fiverr

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Book Review: Miracle for Jen by Linda Barrick


Miracle for Jen is the true account of the Barrick family, hit head-on by a drunk driver on their way home from church one Sunday evening.  The daughter, Jen, survived with a traumatic brain injury and the rest of the family dealt with her recovery while healing from their own wounds.

Written from the perspective of Jen’s mother, this book does not sugarcoat the recovery process.  Brain injuries are unique to the individual, and Jen’s recovery may be one of the most unique.  Anyone struggling to understand pain and suffering as a Christian would benefit from the Barrick’s experience.

The importance of a supportive family and church network is emphasized, as is day-by-day reliance on God’s grace.  Jen’s story is inspirational and encouraging, although her recovery was not exactly the miracle parents would choose.  God heals in surprising ways and gives us the grace to go forward.

I enjoyed this honest account of God’s provision during a family’s worst nightmares.  Keep some tissues nearby and be prepared to read in one sitting if possible.

I received a free review copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers.

Read more about brain injuries at: Brain Injury Association of North Carolina

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Book Review: Simply Jesus by Joe Stowell


Joe Stowell asks us to examine our lives and see if we believe that Jesus is enough—simply Jesus.   Are we satisfied with a relationship with Jesus, or are we content to go days, weeks, or months without having much to do with our Savior?

Citing Philippians Chapter 3, Stowell teaches us about “three all-surpassing realities” Jesus gives when we believe in His finished work at the Cross:
  • We gain Christ;
  • We are placed “in Christ”; and
  • Our resurrection is guaranteed.       
   In light of this, isn’t Jesus enough?  If your head says, “yes” but your heart is wandering in search of other stuff, let yourself be reminded of just what you have in Jesus Christ.  I recommend Simply Jesus for Christians of all ages and maturity levels, but especially for the person who has “gotten over” what Jesus did for him/her.  Fall in love all over again with the One who is everything.


 I received a free review copy of the e-book from Waterbrook-Multonomah Publishers.