Book Review: The Sinners' Garden by William Sirls

The Sinners’ Garden by William Sirls is a refreshingly creative and spiritually significant read that will not only entertain, but draw you closer to a God who sees and takes delicate care of your every need! 



The Sinners’ Garden by William Sirls is a well written fictional novel centered on a family as they work through their past and present trials.  The setting along the Michigan Great Lakes is quite descriptive and at times, I could feel the cool breezes and hear the gentle lapping of the water as it caressed the rocky edges of the land.  The characters within the book are so relatable that they easily draw the reader into the story from the first page to the last. 

The Sinners' Garden by William Sirls
 is refreshingly creative and spiritually
 significant!

Andy Kemp, “the teenager with an attitude” even bigger than most, due to a past disfiguring incident involving an abusive father is the main character in the book.  He is surrounded by his loving mother, uncle, and a close friend of the family.  In addition to these in-depth interactions, a budding teenage romance is also thrown into the mix.  As the book progresses, the layers of pain and confusion in this teen’s life are exposed.  A broken I-pod becomes Andy’s connection to God’s voice and a field of grass develops into a beautiful garden where he can feel the presence of a living God just by being near it and looking into the rows of flowers.

Meanwhile, occurring in tandem is a “crime” of goodness as an intruder is methodically breaking into homes and establishments only to leave items that the owners need, but never stealing anything or harming any individuals or property.  As the mystery continues, intrigue is piqued and the momentum builds to a point of intense curiosity.  What does this stranger have to do with the rest of the story?  Who is the intruder?  The author’s ability to successfully carry a detailed dual theme without losing the reader’s ability to track the action is stellar!

This book is one to escape to for a tangible fantasy entangled in a real world journey where truths are gently exposed about the consistency of genuine love, perseverance, patience, hope, forgiveness and faith.  At times, during the reading of the book, I felt as though I were sitting in on a Christian counseling session as characters divulged their deepest hurts and struggles.  At those points in the book, the author takes advantage of the opportunity to reveal the unmoving nature of God and His ability to wait for us to respond to His love.

The Sinners’ Garden by William Sirls is not only entertaining, but will most certainly draw you closer to a tender and loving God…..no matter what your distance is from Him, currently.  The book has an undercurrent of hope and patience that will most surely give rest to a weary soul.  What are you waiting for?  Go read this book!

Salvation and Hope....What We Call "Easter"

Psalm 119:81 (MSG)
I'm home sick--longing for Your salvation; I'm waiting for Your word of hope.

Hello Blog World!  I've missed you so much.  When I don't get to write as often as I want, which would be at least daily if I didn't have other responsibilities, I desperately miss it.  This little chunk of Cyberspace has become like a quiet peaceful room to me.  It has morphed into a safe place where I can come and sit at the feet of the cross and just deeply breathe and easily hear the voice of Christ, while I soak up the word of God.  I find that I am not as distracted by the chaos that abounds outside of the door when I am typing away in my small corner of the world.  Clearly, the strangest part of my blogging is that, unless I am writing a book review or an interview of some sort, I never know exactly what will flow through my heart and onto the page when I sit down here.  The practice of methodically going through a chapter of the Bible, verse by verse (currently that is Psalm 119), supplies the subject matter for that individual writing session, and as long as I have been doing this (over 3 years now), I am still astounded at the timing of some of the verses.  Take today's words, for example, that "just happen" to be "salvation and His word of hope" as we celebrate the week of Easter!  Pretty amazing, don't you think?!!   

Easter~Salvation & Hope

Salvation and hope......these two words alone carry so much power, but at Easter, they become center stage as we look at the story of Christ and His life, death, and resurrection.  I know most of you reading this already know this story from the Bible found in John: 17-21, as well as the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, but it's so humbling to read it again.  As I reflect on the chapters today, I am thinking about so many people that I have encountered lately that are going through unspeakable trials here on earth.  Whether it's a fight with a life altering/endangering illness or the death of a child or husband/wife, I have heard and seen so much of the incredible pain that comes with these circumstances recently.  These are the people that have drawn my attention.  I am watching them in awe and wonder as they continue to claim the salvation and stand in the hope that Christ provides.  Could I do the same?  I don't know.  I pray so. 

These people have a very strong testimony of light that is being presented in their darkest hour.  They tell of a strength that comes from Christ.  They speak of a peace that is only possible through Him.  These are the people that make me turn on my heels and take notice.  They have been through the fire and don't even smell like smoke.  They have walked through lapping flames, but are not burned. (Daniel 3:26-27)  They have yelled and screamed and cried out to God for answers, but have not been consumed by an uncaring God who looks away.  No, they speak of a loving God who is allowing the tough questions.  A God who wants nothing more for their life than for them to find His faithful arms so He can carry them through the night.  This is the God of Easter. 

One individual and his family that comes to mind when I think of living through tragic circumstances and dealing with immeasurable pain, is Rick Warren the lead pastor at Saddleback Church.  He is encouraging us to listen to his personal story this Easter.  His message is titled:  The Answers Are in Easter.  You can get the details by clicking here.  I plan to listen to Rick's sermon, because "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ."  (Romans 10:17)  I trust that what he has to tell us will be life altering....even for those of us who already know the King.  If my hunch is right, every person reading this at this very moment can think of at least one challenge that you are facing in this life.  Whether it's a much needed healing, wisdom, forgiveness, clarity, direction, and the list goes on....Christ is your answer.  Easter is for you.....and me!!

Abba Father,
What You allowed to happen to Your Son is confusing to me.  I admit it.  I don't know why it was necessary and cannot fathom how it could be the answer to our condition.  But, I trust You and know that once and for all we are forgiven...because of what happened on  Friday and on Sunday...what we call "Easter"....because of Christ.  Thank you seems a little shallow...but...thank you from the depth of my heart.
In the wonderful name of Jesus,
Amen

 

National Walking Day....Taking A Stand For Living Whole and Holy

Psalm 119:79-80
Let those who fear You turn to me for evidence of Your wise guidance.  And let me live whole and holy, soul and body, so I can always walk with my head held high.




Three generations.  Two cultures.  One heart. 
Standing together for a healthier today
...and tomorrow!!

Happy National Walking Day!  
Today, as a nation, we are celebrating our health and taking a challenge to make it better through a commitment to increased physical activity.
This is a picture of my sister-in-law, daughter, Mom, and I, as we accept the challenge to live "whole and holy, soul and body"!  Want to join us in the challenge?!  Keep reading.....

The American Heart Association has started a nation wide campaign called:  "Go Red For Women" .  It is a wonderful initiative to encourage and educate women in our nation about the number one killer amongst us, which is heart disease.  The site brings women together for conversations, community, compassion, and encouragement which will help to empower and equip each of us to do our part to live a healthier life.  There are stories of amazing courage and strength from some incredible ladies as they are fighting hard against this nation wide killer.

The simple goal behind the American Heart Association is to help people live healthy and whole lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke.  Together, we can make a difference as we support  and encourage one another!  I am determined as a Mom, to teach my daughter how to live a healthy and active life.  Education and action are the only ways to bring about change!  Let's do it!!

Father,
The verses above are my prayer today.  May our lives as women be "evidence of Your wise counsel."  Help us to live "whole and holy...soul and body"...so that we might walk with our heads held high and our eyes forever upon You!
Amen

Are We Being Sold A "Bill Of Goods" With The Promotion of Coffee?

Psalm 119:78 (MSG)
Let the fast-talking tricksters be exposed as frauds;  they tried to sell me a bill of goods, but I kept my mind fixed on Your counsel.



Transition time.

Coffee or no coffee?  That's the question of the day....err...decade.....perhaps even century.  Are you always wondering about the effects of coffee/caffeine on our bodies?  Me too.  I'm pretty sure for every article about the benefits of caffeine, there is an article that counters it with unhealthy claims.  Who do we believe?

In 2014, my goal is to find one unhealthy habit a month and get rid of it by replacing it with something healthy.  For instance, the first bad habit I found in my life, was my insatiable love for Diet Dr. Pepper.  After searching in desperation for some healthy reason to consume this delightfully tasty beverage, I came up empty handed.  It had to go.  There was nothing good about it.  Not one tiny thing.  So, I drank my last sip of soda on December 31, 2013.  Done.  Was it difficult to stop?  A little, but I replaced it with water.  Every time I want a soda, I go for a big tall glass of ice water.  Even now, I find myself occasionally wanting a soda (nearly 3 months later), however, there is no benefit from it....only potential harm, so it got the boot.  If I can't find ANY health benefit to what I'm putting in my body on a regular basis, then I don't want it anymore.

So, back to the caffeine question.  First, you should know that I like my coffee strong and with a lot of sweet white stuff.  I understand that the "creamers" that I use are loaded with sugar and lots of other stuff that has no nutritional value whatsoever, and yet, I still use them.  It is my "treat", I rationalize.  So, for me, right out of the gate, "my" coffee is unhealthy.  I have tried other formulas to whiten it, but nothing I try makes the cut.  I should drink it black if I'm going to drink it at all.  The problem with that is, I don't like it without all of the "extra stuff".  Whine.  (Oh to have such problems, eh?)  But, for this discussion, let's just talk about the caffeine in the coffee and not the cream.

The fact that I like my coffee strong translates that for every cup I drink, I will probably be doubling the amount of caffeine that is found in a regular cup.  (Think dark roast here....although this, too is disputed...dark roast has less caffeine.....huh?)  Anyway, add on top of that, the size of "my cup" which is actually about 16 ounces, of which I drink two daily...perhaps more.  So, when you consider all of that, I am probably drinking approximately 32 ounces of coffee a day.  Who knows with all of these variables how much that translates to as far as the "amount of caffeine" that I am absorbing into my body!  Yikes!

Here's what I do know for certain...from personal experience.  Coffee wakes me up in the morning and helps me kick start my day.  Love that!  Coffee keeps me up at night if I consume it after 3:00pm.  Don't love that.  Caffeine can create irritability and a semi frenzied feel.  Caffeine adds to attention deficit and distractibility issues.   Caffeine can aggravate fibrocystic breast disease.  Caffeine can cause rapid heart dysrhythmias, especially in those who already have a weakened heart or a propensity toward rhythm disturbances.  While I have not directly experienced this side effect, I have seen it many times in my years of working in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit.  Unfortunately, there are other negative effects that can be the direct result of consuming caffeine and there are plenty of underlying health conditions that can be awakened by caffeine.  There is a great article that just came out today on this very subject.  It is a quick read if you are interested in reading it simply click here.

New healthy habit!

Well, I suppose that after writing this, I have come to the conclusion that for me personally, at this juncture in my life, I should abstain from a lot of caffeine, and certainly from my sugary fake cream filled coffee.  I think my transition will be to green tea.  While I am aware that there is still some caffeine in Green Tea (25-50mg per 8oz as compared to 120-150mg per 8oz of coffee), I think this is a great place to start.  At least with the green tea, I will not have the cream issue and I will be taking in some extra antioxidants.  Now, the hard part....implementing my plan! Yes, I have tried to eliminate coffee before.  It was short lived.  I failed.  But, you know what they say..."If at first you don't succeed...try try again!"  As I write this, I am sipping my last cup of sugary caffeine filled coffee.  Maybe it won't take too long to fall in love with the green tea!!  Hmmm......

God,
Ultimately, You are our Counselor in all things.  Reveal to us those habits that will keep us from health and empower us to change!  Thank you for always supplying us with the tools we need to remain strong in You, so we can reflect Your love!
In Jesus Name,
Amen 

Book Review: Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay

Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay is like taking in a deep breath of sweet smelling lilies!  The freshness and beauty of this debut novel make it a rewarding pleasure to read.  Be sure you place Dear Mr. Knightly by Katherine Reay on your reading list for this spring 2014!  You will definitely enjoy every page!



Put this book on your Spring reading
list for 2014!

Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay is such a treat to read.  The careful unfolding of each new character within the story line is exquisitely smooth.  The sweet ebb and flow of the emotional cadence within the story line takes the reader to a quiet place of introspection.  This book is masterfully written.

The story centers around a young lady named Samantha Moore.  The book is in journal format throughout the entirety. “Sam”, as she is called by her friends, writes her reflections with regard to her past and present life experiences while participating in a journalism program at a large University in Chicago.  The funding for this program has been completely covered through a grant given to her from an anonymous donor by the name of Mr. Knightley.  As Samantha ponders her career, talents, and relationships in frequent letters to the generous benefactor, Mr. Knightley, she uncovers things about herself that she never knew.  As lessons of forgiveness, authenticity, tenacity, compassion and transparency emerge; Sam begins to unearth a wholeness that she has longed to experience.

It’s difficult to say what I loved the most about this book!  Would it be the fact that the main character, Samantha is vulnerable and innocent which creates a high level of endearment toward her?  Perhaps that was it.  Could it be the fact that KatherineReay so easily expresses her love for American Literature throughout the whole novel and because of that, I will now be able to use this book as a resource for further literature exploration?  She even goes so far as to provide “Sam’s Reading List” at the end of the book to assist with a travel through the classics.  That will most certainly be an enormous bonus.  Was it the inherent love story lightly etched throughout the margins of the main theme?  That was a tender touch for sure.  Or could it have been the sheer curiosity and anticipation of finally getting to meet Mr. Knightley after so many letters to him?  Yes, that too played a significant part.  Actually, I think it was a compilation of each of these components that made this book a sensational read for me!

Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay is a profoundly written book circling around the delicate thinking of a young woman as she works through past and present issues. The reader has the privilege of peeking into the main character’s heart as she learns to confront obstacles of life with grace, forgiveness, and courage.  This book is undeniably worth your attention, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself poking around inside your own heart as well! 

I want to thank Thomas Nelson Publishing for this review copy of Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay.  I was not required to write a favorable review.  The opinions given within this review are strictly my own.