9XcXiaufbUQSZd\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor Info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEva Leaf became a Christian at the age of 14 and attended a Canadian Bible College in her twenties. For the last 32 years, she has been a Navigator rep and has just stepped down from leading the Navigators publications team. She lives in Warwickshire, is married and has four grown-up children. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements \u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘This is a compelling read; a book to be read slowly and reflectively – although I sometimes struggled to do that as I found myself eager to read the next chapter! The stories Eva recounts from her own life and from the lives of others are often heartbreakingly sad – but her focus isn’t on the heartbreak but on the hope and encouragement which she has gleaned from a life soaked in the truth of Scripture. I found familiar passages from Isaiah’s prophecy coming alive in fresh and transformative ways as Eva unwrapped their relevance for our lives. The opportunity for more focused reflection at the end of each chapter also helps ground what we’ve read within the reality of our own circumstances. I’m already looking forward to reading this book again – even more slowly, more reflectively.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMags Duggan, author, retreat leader and speaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eThis Crown of Comfort\u003c\/em\u003e conveys seven powerful messages from Isaiah about God’s tender heart towards Jerusalem. The author skillfully intertwines her many personal stories with the messages to illuminate God’s unfailing love to his people. This book is an easy read yet rich with insights, comfort and encouragement – a must for anyone who seeks healing and desires to experience God afresh.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnissa Chung, UKCP registered psychotherapist and supervisor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eThis Crown of Comfort\u003c\/em\u003e is the wondrous feast that God prepares for us in the presence of our enemies, a feast that David speaks of in Psalm 23. How full the table is – a rich and delicious harvest that Eva Leaf has gathered from the book of Isaiah. No matter how broken we are or how hurt, God knows, and he calls us to come to him and receive and savour his love and care so that we can share that love and care with other women. A wonderful book for women to read and study together.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLee Merrill Byrd, author, publisher and editor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Both reflective and instructive, Eva takes us on a deeply personal journey that comforts and reassures. No matter how broken or hurt we are, we are given in this excellent book the tools or ‘the calls of God’ to build a bridge to healing and wholeness. This book reminds us of God’s deep love for us in our time of greatest need and provides a spiritual balm for every situation.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDawn Braithwaite, solicitor and consultant\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Who would you go to in a difficult situation or time of distress? Well, I would most certainly consider Eva Leaf. A trusted friend, a confidant with life experience and biblical insight, she provides readers with great insight to the very God of comfort that we all so need – men and women. While written to women, this is a treasure trove coming from the seven calls of God found in Isaiah. Thank you, Eva, for being courageous enough to live this… and then to so very thoughtfully share!’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDon Pape, literary agent, Pape Commons\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘Eva takes you on a valuable journey to see life’s inexplicable and sometimes relentless pains, from God’s viewpoint. Her journey is set in the landscape of God’s beautiful promises for comfort, for restoration and ultimately for transformation. These scriptures are illuminated sensitively by life stories. Each chapter provides the option for a personal reflection, encounter and healing. There is much to linger over and explore along the way, in order to gain new vistas and perspectives, that bring both life and hope.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFiona Oommen, business general manager and leadership coach\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Crown of Comfort readers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘I began reading this book at a pace, as the stories and insights are riveting, but I knew I wanted to go through it again at a slower pace, processing what God was saying to me. I began journalling using the questions at the end of each chapter. My friend said she was having the same experience, so we agreed to go through the questions together. I have just sent a copy to another friend who is feeling lost but has recently experienced God’s comfort. We're going to read and discuss it together too!’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e‘I am so thankful to have experienced God’s comfort as I read the words of truth and wisdom on each page of this book. I have been able to relearn truth of how God views me and who He says I am. The book is written in such a way that it helped me to process and reflect and I was then able to move forward on the journey of being able to forgive with God’s help whilst receiving comfort only God can give. It is a book that has massively shaped and transformed the past few months of my life as I grieve many hurts. It has really helped me to experience God as a God who comforts whilst walking through pain. I will be sure to pass on this book to those I come alongside who also need that gentle reminder of a God who is with them in life’s hurt and pain.’\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTransforming Ministry January 2024. Review by Liz Pacey\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is written about women and primarily (but not exclusively) for women. It takes us chapter by chapter through the seven double imperatives (e.g., ‘comfort, comfort my people’) that God issues to a broken Jerusalem in the book of Isaiah. There is a progression through these calls: Comfort; Awake, rise up; Awake, get dressed; Depart; Build up; Pass through; Build up. Each chapter contains reflections on the Bible verses, alongside illustrations from the author’s personal experience and that of many others. We are blessed by being allowed to share in such powerful experiences and insights; and there is much practical advice about moving on. This is a book that addresses deep distress and needs and promises even deeper solutions and hope. In the reflections at the end of each chapter it becomes ‘close and personal’. We are encouraged to look deeply into our troubles and ourselves, to write our thoughts and reflect through the day. Whether we are hurting ourselves or seeking to share comfort with those around, there is plenty here to touch our hearts – as God touched Jerusalem.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Liz Pacey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
You may also like:
This Crown of Comfort: God’s seven calls to women in distress
£9.99
Digital eBook Only - God loves women. He deeply cares for those of us who are broken and hurt. And...
{"id":14779311489404,"title":"Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission","handle":"stepping-into-grace-moving-beyond-ambition-to-contemplative-mission-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJourney with the prophet Jonah... Written by someone with experience of pioneering mission, reflecting on the Jonah story in the light of his experience, Stepping into Grace finds powerful connections between the call and mission of Jonah and the mission context of our own time. Using the narrative thread of the biblical story to explore themes of ambition, vocation, spirituality, mission, leadership and personal growth, it argues for a ministry rooted in grace, where who we are becoming in Christ provides a foundation for our participation in the mission of God. This unique journey takes us to a place of grace where the work of God, in shaping who we are, finds space alongside what we feel called to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the people of the Bible needed to work out their choices and challenges of God and faith they told a story. Paul Bradbury has done the same. He has listened, wrestled and travelled with Jonah's story through his own calling. The result is honest, creative and transforming.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Runcorn, author of Dust and Glory (BRF, 2015) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo quote the paraphrase: \"God's strength shows up best in weak people.\" This book unpacks that truth in a refreshingly humble, inspiring and personal way. A must read for aspiring pioneer leaders.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Phil Potter, Leader of Fresh Expressions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased in Poole Paul is a pioneer minister in the Church of England leading a missional community with a vision to connect with unchurched people. Writer, birdwatcher, runner, cricketer. Married to Emily with 2 children. Paul has written a book for SPCK in the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Church Time 31 March 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProphet to pioneers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteven Croft finds a study of Jonah to be required reading\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Book of Jonah is bigger than it looks. Four short chapters of parable, drama, and psalm hide uneasily among the minor prophets. The story delights children and defies the literalists. Jonah's story, read well, draws us into an ever deepening reflection on our calling and life and service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury's short guide to Jonah is also somewhat bigger than it looks. There are seven short chapters on themes that arise jointly from the text and from Paul's experience of pioneer ministry in Poole. The chapters explore big themes: ambition, fear, chaos, darkness, limits, grace and the contemplative life. For me, the most helpful chapters were the first and the last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book owes an acknowledged debt to Eugene Peterson's profound reflection on Jonah (Under the Unpredictable Plant: A study in vocational holiness, Eerdmans, 1992), which I have read at almost every vocational junction. The insights from text and context here are fresh. Peterson's book is shaped to be a call to a long obedience in the same direction. Bradbury is wrestling with the call to pioneer in new forms and places and styles. He challenges some emerging myths about new forms of ministry and wrestles with some classic temptations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scholarship is excellent. I enjoyed most the careful attention to the Hebrew texts. Bradbury quotes Rowan Williams, Richard Rohr, Pope Benedict, Brene Brown, and many others. The writing is in parts very clear and in other parts very dense and concentrated. The author has almost too much to say in some of the chapters for the space available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePioneer ministry is still a relatively recent development in the Church of England's long experience of ministry. The literature remains small, and I am not aware of many books that offer biblical and theological reflection in this depth. I hope that Stepping into Grace will find a place on reading lists for those considering ordination and those being formed for pioneer ministry. It would be a good Lenten companion for anyone wanting to reflect on ministry and discipleship in any context. The reader should be prepared for challenge as well as fresh insight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T07:51:43+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T07:50:19+00:00","vendor":"Paul Bradbury","type":"eBook","tags":["Biblical engagement","For individuals","Glassboxx","Mission","Nov-16","Spirituality"],"price":799,"price_min":799,"price_max":799,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604686201212,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465276","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":799,"weight":164,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465276","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/245.png?v=1730980374","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/246.png?v=1730980378"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/245.png?v=1730980374","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001497960828,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/245.png?v=1730980374"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/245.png?v=1730980374","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001499533692,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/246.png?v=1730980378"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/246.png?v=1730980378","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJourney with the prophet Jonah... Written by someone with experience of pioneering mission, reflecting on the Jonah story in the light of his experience, Stepping into Grace finds powerful connections between the call and mission of Jonah and the mission context of our own time. Using the narrative thread of the biblical story to explore themes of ambition, vocation, spirituality, mission, leadership and personal growth, it argues for a ministry rooted in grace, where who we are becoming in Christ provides a foundation for our participation in the mission of God. This unique journey takes us to a place of grace where the work of God, in shaping who we are, finds space alongside what we feel called to do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the people of the Bible needed to work out their choices and challenges of God and faith they told a story. Paul Bradbury has done the same. He has listened, wrestled and travelled with Jonah's story through his own calling. The result is honest, creative and transforming.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e David Runcorn, author of Dust and Glory (BRF, 2015) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo quote the paraphrase: \"God's strength shows up best in weak people.\" This book unpacks that truth in a refreshingly humble, inspiring and personal way. A must read for aspiring pioneer leaders.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Phil Potter, Leader of Fresh Expressions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased in Poole Paul is a pioneer minister in the Church of England leading a missional community with a vision to connect with unchurched people. Writer, birdwatcher, runner, cricketer. Married to Emily with 2 children. Paul has written a book for SPCK in the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Church Time 31 March 2017\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProphet to pioneers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteven Croft finds a study of Jonah to be required reading\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Book of Jonah is bigger than it looks. Four short chapters of parable, drama, and psalm hide uneasily among the minor prophets. The story delights children and defies the literalists. Jonah's story, read well, draws us into an ever deepening reflection on our calling and life and service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaul Bradbury's short guide to Jonah is also somewhat bigger than it looks. There are seven short chapters on themes that arise jointly from the text and from Paul's experience of pioneer ministry in Poole. The chapters explore big themes: ambition, fear, chaos, darkness, limits, grace and the contemplative life. For me, the most helpful chapters were the first and the last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book owes an acknowledged debt to Eugene Peterson's profound reflection on Jonah (Under the Unpredictable Plant: A study in vocational holiness, Eerdmans, 1992), which I have read at almost every vocational junction. The insights from text and context here are fresh. Peterson's book is shaped to be a call to a long obedience in the same direction. Bradbury is wrestling with the call to pioneer in new forms and places and styles. He challenges some emerging myths about new forms of ministry and wrestles with some classic temptations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scholarship is excellent. I enjoyed most the careful attention to the Hebrew texts. Bradbury quotes Rowan Williams, Richard Rohr, Pope Benedict, Brene Brown, and many others. The writing is in parts very clear and in other parts very dense and concentrated. The author has almost too much to say in some of the chapters for the space available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePioneer ministry is still a relatively recent development in the Church of England's long experience of ministry. The literature remains small, and I am not aware of many books that offer biblical and theological reflection in this depth. I hope that Stepping into Grace will find a place on reading lists for those considering ordination and those being formed for pioneer ministry. It would be a good Lenten companion for anyone wanting to reflect on ministry and discipleship in any context. The reader should be prepared for challenge as well as fresh insight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Steven Croft, Bishop of Oxford\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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Stepping into Grace: Moving beyond ambition to contemplative mission
£7.99
Digital eBook Only - Journey with the prophet Jonah... Written by someone with experience of pioneering mission, reflecting on the Jonah...
{"id":14779319878012,"title":"Faithful Grandparents: Hope and love through the generations","handle":"faithful-grandparents-hope-and-love-through-the-generations-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThere has never been a more important time to find meaningful and acceptable ways of passing on faith from one generation to the next. Part of this privilege and responsibility lies with grandparents who live authentic Christian lives. They can be the vital link between the gospel and the faith of a younger generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eFaithful Grandparents\u003c\/em\u003e is a visionary call to an older generation to take the initiative with courage and wisdom, humour and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"324\" width=\"216\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/AnitaCleverlyauthorpicPREFERRED_480x480.jpg?v=1676497069\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach, Spring 2020. Review by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is more than an element of truth in the adage, ‘You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.’ I was attracted to review this book because I am a grandparent with four grandchildren between the ages of 1 and 13. To be honest, I was expecting either a book which looked at the ideals of grandparenthood, where everything is hunky-dory and love abounds everywhere (a very creditable aim) or what to do (or not to do) to be the perfect grandparent. Being a realist, I wanted something between those two extremes, that was useful and practical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book looks at relationships between grandparents, children and grandchildren – warts and all. There is seriousness: for example, the acrimonious breakdown of a marriage and grandchildren denied contact with grandparents, contrasting with the grandmother whose favourite activity was to camp in the attic with her grandchildren under a blue sheet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is humour: the mere thought of the author playing on a trampoline with her grandchildren who ‘shrieked with delight, deliberately throwing me off balance as I hurtled around.’ This is an image which should remind all grandparents of the need to recognise their physical abilities are more restricted than those of their grandchildren!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book draws attention to the responsibility of grandparents to pass on Christian values and ethics, to live Christian lives and to impart the Gospel message to their grandchildren, to be a constant in a world of disbelief. As parents are often working full time, this gives a fantastic opportunity to influence the lives of children for the good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a well-researched, well-written book, full of wisdom, practical advice and helpful hints, balanced with biblical references and relevant quotes from people such as CS Lewis, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Timothy Keller and many others including Jo Swinney.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany may consider the book a bit of a hotch-potch or disjointed, but that is part of its charm, and a way to encourage readers to read more which they reflect on their own relationships with their grandchildren. Well worth reading!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 27.09.19. Review by Dennis Richards \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis entertaining and challenging volume is written by a Christian grandparent for other grandparents. Its purpose is clearly defined. It is primarily intended to help grandparents who wish to hand on the baton of faith to a younger generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is unashamedly biblical, and the writer freely acknowledges her Evangelical roots. But do not be misled. Anita Cleverly has lived a rich and interesting life. There is an avowedly ecumenical flavour to her life’s history, and one is left very much with the impression that her story still has chapters to be written.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf her 35 years in church ministry, in various guises, ten of them were spent in inner-city Paris, and it shows. She has clearly come under the influence of some great Catholic theologians, and speaks warmly of her Jesuit friends in Oxford. As she says, ‘My own church history has taken me through “Label Land”.’ She finds herself increasingly exploring the contemplative tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost important in a volume of this nature, the author is very aware of the speed of change in contemporary culture. The internet has changed everything. Individualism and relativism are today fundamental to the teenagers’ creed. She is well aware that grandparents today may face the prospect of a blended family, or a gay marriage and transgender discussion. She is very sure that ‘unconditional love’ defines what should be ‘on the tin’ for Christian grandparents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven the vocabulary has changed, as I know to my cost. Writing this review as a grandfather of six, I find myself being mocked, lost in bewilderment, and, at times, genuinely scared that I’ve totally lost the plot. Pathetically trying to join in a game of football, I am exhorted to ‘Stop flexing, Grandad!’ Far from being worried about my physical welfare, they are actually telling me to stop showing off. Blank incomprehension on my part. Hilarity all round on theirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author’s predicament was even worse. She climbed on the grandchildren’s trampoline. Bad mistake. All of which tells you that there is plenty to make you smile in her account of her own experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest of all, it is a volume that makes you think. What kind of grandparent am I? Formal? Fun-seeker? Surrogate parent? Reservoir of family wisdom? Distant? It is also reassuring. Some things haven’t changed. The definitions for example. Grandparent: so easy to operate, even a child can do it. Grandparent: breaks most of the rules and loves every second of it. I can live with that. Thanks Anita.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDennis Richards is a former head of St Aidan’s C of E High School, Harrogate, North Yorkshire.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eevangelicals now October 2019. Review by Val Archer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven the seismic cultural, moral, sexual and social upheaval in Britain today, the author’s call to the older generation of Christians to model courage, wisdom, faith and prayer is both timely and vital – not least in passing on the ‘faith once delivered’ to children generally – and one’s grandchildren especially. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly has a lifetime of experience as a Christian mother and grandmother and in family ministry, which she ransacks to great effect. She writes with a light touch, interweaving gospel truths and scriptural wisdom with a sharp understanding of the complex challenges facing Christian parents today. All in all it makes for both an enjoyable and stimulating read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the opening insightful chapter on ‘21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e Century Grandparents’, she quotes \u003cem\u003eThe Daily Telegraph \u003c\/em\u003ecolumnist Allison Pearson, who has discovered that ‘two thirds of the nation’s grandparents – that’s 5 million people – now provide regular childcare for their grandchildren’. The contact time with grandchildren in Britain today is at a very different level than was generally the case with previous generations. After the parent-child relationship, grandparents usually provide the second most important emotional influence in a child’s life. The opportunity and need is immense. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 11 chapters which follow, the whole landscape of grandparenting is explored and practical biblical wisdom and advice brought to bear on a whole raft of issues – the art of listening, storytelling the family history, seeking to reach the heart of the child with the gospel, the vital place and role of the church and church family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo chapters, one ‘A Grandparent’s Creed’ and the other ‘A Grandparent’s Prayers’, are outstanding and worth buying the book for. Taking the Apostles’ Creed and reflecting and meditating on each phrase in the context of the challenges facing children today in our oft-pernicious culture, is so helpful. Praying for and with grandchildren takes the focus to that which any Christian parent of grandparent wants for their offspring – that they grow to love and serve Christ all their days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAddressing some of the cultural, social and sexual changes in a chapter entitled ‘Shifting Tectonic Plates’ brings a rootedness and contemporary awareness that is much needed in Christian thinking today. Pointing out that it is not all ‘gloom and doom’, that many of the changes in society have been for the good, is a welcome corrective that recognises ‘common grace’ has not yet left town! At the same time the author goes on to provide a thoughtful critique of the blatantly anti-God agenda that is so prevalent. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe light Charismatic influences and context from which the author writes mean that on occasion there are one or two things those in other traditions might not always go along with, or perhaps express in different ways. However, to major on these would be to lose the great benefit and blessing this delightful book provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Val Archer: conference speaker, mother of four and grandmother of seven. Member of both The King’s Church Chessington and The Globe Church London.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is for Christian grandparents. Anita Cleverly writes of her own journey and approach as a grandparent, and covers the responsibilities of the grandparent’s role in the twenty-first century, together with the opportunities we have, and the limitations we are subject to. The chapters on sensitive listening, the wonder of the created world, Bible stories and children’s questions are well covered. There is an encouraging view of the church today, and valuable advice regarding the changing landscape of culture and today’s technology. The chapter I enjoyed most was the one on praying for and with our grandchildren. Anita Cleverly has written a book of authentic Christian wisdom and grace, sprinkled with real comments from real people, and pieces of practical advice, for ourselves as well as for our families. She writes with feeling about the difficulties of being a faithful grandparent as well as the joys. I commend it to you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e___________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, May 2019. Review by Ruth Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a gem. I read it quickly, because it is hard to put down, and I shall immediately read it again more slowly, to savour the wisdom that’s on every page. The title tells you what it’s about: encouragement for grandparents to share their faith with their grandchildren.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly is an experienced spiritual director and bereavement counsellor. Her sensitivity undergirds the wise words in every chapter. Never does she forget that we have our grandchildren on loan, and that discipline and criticism, however gently applied, are not our lot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first two chapters of the book survey what grandparenting really is, in our time and culture, recognising the different situations that many grandparents find themselves in. Many grandparents are left with very limited opportunities to build the relationship which permit the sharing of faith stories. There are useful suggestions for grandparents who have little contact with their grandchildren to make the most of the possibilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral chapters help us to identify the essentials of our own faith, and ways in which they could be put over. One uses the Apostles’ Creed to help us focus. There are chapters on the Church and on the problems facing people of faith in an increasingly secular world, as well as one on the contentious issues facing Christians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubjects like human sexuality are dealt with gently and sensitively. We are encouraged never to pontificate but to accept our grandchildren’s choices with grace and love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is full apposite quotations from the bible and other Christian writers. It is very easy to read, the writer having the wonderful gift of being able to speak apparently straight to the individual reader. There are anecdotes galore, both funny and sad.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI am genuinely looking forward to reading this a second time, and wholeheartedly commend it to any grandparent. Your grandchildren will be much blessed through it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRuth Allen is \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003ea retired United Reformed minister based in Ilkeston, Derbyshire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T07:55:43+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T07:54:30+00:00","vendor":"Anita Cleverly","type":"eBook","tags":["Anna Chaplaincy books","Feb-19","Glassboxx","Parenting","Retired and inspired"],"price":999,"price_min":999,"price_max":999,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604687839612,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857466709","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Faithful Grandparents: Hope and love through the generations - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":999,"weight":214,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857466709","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/249.png?v=1730980393","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/250.png?v=1730980322"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/249.png?v=1730980393","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001503334780,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/249.png?v=1730980393"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/249.png?v=1730980393","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001485967740,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/250.png?v=1730980322"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/250.png?v=1730980322","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThere has never been a more important time to find meaningful and acceptable ways of passing on faith from one generation to the next. Part of this privilege and responsibility lies with grandparents who live authentic Christian lives. They can be the vital link between the gospel and the faith of a younger generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eFaithful Grandparents\u003c\/em\u003e is a visionary call to an older generation to take the initiative with courage and wisdom, humour and prayer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"324\" width=\"216\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0148\/6107\/4532\/files\/AnitaCleverlyauthorpicPREFERRED_480x480.jpg?v=1676497069\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; float: left;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eReviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePreach, Spring 2020. Review by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is more than an element of truth in the adage, ‘You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.’ I was attracted to review this book because I am a grandparent with four grandchildren between the ages of 1 and 13. To be honest, I was expecting either a book which looked at the ideals of grandparenthood, where everything is hunky-dory and love abounds everywhere (a very creditable aim) or what to do (or not to do) to be the perfect grandparent. Being a realist, I wanted something between those two extremes, that was useful and practical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book looks at relationships between grandparents, children and grandchildren – warts and all. There is seriousness: for example, the acrimonious breakdown of a marriage and grandchildren denied contact with grandparents, contrasting with the grandmother whose favourite activity was to camp in the attic with her grandchildren under a blue sheet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is humour: the mere thought of the author playing on a trampoline with her grandchildren who ‘shrieked with delight, deliberately throwing me off balance as I hurtled around.’ This is an image which should remind all grandparents of the need to recognise their physical abilities are more restricted than those of their grandchildren!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book draws attention to the responsibility of grandparents to pass on Christian values and ethics, to live Christian lives and to impart the Gospel message to their grandchildren, to be a constant in a world of disbelief. As parents are often working full time, this gives a fantastic opportunity to influence the lives of children for the good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a well-researched, well-written book, full of wisdom, practical advice and helpful hints, balanced with biblical references and relevant quotes from people such as CS Lewis, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Timothy Keller and many others including Jo Swinney.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany may consider the book a bit of a hotch-potch or disjointed, but that is part of its charm, and a way to encourage readers to read more which they reflect on their own relationships with their grandchildren. Well worth reading!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Alan Rashleigh\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChurch Times 27.09.19. Review by Dennis Richards \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis entertaining and challenging volume is written by a Christian grandparent for other grandparents. Its purpose is clearly defined. It is primarily intended to help grandparents who wish to hand on the baton of faith to a younger generation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is unashamedly biblical, and the writer freely acknowledges her Evangelical roots. But do not be misled. Anita Cleverly has lived a rich and interesting life. There is an avowedly ecumenical flavour to her life’s history, and one is left very much with the impression that her story still has chapters to be written.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf her 35 years in church ministry, in various guises, ten of them were spent in inner-city Paris, and it shows. She has clearly come under the influence of some great Catholic theologians, and speaks warmly of her Jesuit friends in Oxford. As she says, ‘My own church history has taken me through “Label Land”.’ She finds herself increasingly exploring the contemplative tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost important in a volume of this nature, the author is very aware of the speed of change in contemporary culture. The internet has changed everything. Individualism and relativism are today fundamental to the teenagers’ creed. She is well aware that grandparents today may face the prospect of a blended family, or a gay marriage and transgender discussion. She is very sure that ‘unconditional love’ defines what should be ‘on the tin’ for Christian grandparents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven the vocabulary has changed, as I know to my cost. Writing this review as a grandfather of six, I find myself being mocked, lost in bewilderment, and, at times, genuinely scared that I’ve totally lost the plot. Pathetically trying to join in a game of football, I am exhorted to ‘Stop flexing, Grandad!’ Far from being worried about my physical welfare, they are actually telling me to stop showing off. Blank incomprehension on my part. Hilarity all round on theirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author’s predicament was even worse. She climbed on the grandchildren’s trampoline. Bad mistake. All of which tells you that there is plenty to make you smile in her account of her own experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest of all, it is a volume that makes you think. What kind of grandparent am I? Formal? Fun-seeker? Surrogate parent? Reservoir of family wisdom? Distant? It is also reassuring. Some things haven’t changed. The definitions for example. Grandparent: so easy to operate, even a child can do it. Grandparent: breaks most of the rules and loves every second of it. I can live with that. Thanks Anita.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDennis Richards is a former head of St Aidan’s C of E High School, Harrogate, North Yorkshire.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eevangelicals now October 2019. Review by Val Archer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiven the seismic cultural, moral, sexual and social upheaval in Britain today, the author’s call to the older generation of Christians to model courage, wisdom, faith and prayer is both timely and vital – not least in passing on the ‘faith once delivered’ to children generally – and one’s grandchildren especially. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly has a lifetime of experience as a Christian mother and grandmother and in family ministry, which she ransacks to great effect. She writes with a light touch, interweaving gospel truths and scriptural wisdom with a sharp understanding of the complex challenges facing Christian parents today. All in all it makes for both an enjoyable and stimulating read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the opening insightful chapter on ‘21\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e Century Grandparents’, she quotes \u003cem\u003eThe Daily Telegraph \u003c\/em\u003ecolumnist Allison Pearson, who has discovered that ‘two thirds of the nation’s grandparents – that’s 5 million people – now provide regular childcare for their grandchildren’. The contact time with grandchildren in Britain today is at a very different level than was generally the case with previous generations. After the parent-child relationship, grandparents usually provide the second most important emotional influence in a child’s life. The opportunity and need is immense. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the 11 chapters which follow, the whole landscape of grandparenting is explored and practical biblical wisdom and advice brought to bear on a whole raft of issues – the art of listening, storytelling the family history, seeking to reach the heart of the child with the gospel, the vital place and role of the church and church family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo chapters, one ‘A Grandparent’s Creed’ and the other ‘A Grandparent’s Prayers’, are outstanding and worth buying the book for. Taking the Apostles’ Creed and reflecting and meditating on each phrase in the context of the challenges facing children today in our oft-pernicious culture, is so helpful. Praying for and with grandchildren takes the focus to that which any Christian parent of grandparent wants for their offspring – that they grow to love and serve Christ all their days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAddressing some of the cultural, social and sexual changes in a chapter entitled ‘Shifting Tectonic Plates’ brings a rootedness and contemporary awareness that is much needed in Christian thinking today. Pointing out that it is not all ‘gloom and doom’, that many of the changes in society have been for the good, is a welcome corrective that recognises ‘common grace’ has not yet left town! At the same time the author goes on to provide a thoughtful critique of the blatantly anti-God agenda that is so prevalent. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe light Charismatic influences and context from which the author writes mean that on occasion there are one or two things those in other traditions might not always go along with, or perhaps express in different ways. However, to major on these would be to lose the great benefit and blessing this delightful book provides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Val Archer: conference speaker, mother of four and grandmother of seven. Member of both The King’s Church Chessington and The Globe Church London.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Autumn 2019. Review by Howard Rowe\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is for Christian grandparents. Anita Cleverly writes of her own journey and approach as a grandparent, and covers the responsibilities of the grandparent’s role in the twenty-first century, together with the opportunities we have, and the limitations we are subject to. The chapters on sensitive listening, the wonder of the created world, Bible stories and children’s questions are well covered. There is an encouraging view of the church today, and valuable advice regarding the changing landscape of culture and today’s technology. The chapter I enjoyed most was the one on praying for and with our grandchildren. Anita Cleverly has written a book of authentic Christian wisdom and grace, sprinkled with real comments from real people, and pieces of practical advice, for ourselves as well as for our families. She writes with feeling about the difficulties of being a faithful grandparent as well as the joys. I commend it to you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReviewed by Howard Rowe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e___________________________________________\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReform, May 2019. Review by Ruth Allen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a gem. I read it quickly, because it is hard to put down, and I shall immediately read it again more slowly, to savour the wisdom that’s on every page. The title tells you what it’s about: encouragement for grandparents to share their faith with their grandchildren.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnita Cleverly is an experienced spiritual director and bereavement counsellor. Her sensitivity undergirds the wise words in every chapter. Never does she forget that we have our grandchildren on loan, and that discipline and criticism, however gently applied, are not our lot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe first two chapters of the book survey what grandparenting really is, in our time and culture, recognising the different situations that many grandparents find themselves in. Many grandparents are left with very limited opportunities to build the relationship which permit the sharing of faith stories. There are useful suggestions for grandparents who have little contact with their grandchildren to make the most of the possibilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral chapters help us to identify the essentials of our own faith, and ways in which they could be put over. One uses the Apostles’ Creed to help us focus. There are chapters on the Church and on the problems facing people of faith in an increasingly secular world, as well as one on the contentious issues facing Christians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubjects like human sexuality are dealt with gently and sensitively. We are encouraged never to pontificate but to accept our grandchildren’s choices with grace and love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is full apposite quotations from the bible and other Christian writers. It is very easy to read, the writer having the wonderful gift of being able to speak apparently straight to the individual reader. There are anecdotes galore, both funny and sad.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI am genuinely looking forward to reading this a second time, and wholeheartedly commend it to any grandparent. Your grandchildren will be much blessed through it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eRuth Allen is \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003ea retired United Reformed minister based in Ilkeston, Derbyshire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":14779331805564,"title":"Whole Life, Whole Bible: 50 readings on living in the light of Scripture","handle":"whole-life-whole-bible-50-readings-on-living-in-the-light-of-scripture-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWhere we spend most of our time - at home, at work, in the neighbourhood - matters to God and to his mission in and for the world. Far from restricting our faith to the 'personal' sphere, disengaged from everyday living, Scripture encourages us to take the Lord of life into the whole of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhole Life Whole Bible is written from the conviction that God's word illuminates every part of existence, enabling us to see differently and live differently - from Monday to Sunday, in public as well as in private. A walk through the unfolding story of the Bible in 50 readings and reflections shows how our lives are bound up with, and shaped by, God's plan to restore a broken universe. That big story forms our minds, fuels our imaginations and fashions our daily life and we live in God's world, in the light of God's word, wherever we are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvides wonderful insights into the overarching story of the Bible and helps us consider how to live on the foundation of God's word.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Meynell, Senior Associate Minister, All Souls, Langham Place, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePacks a powerful theological punch and will stretch and inspire your faith. A must for every whole-life disciple and disciplemaker!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rachel Gardner, Director, Romance Academy \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople can get lost in the Bible's structure - here are some exciting clues for joined-up Bible reading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Greg Haslam, Pastor, Westminster Chapel, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry work at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, which seeks to equip Christians and churches for the whole-life discipleship in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLondon School of Theology Insight Magazine Vol 2 Issue 2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you create a good meal from the whole Bible in 50 readings? You take 7 parts of Genesis, 5 of Matthew, stir in sections from another 14 OT and 14 NT books and serve up with useful comments. Then you add the garnish of well thought out questions, which get the reader to apply the chosen passage to everyday life. While this tasty selection whets the palate of the individual reader, I think the book has even greater appeal for small group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake this question from reading 39 on the Day of Pentecost - 'If Acts 2 suggests that there is a prophethood of all believers then how should this encourage and challenge us?' There is a much richer and more satisfying meal when sharing collective wisdom about the way prophecy might work in church and society than simply trying to digest alone. Some of the tougher parts of the Bible have been put to one side as a little indigestible. A question arising from the call of Jeremiah in reading 20 asks to what extent are Christians called to challenge political rulers when God's laws are flouted? But reading 11 from Exodus is rather impressionistic in its comments on the law, so answering the question may need more detailed help from another source. Real enjoyment and enrichment is to be had from using this book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy favourite teasing question among many comes from reading 42 on the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. 'Since the fruit of the Spirit appear to some to be more feminine than masculine virtues, where are courage, decisiveness, strength and discipline?' Now there's a brilliant small group discussion starter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Mark Beaumont - Senior Lecturer in Islam and Mission, London School of Theology, and a council member of Arab World Ministries UK\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ele Bible.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Evangelicals Now - August 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book consists of 50 short readings going through the unfolding story of the Bible with the aim of helping the reader to live in the light of God's word from Monday to Sunday, bringing biblical truths to bear on every aspect of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are questions at the end of each reading, typically two or three pages long, to help us consider what that might look like in practice in our lives and culture. Written with great warmth and clarity and without getting bogged down in too much detail, many helpful insights are packed into each short reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors' enthusiasm and passion for God's word clearly comes across, as does their conviction that when we see the sweep of Scripture through the gospel of Jesus it will have a huge impact on our whole lives. This is a great book for helping new Christians know how to read the Bible, get a handle on the big picture and see how it all fits together. It is also great for those who have been Christians much longer and who want to think seriously about how to live in the light of God's word. This is an excellent book which I have found hugely encouraging and inspiring. Since reading it, I have given several copies away as presents!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Andrea Trevenna, Associate for Women's Ministry at St. Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks, Kent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Christianity Magazine - July 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book, according to its foreword, is different. A risky assertion, but I tried to be open-minded. The 50 readings, which began life as a series of emails sent by the LICC, work through the Bible story from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is well-written, aimed at established Christians, and examines how we can play our part in God's unfolding drama and allow him to work in all parts of our lives. For me its real strength lies in the questions for reflection: How do we keep our Christian identity in the workplace? Why do we struggle to deal with disappointment in church life?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not sure how different it is. But as a thought-provoking read that challenges ordinary Christians to live extraordinary lives, it's very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - May 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI liked that this is such a little hand sized gem. The slimline size is needed, particularly in an era where people are reading from their phones and on their Kindles on the tube. I could just slip it into my handbag and read it easily when on a packed underground, but don't let the size fool you into thinking that this thought-provoking, almost self-help book is easy, or quick to browse!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I first started reading, it struck me that this book was written by somebody who really seemed to know their subject - and indeed, the author, Anthony Billington, is in fact Head of Theology for the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity. I loved that the writing was so theological, and so very sound. In fact, what really struck me was the sheer competence with which the author explored the Bible, from Genesis through to Revelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of every chapter, there are carefully phrased questions under the heading 'for further reflection and action', which help take the reader through the relevant chapter. These questions also help the reader to relate the Biblical reading to the world around them, and they struck me as being potentially extremely valuable for Bible studies and church groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis serious little book encourages the reader on their Christian walk with various uplifting Bible verses; and on this point I will add that the book is aimed to pack serious punches. While perhaps \u003cem\u003eWhole Life, Whole Bible\u003c\/em\u003e is not for somebody looking specifically for a light-and-fluffy concoction, I think that any Christian will surely be more richly satisfied by taking a leaf out of this author's wise words.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Alice Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Bex Lewis, St John's College, University of Durham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurvey after survey in recent years - carried out with people in churches, leaders and non-leaders, as well as non-church people - has confirmed that there is an increasing lack of biblical literacy in the church, not only in society more generally. The surveys reveal that the vast majority of people in churches feel positive about the Bible and consider it to be a revelation from God, but fewer and fewer, it seems (even church leaders), are reading it for themselves. And when we do manage to read it, the surveys suggest, we're not always sure what to do with it. (pp25-26)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe London Institute of Christianity (LICC), set up by John Stott, seeks to encourage all Christians to be whole-life, whole-Bible disciples, breaking down the sacred-secular divide. This book, emerging from LICC's weekly 'Word for the Week' emails, which have reached up to 10,000 people a week since 2001, encourages \u003cstrong\u003eus to look at the whole Bible to get the bigger picture, the overarching narrative,\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than cherrypicking. We need the Bible to touch and transform our whole lives, affecting the world in which we live. Many seek quick answers to difficult issues, such as suffering, gender, etc. But those questions are better addressed, and more securely answered, when we have a larger framework in place\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving attended the transformative LICC Toolbox course, and having taken three years to read the Bible cover to cover, it's helpful to have a quicker overview. I was reading this section on a plane to Berlin as the map showed that we were flying over Bremen. Many history lessons means that bombing has shaped my thinking about that as a destination. As the plane came in to land over Berlin, I got an overview of the places that I was going to visit up close shortly, and this helped created my 'mental map of the destination', before I became absorbed in 'living' there.\u003cstrong\u003e This book is designed to offer a mental map to the whole story of the Bible. \u003c\/strong\u003eHow do we then ensure that we are partakers, and not spectators?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is designed for those who are already engaged in Bible reading, rather than those who have never picked up a Bible before, and encourages readers to continue afterwards to read other texts, hold up the author's interpretation up to challenge, and recognises that each individual will read something different into 'the story'. Reading alone is 'vital' but as they say:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading with others helps to prevent privatized readings of the Bible and corrects some of the biases that we may bring to certain passages or topics. (p19)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs someone who is a bit of a butterfly brain, the book works for me, and it's designed to be read by all personality types - whether you like to study the maps before you jump in, or like to jump in at the deep end - the book works. It's not about a tick box exercise, but about \u003cstrong\u003eallowing the Word of God to 'reorder your existence'\u003c\/strong\u003e, so take your time reading the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Media Studies Lecturer I'm always encouraging my students to understand that newspapers, films, etc. give us a lens through which we see the world, rather than objective fact. The Bible can give us a different worldview - through which we see God, the world and ourselves more clearly. \u003cstrong\u003eAs the Bible gets inside us, our thinking is transformed, and we begin to see things the way God sees them.\u003c\/strong\u003e Often we are encouraged to think that we must always read huge sections (I really struggled with the pressure to read the Bible in a year), but this book offers a series or short (and some longer) readings with which we can engage at our own pace: like a toffee that can be swallowed whole, or chewed over in a leisurely fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by three well-respected theologians with long term engagement with the LICC: Antony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry, with a guest post by Mark Coffey, who I knew in my Manchester days.\u003cstrong\u003e It outlines the shape of the Bible in six words: Creation, Corruption, Covenant, Christ, Church, Consummation.\u003c\/strong\u003e They encourage us to consider \u003cem\u003ewhere\u003c\/em\u003e you read the Bible, that reading it in public spaces 'normalises' the Bible - allowing you to make connections with how it works in the everyday, not just with us, but with the people around us. They don't specifically mention digital spaces, but I like to think that those are included!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI read the book fairly fast, but would like to go back through, as suggested, and read a piece a week. The exercises offered in the text are a mix of further Bible readings, and practical thinking\/applications. As you'd expect, the thoughts and reflections engage us in the everyday (western) world in which we live. \u003cstrong\u003eTry it - it could transform your life!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T08:01:04+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T08:00:07+00:00","vendor":"Antony Billington","type":"eBook","tags":["Devotional","Glassboxx","Jan-12"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604690919804,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857461599","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Whole Life, Whole Bible: 50 readings on living in the light of Scripture - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":176,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857461599","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/253.png?v=1730980338","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/254.png?v=1730980324"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/253.png?v=1730980338","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001490030972,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/253.png?v=1730980338"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/253.png?v=1730980338","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001486623100,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/254.png?v=1730980324"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/254.png?v=1730980324","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWhere we spend most of our time - at home, at work, in the neighbourhood - matters to God and to his mission in and for the world. Far from restricting our faith to the 'personal' sphere, disengaged from everyday living, Scripture encourages us to take the Lord of life into the whole of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhole Life Whole Bible is written from the conviction that God's word illuminates every part of existence, enabling us to see differently and live differently - from Monday to Sunday, in public as well as in private. A walk through the unfolding story of the Bible in 50 readings and reflections shows how our lives are bound up with, and shaped by, God's plan to restore a broken universe. That big story forms our minds, fuels our imaginations and fashions our daily life and we live in God's world, in the light of God's word, wherever we are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvides wonderful insights into the overarching story of the Bible and helps us consider how to live on the foundation of God's word.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Mark Meynell, Senior Associate Minister, All Souls, Langham Place, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePacks a powerful theological punch and will stretch and inspire your faith. A must for every whole-life disciple and disciplemaker!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Rachel Gardner, Director, Romance Academy \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople can get lost in the Bible's structure - here are some exciting clues for joined-up Bible reading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Greg Haslam, Pastor, Westminster Chapel, London \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry work at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity, which seeks to equip Christians and churches for the whole-life discipleship in today's world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLondon School of Theology Insight Magazine Vol 2 Issue 2\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do you create a good meal from the whole Bible in 50 readings? You take 7 parts of Genesis, 5 of Matthew, stir in sections from another 14 OT and 14 NT books and serve up with useful comments. Then you add the garnish of well thought out questions, which get the reader to apply the chosen passage to everyday life. While this tasty selection whets the palate of the individual reader, I think the book has even greater appeal for small group discussion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake this question from reading 39 on the Day of Pentecost - 'If Acts 2 suggests that there is a prophethood of all believers then how should this encourage and challenge us?' There is a much richer and more satisfying meal when sharing collective wisdom about the way prophecy might work in church and society than simply trying to digest alone. Some of the tougher parts of the Bible have been put to one side as a little indigestible. A question arising from the call of Jeremiah in reading 20 asks to what extent are Christians called to challenge political rulers when God's laws are flouted? But reading 11 from Exodus is rather impressionistic in its comments on the law, so answering the question may need more detailed help from another source. Real enjoyment and enrichment is to be had from using this book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy favourite teasing question among many comes from reading 42 on the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. 'Since the fruit of the Spirit appear to some to be more feminine than masculine virtues, where are courage, decisiveness, strength and discipline?' Now there's a brilliant small group discussion starter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Mark Beaumont - Senior Lecturer in Islam and Mission, London School of Theology, and a council member of Arab World Ministries UK\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ele Bible.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Evangelicals Now - August 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book consists of 50 short readings going through the unfolding story of the Bible with the aim of helping the reader to live in the light of God's word from Monday to Sunday, bringing biblical truths to bear on every aspect of life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are questions at the end of each reading, typically two or three pages long, to help us consider what that might look like in practice in our lives and culture. Written with great warmth and clarity and without getting bogged down in too much detail, many helpful insights are packed into each short reading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors' enthusiasm and passion for God's word clearly comes across, as does their conviction that when we see the sweep of Scripture through the gospel of Jesus it will have a huge impact on our whole lives. This is a great book for helping new Christians know how to read the Bible, get a handle on the big picture and see how it all fits together. It is also great for those who have been Christians much longer and who want to think seriously about how to live in the light of God's word. This is an excellent book which I have found hugely encouraging and inspiring. Since reading it, I have given several copies away as presents!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Andrea Trevenna, Associate for Women's Ministry at St. Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks, Kent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom Christianity Magazine - July 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book, according to its foreword, is different. A risky assertion, but I tried to be open-minded. The 50 readings, which began life as a series of emails sent by the LICC, work through the Bible story from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is well-written, aimed at established Christians, and examines how we can play our part in God's unfolding drama and allow him to work in all parts of our lives. For me its real strength lies in the questions for reflection: How do we keep our Christian identity in the workplace? Why do we struggle to deal with disappointment in church life?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm not sure how different it is. But as a thought-provoking read that challenges ordinary Christians to live extraordinary lives, it's very good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom The Good Bookstall - May 2012\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI liked that this is such a little hand sized gem. The slimline size is needed, particularly in an era where people are reading from their phones and on their Kindles on the tube. I could just slip it into my handbag and read it easily when on a packed underground, but don't let the size fool you into thinking that this thought-provoking, almost self-help book is easy, or quick to browse!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen I first started reading, it struck me that this book was written by somebody who really seemed to know their subject - and indeed, the author, Anthony Billington, is in fact Head of Theology for the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity. I loved that the writing was so theological, and so very sound. In fact, what really struck me was the sheer competence with which the author explored the Bible, from Genesis through to Revelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the end of every chapter, there are carefully phrased questions under the heading 'for further reflection and action', which help take the reader through the relevant chapter. These questions also help the reader to relate the Biblical reading to the world around them, and they struck me as being potentially extremely valuable for Bible studies and church groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis serious little book encourages the reader on their Christian walk with various uplifting Bible verses; and on this point I will add that the book is aimed to pack serious punches. While perhaps \u003cem\u003eWhole Life, Whole Bible\u003c\/em\u003e is not for somebody looking specifically for a light-and-fluffy concoction, I think that any Christian will surely be more richly satisfied by taking a leaf out of this author's wise words.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Alice Collins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviewed by Dr Bex Lewis, St John's College, University of Durham \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurvey after survey in recent years - carried out with people in churches, leaders and non-leaders, as well as non-church people - has confirmed that there is an increasing lack of biblical literacy in the church, not only in society more generally. The surveys reveal that the vast majority of people in churches feel positive about the Bible and consider it to be a revelation from God, but fewer and fewer, it seems (even church leaders), are reading it for themselves. And when we do manage to read it, the surveys suggest, we're not always sure what to do with it. (pp25-26)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe London Institute of Christianity (LICC), set up by John Stott, seeks to encourage all Christians to be whole-life, whole-Bible disciples, breaking down the sacred-secular divide. This book, emerging from LICC's weekly 'Word for the Week' emails, which have reached up to 10,000 people a week since 2001, encourages \u003cstrong\u003eus to look at the whole Bible to get the bigger picture, the overarching narrative,\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than cherrypicking. We need the Bible to touch and transform our whole lives, affecting the world in which we live. Many seek quick answers to difficult issues, such as suffering, gender, etc. But those questions are better addressed, and more securely answered, when we have a larger framework in place\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving attended the transformative LICC Toolbox course, and having taken three years to read the Bible cover to cover, it's helpful to have a quicker overview. I was reading this section on a plane to Berlin as the map showed that we were flying over Bremen. Many history lessons means that bombing has shaped my thinking about that as a destination. As the plane came in to land over Berlin, I got an overview of the places that I was going to visit up close shortly, and this helped created my 'mental map of the destination', before I became absorbed in 'living' there.\u003cstrong\u003e This book is designed to offer a mental map to the whole story of the Bible. \u003c\/strong\u003eHow do we then ensure that we are partakers, and not spectators?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is designed for those who are already engaged in Bible reading, rather than those who have never picked up a Bible before, and encourages readers to continue afterwards to read other texts, hold up the author's interpretation up to challenge, and recognises that each individual will read something different into 'the story'. Reading alone is 'vital' but as they say:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading with others helps to prevent privatized readings of the Bible and corrects some of the biases that we may bring to certain passages or topics. (p19)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs someone who is a bit of a butterfly brain, the book works for me, and it's designed to be read by all personality types - whether you like to study the maps before you jump in, or like to jump in at the deep end - the book works. It's not about a tick box exercise, but about \u003cstrong\u003eallowing the Word of God to 'reorder your existence'\u003c\/strong\u003e, so take your time reading the book.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a Media Studies Lecturer I'm always encouraging my students to understand that newspapers, films, etc. give us a lens through which we see the world, rather than objective fact. The Bible can give us a different worldview - through which we see God, the world and ourselves more clearly. \u003cstrong\u003eAs the Bible gets inside us, our thinking is transformed, and we begin to see things the way God sees them.\u003c\/strong\u003e Often we are encouraged to think that we must always read huge sections (I really struggled with the pressure to read the Bible in a year), but this book offers a series or short (and some longer) readings with which we can engage at our own pace: like a toffee that can be swallowed whole, or chewed over in a leisurely fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe book is written by three well-respected theologians with long term engagement with the LICC: Antony Billington, Margaret Killingray and Helen Parry, with a guest post by Mark Coffey, who I knew in my Manchester days.\u003cstrong\u003e It outlines the shape of the Bible in six words: Creation, Corruption, Covenant, Christ, Church, Consummation.\u003c\/strong\u003e They encourage us to consider \u003cem\u003ewhere\u003c\/em\u003e you read the Bible, that reading it in public spaces 'normalises' the Bible - allowing you to make connections with how it works in the everyday, not just with us, but with the people around us. They don't specifically mention digital spaces, but I like to think that those are included!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI read the book fairly fast, but would like to go back through, as suggested, and read a piece a week. The exercises offered in the text are a mix of further Bible readings, and practical thinking\/applications. As you'd expect, the thoughts and reflections engage us in the everyday (western) world in which we live. \u003cstrong\u003eTry it - it could transform your life!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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{"id":14779341570428,"title":"The Freedom of Years: Ageing in perspective","handle":"the-freedom-of-years-ageing-in-perspective-1","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis positive, affirming book explores and reviews the meaning and purpose of our lives. As Christians, ageing gives us the opportunity to deepen and even transform our spiritual lives. The Freedom of Years helps those who want to undertake the journey by examining the ageing task, the inevitable changes and the possibilities of joy along the way. Read this book, see the potential and seek to age in the light of your Christian faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWe are all ageing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat is ageing for?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuccessful ageing: the story so far\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe spiritual journey: making meaning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttitudes to ageing: implications for spiritual care and support\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe context in which we age\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe discontents of ageing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Clouds of glory': the second half of life\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRetirement: doing things differently\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractising ageing: choosing, believing, trusting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a triumph. It explores life and the ageing process in an honest and straightforward way. It is a book for 'everyman' - carer or cared-for, professional or layperson, of faith or secular. The Mowats make sense of some important concepts and ideas from various disciplines and do so in a very accessible style. Readers seeking more in-depth knowledge can make use of their extensive bibliography. This book should be essential reading for anyone curious about their own life process and its meaning. Readers will be enriched and left a little bit less afraid of their own ageing and mortality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Dr Janice Whittick, Retired Clinical Psychologist \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe gift of this book is the simple understanding that we are all ageing. It is a shared journey, whether we are younger or older, and we must therefore face the issues raised for our communities together. Those involved in spiritual care, with families or care staff, exploring questions of meaning and purpose, will find it a real resource in looking at the question of what is valued in the kind of communities we want to build.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Lynda Wright, Health Care Chaplain, NHS NES Scotland \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really like this book: it is informative and deals with the spiritual in a way that is not intrusive or evangelistic! I particularly warm to the authors' use of psychological frameworks: all that resonates very positively with me. It is a wise book, relevant to older people in 2018.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e The Revd Dr Anne Townsend \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis engaging book for adults of all ages will make a difference to how readers approach their own ageing process and those for whom they care. There will be value in returning often to the dense thoroughness of ten chapters which hold a wealth of information and wisdom. As the fictional stories of Angus and Josephine unfold, they draw the reader into spiritual and practical challenges 'to live with each other in a state of mutual recognition of our common humanity'. This book is a gem of opportunity to face the ageing process with hope.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Elizabeth Baxter, Holyrood Retreat Centre \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHarriet Mowat has spent her working career researching the social impact of ageing and was influential in the development of Scottish health care chaplaincy. She has been a key adviser to BRF in developing its programme The Gift of Years, which resources the spiritual journey of older people. Donald Mowat is a retired psychiatrist, specialising in old age. He is an honorary staff member in the School of Divinity at the University of Aberdeen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Winter 2018. Review by Liz Pacey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a society we are living longer, and this leads to many questions and concerns about our ability to age well, not least in the area of spirituality. This book subtitled 'Ageing in perspective', does a very good job of considering how all aspects of life come together, with thought-provoking references from the fields of psychology and literature. It examines the day-to-day lives, needs and anxieties of the elderly in our churches, including those who may now be noticeable by their absence. Two fictitious but very well researched case studies run through the book, enhancing the readability. The overall message is positive: old age in not a waiting room but a time when spirituality and awareness of God can grow. There is much material here to stimulate our thought processes, enhance our own view of ageing, and help us to understand and hopefully enrich the lives of those around us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Liz Pacey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Baptist Times, August 2018. Review by John Rackley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe greatest moral question facing us in the 21st century is: what is ageing for? Harriet and Donald Mowat agree with this statement of James Woodward. They write from a lifetime in medical life and social science focussing on ageing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey write: we are trying to see beyond the idea that ageing is just about decline and painful joints. Nor is it about the time of life when those whom we love get ill and sometimes die. Rather whatever else it is about, ageing must be about changing and deepening our understanding of our place, in and outside time, which as we all know can be a struggle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo all of life is an ageing process. It is also a spiritual journey; spiritual in the sense of the need to seek purpose and meaning. So their book includes chapters on human development theory, attitudes toward and the discontents of ageing, midlife and beyond, retirement and the disciplines and virtues that accompany the practice of spiritual ageing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs we read about research, ideas and theory we also journey with Angus and Josephine; two imaginary characters that live their own ageing for us. They sound a ring of truth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether or not the purpose of ageing is the greatest moral question of the 21st century, it is certainly a neglected one both in our society and sadly in churches; which have an enervating ambiguity toward 'people of a certain age'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBRF is to be commended in publishing a number of books on ageing in later years from such authors as David Winter and Wanda Nash, as well as setting up a programme of resources for the spiritual journey of older people including the ministry of Anna Chaplains. This book bears the name of this programme and provides background reading for this study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA minister or pastoral worker who is wishing to reflect on the witness of their church to those no longer young would be well served by this book. Its theology is implicit but it longs for people to know their God in all places and at all times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJohn Rackley is a Baptist minister living in Leicestershire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Maggie Greaves, leader of Journeying into Age, Milton Keynes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found myself a bit resistant to it before I even started it ... partly because I didn't like the canoe photo on the front ...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, when I began it, I liked it more. The theories of Melanie Klein, Jung and the attachment work of Bowlby and later Winnicott, and then the life stage theories of Erikson were all familiar to me from my own working background and they were clearly - if briefly - sketched at the beginning of the book. ...They do refer back to these early developmental theories from time to time in the following chapters and I was impressed with that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI wasn't sure, either, about the case histories they chose when they were first described, but they won me over and they used them so creatively to illustrate various dilemmas that I decided in the end that they were a really helpful narrative device.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy favourite chapter was 7, the Discontents of Ageing, the whole of which I thought was excellent. It challenges the mental\/physical separation of health issues - which I found very helpful, but it raised questions of the social construction of disability in old age and was prepared to look at sociological and political questions which many writing on ageing don't tackle very helpfully. I particularly liked page 119 and the description of 'cumulative trivia' and 'mild cognitive impairment' which left me thinking in quite new ways about some of the assumptions I have made about friends who have had difficulties lately. When you think there's nothing new left to say about getting old, it's a treat to read something so fresh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy only other comment would be to say that I'm not sure they quite had a handle on their proposed readership. From time to time it was as if they 'remembered' that they were supposed to be addressing caring staff and family carers with their advice, as well as speaking to an already elderly readership? It slid about a bit in that respect for me, perhaps a slightly tighter edit would have picked that up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm really grateful to have read it and I shall certainly pass it around our Journeying group as I'm sure others will find it helpful too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Maggie Greaves, leader of Journeying into Age, Milton Keynes\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2024-10-30T08:05:59+00:00","created_at":"2024-10-30T08:04:59+00:00","vendor":"Harriet and Donald Mowat","type":"eBook","tags":["Feb-18","Glassboxx","Recommended for Anna Chaplaincy","Retired and inspired"],"price":899,"price_min":899,"price_max":899,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":53604692459900,"title":"eBook","option1":"eBook","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"9780857465078","requires_shipping":false,"taxable":false,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"The Freedom of Years: Ageing in perspective - eBook","public_title":"eBook","options":["eBook"],"price":899,"weight":214,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"9780857465078","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/257.png?v=1730980344","\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/258.png?v=1730980262"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/257.png?v=1730980344","options":["Format"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":63001491472764,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/257.png?v=1730980344"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/257.png?v=1730980344","width":1303},{"alt":null,"id":63001472598396,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"width":1303,"src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/258.png?v=1730980262"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":2000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.brfonline.org.uk\/cdn\/shop\/files\/258.png?v=1730980262","width":1303}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital eBook Only - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis positive, affirming book explores and reviews the meaning and purpose of our lives. As Christians, ageing gives us the opportunity to deepen and even transform our spiritual lives. The Freedom of Years helps those who want to undertake the journey by examining the ageing task, the inevitable changes and the possibilities of joy along the way. Read this book, see the potential and seek to age in the light of your Christian faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eContents\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWe are all ageing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhat is ageing for?\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuccessful ageing: the story so far\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe spiritual journey: making meaning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttitudes to ageing: implications for spiritual care and support\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe context in which we age\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe discontents of ageing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e'Clouds of glory': the second half of life\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRetirement: doing things differently\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePractising ageing: choosing, believing, trusting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eEndorsements\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis book is a triumph. It explores life and the ageing process in an honest and straightforward way. It is a book for 'everyman' - carer or cared-for, professional or layperson, of faith or secular. The Mowats make sense of some important concepts and ideas from various disciplines and do so in a very accessible style. Readers seeking more in-depth knowledge can make use of their extensive bibliography. This book should be essential reading for anyone curious about their own life process and its meaning. Readers will be enriched and left a little bit less afraid of their own ageing and mortality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Dr Janice Whittick, Retired Clinical Psychologist \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe gift of this book is the simple understanding that we are all ageing. It is a shared journey, whether we are younger or older, and we must therefore face the issues raised for our communities together. Those involved in spiritual care, with families or care staff, exploring questions of meaning and purpose, will find it a real resource in looking at the question of what is valued in the kind of communities we want to build.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Lynda Wright, Health Care Chaplain, NHS NES Scotland \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI really like this book: it is informative and deals with the spiritual in a way that is not intrusive or evangelistic! I particularly warm to the authors' use of psychological frameworks: all that resonates very positively with me. It is a wise book, relevant to older people in 2018.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e The Revd Dr Anne Townsend \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis engaging book for adults of all ages will make a difference to how readers approach their own ageing process and those for whom they care. There will be value in returning often to the dense thoroughness of ten chapters which hold a wealth of information and wisdom. As the fictional stories of Angus and Josephine unfold, they draw the reader into spiritual and practical challenges 'to live with each other in a state of mutual recognition of our common humanity'. This book is a gem of opportunity to face the ageing process with hope.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Elizabeth Baxter, Holyrood Retreat Centre \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAuthor info\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHarriet Mowat has spent her working career researching the social impact of ageing and was influential in the development of Scottish health care chaplaincy. She has been a key adviser to BRF in developing its programme The Gift of Years, which resources the spiritual journey of older people. Donald Mowat is a retired psychiatrist, specialising in old age. He is an honorary staff member in the School of Divinity at the University of Aberdeen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMedia reviews\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Reader, Winter 2018. Review by Liz Pacey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a society we are living longer, and this leads to many questions and concerns about our ability to age well, not least in the area of spirituality. This book subtitled 'Ageing in perspective', does a very good job of considering how all aspects of life come together, with thought-provoking references from the fields of psychology and literature. It examines the day-to-day lives, needs and anxieties of the elderly in our churches, including those who may now be noticeable by their absence. Two fictitious but very well researched case studies run through the book, enhancing the readability. The overall message is positive: old age in not a waiting room but a time when spirituality and awareness of God can grow. There is much material here to stimulate our thought processes, enhance our own view of ageing, and help us to understand and hopefully enrich the lives of those around us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Liz Pacey\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Baptist Times, August 2018. Review by John Rackley\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe greatest moral question facing us in the 21st century is: what is ageing for? Harriet and Donald Mowat agree with this statement of James Woodward. They write from a lifetime in medical life and social science focussing on ageing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey write: we are trying to see beyond the idea that ageing is just about decline and painful joints. Nor is it about the time of life when those whom we love get ill and sometimes die. Rather whatever else it is about, ageing must be about changing and deepening our understanding of our place, in and outside time, which as we all know can be a struggle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo all of life is an ageing process. It is also a spiritual journey; spiritual in the sense of the need to seek purpose and meaning. So their book includes chapters on human development theory, attitudes toward and the discontents of ageing, midlife and beyond, retirement and the disciplines and virtues that accompany the practice of spiritual ageing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs we read about research, ideas and theory we also journey with Angus and Josephine; two imaginary characters that live their own ageing for us. They sound a ring of truth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether or not the purpose of ageing is the greatest moral question of the 21st century, it is certainly a neglected one both in our society and sadly in churches; which have an enervating ambiguity toward 'people of a certain age'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBRF is to be commended in publishing a number of books on ageing in later years from such authors as David Winter and Wanda Nash, as well as setting up a programme of resources for the spiritual journey of older people including the ministry of Anna Chaplains. This book bears the name of this programme and provides background reading for this study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA minister or pastoral worker who is wishing to reflect on the witness of their church to those no longer young would be well served by this book. Its theology is implicit but it longs for people to know their God in all places and at all times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eJohn Rackley is a Baptist minister living in Leicestershire\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReview by Maggie Greaves, leader of Journeying into Age, Milton Keynes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI found myself a bit resistant to it before I even started it ... partly because I didn't like the canoe photo on the front ...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, when I began it, I liked it more. The theories of Melanie Klein, Jung and the attachment work of Bowlby and later Winnicott, and then the life stage theories of Erikson were all familiar to me from my own working background and they were clearly - if briefly - sketched at the beginning of the book. ...They do refer back to these early developmental theories from time to time in the following chapters and I was impressed with that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI wasn't sure, either, about the case histories they chose when they were first described, but they won me over and they used them so creatively to illustrate various dilemmas that I decided in the end that they were a really helpful narrative device.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy favourite chapter was 7, the Discontents of Ageing, the whole of which I thought was excellent. It challenges the mental\/physical separation of health issues - which I found very helpful, but it raised questions of the social construction of disability in old age and was prepared to look at sociological and political questions which many writing on ageing don't tackle very helpfully. I particularly liked page 119 and the description of 'cumulative trivia' and 'mild cognitive impairment' which left me thinking in quite new ways about some of the assumptions I have made about friends who have had difficulties lately. When you think there's nothing new left to say about getting old, it's a treat to read something so fresh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy only other comment would be to say that I'm not sure they quite had a handle on their proposed readership. From time to time it was as if they 'remembered' that they were supposed to be addressing caring staff and family carers with their advice, as well as speaking to an already elderly readership? It slid about a bit in that respect for me, perhaps a slightly tighter edit would have picked that up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'm really grateful to have read it and I shall certainly pass it around our Journeying group as I'm sure others will find it helpful too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eReview by Maggie Greaves, leader of Journeying into Age, Milton Keynes\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e_______________________________________________________________________\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}
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The Freedom of Years: Ageing in perspective
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Digital eBook Only - This positive, affirming book explores and reviews the meaning and purpose of our lives. As Christians,...