2008 Book List

I made a list of 8 or so books I wanted to read in 2008. Some books I selected because they were good the first time and some because I need to think about their subjects. Also, I selected most because I own them and there's not alot of book money floating around this year. Although I'm not reading them in any particular order, I've finished the first two on this list. In my next post I'll share some things I like in one of them. Here's the list:

The Reason for God by Tim Keller
Fields of Gold by Andy Stanley
Time for Truth by Os Guinness
Creative Marriage by Ed Young
a book by Alistair Begg
a book by John Stott
a book about preaching by Andy Stanley or Bryan Chapell
The Goldsworthy Trilogy by Graeme Goldsworthy
Him We Proclaim by Dennis Johnson
authors I'd like to check out: Francis Bacon, Sidney Griedanus, Reggie McNeal and Bruce Ware.

I'll share some of the stuff I liked, and still do, in Keller's book in the next post.

First thoughts

I commit to not doing this every day. [While I admire folks with that goal and that kind of discipline, that's not my gig.]

I commit to loving my family. (thanks Kenzie!)

I commit to continue hating the moles that seem to like my yard, jerks.

Random reasons I'm blogging:

1) Francis Bacon is credited with saying, "Writing maketh an exact man." Blogging appeals to me because it seems a simple, penless way to 'write' and, in turn, develop some 'muscles'. A private and public way to think through some things.

2) An easy way to share thoughts and convictions. As a pastor, not everything can be tucked into a regular lesson or an after-services conversation; blogging affords an opportunity to voice things wanting to get out.

3) I have no idea how valid this idea is, but another motivation is my kids. A blog can give them more access to their dad's heart and mind.

4) I like to try new things! If this isn't fun or useful, I can stop.

5) The price is right!

6) Finally, I've learned from and enjoyed other bloggers. Whether it's a thought, quote, or book recommendation there are things of value in this kind of 'community'. I hope to pass along the goodness and encourage or help someone else.

Curious concerns about blogging:

1) How much work is it? [time, energy, etc.]

2) How self-centered can this be?

3) You would think for someone who regularly stands in front of people and talks his thoughts that blogging his thoughts wouldn't be intimidating. The private thoughts in public domain is a little intimidating but probably just because it's just new and different.

Well, that's it for now, I'll be back later.

First blog

First blog...what to say? what to say? How about, "Self, welcome to the blogging world!"