After my last post I expected someone to ask specifics about my summer reading! When I was describing my A,B,C categories I didn't mention another group that looms large in my life: publisher's manuscripts. When reading them I try to use the same steps for seeing the big picture and framing structure, but I don't feel I can ever skim if I am to write an honest foreword or endorsement. Perhaps they form a category D because however I might grade them ultimately as A,B or C, I want to give my best by a fairly careful read. Its nearly always an honor to write a foreword because you already have a connection with the author or the subject - they have done all the hard work and I need only add a bow and note on the front! Only occasionally I have had to decline because I could not be positive enough!
Currently, I have two forewords requested: Brian Harris, The Tortoise Usually Wins: Biblical Reflections on Quiet Leadership (Paternoster) and Lori J Carrell, Preaching that matters (Alban Institute). I also need to give an endorsement for Richard H. Cox, Rewiring Your Preaching: How the Brain Processes Sermons (IVP). All D category.
In strictly A category terms my most recent read is Craig Van Gelder & Dwight J Zscheile, The Missional Church In Perspective (Baker Academic, 2011). This is one of those 'mapping books' which help to locate where other significant missional leaders and trends belong in the developing missional story. Based upon an incisive reexamination of the category A missional book, Garrell Guder, Missional Church, this not only maps out four differing developments: Discovering, Utilizing, Engaging, Extending, but opens up an extraordinarily rich conversation on the key issues to engage us all. I have found this extremely revealing as it locates much so much of my reading (and teaching) in useful categories. This kind of book deserves detailed attention and I've not finished yet. Good 'mapping books' are like this!
Thursday, August 2, 2012
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2 comments:
Michael,tried to comment on your last blog.You keep referring to "time" as though you have to squeeze every minute. Agree in one sense,should not waste our time, BUT, you are nearing retirement (?) and need to wind down,and not keep looking at the clock. Spoken after bitter experience. Start the wind down now. By the way did you ever read "My Way of Preaching" ed. Smithson for your books. I have a copy I will send. Rather Scottish prejudice in choice of writers and bit Brethren orientated but a good book overall. Brian Astell (UK)
Brian
Thanks for your warning. You spotted something in my writing that alerted you to a continuing 'drivenness' and concern to maximize time. I am sure my old habits continue! Interestingly though, this summer I have not at all been conscious of looking at the clock! Rather, I am finding so much of interest around me that my life is not so much driven as captivated by stuff that excites and enlivens me. And, it's a good example when books are recommended like your Smithson. Do I really want to have yet another book on the big pile? Well, yes I do (at the moment)!
But I shall keep your warning in mind. I think captivation can/should wane. Yes, ageing requires thoughtfulness.
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