Sunday, March 29, 2009

Soul Gripping-Radically Life Transforming


Before reading “The Hole In Our Gospel,” I was convinced that there was only one book in the world that could radically change a person’s life-the Bible…..but I was wrong. After finishing this book, if you live the very next day of your life in the same way as you lived the last, you will have slammed the door in the face of God. (Note: I will try desperately not to be overly zealous about this book-but I know that I will fail miserably.)

When I was given the opportunity to review this book, I wasn’t at all thrilled about spending my time reading what I thought would be a book about an incredibly wealthy former CEO who had so graciously decided to give back to God. As I read, page by page, I was humbled by God and reduced to a speck of dust. I absolutely could not put this book down. (note: you’ll need a reading light for late night reading.) What you will find in this incredible book is that Rich Stearns openly, honestly, and brilliantly, shares his soul gripping testimony as a Christian and brings to light the powerful teaching of Charles Stanley, “Obey God and leave the consequences to Him.” His story will make you fully aware of God’s hand in the lives of His children and you will begin to examine your own faith. The compelling conclusion is that faith without works is dead; we cannot deny it in the presence of God. On the Day of Judgment we will have our lives placed before the throne of God and He will separate the “sheep” from the “goats.”

I can assure you, you will never forget the chapter entitled, “One Hundred Crashing Jetliners.” The statistics that Stearns presents are horrifying and deeply saddening. Yet the majority of us sit by and watch-numb to the truth that stares us in the face. Maybe you, just like me, have served God in many ways, but have resided to the idea that the issues of world hunger and disease are just too big to make a difference. Rich Stearns will forever change your viewpoint through the “Starfish Story.”

As Christians, we believe in the risen Christ, but we tend to ignore the fact that He came back….for a moment….to say one last thing. He issued the Great Commission. And it’s not about beating people over the head with a Bible. In the words of Sr. Francis Assisi, “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.” World Vision provides the opportunity for ALL of us to make a difference….to preach the Gospel….the WHOLE Gospel. The amazing and heartbreaking stories that Rich Stearns shares are absolutely riveting and will bring you to the edge of your faith. I promise you, if you read this book, your life will never be the same and you will change the world. “The Hole In Our Gospel” will convince you that you MUST do SOMETHING.

In conclusion, I will again say that from beginning to end, this book will absolutely grip your soul. The message that is contained within this book…..is the “one thing you lack.” If I could give each person in the world two books, it would be the Bible and “The Hole in Our Gospel.” (Trust me, I don’t make that statement lightly) The begging question that you will walk away with is, “Are you willing to be open to God’s will for your life?” It is a question that begs an answer.

1 comments:

Kendra Quilts said...

Hello Cherie i am not sure if you get old posts. I have gone thru your every journal thru March 2009. I have ordered books and ordering this one! I am printing all your journals to put in a folder. Keep sharing great books. I need them. I need another book shelve too. Oh Kindle hope they dont start charging for more book downloads. Everything you write touches my heart. Blessings Kendra

Post a Comment

I am so blessed that you would take the time to share your thoughts with me! You encourage my faith and I pray that God will fill you to the full with His love, mercy,and grace! With joy, Cherie

| Top ↑ |