Saint Francis
Psalm 119 is an ode to the Word. The writer rhapsodizes about the many benefits to readers, but he also wants to reader to understand just how relevant and true this book is. According to Psalm 119, the Bible is:
- more valuable than millions in gold or silver. Verse 72
- trustworthy Verses 86 and 138
- stands firm in Heaven Verse 89
- remains true This promise is so important, it is repeated three times: verses 91, 142, and 151
- sweeter than honey Verse 103
- right This is another guarantee the writer wants readers to remember, as it is repeated in three verses: 128, 144, and 172
- wonderful Verse 129
- fair Verse 137
- perfect Verse 138
- will last forever This mighty promise is given twice: verses 152 and 160
- thoroughly tested Verse 140
- has no limit Verse 96
- just Verse 164
by Robert West is a look at the saint best known for his love of animals. West retells the well-known story of how the son of a wealthy merchant in the small Italian town of Assisi went from a party animal to the founder of a monastic order known for its poverty. Francis was raised with all of the comforts of wealth and enjoyed lavishing gifts on his friends, but when God touched his heart, he became deeply changed and grew to hate his former pleasures. Francis' order of monks was known for the requirement to donate all possessions upon entrance, and for their desire to live without any possessions. West brings to life the tumultuous time Francis lived during, with wars between cities, troubles in the Church, and Crusades; he helps readers to understand how Francis fit into this time period, as well as how he impacted it. While Francis has become well known for his affinity to animals, West brings other less known information to readers, about his miracles, stigmata (the first in Church history), and his ecstatic reveries that occasionally sent him running through the snow clothed only in a tunic. West helps bring to light this famous saint and give readers fresh perspective on his life.
Did you get out and vote today? I made sure to stop by my local townhall and cast my vote. It's a small thing, but I think Americans tend to forget what a blessing and honor it is. Many counties undergo violence whenever a government changes, and in other countries, the right to vote is limited to just a certain few, like it used to be here less than 100 years ago. Voting is a privilege, make sure you exercise it today!
by John Perry is a insightful look at one of the most fascinating and important personages of the twentieth century. Winston Churchill came from a titled family dating back centuries in English history, but he was always determined to make his own mark on the world. Perry's book focuses much on Churchill's faith, but he also gives a brief but interesting biography of his life as well. Churchill's faith changed throughout his life from a passing belief in God with no actions to demonstrate it, to a deeper feeling late in life when he looked forward to his time in Heaven. Many of the two-times Prime Minister of England's speeches are here, including some of his prescient words about the build-up of Nazi Germany in the days before WWII, as well as his inspirational talks that motivated a nation to stark rations (while he continued to live in unabated luxury) and to fight to the end. Perry really does capture the man in his egotistical belief that God had created him for great things, his refusal to live within his means, and his occasional rewriting history in his many books, but he also portrays a man who had a great influence in history. If you're looking for a indepth biography of Churchill, this is not the book for you, but if you are looking for an interesting look at the important points of his life, an insightful look at his personality, and an studied look at his faith, this is an excellent read.
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