Monday, October 13, 2008

The Shack

A while back a pastor friend of mine recommended the book 'The Shack', by Wm. P. Young to me saying that every pastor in America should read this fictional story about a man's search for truth in his relationship with God. I am almost finished with it, and I can say it is one of the most compelling books I have ever read. It has not only spoke to my heart, but it expresses my heart towards God like no other work of literature I have ever read. Not only do I consider this a 'must read' for every pastor I know, but a must read for everyone I know. Please read this book.
Let me share with you a tiny glimpse of this book. For financial reasons, one of our sons and his wife & 2 year old daughter are currently living with us. This morning as I sat at the breakfast bar eating breakfast and talking with my wife Carole, in the doorway suddenly stood our gran daughter, Shay. Carole opened wide her arms and somewhat loudly proclaimed "Shay!". Shay's face, already in a grin, burst into an all-out smile, and proclaimed Carole's name back to her. Shay then ran into Carole's open arms and was swept off of her feet in an embrace of love. I heard Carole whisper into Shay's tiny ear, "I love you.", and Shay with her head now on Carole's shoulder and her arms wrapped around her neck whispered back, "I wuve you, Carole."
My friends, that is what this life is all about. Now, go and get your hands on The Shack!
PJ

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I read 'The Shack" about a year ago, thought it was a fabulous look into the relational God that we should all get to know. Came to realize that our relationship with him is personalized to fit each of our needs and personality. Most importantly that He is a relational God not a big box religion. I am perplexed a bit about all the controversy it caused here. Heretical, blasphemous are just a few opinions, but then again, he meets us just where we need to be met. This is a good book to recommend! It makes you think about your view of God and how you have always thought him to be.
Doris

PJ said...

Doris,
Controversy? I found it refreshing & encouraging. I have several folks in the church who come from some very 'God is harsh' back grounds who I believe hunger for the relational God described in the book. People need to remember it's a work of fiction; but so was most of C.S. Lewis' books. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
PJ

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing a good book title I will look into getting a copy and reading it.
I heard an great message Sunday.
The Question Knowing Jesus?
Knowing Jesus, Head knowledge. (who He was, and what He did)
or
Knowing Jesus, personally, in our hearts, a freind and Savior, the way the truth and the light.
Have a good day.

Michelle