2024: A Year in Reading

December 30, 2024December 30, 2024 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

Everyone has a different hobby. In the Williams family, we read books — and 2024 was no different. Some of my book trends remained similar to previous years (lots of kids books and Christian nonfiction), but some trends looked much different (fewer sports books, more leadership books.)

Either way, here’s a list of the books I read with a brief description. I share these in case any of these books sound interesting to you. But first, I want to highlight a few books I enjoyed most…

THE AWARDS

Nathaniel’s Book of the Year

The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate―Discoveries from A Secret World
by Peter Wohlleben (Greystone Books, 2016)

I first heard of this book from Dr. Chuck Lawless at Southeastern Seminary. It didn’t sound like one I’d particularly enjoy, but I gave it a shot. And let me tell you — it was simply wonderful. Wohlleben takes us inside the world of trees — from their strategies to strengthen themselves, to the underground fungal network which helps them communicate with each other, to the wonder of ancient forests and the biological diversity they hold within. And, surprisingly, leadership lessons and applications jump from the page. In many ways, local churches are like a forest — in that trees are better together than they are apart. I can’t recommend this book highly enough.

Biggest Surprise

Get Your Life Back: Everyday Practices for a World Gone Mad
by John Eldredge (Thomas Nelson, 2020)

Cards on the table: I don’t agree with everything Eldredge writes. That hold true for this book. But if you can eat the meat and spit the bones, Get Your Life Back is a wonderfully helpful little book on pushing back against our anxiety-inducing busy world. The book’s strength is in identifying simple practices that, when implemented into the rhythms of your life, can create long-term change. “The world doesn’t budget time for soul care,” Eldredge writes. “You’re going to have to be intentional about this.” And this book was a major step for doing so in my own life.

The Book with the Best Chapter I Read This Year

Uncommon Ground: Living Faithfully in a World of Difference
by Tim Keller and John Inazu (Thomas Nelson, 2020)

Uncommon Ground is a collection of essays from various artists and thinkers, from Tish Harrison Warren and Lecrae to Kristin Deede Johnson and Trillia Newbwell. The essays are of varying quality, but this book makes my superlative list because of a chapter from Warren Kinghorn. Kinghorn breaks down the gospel of achievement, the false gospel that asserts our value and worth come from what we do or contribute. He explains how he’s seen this in his own life, and reveals how the true gospel helps us fight this false gospel. The chapter was a balm to my soul in a very stressful time, and for that reason I elevated the whole book to my superlatives.

The Book I’ll Probably Give Out to Church Members

Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus Through the Spiritual Disciplines
by David Mathis (Crossway, 2016)

I read multiple books on spiritual disciplines over the years, and I assign Don Whitney’s book to my interns and (this year) our Wednesday night group. But I think Habits of Grace just might be my favorite of the bunch. Mathis organizes the disciplines into sensible categories so they feel less like a laundry list of things to do and more like the integration of faith into rhythms of everyday life. Mathis also writes with simplicity and an economy of words; there’s no empty verbosity here. When I teach the disciplines again, I believe Mathis’ book will be my go-to text.

THE REST OF THE 2024 READING LIST

Books I Read with my Kids

Mercy Watson Is Missing!
by Kate DiCamillo and Chris Van Dusen (Candlewick, 2023)

I usually don’t include books like Mercy Watson in the book list; I don’t keep track with all the picture books I read to the kids. But Mercy Watson Is Missing! is an actual chapter book, so I included it. If you enjoy Kate DiCamillo’s lovable quirky characters (I’m looking at you, Leroy Tinker), you’ll enjoy this book.

Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle’s Farm
by Betty MacDonald with Maurice Sendak (1954)

A classic book with multiple vignettes of Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle’s unorthodox ways of breaking children of their bad habits. Harmless book, but not one I’d read again.

Winnie-the-Pooh
by A. A. Milne (1926)

This small book is an absolute delight, and I make an excuse to read it every time one of our kids becomes a toddler. The book is filled with joy, humor, and sincerity.

The Extraordinary Education of Nicholas Benedict
by Trenton Lee Stewart (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2013)

Our family loves the Benedict Society books, and this was the last one for us to read. This book was a prequel, telling us Benedict’s life as a child. Sometimes the Benedict Society books do meander, but this one did so less than some of the others. Overall, we loved this book and seeing young Benedict become someone who learns to trust and value others’ dignity.

Secrets at Sea
by Richard Peck (Puffin Books, 2012)

Have you ever wondered what mice did when you weren’t looking? And what secret society they might have on a cruise ship? And what might happen if you met the mouse queen? Me neither, but Richard Peck has! I loved Peck’s Grandma Dowdle books, so I was eager to read this one to the kids. It was fine; probably not one I’d read again, but I think everyone enjoyed it.

A Bear Called Paddington
by Michael Bond

Paddington, like Winnie-the-Pooh, is a book I read every few years when one of my kids gets to the age when they can enjoy it for the first time. I love Paddington’s earnestness in the midst of being a fish out of water. It’s a tale that reminds us to empathize with the refugee and that everyone (or, in this case, every bear) has dignity, worth, and value.

Fiction

Gilead
by Marilynne Robinson (Picador, 2004)

My all-time favorite novel was a perfect companion during my summer sabbatical. John Ames’ wise reflections on life, ministry, fatherhood, and more breathe life into my soul. This time through, I already knew the plot and its surprises, so my attention was on Marilynne Robinson’s poetic, literary words. Simply a delight.

The Hobbit narrated by Andy Serkis
by J.R.R. Tolkien

I have a confession: I’ve never been able to get into The Lord of the Rings. I’m sure this makes me a bad Christian somehow, but it’s true. But this audiobook features Andy Serkis reading the book, and I enjoyed the experience. There are still parts of the book I don’t think I’ll ever enjoy (I’m looking at you, songs), but I’m glad I experienced it.

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
by Arthur Conan Doyle (1892)

This collection of 12 stories introduces us to Doyle’s infamous character, Sherlock Holmes. I enjoyed diving into this classic piece of fiction, especially since we’re all so familiar with the various versions of his character in pop culture. Some of the stories are better than others, but I enjoyed this introduction to the world of Sherlock Holmes.

The Return of Sherlock Holmes (Sherlock Holmes, #6)
by Arthur Conan Doyle (1905)

Another collection of stories about Sherlock Holmes from later in his career. The one that most sticks out is “The Story of the Dancing Men,” a haunting tale that feels like it could be the plot of an M. Night Shyamalan film. That story in particular keeps you on your toes the whole time.

The Case of the Missing Marquess (Enola Holmes #1)
by Nancy Springer (Penguin Young Readers Group, 2007)

After watch the Netflix Enola Holmes films, I wanted to read the first novel for myself. And, oddly enough, I liked the movie far better! The book is fine, but it just seems to end. And the changes the filmmakers made make the story feel more grand. So, feel free to read the book. But, in this case, you could also just watch the movie.

Murder Must Advertise (Lord Peter Wimsey #8)
by Dorothy L. Sayers (1933)

I’ve heard a lot about Dorothy Sayers’ Lord Peter Wimsey detective novels, so I wanted to give them a try. This one kept me on my toes, but there were certainly sections that lagged. Also, there were a ton of characters to keep up with. But I do see the appeal of these stories, as the Wimsey character is such a fun, playful character.

The Greatest Gift: A Christmas Tale
by Philip Van Doren Stern

This short story inspired the classic film, It’s a Wonderful Life! The story is short and sweet, and the movie improves the story in countless ways. But the protagonist’s personal dilemma remains the same: Does my life really matter? The story couldn’t find a publisher at first, but I’m sure glad that it has survived.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
by Barbara Robinson (1972)

In honor of the new film adaptation, I re-read this classic Christmas novel. It was simply a delight. Imogene Herdman’s dawning realization of the Christmas story really does allow us to understand the magnitude what happened when Christ was born.

Batman Begins: The Junior Novel
by Peter Lerangis (Scholastic, 2005)

I found this book in a stack of old books from my childhood, so I picked it up and read it. Let’s just say: You should stick to the movie.

Christian Nonfiction

The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids
by Sarah Mackenzie (Zondervan, 2018)

I began 2024 with this book about the importance of reading aloud to your children. I found the book encouraging and affirming, as reading aloud is one of my favorite parts of the day.

Do Not Be True to Yourself: Countercultural Advice for the Rest of Your Life
by Kevin DeYoung (Crossway, 2023)

Kevin DeYoung adapts a graduation speech into this brief book. DeYoung offers wise advice that pushes back against popular themes in pop culture. The book is the perfect book to give to graduates.

God (Volume 1) (Theology for Every Person)
by Malcolm Yarnell III (B&H, 2024)

Dr. Malcolm Yarnell is an esteemed theologian in the Southern Baptist Convention, and he writes this brief, accessible book on the doctrine of God.

Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life
by Donald Whitney (NavPress, 1991)

Whitney’s classic book on spiritual disciplines is a staple in my interns’ reading, and this year we started reading it together as a church. The book is a helpful introduction to spiritual disciplines — with lots of excellent quotes and tips.

The Trellis and the Vine: The Ministry Mind-Shift that Changes Everything
by Colin Marshall and Tony Payne (Matthias Media, 2009)

How is the church an organism (as opposed to merely an organization)? How should this truth change how we think about church structures? This book is another staple in my interns’ reading, and I returned to it again in 2024.

The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment: Abridged and in Modern English
by Jeremiah Burroughs (abridged by Rob Summers)

In the busyness and storms of life, contentment is a challenge. But this timeless book from Jeremiah Burroughs offers biblical wisdom (and challenges) to pursue contentment in our lives. I’m grateful for my church members who kindly loaned it to me.

Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life
By Tish Harrison Warren (IVP, 2016)

One of my favorite books of all time, and I re-read it every few years. Warren reminds us of the beauty and dignity of the ordinary parts of life, and she encourages us to see how God forms us through them.

Deep Discipleship: How the Church Can Make Whole Disciples of Jesus
by J. T. English (B&H, 2022)

This has become another go-to read, especially for my interns. English helps us see how to build structures to facilitate discipleship in local churches. As I often say, The Trellis and the Vine diagnoses the problems of most church structures, but Deep Discipleship offers a constructive solution.

Christ and the Common Life: Political Theology and the Case for Democracy
by Luke Bretherton (Eerdmans, 2019)

Bretherton offers a fresh perspective on the integration of faith and the public square. I don’t agree with Bretherton on every point, and as a British protestant who now works at Duke, he certainly approaches these topics from a unique perspective. But I think his perspective is worth hearing. (Note: this book is long and academic, so it’s not for everyone.)

Practice Resurrection: A Conversation on Growing Up in Christ
by Eugene H. Peterson (Eerdmans, 2010)

Peterson is one of my favorite authors. This book offered his reflections on Ephesians, and it was one of my go-to companions while preaching that book. Sometimes Peterson veers into speculation, but sometimes he’s spot-on. Either way, he’s a voice to be heard.

Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family
by Paul David Tripp (Crossway, 2016)

This book was one of my sabbatical reads, as I wanted to grow as a father. Tripp’s insights were timely and pointed for my life. While he doesn’t tell you what to do, he does offer a framework from which to parent.

Just Show Up: How Small Acts of Faithfulness Change Everything (A Guide for Exhausted Christians)
by Drew Dyck (Moody, 2023)

A short, encouraging book for Christians who feel tired, worn out, and unworthy. Dyck laces each page with self-deprecating humor, and he encourages us to (as the title indicates) just show up.

Anxious for Nothing
by Max Lucado (Thomas Nelson, 2017)

Max Lucado offers a brief but encouraging look at anxiety from a biblical perspective. Don’t expect an in-depth counseling book; this is a highly pastoral work aimed at everyday believers who struggle with anxiety.

Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit
by Francis Chan (David C. Cook, 2009)

Francis Chan explores the identity and functions of the Holy Spirit, the person of the Trinity we tend to most overlook. The book is at its best when it surveys scripture and highlights scripture’s teachings on the Spirit. You can also tell that this book is in some respects a product of its time, as I can tell some of what Chan is writing is in response to theological and ecclesial debates of the time.

Shepherds for Sale: How Evangelical Leaders Traded the Truth for a Leftist Agenda
by Megan Basham (Harper Collins, 2024)

Journalist Megan Basham highlights the purported negative influence left-leaning outside money on evangelical institutions and the Southern Baptist Convention. The final chapter was deeply personal, and at that point I understood why these issues matter so much to Basham. I think the entire book would have been better — and more persuasive — if she wrote from that lens.

Prayerful: How the Scriptures, History, and Experience Can Shape Our Prayers
by Todd Von Helms (Truth Matters Press, 2024)

Todd Von Helms is a gifted apologist. This book is a simple introduction to prayer with bite-sized chapters.

Leadership

Make the Most of Your Productivity: A Guide to Honoring God with Your Time
by Ana Ávila (Crossway, 2024)

I read this book in anticipation for a podcast conversation with Ana. I found it interesting that this book was originally written in Spanish, and only this year translated to English. The book offers wise tips on stewarding our time well and maximizing productivity in a God-honoring way.

Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection
by Charles Duhigg (2024)

Duhigg offers wisdom on how to communicate effectively in all settings. He encourages us to know what conversations are really about, to pay attention to what kinds of conversations are happening, to share goals in conversations, to ask about feelings, and to explore if identities are important to the conversation. The latter part of the book dives into some left-leaning talk of identity, but you can sift through that.

Chess Not Checkers: Elevate Your Leadership Game
by Mark Miller (Berrett-Koehler, 2015)

Chess Not Checkers is one of those leadership books that crafts a fictional story (a parable of sorts) to convey leadership lessons. Despite how corny the fictional story was, I found the lessons to be wise: Bet on leadership, act as one, win the heart, and excel at execution. His discussion of the need to build on systems not personality or to communicate the score visually were actually quite helpful.

The Art of Caring Leadership: How Leading with Heart Uplifts Teams and Organizations
by Heather R. Younger (Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2021)

Younger urges leaders to care not just for the task at hand, but also for the people they oversee or serve. As a Christian (and especially as a pastor), her thoughts weren’t novel in the least bit. What she describes ought to characterize all believers. Again, towards the end, she too veers into left-leaning conversations about identity and such, but you can tell she’s operating with a leadership framework that has been influenced by faith.

The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy
by Jon Gordon (Wiley, 2007)

The Energy Bus is another one of those leadership books which conveys its points via a fictional story. Personally, I found the fictional story so outlandish and unrealistic (an all-knowing leadership guru of a bus driver) that I found it hard pay attention to the main points. The points are all quite helpful if you can get beyond the story.

History and Memoir

Jefferson and Hamilton: The Rivalry That Forged a Nation
by John Ferling (Bloomsbury Press, 2013)

The American Revolution is my favorite part of American history, and I read a book or two each year about it. This book tells the story of the Revolution through the lens of Jefferson and Hamilton’s rivalry. It’s hard not to compare this work with the musical Hamilton; while the latter clearly casts Hamilton as an early progressive, Ferling does the exact opposite. (It’s worth noting Ferling’s book was published a decade prior.) I’m reminded how much our current political moment influences our reading of history, often to our detriment.

Beyond the Wand: The Magic and Mayhem of Growing Up a Wizard
by Tom Felton (Grand Central Publishing, 2022)

Tom Felton played Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter movie series. This book is his memoir of his life, experiences in the wizarding world, and his life since then. Felton is rather candid about his flaws and failures (of which there are many), but I walked away from the book feeling sorry for Felton. It seems like there’s an emptiness or lack of fulfillment in his life, and I don’t think he’ll find it apart from Jesus.

All My Knotted-Up Life: A Memoir
by Beth Moore (Tyndale, 2023)

Beth Moore tells the story of her life, with all the challenges, mistakes, pains, and wounds. Moore is surprisingly vulnerable in these pages, and I walked away with tremendous empathy for her life and experiences. Her writing is also a joy to read — you feel like you’re talking to her over a cup of sweet tea. Even if you don’t agree with all of Beth Moore’s writings, I think you’ll walk away moved by this story.

The Bomber Mafia: A Dream, a Temptation, and the Longest Night of the Second World War
by Malcolm Gladwell (Little, Brown and Company, 2021)

Malcolm Gladwell is so gifted at telling history in a way that readers can track with, and this book is no different. The story tells us about two competing ideologies for World War II bombing strategies, and which ideology won out in the war — but which one won out in history. What’s so special about this book is that it was crafted first as an audiobook and then adapted to a physical book. So the audiobook sounds like really well produced podcast. It’s worth a listen!

Commentaries

In 2024 I preached through Ephesians. Here are the commentaries I used:

Ephesians (New Covenant Commentary) by Lynn H. Cohick (Lutterworth Press, 2013)
Ephesians: A Theological Commentary for Preachers by Abraham Kuruvilla (Cascade Books, 2015)
Ephesians (Evangelical Exegetical Commentary) by SM Baugh (Lexham Press, 2016)
Ephesians: An Exegetical Commentary by Harold W. Hoehner (Baker, 2002)

2023: A Year in Reading

December 31, 2023December 31, 2023 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

For the past few years, my wife and I have challenged each other to read more. 2023 was a particularly busy year in my life, work, and ministry, but I did end up reading 44.

Here’s a list of the books I read with a brief description. I share these in case any of these books sound interesting to you. But first, I want to highlight a few books I enjoyed most…

THE AWARDS

Nathaniel’s Book of the Year

Elisabeth Elliot: A Life
by Lucy S. R. Austen (Crossway, 2023)

I grew up knowing the story of Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, and friends’ martyrdom. I read Elisabeth Elliot’s Through Gates of Splendor and knew of her return to the live with the people who’d killed her husband. But I really didn’t know much about Elisabeth Elliot the person.

That changed when I read Lucy S. R. Austen’s masterful biography of Elisabeth Elliot. Austen tells all of Elliot’s story, from the triumphs and the tragedies. She doesn’t gloss over the thorny issues in Elliots life, such as her difficult later marriages, friction with Rachel Saint, theological inconsistencies, and her ongoing battle to master her own frosty personality. But the book never feels salacious or gossipy; Austen seems to be trying to emulate Elliot’s own method of writing biography — to tell the truth, plain and simple. Yet in it all, Elisabeth Elliot’s humanity shines through the pages. She was an imperfect person whom God used to do amazing things, and Austen’s own admiration for her subject is clear.

Sadly, being named my book of the year won’t guarantee any more book sales or golden stickers on the cover. But I do hope you’ll read this wonderful book for yourself.

(If you want to hear more, check out the Christ and Culture conversation with Mrs. Austen: “The Humanity of Elisabeth Elliot.“)

The Book That Demanded to be a Part of my Intern Reading

Deep Discipleship: How the Church Can Make Whole Disciples of Jesus
by J. T. English (B&H, 2022)

How can churches develop disciples? How can church leaders structure ministries so that discipleship goes from being an ideal to a reality? Deep Discipleship is a helpful book that answers these questions and more. It complements one of the books I return to often, The Trellis and the Vine. Whereas The Trellis and the Vine explores how the church is both organism and an organization, Deep Discipleship explores how to structure the trellis in such a way as to facilitate healthy growth of the vine.

It’s a fantastic book, and our interns will study it this year.

The Biggest Eye Opener

Educated
by Tara Westover (Random House, 2018)

Educated is a memoir about Tara Westover’s experience growing up in a conspiracy-minded Mormon sect. At first, Westover’s family’s eccentricities are mildly humorous. But as the book progresses, things take a darker turn. The book highlights lessons the evangelical church would be wise to learn — such as the dangers of tolerating abuse and sweeping it under the rug.

The Children’s Book I Just Couldn’t Put Down

Secret Keepers
by Trenton Lee Stewart (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2016)

In recent years, our family read Trenton Lee Stewart’s Benedict Society series. And while I enjoyed those books, Secret Keepers was on another level. Honestly, I devoured this book. Young Reuben finds a mysterious watch, and his journey leads him to meet an eclectic band of characters, uncover dark secrets, and face danger at every turn. Secret Keepers is so tightly constructed, and its characters so vivid. I couldn’t put this one down.

The Book for Parents Who Really, Really Enjoy Reading Out Loud

The Reading Promise: My Father and the Books We Shared
by Alice Ozma (Grand Central Publishing, 2011)

When Alice Ozma was in fourth grade, her dad pledged to read to her for 100 straight days. “The streak,” as the called it, didn’t just last 100 days — it lasted 3,218! It only ended as she embarked for college. This book tells the story by highlighting key moments throughout the journey.

THE REST OF THE 2023 READING LIST

Books I Read with my Kids

The Wild Robot
by Peter Brown (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2016)

The Wild Robot is a modern-day classic novel about a robot who learns what it means to truly live. It’ll tug at your heart strings.

Sing Down the Moon
by Scott O’Dell (1970)

This book is a fictionalized account of a young Native American who experiences the Trail of Tears and westward expansion. A powerful book.

The Silver Chair
by C. S. Lewis (1953)

My kids loved this entry in the Chronicles of Narnia series. While it’s not quite to the level of The Horse and His Boy, Puddleglum is one of Lewis’ all-time best characters.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
by J. R. Rowling (Scholastic, 1999)

I love sharing these Potter books with my kids, and boy were they into this one. I had to spoil the ending for my daughter, who was seriously afraid of the looming threat of Sirius Black, but they loved reading this classic book.

Fiction

The False Prince
by Jennifer A. Nielsen (Scholastic, 2012)

Katie was a huge fan of this book and couldn’t wait to share it with me. I can see why. The protagonist Sage is a delightful, street-smart character who, despite his persistent troublemaking, makes those around him better. And as for twists? Boy does this novel have a good one. One of my favorites of the year.

The Runaway King
by Jennifer A. Nielson (Scholastic, 2013)

The sequel to The False Prince doesn’t reach the same heights as its predecessor, but it still stands well on its own. Our protagonist is settling into his new role as King, but things fall apart — and he once again finds himself in a pickle with no way out.

The Shadow Throne
by Jennifer A. Nelson (Scholastic, 2014)

Sadly, The Shadow Throne is my least favorite of the the initial three False Prince books. There are still fun moments, but I got bogged down in all the battles and conflict. But, once again, our hero finds himself in a situation with no escape and… well, you know what happens.

The Monster in the Hollows: The Wingfeather Saga Book 3
by Andrew Peterson (Waterbrook, 2020)

Last year, I wrote how the early Wingfeather books weren’t my favorite, but I kept pushing through. Well by book 3, my decision to read them was worth it. Each book in the series is better than the last, and The Monster in the Hollows fleshes out its characters and touches on themes of community, brokenness, and forgiveness.

The Warden and the Wolf King: The Wingfeather Saga Book 4
by Andrew Peterson (Waterbrook, 2020)

The Warden and the Wolf King made the whole Wingfeather Saga worth it. Honestly, this book feels like an entirely different book than the first book. Peterson is in his element here, writing complex characters, navigating a weighty plot, and exploring powerful themes of redemption, healing, sacrifice, and more. It’s a superb culmination to the saga.

Pembrick’s Creaturepedia: The Wingfeather Saga
by Andrew Peterson (Waterbrook, 2021)

Pembrick’s Creaturepedia is to the Wingfeather Saga what Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is to the Harry Potter series: an encyclopedia of fictional magical creatures in the books.

The Mighty Miss Malone
by Christopher Paul Curtis (Yearling, 2012)

Deza Malone was a minor character in Christopher Paul Curtis’ classic book, Bud, Not Buddy. This book tells her story, and boy it is a weighty one. The book is filled with poverty, sadness, and tragedy, but Deza is a character you root for.

Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle
by Washington Irving

Every year I try to read a few classic books. I found this one at a used book store. The stories within were… not my favorites. But now I can check them off the list.

The Black Star of Kingston
by S. D. Smith (Story Warren Books, 2015)

Various members of my family love the expansive world of the Green Ember Saga. While I can’t say it’s my favorite, I did enjoy this small companion novel about some heroic bunnies (yep, you read that right). Smith excels at depicting characters with bravery, courage, and heroism, and that’s on full display here.

The Last Archer
by S. D. Smith (Story Warren Books, 2017)

Another companion novel to the Green Ember series, this time about — you guessed it — a young archer.

The Time Machine
by H. G. Wells (1895)

I re-read this classic sci-fi novel this year, and it remains a must-read for anyone who enjoys sci-fi.

Sackett’s Land
by Louis L’Amour (1974)

Louis L’Amour was a prolific writer of westerns. Katie and I decided to read some of his books this year. Sackett’s Land, oddly enough, starts out in England, as it tracks its’ protagonists’ journey to the new world.

Taggart
by Louis L’Amour (1959)

Definitely the better of the two Louis L’Amour books we read this year. This one does take place out west, and you understand why people enjoyed L’Amour’s depictions of the western terrain. Be warned, though: Lots of stereotypical and racist depictions of Native Americans.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
by J. K. Rowling (Scholastic, 1997)

This book needs no introduction. Katie gave me a collector’s edition of the book, so we re-read it together.

Christian Nonfiction

Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life
by Donald S. Whitney (Navpress, 1991)

While it’s not my favorite book on spiritual disciplines, Whitney does a wonderful job of explaining and exploring the various spiritual disciplines. (Though I’d quibble with whether journaling is actually a spiritual discipline, as defined by the Bible.)

The Work of the Pastor
by William Still

One of my all-time favorite books on pastoral ministry. It’s punchy, razor-sharp, and essential reading for anyone aspiring to pastoral ministry.

The Contemplative Pastor: Returning to the Art of Spiritual Direction
by Eugene Peterson (Eerdmans, 1993)

I want to be like Eugene Peterson when I grow up. The Contemplative Pastor is one of Peterson’s best books, and his chapter on “The Unbury Pastor” is worth the price of the book alone. Seriously, if you haven’t read it, go do so now.

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
by John Mark Comer (Waterbrook, 2019)

“Most of us are too busy to follow Jesus.” This simple but horrifying truth provokes the need for a book like “The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry.” John Mark Comer repackages timeless wisdom for millennials like me who are far too busy for our own good.

The Cross and Christian Ministry: Leadership Lessons from 1 Corinthians
by D. A. Carson (Baker, 1993)

Another timeless book on Christian ministry. Carson exposits key texts from 1 Corinthians and applies them to pastors.

The Trellis and the Vine: The Ministry Mind-Shift that Changes Everything
by Colin Marshall and Tony Payne (Matthias Media, 2009)

How is the church an organism? What role does organization (i.e., church structures) play in the growth of the church? A fantastic book on what real ministry entails.

We Go On: Finding Purpose in All of Life’s Sorrows and Joys
by John Onwuchekwa (Zondervan, 2022)

A beautiful, raw book on finding hope in suffering. The book itself (formatting, photography, etc) is also beautifully put together.

The Augustine Way: Retrieving a Vision for the Church’s Apologetic Witness
by Joshua D. Chatraw and Mark D. Allen (Baker Academic, 2023)

What can Augustine teach us about apologetics? How was his day like ours, and what tactics can we learn from his approach? Chatraw and Allen discuss in their new book, The Augustine Way. (You can also listen to our Christ and Culture episode on this book: “Augustine’s Approach to a Changing Culture.“)

Astrobiology and Christian Doctrine: Exploring the Implications of Life in the Universe
by Andrew Davison (Cambridge University Press, 2023)

What if extraterrestrial life were… real? What if that extraterrestrial life were intelligent? How would the existence of alien life jive with what we know to be true from the Scriptures? I’ve long pondered these questions myself. In this book, Andrew Davison explores them from scientific and the best of the Christian tradition. While I don’t agree with all his conclusions, I appreciate his thoughtfulness.

Pastoring Small Towns; Help and Hope for Those Ministering in Smaller Places
by Donnie Griggs and Ronnie Martin (B&H, 2023)

An ode (and a challenge) to pastors like me who shepherd churches in small towns and rural communities.

Sports

Make the Call: Game-Day Wisdom for Life’s Defining Moments
by Mark Richt (B&H, 2021)

Make the Call serves as both a memoir and a book of life tips. Mark Richt, beloved Dawg coach, shares from his life, decisions, successes, and failures. If you’re a Dawg fan, you should check it out.

The Teammates: A Portrait of Friendship
by David Halberstam (Hyperion, 2003)

A care little about the Boston Red Sox. But I adored this book about some Red Sox players — Ted Williams, Bobby Doerr, Dominic DiMaggio, and Johnny Pesky — from their early years to late in life. A celebration of baseball and friendship.

The Racers: How an Outcast Driver, an American Heiress, and a Legendary Car Challenged Hitler’s Best
by Neal Bascomb (Scholastic, 2020)

A book about racing… and Hitler? How could you not want to read this one? Sports is at its best when it draws communities (and nations) together. That’s what happened in World War II with a washed up race car driver, an upstart racing team led by a woman, and the whole of France supporting a race against a German powerhouse.

General Nonfiction

The Undoing Project: A Friendship that Changed Our Minds
by Michael Lewis (W. W. Norton and Co, 2016)

Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky were two friends who happened to be scientists, and their work changed psychology forever.

Outliers: The Story of Success
Malcolm Gladwell (Little, Brown and Company, 2008)

I went on a Malcom Gladwell kick this year, and it began with his book Outliers. What makes high achievers different? The answer has much little to do with innate ability, and much more to one’s community, family, and something as seemingly random as when you’re born.

The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference
by Malcolm Gladwell (Little, Brown and Company, 2000)

Epidemics don’t just happen in medicine; they happen in ideas. But what causes those “tipping points”? Malcom Gladwell explores.

David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants
by Malcolm Gladwell (2013)

What makes Davids beat Goliath’s? Maybe it has less to do with luck, and more to do with the fact that one’s greatest strength can also be one’s greatest weakness.

It Worked for Me: In Life and Leadership
by Colin Powell, Tony Koltz (Harper, 2012)

Colin Powell has a famous list of 13 leadership principles, including tips such as, “It ain’t as bad as you think! It will look better in the morning.” This book expands on Powell’s principles.

Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World
by William H. McRaven (Grand Central publishing, 2017)

McrRaven delivered a commencement speech that went viral. This book is an expanded meditation on that speech.

Common Sense
by Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine’s treatise lays out a foundation for why American independence was morally necessary. I was impressed with how he saturated his argument with the Scriptures. I’m not sure his theology was entirely sound, but he at least spoke eloquently to and about religious people.

C. S. Lewis: Memories and Reflections
by John Lawlor (1998)

Some memories of Lewis from one of his colleagues. If you enjoy Lewis and his writings, you’ll probably find some nuggets in this one.

Why It’s Great to be a Georgia Bulldog

January 11, 2023 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

In case you’ve been living under a rock, I have news: The Georgia Bulldogs are national champions. Again. Stetson Fleming Bennett IV, yes, that short kid who we all thought would be nothing more than a scout team quarterback, led the Dawgs to an undefeated season, a second straight national title, all while making Texas Christian University look more like the Oglethorpe County Patriots. Honestly, I wouldn’t have been surprised if TCU coach Sonny Dykes asked for a running clock in the second half.

As the confetti fell in LA and Kirby hoisted the big golden trophy, it was great to be a Georgia Bulldog.

As I’ve spent the day basking in the post-championship glow, I’ve reflected more deeply about what it is about this sport and this team that gives us such emotional swings. Why do we care so much about how well some 20-year-olds can throw an odd-shaped ball through the air? Why does this win give such joy — and those losses such pain?

What does it even mean to be a Georgia Bulldog?

We all could answer this question in different ways. For me, growing up near Athens, I learned early on that being a Dawg fan was about way more than wins and losses. After all, I came of age in the Donnan years, when consistent wins and national recognition were hard to come by. Yet even though the wins were fewer and the losses more frustrating, I still loved being a Georgia Bulldog.

See, for me, being a Dawg was about wearing lots of red and black (and avoiding every shade of orange). It’s about eating at Sonny’s BBQ and seeing relics of the 1980s carefully pinned to the walls. It’s about listening to Munson’s gravely, pessimistic voice over the radio, and itching to find out what Loran Smith has to say from the sidelines. It’s about taking preschool field trips to Sanford Stadium, having David Pollack come speak to your FCA, listening to an offensive lineman address your church, or knowing a coach’s son shares a locker with your brother, It’s about seeing people of all stripes come together on Saturday afternoons. It’s about walking past the practice fields to pick up your new wife from class.

For me, being a Dawg is about loving the place I’m from. It’s about a culture, a community, an unspoken bond that connects every person who dons red and black. And it’s only since moving away from Athens that I’ve come to appreciate these things so much. Indeed, for all these reasons, it is great to be a Georgia Bulldog.

So, for me being a Bulldog isn’t about winning; it’s about home.

But, boy oh boy, the winning is fun.

Check that — it’s really, really fun. I never thought I’d experience one national championship, much less two back-to-back. I never thought we’d beat anyone 65-7 — much less in the National Championship game. I never thought “Glory” would be the envy of the college football world.

But here we are — at the peak of the mountain, making history with each and every win. As I try to tell my oldest son, who’s a budding Dawg fan himself, “We’re living in the glory days. Let’s enjoy it while it lasts.”

Because I know the winning won’t last forever. One day, we’ll remember Stetson as fondly as we remembered Herschel. One day, we’ll ache for 2022 as we ached for 1980, with all sorts of memorabilia from these years adorning restaurants across northeast Georgia. One day, someone else will be king of the college football world.

And that’ll be okay. Because then — like now, and like before — it’ll still be great to be a Georgia Bulldog.

2022: A Year in Reading

January 3, 2023January 3, 2023 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

A few years ago, I decided to read more. 2022 ended up being my most book-filled year yet. While I didn’t match the number of books my beloved wife read (seriously, it’s astounding), I did end up reading 55.

Here’s a list of the books I read with a brief description. I share these in case any of these books sound interesting to you. But first, I want to highlight a few books I enjoyed most..

THE AWARDS

Nathaniel’s Book of the Year

Everything Sad Is Untrue
by Daniel Nayeri (Levine Querido, 2020)

What an absolutely remarkable book. I could try describing it, but I don’t think I’d do it justice. Nayeri weaves together beauty, tragedy, sorrow, and hope, with gems of wisdom (and gospel!) hiding just beneath the surface. It’s my favorite book of the year, and it’s one I want to read again.

Sadly, being named my book of the year won’t guarantee any more book sales or golden stickers on the cover. But I do hope you’ll take time to read this gem for yourself.

Best Title (and Guaranteed to Change Your Life)

Everything Happens for a Reason: and Other Lies I’ve Loved
by Kate Bowler (Random House, 2018)

Everything Happens for a Reason is brutally honest book about cancer, faith, and hope. There’s no Christianese or empty platitudes here — just a powerful, heart-wrenching memoir. Bowler says out loud what everyone who’s suffering is thinking. Her willingness to do so is almost therapeutic, as it lets the reader know they’re not alone in feeling this way. She put words to things I’d felt from my own suffering. It’s a remarkable, beautiful book.

The Book That Finally Convinced Me to Read a Parenting Book

Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms
by Justin Whitmel Early (Zondervan, 2021)

I’m generally not one to read parenting books, but this book from Justin Earley was refreshing and grace-filled. I particularly enjoyed his chapters on work and play. He succinctly lays out theology of these topics which are often sorely neglected.

The Best Sportswriting I’ve Ever Read

Clemente: The Passion and Grace of Baseball’s Last Hero
by David Maraniss ( Simon & Schuster, 2005)

I knew about Roberto Clemente, but I came to appreciate the man, the player, the humanitarian, the legend so much more through this book. Maraniss’ writing is superb, as this book contains some of the best sportswriting I’ve ever read. In particular, Maranniss’ multi-page description of Clemente’s batting was pure poetry. I read it once, then read it again, and then read it out loud to Katie, marveling in the vivid imagery Maraniss evoked. I can’t say I’ve ever seen a Clemente at-bat, but I felt like I did after reading it.

Most Mind-Blowing Book

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
by Rebecca Skloot (Crown, 2011)

Wow. This book was jaw-dropping in so many ways — the amazing feats of science, the tragic treatment of Lacks and her family, and the ethical questions inherent in medical research that few are willing to talk about.

THE REST OF THE 2022 READING LIST

Books I Read with my Kids

The Mysterious Benedict Society
by Trenton Lee Stewart (Little, Brown and Company, 2007)

I read this book after reading the Disney+ adaptation. It’s a modern-day children’s classic. While the plot is captivating, but it’s the characters who stand out. We all know (or are) a Constance Contraire.

The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey
by Trenton Lee Stewart (Little, Brown and Company, 2008)

In the second book, the Mysterious Benedict Society is back in action in a decidedly different tale. Season 2 of the Disney+ show was loosely based on this book — very loosely. The book is far better in every way.

The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner’s Dilemma
by Trenton Lee Stewart (Little, Brown and Company, 2009)

I found this to be the weakest of the Benedict books, though I did enjoy another adventure with these delightful characters.

The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Riddle of Ages
by Trenton Lee Stewart (Little, Brown and Company, 2019)

This book jumps forward many years, and the characters are all coming to grips with the inevitability of change. New addition to the team, Tai Li, is a joy and keeps things fresh.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
by C. S. Lewis

What is there to say? This book is required reading every few years for our family. I loved re-reading it to the little ones, seeing them get tense as Tumnus plans his betrayal, seeing their grief as Aslan sacrifices himself, and their joy when he returns. I also love them seeing the connections. As my oldest said, “Hey, that’s like Jesus!”

The Horse and His Boy
by C. S. Lewis

This foray into the world of Narnia isn’t filled with as much child-like wonder, but its reflections on providence and suffering are superb.

Winnie the Pooh
by A. A. Milne (Troll, 1926)

It’s an absolute classic. No matter how young (or old) you are, you will be delighted by this jaunt through the Hundred Acre Wood with Christopher Robin, Pooh, and their many friends.

When We Were Very Young
by A. A. Milne

This collection of poems are whimsical and aimed at children. Most importantly, Pooh bear makes his first appearance in this book.

The Risen One: Experiencing All of Jesus in Easter
by Scott James (B&H, 2021)

We read this book as a family during the leadup to Easter.

Fiction

The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963
by Christopher Paul Curtis (Delacorte Press, 1995)

Somehow, I was one of the few who didn’t read this book in middle school. So I was shocked when a book that seemed like a light-hearted story about a young Black boy suddenly turned into something much, much more. This book brought me to tears, and it humanized history in a powerful way.

That Hideous Strength
by C. S. Lewis (Scribner, 2003)

Out of the Silent Planet and Perelandra, the first two books in Lewis’ space trilogy, are superb in every way. That Hideous Strength feels like Lewis lost the plot. (When Merlin shows up — yes, the old bearded wizard — I knew we were in for a wild ride.) Many people adore this book, if for no other reason than its prophetic foreshadowing. But it’s simply not my cup of tea.

On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness
by Andrew Peterson (Waterbrook, 2008)

So many people love the Wingfeather saga books by Andrew Peterson, so I was eager to try the series. However, this first book took a while for me to get into. The book has all the ingredients, but it doesn’t quite seem to come together in a satisfying way.

North! Or Be Eaten
by Andrew Peterson (Waterbrook, 2008)

In part 2 of the Wingfeather saga, things get more complicated for the family. This book is still uneven, but the conclusion is powerful and satisfying.

My Side of the Mountain
by Jean Craighead George

I don’t think I’d survive very long if left by myself in some remote mountain. But reading this beautiful little novel made me think that maybe — just maybe — I could.

The Deal of a Lifetime
by Fredrik Backman (Simon and Schuster, 2017)

Backman is known for his magnum opus, A Man Called Ove. While this book is shorter and less impressive, the protagonist shares a remarkable similarity to Ove.

A Christmas Story
by Jean Shepherd

This book compiles the stories from author and humorist Jean Shepherd that inspired the movie, A Christmas Story.

The Prince and the Pauper
by Charles Dickens

Before, everything I knew about the prince and the pauper I learned from Mickey Mouse. This year I decided to read the actual book.

Christian Nonfiction

The God of the Garden: Thoughts on Creation, Culture, and the Kingdom
by Andrew Peterson (B&H, 2021)

This book is about trees. And creativity. And community. And all the ways God breaks into our hardened hearts with his love and grace. Peterson is a gifted songwriter and author, and I so appreciate his vulnerability in telling us about his life and his creative process. (And, of course, his love of trees.)

How to Be a Patriotic Christian: Love of Country as Love of Neighbor
Richard J. Mouw ( IVP, 2022)

The title of this book probably makes you think it fits into one certain camp of evangelicalism. But it doesn’t, at least not cleanly. I reviewed this book for Christianity Today, and I found it to be a welcome reminder to love the place where we are.

Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, not the Donkey or the Elephant
by Patrick Miller and Keith Simon (David C. Cook, 2022)

Like Mouw’s book, I came into the reading expecting one thing. The end-result was surprising and refreshing. The anecdotes and stories in the book are worth the price of the book.

Political Gospel: Public Witness in a Politically Crazy World
by Patrick Schreiner (B&H, 2022)

Another of the many public theology books I read in 2022. Much like the other books I’ve mention, Schreiner will likely make you nod with agreement at some points — and make you uncomfortable in others. But maybe that’s what we need more of — thinking more critically about our political engagement. And, as he told us in a podcast conversation, “Christians aren’t political enough.“

Plain Theology for Plain People
by Charles Octavius Booth (edited by Walter R. Strickland II, Lexham Press, 2017)

Dr. Strickland at Southeastern Seminary has done us a great favor in republishing this edition of an early African American theology book. Booth’s theology is simple, pastoral, and to-the-point. You can tell it was born not in the academy, but out of a burden for fellow churches, pastors, and believers.

Bearing God’s Name: Why Sinai Still Matters
by Carmen Imes (IVP, 2019)

I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Imes while she was at Southeastern for a conference, and I picked up her book. The highest praise I can give this book is that after reading it, I wanted to study and preach Exodus. So well done, Dr. Imes.

Becoming Human: Meditations on Christian Anthropology in Word and Image
by John Behr (St Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 2013)

John Behr was a speaker at the Center for Faith and Culture’s spring conference, and he proved to be the most out-of-the-box thinker at the conference. This book is a brief reflection on theological anthropology.

Meditations on Preaching
by Francis James Grimké, selected and edited by Caleb Cangelosi (Log College press, 2018)

Grimké was a leading African-American pastor in the early 20th century. This book is a collection of some of his best thoughts on preaching, including gems like this: “What the people need to know is not what we think, what we have to say, but what God thinks, and what he has to say.”

Born Again This Way
by Rachel Gilson (The Good Book Company, 2020)

Rachel Gilson shares her remarkable testimony of going from a lesbian atheist to Christ-follower. Along the way, she points to timeless truths about God’s vision for marriage and sexuality.

Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers
by Dane Ortlund (Crossway, 2020)

I read through this book for a second time, this time in a study with our church’s Wednesday night group. The book provoked wonderful conversation, and it made a lasting impact on many in our group.

Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World’s Largest Religion
by Rebecca McLaughlin (Crossway, 2019)

Rebecca McLaughlin has become a leading apologist and Christian thinker, articulating Christian beliefs to people not naturally disposed to accept them. The most helpful part of this book was her defense of a Christian view of gender against critiques that it’s outdated or patriarchal. Much of her wisdom helped me in a particular sermon on the role of men and women in the church. (Also, check out our podcast conversation with Rebecca on recovering friendship.)

Making Faith Magnetic: Five Hidden Themes Our Culture Can’t Stop Talking About… and How to Connect Them to Christ
by Daniel Strange (The Good Book Company, 2021)

Another apologetics book, Making Faith Magnetic is a form of cultural apologetics. Dr. Strange (yes, that’s actually his name) looks at a series of key shared values across all cultures and reveals how the the gospel both subverts and fulfills them. (His podcast conversation was particularly fun as well.)

Digital Dominion: Five Questions Christians Should Ask to Take Control of their Digital Devices
by Jeff Mingee (10publishing, 2022)

Jeff has been one of my most consistent, faithful writers at the Center for Faith and Culture, and this book of his is the culmination of his meditations on faith and technology. For more on this topic, check out our podcast conversation with him.

Following Jesus in a Digital Age
by Jason Thacker (B&H, 2022)

I read this book right after reading Mingee’s. I was expecting significant overlap, but I was surprised how different and complementary they are. Thacker’s book looks at the big-picture issues of following Christ in an increasingly digital age. (Are you seeing a pattern here? Listen to our podcast conversation.)

Streams in the Wasteland: Finding Spiritual Renewal with the Desert Fathers and Mothers
by Andrew Arndt (Navpress, 2022)

This is a book, in part, about spiritual disciplines. But Arndt looks to an oft-neglected group of people — the desert fathers and mothers.

Winds of Heaven, Stuff of Earth
by Andrew Greer and Randy Cox (Worthy Inspired, 2017)

I probably would have enjoyed this tribute to Rich Mullins if I were more familiar with his music and life story. Nevertheless, I appreciated the words and anecdotes from those who knew and loved him.

The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness: The Path to True Christian Joy
by Tim Keller (10 Publishing, 2012)

A short, simple book rooted in the gospel.

Talking Social Justice: Stories and Questions for the Worried, Wistful, and Woke Evangelicals
by Howard Lawler (Salpizo, 2020)

Few topics are more divisive among evangelicalism than social justice. In this book, Lawler seeks to provoke thought and help us think outside the box when it comes to these issues. He doesn’t really reveal his own angle until late in the book, and he always wants to keep you thinking.

A Trail Guide for Church Ministry: A Proverbial Journey
by Howard Lawler (Salpizo, 2021)

A veteran pastors’ collection of tips and proverbs to others following the same path of ministry.

Rediscover Church: Why the Body of Christ Is Essential
by Collin Hansen and Jonathan Leeman (Crossway, 2021)

Does being a part of a church community even matter anymore? Can’t we just live off virtual sermons and podcasts? This book answers these important questions.

Delighting in the Trinity: An Introduction to the Christian Faith
by Michael Reeves (IVP, 2012)

I finally read this brief classic on the Trinity. I’ve heard people reference and adore it for almost a decade, so I was glad to finally read it myself.

Praying the Bible
by Donald S. Whitney (Crossway, 2015)

A simple, helpful book to improve your prayer life. But Whitney doesn’t prescribe self-help tricks or gimmicks. He’s pointing us right back to the scriptures.

Sports

Attack the Day: Kirby Smart and Georgia’s Return to Glory
by Seth Emerson (Triumph, 2020)

Seth Emerson is among the best beat writers covering college football, and we Georgia fans are lucky enough to have him covering the Dawgs. This book chronicles the end of the Richt years, the beginning of the Smart years, the miraculous 2017 season, and the ups and downs of 2018 – 2019. Needless to say, Emerson probably should write a sequel.

Top Dawg: Mark Richt and the Revival of Georgia Football
Rob Suggs (Thomas Nelson, 2008)

Much like Emerson’s book for Smart, this book gives a summary of Mark Richt’s rise to becoming Georgia’s head coach, his early years, and recounts all those glorious moments (like the “hobnail boot”). What’s remarkable are the similarities between Richt’s and Smart’s early years; both took over good-but-not-great programs, instilled an increased toughness, and saw immediate improvement.

Leo Mazzone’s Tales from the Braves Mound
Leo mazzone with Scott Freeman (Sports Publishing, 2003)

If you grew up with 1990s Braves baseball (as I did), Mazzone’s peak inside the bullpen is simply a delight. The stories about Maddux, Smoltz, Glavine, and the like are gold.

General Nonfiction

I Have a Dream: Writings & Speeches that Changed the World
by Martin Luther King, Jr., edited by James M. Washington (Harper One, 1992)

We published an article at the Center for Faith and Culture which challenged people to read MLK honestly. In editing the piece, I was convicted. I’d read a lot *about* MLK, but I’d read very little of what he actually wrote and said. So I bought this book. I read it. And I’m incredibly glad to have done so.

For the Children’s Sake: Foundations of Education for Home and School
by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay (Crossway, 1984)

Katie has read so many books on homeschooling, and she thought I’d enjoy this one. I honestly did. She shares many wise reflections on the importance of reading and literature to a child’s education.

Teaching from Rest: A Homeschooler’s Guide to Unshakable Peace
by Sarah Mackenzie, 2nd ed. (Classical Academic Press, 2015)

Katie loves the Read Aloud Revival podcast, which she has gleefully shared with me. I was delighted to read this brief encouragement to homeschool parents.

Liberty’s Blueprint: How Madison and Hamilton Wrote the Federalist, Defined the Constitution, and Made Democracy Safe for the World
by Michael I. Meyerson (Basic Books, 2008)

The American Revolution is my favorite period of U.S. history, so when I found this book for free, I had to take it. This book is focused mainly on the Federalist Papers, which Hamilton and Madison wrote to promote the Constitution.

Commentaries

I read several commentaries in 2022. Here are the ones I completed:

Genesis Vol 2: A New Beginning – James Montgomery boice
NAC Genesis 11:27-50:26 – Ken Matthews
Eexploring Genesis – John Phillips
Genesis Vol 3 – James Montgomery boice

2021: A Year in Reading

December 29, 2021December 29, 2021 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

In all the ups and downs of 2020, I decided I wanted to read more — both of the Bible and of books in general. I continued this priority in 2021, and it ended up being one of my most book-filled years yet. Here’s a list of the books I read with a brief description. I share these in case any of these books sound interesting to you.

Fiction

How Lucky: A Novel
by Will Leitch (Harper, 2021)

How Lucky is simply terrific. We picked the book up because it’s set in Athens, GA—just a mile from where Katie and I lived as newlyweds. So, yes, Leitch induced a severe sense of homesickness. But the book gave us more than nostalgia. With a disabled protagonist, the book is a testament to human dignity, friendship, and kindness. Honestly, thinking about the characters right now brings a big grin to my face. They’re that delightful. (Full disclosure: There’s a lot of language, so know that before going in.)

Jack
by Marilynne Robinson (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2010)

This book is the fourth (and presumably final) book in Robinson’s stellar Gilead series. This novel dives into issues of race and inequality, and it gives a deeper look into Jack Boughton’s compulsive, slightly neurotic, always paranoid psyche. Della loves him despite his many obvious flaws, in a way that depicts God’s love for us. As a result, this book about a tremendously flawed character is teeming with grace.

Lovely War
by Julie Berry (Viking, 2019)

Where to start with Lovely War? It’s a World War I love story told from the perspective of Greek gods living in the modern world. The idea sounds crazy, but it totally works. Katie read this book in 2020 and insisted I read it too. I’m glad I did.

The Christmas Pig
by J. K. Rowling (Scholastic, 2021)

Full disclosure: I was unsure about The Christmas Pig. The first quarter of the book is really heavy (especially for kids), and dare I say a tad boring to get through? But once the magic begins, the book finds its footing. I won’t spoil anything for you, but Rowling explores themes of love, sacrifice, and new life. (And, oddly enough, the book feels like a literary version of a Pete Docter Pixar film.) I do think there are a tad too many characters to grow emotionally connected to, but by and large The Christmas Pig is an enjoyable, inspiring book.

Bud, Not Buddy
by Christopher Paul Curtis (Scholastic, 1999)

A delightful story about a brave little boy on a journey to find his dad (or so he thinks). Bud is such a lovely, spunky character. I also enjoyed learning how key characters in the book (a former Negro league player, a black-led jazz group) were inspired by the author’s own grandfathers.

One Came Home
Amy Timberlake (Random House, 2014)

In my estimation, this book is a modern classic. One Came Home, cut from the same cloth as True Grit, tells the story of a girl who sets out to find her sister who’s presumed dead. Along the way, she encounters more adventure and danger than she bargained for.

Winnie-the-Pooh
by A.A. Milne (1926)

Milne’s classic book is one of my favorites to read to the kids. But I’m not sure who enjoyed the book more — me or them. Milne’s love for his own son permeates the pages, and it’s a love I like to share with my children.

A Bear Called Paddington
by Michael Bond (1958)

I was introduced to the character of Paddington by the 2015 movie of the same name. But what a joy this little bear is! A refugee from “darkest Peru,” Paddington humanizes refugees of all kinds and urges us to treat others with love and dignity.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
by Lewis Carroll (1865)

I once heard that Carroll was under the influence while writing this book. And after reading it? Well… I believe the rumors. This book is bizarre, an off-the-wall fever dream. While I appreciate how its uniqueness, Alice in Wonderland is not my cup of tea.

Perelandra
by C. S. Lewis (Scribner, 2003)

Perelandra is part 2 of Lewis’ criminally underrated Space Trilogy. It plays out like a retelling of Genesis 1-3 on Venus, and the protagonist seeks to stop the deceiver before Venus suffers the same fate as Earth. If you haven’t read it before, give it a chance. It’ll win your heart (and mind).

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
by C. S. Lewis (1952)

I’ve never completed the Narnia books, so I’m slowly working my way through them. Between Reepicheep’s bravery, Eustace’s growth as a character, and the overall sense of adventure, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader was one of the more enjoyable so far. The end reminded me of the best parts of Lewis’ Out of the Silent Planet or Perelandra.

The Red Pony
by John Steinbeck (1937)

Do you want a light coming-of-age story about a boy and his horse? The Red Pony is not for you. This brief novel is composed of several short stories about a boy growing up in an isolated part of the western frontier. The story is fraught with tension that never resolves, and Steinbeck includes graphic depictions of animal violence. Not an enjoyable read.

Junius Maltby
by John Steinbeck (1932)

Steinbeck’s short story is a cautionary tale of sloth. While not as unsettling as The Red Pony, it’s still not one I anticipate to return to.

Anne of Avonlea
by L. M. Montgomery (1909)

Confession time: I read the original Anne of Green Gables with deep reservations, but Montgomery’s classic was a lovely little novel. Sadly, I found Anne of Avonlea to be inferior in every way. I have lots of problems with this book, but I’ll boil it all down to one character: Davy. Let the reader understand.

The Green Ember
by S. D. Smith (Story Warren Books, 2014)

We’d heard high praise for this young adult fantasy book, so we were eager to pick it up. I enjoyed it less than the kids. The pacing was inconsistent, and it sometimes felt more interested in world-building than telling a compelling story. But I appreciate the world Smith was trying to build, and I hope subsequent books live up to their potential.

The Bronze Bow
by Elizabeth George Speare (1961)

I first read this book in middle school. Reading it now, some 20 years later, gave me a fresh appreciation for Speare’s storytelling and her ability to make us feel like a part of the first century world. We understand how radical Jesus must have been to young, angsty revolutionaries ready to burn Rome to the ground. But what Jesus offered was transformative, as we see in the life of the protagonist.

Harry Potter and the Sorcer’s Stone
by J.K. Rowling

Katie and I had long awaited the day when we could introduce the kids to the Harry Potter books. That day arrived this fall. Our plan is to read one each fall as the kids grow older.

The Best School Year Ever
by Barbara Robinson (1971)

A sequel to the infamous novel The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, this book continues telling the stories of the mischevious Herdmen kids. While not as memorable as its predecessor, Robinson still inspires lots of laughter and a few heartwarming moments.

Christian Nonfiction

The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution
by Carl Trueman (Crossway, 2020)

Why is the world the way it is? In other words, how could we arrive at a point where the statement “I’m a woman trapped in a man’s body” could be readily accepted by almost everyone? Trueman traces the development of the “self” through hundreds of years of Western thought. His work is impressive, wise, and surprisingly readable considering the breadth and depth of the topic. One of the most important reads of the year.

Reading While Black: African-American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope
by Esau McCaulley (Intervarsity Press, 2020)

McCaulley highlights the unique exegetical contributions of the black church to biblical interpretation. I simply loved this book. Having listened to McCaulley’s podcast The Disrupters, I could hear his voice as I read his words. Chapter 6 (“What Shall We Do with All This Rage”) stood out for his thoroughly biblical handling of a complex problem. A marxist McCaulley is not, and we’d all do well to cling to the Scriptures as firmly as he does when our cultural headwinds urge us not to.

Family Worship
by Donald Whitney (Crossway, 2019)

We have wanted to incorporate formal family devotions into our family routines, but we’ve had lots of fits and starts. Family Worship was a brief, helpful reminder on why and how we can do so. Whitney urges brevity, simplicity, and consistency in family worship, and we have tried to incorporate these practices into our family routines.

For God So Loved the World: A Blueprint for Kingdom Diversity
edited by Walter Strickland and Dayton Hartman (B&H, 2020)

Strickland and Hartman takes us on a tour of the what and why of kingdom diversity, featuring chapters from significant names in Southern Baptist life and some names who’ve influenced my own thinking. In particular, I appreciate the chapters on complementarianism — explaining the differences in complementarian thought and charting a path forward that’s both faithful to the inerrant Scriptures and empowering women to use their God-given gifts.

The Cross and Christian Ministry: Leadership Lessons from 1 Corinthians
by D.A. Carson (Baker Books, 1993)

I’ve read this book multiple times through the years — during my pastoral internship, then again in my first years of ministry. I read it again with my intern and found it as powerful and challenging as ever. Carson interacts with various passages of 1 Corinthians, and the insights for ministry are practical and wise.

Reading the Times: A Literary and Theological Inquiry into the News
by Jeffrey Bilbro (IVP Academic, 2021)

What is this news addiction doing to us? Is there a way out? And, most importantly, how should our Christian faith lead us to think about these questions? Bilbro addresses these topics in this book, which is wise, practical and liberating. (I wrote a review of the book at the Christ and Culture blog.)

A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society (Collector’s Edition)
by Eugene Peterson (Intervarsity Press, 2019)

Eugene Peterson is best known for The Message translation of the Bible. But I wish he were more known for his devotional writings — like this book. In it, Peterson wades through the Psalms of Ascent and offers application to aid us in spiritual formation.

Cannabis and the Christian
by Todd Miles (B&H, 2021)

How should Christians think about marijuana? With the growing marijuana legalization movement, we can no longer simply say it’s bad because it’s illegal. We need to think Christianly about this substance, applying biblical ethical principles to this topic. This brief book by Todd Miles helps us do this very task. (I interviewed Miles about this book for Christianity Today.)

Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life
by Tish Harrison Warren (Intervarsity Press, 2016)

Does God care about how we brush our teeth, wash the dishes, or drive to work? Tish Harrison Warren says yes. This simple book is one of best books I’ve read in the past five years, so I made a point to read it again with my intern.

On the Road with Saint Augustine: A Real-World Spirituality for Restless Hearts
by James K. A. Smith (Baker, 2019)

On the Road with Saint Augustine is equal parts travelogue, apologetic work, historical theology, and autobiography. Smith helps us see how Augustine is much like each of us — a flawed human being who finds hope and healing in a life-changing resurrected ancient carpenter.

Enjoying the Bible: Literary Approaches to Loving the Scriptures
by Matthew Mullins (Baker, 2021)

Mullins, a literature prof, urges us to treat the Bible like literature. In particular, we can take principles for reading poetry and apply them to reading the poetry in the Scriptures. Doing so, he argues, will help us love the Bible on its own terms, not just see it as a collection of principles. In other words, there’s a reason why God gave us the Bible in all its various genres, as opposed to giving us a divine encyclopedia.

The Work of the Pastor
by William Still (Christian Focus, 2010)

This powerful, punchy, practical little book is one of my favorites on pastoral ministry. I re-read it, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first time.

Restarting the World: A New Normal After a Pandemic
by H. Norman Wright and Bryn Edwards (B&H, 2021)

In theory, this little book could be helpful. Ironically, though, I received it while the delta variant was just beginning to ravage the country. So… maybe the title was a bit premature? Nevertheless, there are some helpful insights, and the book is brief, simple, and easy to read.

Mere Discipleship: Growing in Wisdom and Hope
by Alister McGrath (Baker, 2018)

In this book, a collection of lectures delivered over the years, McGrath interacts with and applies key components of C.S. Lewis’ thought. I noticed that he shared some of his observations in the book in his lecture at the L. Russ Bush Center for Faith and Culture this year.

The Genealogical Adam and Eve: The Surprising Science of Universal Ancestry
by S. Joshua Swamidass (Intervarsity Press, 2019)

Joshua Swamidass proposes a new way of reconciling the creation/evolution debate. I must say, parts of his theory are intruiguing, though other parts leave me unconvinced. If you’re looking for a short version of what he’s advocated, he explains in this podcast episode.

Humbled: Welcoming the Uncomfortable Work of God
by David Mathis (B&H, 2021)

A short, helpful book on a big, cumbersome problem we all deal with — the problem of pride, and the pursuit of humility. In around 100 pages, Mathis urges us to look to the example of Jesus and pursue humility.

The Multi-Directional Leader: Responding Wisely to Challenges from Every Side
by Trevin Wax (TGC, 2021)

Such a wise little book from Trevin Wax. Wax puts into words thoughts I’d long wrestled with. In particular, I appreciate his call for “epistemic humility.” The book both encouraged and challenged me in my personal life and in my ministry.

Retreiving History: Memory and Identity Formation in the Early Church
by Stefana Dan Laing (Baker, 2017)

My favorite part of this book is towards the end. Laing shares the stories of notable women in church history — most of whom would are unknown in our churches. We owe it to ourselves to know these important stories of faithful saints in the past.

Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers
by Dane Ortlund (Crossway, 2020)

In 2020, lots of people were reading this book, so I finally read it for myself. Ortlund interacts with Scripture and Puritan thinkers to get at the heart of Christ — and what that means for our Christian life. The short of it: Jesus loves us far more than we dare imagine. An uplifiting, scripturally rich read with short chapters, so you could easily make it a part of your devotional routine.

Why God Makes Sense in a World That Doesn’t
by Gavin Ortlund (Baker, 2021)

Ironically, I read these books by the Ortlund brothers back to back! This book is less devotional and more apologetic. Ortlund is making a case for God — appealing not just to facts and logic, but also to art and beauty. In the coming years, I think we’ll need to employ the kinds of arguments Ortlund uses in this book.

Walking in God’s Wisdom
by Benjamin T. Quinn (Lexham, 2021)

Quinn gives us a framework from which to understand Proverbs, and he draws out key themes that pervade the book. The rare commentary that’s enjoyable to read. When I teach Proverbs, I intend to consult this book!

Turning of Days: Lessons from Nature, Season, and Spirit
by Hannah and Nathan Anderson (Moody Publishers, 2021)

“The heavens declare the glory of God,” and in this book the Hannah Anderson draws devotional applications from nature to spur worship and reflection, while her husband Nathan supplements these reflections with beautiful drawings.

The Gospel and Religious Liberty
by Russell Moore and Andrew T. Walker (B&H, 2016)

I read this book to prepare for a church lecture on the topic of religious liberty. It was succinct but helpful in helping me compile my thoughts.

The Expected One: Anticipating All of Jesus in the Advent
by Scott James (B&H, 2014)

We read this book together as a family in our morning devotions, and I found it to a simple, easy-to-follow guide to seeing the hope of Christ in the Christmas season. Each day, you’re prompted to read a verse, reflect on it, and pray. The devotions were simple enough for the whole family (even the littlest one) to get involved.

The Last Words of Jesus: A Meditation on Love and Suffering
by Daniel P. Horan (Franciscan Media, 2013)

A Franciscan friar offers his reflections on the seven last words of Jesus. Horan’s interpretation of Jesus’ words lean heavily into issues of justice, as his tradition often does, but he occasionally offers helpful applications.

Last Words: Seven Sayings from the Heart of Christ on the Cross
by Robert J. Nash (New Growth Press, 2020)

I found this book to be far more helpful and applicable than Horan’s book. Nash’s reflections and meditations informed my preaching of the seven last words of Jesus during Lent.

General Nonfiction

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
by Frederick Douglass

One of my goals in 2021 was to read more books by people of color, and Frederick Douglass’ infamous autobiography was at the top my reading list. Douglass is unflinching in his depiction of slavery, and his words resonate like those of an Old Testament prophet speaking God’s judgment against a cruel, inhumane system. I urge everyone — especially believers in Jesus — to read and reflect on his words.

Talking to GOATS: The Moments You Remember and the Stories You Never Heard
by Jim Gray (Harper Collins, 2020)

Why did Mike Tyson give away a brand-new sports car? What was the best game you never saw Michael Jordan play? How did Muhammed Ali treat a bunch of South Carolina kids? And what’s behind the beef between Pete Rose and Jim Gray? The veteran sportscaster tells these (and other) stories you’ve never heard before. If you like sports, you owe it to yourself to read this book. Gray sometimes toots his own horn too much, but the stories are worth it.

Founding Mothers: The Women Who Raised Our Nation
by Cokie Roberts (Harper Perennial, 2005)

The Founding Fathers were instrumental in the founding of our nation, but after reading this book I’m convinced that the nation wouldn’t exist without the contributions of “Founding Mothers” like Martha Washington, Abigail Adams, Dolly Madison and others. While the men were away fighting wars and writing laws, the women kept estates afloat, ran businesses, wrote pamphlets — all while raising children. This book was an illuminating look at their experiences, filled with quotes and references to primary sources. I, for one, hope we can celebrate these founding mothers as much as we celebrate the founding fathers.

Dreams from my Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance
by Barack Obama (Crown, 2004)

Before Barack Obama was a President, a Senator, husband, or father, he was a young man searching for his identity. And while I don’t agree with all of Obama’s politics, I deeply appreciated his candor in this book. He tells the story of his birth, searching for the father he barely knew, reconciling the disparate parts of his upbringing, and coming to terms with his identity. Dreams of my Father isn’t the polished autobiography of elder Obama the statesman; it’s the the raw reflections of a young man trying to find his place in this world. And doesn’t that describe all of us?

The Pleasures of Reading in an Age of Distraction
by Alan Jacobs (Oxford University Press, 2011)

Alan Jacobs wants you to read. A lot. But lest you grow stressed, Jacobs doesn’t give you a lengthy list of literary “thou shalts” and “thou shalt nots.” Instead, he urges you to read what you find interesting. Read on a whim. Follow your nose. And grow in your love of the written word.

A Shot in the Moonlight: How a Freed Slave and a Confederate Soldier Fought for Justice in the Jim Crow South
by Ben Montgomery (Hachette Book Group, 2021)

This book tells the true story of a grave injustice against a black man in the Jim Crow South — and the surprising legal victories he acheived. While the details of the story are astounding, the book’s methods of telling said story left much to be desired. For example, several chapters are simply excerpts from the trial transcripts.

Christmas in Plains: Memories
by Jimmy Carter (Simon and Schuster, 2001)

In this short book, Georgia’s most famous resident shares vignettes of his life story through various Christmases in his life. The Christmases begin simple but grow increasingly complex in his Presidential years.

Commentaries

I read several commentaries in 2021. Here are the ones I completed:

The Letters of John by Colin G. Kruse (Eerdmans, 2000)
TNTC Letters of John by John R. W. Stott (IVP, 2009)
NAC 1-3 John by Danny Akin (B&H, 2001)
Open Letter to Evangelicals by R. E. O. White (1964)

A Sickness & A Cure: A Response to the Events of Jan. 6

January 7, 2021December 29, 2021 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

By Pastor Nathaniel

You (like me) watched with horror what happened on January 6, 2021. While peaceful protest is a hallmark of our democracy, what happened at the US Capitol was tragic and grievous. It was a dark day in American history.

I’ve wrestled with what to say in this moment. Here are some prayerful thoughts.

A Sickness

What we saw Wednesday was merely a symptom of a deep-rooted sickness that has gripped our nation. It’s a sickness of idolatry, of violence, of only listening to facts we agree with, of pursuing worldly means of achieving power. It’s a sickness of sin.

Sadly, this is not just a sickness in the world “out there.” It has crept into the church, infecting self-proclaimed followers of Jesus.

This is our problem.

If we want a cure to the disease, here are a some biblical truths we must cling to:

1. We serve no ordinary king. Our ultimate king is Christ — and Christ alone. He is the only one who deserves our undivided allegiance.

“He… is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords.” (1 Timothy 6:15)

2. We pledge allegiance to no ordinary kingdom. Our ultimate Kingdom is not the United States, but the kingdom of God. Our love and devotion to this temporary nation must never exceed our love and devotion for the never-ending kingdom of God.

“Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, And Your dominion endures throughout all generations.” (Psalm 145:13)

3. We do not fight in ordinary ways. There are situations in which it is biblically permissible to use force — such as serving in the armed forces or in self-defense. But as Christians, our primary weapons of war aren’t clubs and violence, but prayer and intercession.

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)

4. We do not have an ordinary mission. We are called to be agents of reconciliation in the world, pointing broken people to their loving God. We are not — in any situation — called to be agents of chaos.

“All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself… Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ.” (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)

A Better Cause

I’m not naïve. I’m sure some of you may find yourselves strangely sympathetic to the rioters’ cause. Maybe you feel a strong sense of injustice, and you want to be a part of some great movement.

Let me speak directly to you for a moment: Your ache at the realities of injustice is good; we do live in a fallen, broken world. Your desire to join in a great cause is admirable; we all want to be a part of something great.

But this is not the way.

There is injustice in the world, but this isn’t the way to fight it. We should be a part of greater causes, but we deserve something better than a violent mob.

The truth is that God already has a plan to effect change in the world — to fight injustice and give you a chance to join in something great. But this plan doesn’t involve clubs and riots. It involves everyday people of God joining together to love their neighbors and proclaim the gospel to them. If you want to change the world, join the church.

We aren’t called to fight our enemies, but to love them.

Look to Jesus

Jesus lived during a tense political time, too. The whole world was walking on egg shells; at any moment, violence could break out. The people expected the Messiah would join them in their fight — overthrowing the wicked empire they so despised.

But did Jesus do that? No. When Jesus came, he didn’t conquer his enemies, he laid down his life for them. He didn’t satisfy the crowds’ yearning for violence, he renounced those desires. When Peter drew the sword to cut off the ear of one of Jesus’ captors, Jesus reprimanded him for it.

See, their hopes were far too small. Jesus had bigger plans — plans not just for a temporary kingdom, but for a cosmic redemption of all parts of mankind.

Today, don’t let your hopes be too small. Join in with God’s bigger plans — for your life, and for the world.

As we conclude, please join me in praying for our nation — and for us. The change we want to see in the world must start in our own lives.

This post originally published at CedarRockBaptist.com.

2020: A Year in Reading

January 1, 2021January 1, 2021 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

2020 threw us plenty of curveballs. It certainly threw me plenty. But at the start of the year, I set out to read more — both of the Bible and of books in general. While I didn’t read as much as I’d wished, I read more than in recent years. Here’s a list of the books I read with a brief description. I share these in case any of these books sound interesting to you.

Nonfiction

Adorning the Dark: Thoughts on Community, Calling, and the Mystery of Making
by Andrew Peterson (B&H, 2019)

Andrew Peterson is a gifted musician. In this brief book he takes us into his own creative process, exploring the role of community and mystery in the artistic endeavor.

Reading for Preaching: The Preacher in Conversation with Storytellers, Biographers, Poets, and Journalists
by Cornelius Plantinga (Eerdmans, 2013)

Plantinga urges preachers to read widely and consume a healthy dose of good writing — for the sake of the preaching, and for the sake of their own souls.

Racing to the Finish: My Story
by Dale Earnhardt Jr. with Ryan McGee (Thomas Nelson, 2018)

Full disclosure: I’m an avid racing fan. But I enjoyed this book far more than I expected. Dale Jr. is one of racing’s biggest stars, but he pulls back the curtain on his struggles overcoming multiple concussions. His words were a tremendous encouragement to me as I recovered from my own pains and injuries.

On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life through Great Books
by Karen Swallow Prior (Brazos Press, 2018)

Prior interacts with multiple classic pieces of literature, highlighting key themes and how they resonate (or not) with the Christian faith. I came away with a greater desire to read broadly — which, I think, was one of her goals.

The Gospel in a Pluralist Society
by Lesslie Newbigin (Eerdmans, 1989)

I’ve long wanted to read Lesslie Newbigin. This year, I finally took the plunge. The Gospel in a Pluralist Society is my favorite Christian theology book I’ve read in years. He explores how the church can maintain a missionary posture, and what that looks like in modern culture.

The Open Secret: An Introduction to the Theology of Mission
by Lesslie Newbigin (Eerdmans, 1995)

I couldn’t read just one book by Newbigin. So I read another. This book develops a theology of mission, and serves as a foundational text for understanding how and why the church exists “on mission.”

The Practice of the Presence of God
by Brother Lawrence

What can an ancient monk teach us about prayer? Much, evidently. Brother Lawrence wove prayer into every part of his life and every moment of his day — even work. We all have much to learn from this faithful saint.

The Pastor and Counseling: The Basics of Shepherding Members in Need
by Deepak Reju and Jeremy Pierre (Crossway, 2015)

Full confession: I’m supposed to write a full book review on this one. (To my editor who’s still waiting, I’m very, very sorry.) But it will be an easy book review to write, because Reju and Pierre offer a short, simple introductory book on biblical counseling. It was a delight.

Four Views on Creation, Evolution and Intelligent Design
by Ken Ham, Hugh Ross, Deborah Haarsma, and Stephen C. Meyer (Zondervan, 2017)

This book was a helpful refresher as I prepared to teach on Genesis 1-2. Balanced and careful.

The Bedford Boys: One American Town’s Ultimate D-day Sacrifice
by Alex Kershaw (Da Capo Press, 2004)

I knew the gist of what happened on D-Day. But this book brings the soldiers’ sacrifices to light in a whole new way with a look at Bedford, VA’s tremendous loss. I come away with a greater appreciation for these and all soldiers’ sacrifice.

Fiction

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
by J.K. Rowling (Scholastic, 2007)

What can I say? It’s a wonderful piece of fiction with surprisingly clear Christ themes. There’s a reason these books have sold millions of copies.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
by C.S. Lewis (1950)

I decided to re-read this classic to the kids. It’s every bit as delightful as I remember. (My kids enjoyed it, too.)

The Importance of Being Earnest
by Oscar Wilde (1894)

I was in this play in high school, but I’d forgotten how funny this play is. The wit drips off the page.

A Long Way from Chicago (1998), A Year Down Yonder (2000) A Season of Gifts (2009)
by Richard Peck (Puffin Books)

This trilogy from Richard Peck is criminally underrated. The main character, Grandma Dowdel, is among the most memorable in all of young adult literature.

Fair Weather
by Richard Peck (Puffin Books, 2003)

This novel, while not as memorable as the Grandma Dowdel trilogy, still offered a few laughs. I also learned much about the World’s Columbian Exposition, a tremendously influential fair located in Chicago in 1893.

Out of the Silent Planet
by C.S. Lewis (1938)

Most people know of Lewis’ fantasy books (The Chronicles of Narnia), but few know of his science fiction trilogy. Lewis’ exploration of space is less an adventure book, and more of a work of theology and philosophy. He causes us to wonder: If there were intelligent life elsewhere, how would they relate to God? And what would they think of us?

A Christmas Carol
by Charles Dickens (1843)

I read this book aloud to my 7-year-old, and I was astounded at how much he understood. This book is a classic for a reason, and it’s one of my favorite reads each Christmas.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
by Barbara Robinson (1971)

I’d forgotten how hilarious — and beautiful — this little book is. Robinson’s narrative helps us understand the Christmas story with fresh eyes and hearts.

James and the Giant Peach
by Roald Dahl (1961)

This book was decidely… strange. Talking insects? A giant peach? Cloud men? Dahl lets his imagination fly. But upon re-reading this book in light of the Harry Potter books, I can only imagine that J.K. Rowling’s sensibilities (and character names) were influenced by Lewis and Dahl. Could “James Henry Trotter” be inspiration for “Harry James Potter”?

Commentaries

I read several commentaries in 2020 — on the book of Acts, Genesis, Isaiah and more. Here are the ones I completed:

Exalting Jesus in Acts by Tony Merida (Holman Refernce, 2017)
Exploring Acts by John Phillips (Kregel, 2001)
The Final Days of Jesus by Andreas Kostenberger and Justin Taylor (Crossway, 2014)
The Undoing of Death by Fleming Rutledge (Eerdmans, 2005)
The Gospel of Genesis: Studies in Protology and Eschatology by Warren Gage (Wipf and Stock, 2001)
Genesis: An Expositional Commentary (Volume 1) by James Montgomery Boice (Baker, 2006)

Sermon | Is Jesus Your Greatest Love? (Matthew 10:34-42)

August 1, 2016 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

“When you follow Jesus, you are necessarily putting Jesus on the throne of your life — and knocking something else off.”

Is Jesus your greatest love? Discover why the answer to that question is so important as we dig into Matthew 10:34-42.

Delivered by Nathaniel at Cedar Rock First Baptist Church on July 31, 2016.

Sermon | Hope in Fearful Times (Matthew 10:26-33)

July 26, 2016 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

“God was greater than the disciples’ fears. And today, God is still greater than our fears. Through the world feels more hostile to us by the day, God is greater. Though we feel spiritually homeless in our own homeland, God is greater.”

Every day, we feel like we’re increasingly strangers in the world. Most of all, we feel fear. But in Matthew 10:26-33, Jesus has an important message for us: God is greater than our fear.

Delivered by Nathaniel at Cedar Rock First Baptist Church on July 24, 2016.

4 Ways to Pray for Baton Rouge

July 21, 2016July 21, 2016 / Nathaniel Williams / Leave a comment

Last Sunday, we awoke to yet another tragedy. Three law enforcement officers were killed and three more injured in Baton Rouge, mere weeks after the death of Alton Sterling.

As I saw the horrific news develop, I wanted to know how I could pray for this city reeling in pain and division. So I reached out to Katie Harris, a friend who serves in Baton Rouge with AmeriCorps. Since she lives and ministers within the city, I knew she’d be able to help me know how to pray.

She offered four ways I can pray for the city. I hope that these help you pray as well.

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