Aug. 26, 2008 - Wild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson
I've known for a while now that I had this book to read and review, but have found myself reluctant to do so.
Then came Sunday night - the night before this review was due. I knew that I would need to post the review the next day and that I hadn't read enough of the book (at that time about 5 pages) to even write a sentence about it. So, I picked up the book determined to get some of it done. I flipped through and read a page here and there - probably taking in about 15-20 pages total.
In all of that there was plenty that I didn't agree with on a belief level (women on pastorial staff of his church, etc.), but more than that, it was still just a feeling of no peace.
I didn't like the idea that he was portraying - that we were on some lifelong adventure to "chase after the Holy Spirit"...My Father God pursues ME. Yes, I am to follow after Christ, to be Christ-minded, to model my life after His. But I'm not to be on a chase after the Holy Spirit.
It also seemed he was saying that life was basically one big roller coaster - one adventure after another - that we should be constantly chasing, running, breathless after the next big one.
The God I serve is one of order, reverence, and plan. No, I don't know what is going to happen next - but I know WHO has planned what is going to happen. I don't have to be scared, hanging on by my fingertips...waiting to see. I can simply TRUST.
Anyway, Monday came and went. The review didn't get written. I prayed that God would allow my eyes to be opened to whatever I needed to see. If I was being irrational - then I wanted to know.
So, I did some research online last night, and God confirmed for me that what I believed the Holy Spirit was prompting in me was in fact what he WAS prompting.
So, here it is Tuesday afternoon...and here is the review. Not exactly glowing, I know. And not easy to write. I hate negativity...and I really hate knowing that I've had to share it with you guys - especially about someone that bears the name of pastor.
I pray only God's best for Pastor Mark Batterson and National Community Church. I pray that I am never again put in a situation like this one.
BTW, yes, I do have a book to give away as usual. I will be giving it to my pastor. Maybe between my husband and my pastor they can shed some more light on why this book has caused such a stirring in me.
Comments
Sep. 11, 2008 - I think you did the right thing
Posted by Susan in Va
I haven't read the book, so I'm not commenting on it one way or the other, but I do know that we have to be honest in our reviews and faithful to what we believe is God's voice in our lives.
I think maybe this guy has had more fun on roller coasters than you and I. I don't see that as a positive image either. My own personal life HAS been kinda rollercoaster-ish. I praise God especially much for the gentler slopes! Learning to walk in peace/faith/serenity with Him under such conditions has been the goal of my life, especially in recent years. I can't imagine seeking after 'excitement' or 'adventures' - unless you mean the game kind. (The Zork/Myst fan from way back speaks ;)
Though it is true that every grace in our lives is due to Gods persistent wooing and seeking of His redeemed, I think our relationship with God grows most when we are also pursuing Him. Face it, He is quite a catch! He's the handsomest, bestest, coolest, most creative, gentlest, most powerful, most fair, most desirable of all beings..AND He's the King of all that is! Wow! The beginning of wisdom is just our finally getting even a peek behind the veil to realize what an amazing offer we're being given.
but you know all that. lol
Blessings,
Susan in Va (SHS)
Sep. 20, 2008 - Hello!
Posted by Anonymous
Hi!
Thanks for leaving a comment on my blog. I really enjoy De'Ettas blog, she has a lot of great things to say.
I have enjoyed spending some time reading about your sweet family.
We will be moving to Yazoo at the very end of October. Sam will be the pastor at Frist Presbeterian Church there. Right now we are in Idaho, so it will be a LONG move!
Blessings to you all!
Jodi
www. smithusaf.blogspot.com
Sep. 20, 2008 - :)
Posted by Anonymous
I can spell, I just can't type with kids in my lap. :)
