The Grace of God

I got "The Grace of God" written by Andy Stanley, from Thomas Nelson Publishing a looooooong time ago. This poor book has travelled to 4 states, been lost under a bed, dropped in the bathtub, stepped on, ripped, bent, and just all around neglected.

Which, now that I think about it, is kind of fitting for a book about how God's grace is showered on us. The believers and non-believers who have been trampled, forgotten, abused, and shattered--all are given the gift of Grace.

This book chronicles some of the well-known men and women of the bible, and the story of how Grace worked in thier lives. From Rahab to David, the most scorned citzens to the most praised kings all have received Grace. Each chapter covers a different player. You don't even need to bring a highlighter along for this book--the author makes sure to bold the points he wants to emphasize.

For a new Christian, or even someone who doesn't believe in Jesus Christ, the message can be kind of muddled until you get to the last chapter. On the second to last page. The author even bolds the text so that you don't miss it. "In God's story, you are the focus of a celebration. Not what you've done. You." The stories of Jonah, Levi, Abraham & Isaac, and Nicodemus all intertwine to show us that God loves us, not our actions.

As a Christian reading this book, the essence of the message can be summed up on page 202. Mr. Stanley quotes a passage from Acts (15:19). There's a backstory--the paraphrased version in Stanley's book, or Acts 15:1-29 can be read to gain understanding. But verse 19 pretty much sums it up: "It is my judgement, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God." How many of us that call ourselves "Christian" have given rules and standards for baby Christians that we ourselves cannot meet? How many 'church people' look at someone who has never been to church on Sunday with contempt.

Jesus opened his arms to prostitutes, lepers, and tax collectors. The lowest of the low. Why is it, then, that we turn our backs on those same people? Why is it that those of us who feel ashamed and low turn from Jesus? There seems to be a lot of closed off people in a world that was given the Grace to keep arms wide open.

Please, read this book. Even if you just read the last two chapters. Gain some insight into the Grace that has been given to you, just because you are.

The End of the Road

It's official. I graduate tomorrow.

Since January 2009, I have been hitting the books. Thanks to the "village", I have been able to work, go to school, and support my husband and my children. I posted a thank you on Facebook the other day, but it doesn't feel like enough. Words cannot express how I feel about everyone who has helped me make it through these years.

When Emma was a baby, I tried to attend Glendale Community College. I took one class and never went back. So finally finishing, even though it's 'only' an Associates Degree, is a big weight off of my shoulders.

Since my internship last January, I have been working at the Pet Food Warehouse. I plan on staying on with them. I've already told my boss that the only job I would ever consider leaving them for would be at the local wood pellet plant. Ever since Huttig, I love the smell of fresh cut wood.

One of the reasons I went back to school is because no one would hire a stay at home mom who hadn't worked for over two years. Now that I have a job, I'm set!

I will keep up the blog, as much as I can, since I still review for a couple of publishers.I suppose this has moved from "Mom in School" to "Mom in the Workforce".

Tomorrow, I will cross a stage, with other students, in front of *almost* everyone who's important to me. I wish everyone could be there; just remember that many of you played a part in my accomplishment. And come over to my house for a great BBQ meal.  :)

The Harvest of Grace

(Sorry I've been gone so long... School, holidays, etc) This is a book by Cindy Woodsmall, who is following in the footsteps of other authors such as Beverly Lewis and Janette Oke.

She tells the story of Sylvia, a young Amish woman scorned. Ms. Woodsmall's style of writing brings a nice flow to the book, and you cannot help but immerse yourself in the story. Your heart will break for Sylvia, and rejoice with her as well.

I'm not much for romances, even inspirational ones, but I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great book to get lost in. I'll give this book 4 out of 5 stars. (only 4 because the different story lines that start out can be confusing until they all tie together.)