Recliner Recommendations – December 2017
It’s almost a new year! 2017 is closing out fast. I have racked up my fair share of books, podcasts, and other resources. And I wanted to share a few recommendations for 2018.
Here’s what I am currently reading, listening to, and pondering. I hope you enjoy one of these for yourself.
Audiobook:
I am currently listening to The Road Back to You by Cron & Stabile
It is a great primer on the Enneagram. The Enneagram is a personality profile self-assessment tool. If you are unfamiliar with it, then this book is a great place to start. Those who want a deeper approach might try Richard Rohr’s book on the Enneagram.
Podcast:
I’m sort of a podcast junkie. Here’s one I have been listening to more recently. Kevin Kruse’s podcast on leadership offers some great practical advice. Each podcast is short and leaves you with something to apply now.
Watching:
I’m not a big television or movie buff. However, I do binge Netflix occasionally. My latest? Broadchurch starring David Tennant (Dr Who) and Oliva Colman. Excellent mystery show that pulls you in on the first episode.
Reading:
My reading has been slow the last few months. I’m in the middle of a few books. My current read is Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. It’s a fun book and easy read on creativity. If you need a kick in the pants and a good locker room speech, then read this book!
A quote I’m meditating on: You are not required to save the world with your creativity! (Elizabeth Gilbert)
A scripture I’m preaching on soon:
Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word.” – 1 Kings 17:1
Let me know a few of your recommendations in the comments below. I’m always looking for new podcasts, books, and YouTube channels.
Happy New Year!
JoAnn, this is a great list!
PODCASTS:
I have been listening to the podcast In All Things Charity. I love the discussions between co-hosts and guests. It has given me much to consider, read, watch and listen to!
I’ve also enjoyed these podcasts: The Moth, for its interesting stories; Jocko Podcast, for parallels between military life/leadership and ministry; This Nazarene LIfe, to hear about how God is calling and equipping our tribe; Wesley Seminary Podcast, thought provoking discussions from my alma mater.
BOOKS:
The Externally Focused Church by Rick Rusaw and Ericc Swanson. Their emphasis on service is great. I also appreciate the guided discussion at the end of each chapter.
The Mystery of Risk by Ira Chasnoff. An in-depth look at the reality of pre-natally exposed children. Helpful for foster and adoptive families and the churches who support them.
The Last Week by Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan. It is an excellent resource on the final week of Jesus in Jerusalem.
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain. I would comment, but I’m too introverted!
The True Vine: Meditations for a Month on John 15:1-16 by Andrew Murray – These short devotions have been so full of meaning for me.
Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall, Denver Moore and Lynn Vincent
This upcoming year I plan to get to the following books, among others:
Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
Emboldened by Tara Beth Leach
Vindicating the Vixens: Revisiting Sexualized, Vilified, and Marginalized Women of the Bible by Sandra Glahn
The Crucifixion: Understanding the Death of Jesus Christ by Fleming Rutledge
Watching:
I just finished watching The Crown Season 2. It was interesting seeing the parallels between women in government and women in ministry. I could empathize with the Queen in many respects. 🙂
Preaching:
Tomorrow I am preaching on, “God’s Resolution,” – how his intent or plan is for all to be saved. 2 Peter 3:8-15.
I will be preaching on The Lord’s Prayer soon, “Pray Like This.”
Thanks for this great list, Myndi! I will check out the first podcast you mentioned. I listen to The Moth occasionally and love it for sermon stories.
I love that you will be preaching on the Lord’s Prayer! Blessings in 2018!