Best Books
I am not alone in my proclivity to spiritual distraction. As Christians, we are surrounded by alluring diversions and secondary issues which capture our attention and crowd out the one true thing that matters more than all the rest collectively – the person of Jesus. Doctrinal discussions, ecclesial and secular politics, and prophetic rebukes of institutionalized injustice are important aspects of the Christian life – but they should never take our focus off Jesus. He is the center, the beginning and the end, the author and the finisher of our faith. If our attention is focused more on the Christian life than on Christ himself, we will become like clouds without water, hidden lights, worthless salt.
The tendency for us to be distracted from the primacy of Jesus by secondary issues is precisely why Max Lucado’s new book is so important. Jesus – The God Who Knows Your Name (Thomas Nelson Publishing) is a beautifully written journey into the life and ministry of our Lord. Segments include the birth of Jesus, the power of His ministry, the sacred subversiveness of His teachings, His death and resurrection, and the promise of His return. Jesus – The God Who Knows Your Name is a book I can recommend to non-believers and mature Christians alike. Regardless of how long we have been a follower of Jesus, encountering His story again and again is a necessary act. He is the center of our world.
There are times when the troubles of the world weigh heavily upon me. When I find myself anxious and in despair over the plight of someone I care about or the state of our society in general, I contemplate the story of Jesus. The fullness of God and humanity dwelt within Him, rending asunder the division between the secular and the divine. I think of a time of when sinners uttered holy words and scribes were rendered speechless, when lame men lept with joy and blind men beheld the face of God. I think about angels and shepherds and a Savior sleeping in a manger. I remember water being turned to wine and women worshiping outside an empty tomb. I remember Jesus, the God who knows my name. I remember that we are not alone.
–Darrel Holcombe, Owner
Sanctuary Christian Books and Gifts
Colonial Promenade, Alabaster, 205-663-2370
