Intentional: Living Out Eight Principles of Disciple Making
The Village Effect: How Face-to-Face Contact Can Make Us Healthier, Happier, and Smarter
Pinker, S. (2014). The Village Effect: How Face-to-Face Contact Can Make Us Healthier and Happier. Random House Canada, 378 pages. ISBN: 978-0307359537
In this interesting book (audiobook for me-Hoopla is amazing!), developmental psychologist Susan Pinker examines how face-to-face social connections fundamentally impact human health, happiness, and longevity. From scientific research and real-world examples, Pinker demonstrates that direct human contact remains essential for well-being despite our increasingly digital world. She explores communities like Sardinia’s Villagrande, where strong social bonds correlate with exceptional longevity, and examines how in-person interactions affect everything from child development to immune system function. The book offers practical insights for maintaining crucial social connections in modern life, making it valuable for academic and general audiences interested in human development, health, and social psychology. I encourage group leaders and pastors to be encouraged by Pinker and her studies. She appears to be agnostic at best but uses examples of religious communities throughout her book.
Next Door as It Is in Heaven: Living Out God’s Kingdom in Your Neighborhood
Ford, L. & Brisco, B. (2016). Next Door as It Is in Heaven: Living Out God’s Kingdom in Your Neighborhood. NavPress, 224 pages. ISBN: 978-1631464973
In this thoughtful exploration of Christian community engagement, authors Lance Ford and Brad Brisco examine how modern life has eroded neighborhood connections and offer a theological framework for rebuilding the local community. The authors argue that genuine neighborliness is a biblical mandate and a path to spiritual growth. Drawing from Scripture and contemporary social research, they analyze how technology, individualism, and busy schedules have contributed to social isolation. The book provides practical strategies for Christians to meaningfully engage with their neighborhoods, suggesting that authentic community involvement is essential for personal faith development and effective ministry. Through real-world examples and biblical principles, the authors present a vision of neighborhood life that bridges the gap between spiritual practice and everyday relationships. As I read this book, I’m encouraged to be more intentional in getting to know and build relationships with my neighbors.
The Titus Ten
Smith, J. J. (2022). The Titus Ten: A Pastor’s Guide to Developing Leaders in the Church. Grace Theological Press, 176 pages. ISBN: 979-8985529807
In this practical guide focused on church leadership development, J. Josh Smith examines the ten qualifications for church leaders outlined in Titus 1:5-9. Drawing from his pastoral experience and biblical exposition, Smith provides a comprehensive framework for identifying, developing, and deploying church leaders. He breaks down each of the ten qualifications, offering practical insights for current church leaders and those aspiring to leadership roles. The book combines theological depth with actionable guidance, addressing how these ancient qualifications apply to modern church contexts. Smith emphasizes character development alongside competency, arguing that both are essential for effective church leadership. The work is a valuable resource for pastors, elders, and ministry leaders involved in leadership development within their congregations. I am meeting with a group of four men once a month and we are reading a chapter each month. We are using the principles from each chapter as discussion starters.
Do You Think To Pray: How to Listen and Talk to God Every Day about Everything
Kendall, R. T. (2009). Did You Think to Pray? How to Listen and Talk to God Every Day. Charisma House, 240 pages. ISBN: 978-1599797618
In this practical exploration of prayer, R.T. Kendall addresses the often-overlooked aspects of developing a meaningful prayer life. Drawing from decades of pastoral experience and biblical teaching, Kendall examines why many Christians struggle with consistent prayer and provides insights for developing a more intentional approach to communication with God. The book combines theological understanding with practical application, addressing common obstacles to prayer while offering specific strategies for making prayer a natural part of daily life. Kendall particularly emphasizes the importance of both speaking and listening in prayer, challenging readers to move beyond mere petition to develop a deeper, more conversational relationship with God. Through personal anecdotes and biblical examples, he demonstrates how regular, thoughtful prayer can transform one’s spiritual life and relationship with God.
Catcher in the Wry
Uecker, Bob, and Melvin Durslag. Catcher in the Wry. New York: St. Martin’s Press, 1982.
Bob Uecker’s Catcher in the Wry is a humorous memoir recounting his baseball experiences. I love reading baseball books! I often read works like this in the evening right before bed or on my day off enjoying a coffee while exploring a new coffee shop. Examining works on sports humor and comparing it to other baseball autobiographies provides a broader framework for understanding Uecker’s style; which is humorous, sarcastic, and odd-but in a good way!
The Bible in a Year
In February I started in Exodus. I generally read three chapters in the morning and listen to a Psalm or two and work through the Prophets a few days a week as I drive (I use the Logos Bible app and listen as I drive). A few years ago Craig Keener and RT Kendal inspired me to read my Bible more. I followed Keener’s example in 2022/23 and read ten chapters of the NT a day to read it once a month. I did this for ten months or so. It was life-changing!
Toby DeHay 