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Helpful BooksThese are books we find useful and that have been reviewed by Cleopas companions.
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Sensible ShoesSHARON GARLOUGH BROWN
‘Sharon Garlough Brown's writings and retreats have impacted my life
greatly, creating in me a deeper hunger for God and providing practical ways by which to satisfy that longing. Her teaching is biblically based, sincere and humble, and full of wisdom and insight. It is a privilege to learn from her, and to see the likeness of Christ in her humility and integrity. Her visit is a not-to-be-missed opportunity for spiritual refreshment and growth.’ Tony Horsfall, Charis Training.
You begin by reading a story and then you discover the more you read that you might well be reading your own story. At least if in the privacy of your own thoughts where you are willing to admit to fears, struggles, frustrations and disappointments. In our technological age it has become much easier to live superficially. Allowing others to speak into our lives is vital for growing and advancing our faith. Through this book, author and retreat leader, Sharon Garlough Brown, will do just that.
Sharon Garlough Brown’s book, Sensible Shoes is the first in a series of four books that track the lives of four main characters who are at different stages in life with a varied set of circumstances but with one common thread, they are each being drawn to engage with truth, with scripture, but in a manner that allows them to really slow down and listen. I might call, it a literary Netflix set, that draws you in and allows you to sit on the set as it is being filmed. You will enter their homes and observe their marriages, you will travel with them to their work and listen to their personal conversations. You will feel their sadness and pain, wanting to keep reading as their stories draw you in. You will celebrate their progress and in the end be thankful that Sharon has brought them to life, in your life. Although set in an American culture, this does not intrude or deflect from this good story, which is well told which does in fact, translates so easily into ours. This is a series of books that you can read on your own and find great enjoyment and encouragement; but it is even better to read it with a few others. Having spoken with some who have done this I hear comments like “The most personal of groups I’ve ever been in” or “This has really helped us open up our hearts to fellow Christians, in ways we have never done” Or, “You have to be willing to look at yourself, giving yourself the permission to be honest about what you see, and then, be willing to allow God to speak to you” Why should I read this book or read it with others? Perhaps, along with all that others have discovered, it might also just make you read the bible differently…sometimes there is an invitation to step out and embrace a moment for change and this could be that moment for some of us … |
