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.

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. 

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

The election is only one day away. We’ve studied the candidates, researched the issues, lamented our options and read politically charged articles on social media.

But have we prayed?

I’ve got to be honest. Prayer hasn’t been my first reaction. But, as Bruce Ashford and Billy Hallowell write, prayer is one of the most important tasks we have this election:

As we battle back and forth over the political situation, it’s easy to forget the importance of prayer. Ask yourself: when is the last time you prayed for President Barack Obama, or for members of Congress?

The Bible is clear; Christians are meant to seek God’s guidance for our leaders and those in authority. Yet, many of us are so consumed with fear, frustration, or even apathy that we’ve forsaken these instructions.

How, then, can we pray for the election? Over at the IntersectProject, I offer five simple ways to pray for Election Day.

Read the rest of the article at IntersectProject.org.

A prominent child of privilege had glaring personal weaknesses. He was overly image conscious, and he constantly got in trouble for indulging his hedonistic sexual desires.

On paper, he followed God. In practice, he did nothing of the sort.

Many of the people ignored his personal transgressions. But a well-known preacher called him out, at great personal cost.

Headlines and History Books

This story sounds like it’s ripped from the headlines. In fact, it’s ripped from the history books. This is the story of Herod Antipas and his chief critic, John the Baptist.

Read the rest of the article at IntersectProject.org.