American Gods by Neil Gaiman

I've read some Neil Gaiman work in the past, but not a novel. I finished this in a day during vacation. The premise is that America did not bring along the gods of other countries where settlers came from (Norse, English, etc.) but that the gods arise from the folklore and tall tales of the land, so America has its own gods. They may appear as humans or they may lie dormant for long periods, but in this book, a "road" book, they arise and fight (good vs. evil) for the nation. "Sacred" places are all over, made so by the people as well, and the culmination is at the most sacred place of all, its name found throughout the land--Rock City!

Fun read, read in on November 28, 2013. Hung onto it but would pass it along if I found someone who'd enjoy it. Got it from B&N with a gift card a few years ago.

Remembering by Wendell Berry

I've seen Wendell Berry referenced by a number of musicians and finally checked out a couple of his books form the library for my vacation trip. Remembering was my favorite, a novel about a former farmer (now a journalist) attending an agricultural conference in decidedly nonagricultural San Francisco. He has lost his hand and his connection to the farming to some extent. The story is minimal, taking only a day in his life, but is beautifully told.

I checked this out of the library. I'd recommend it to people who like thoughtful reads.

Finished on November 27, 2013.

The Practice of Godliness by Jerry Bridges

The Practice of Godliness is a sequel of sorts to The Pursuit of Holiness. Bridges concerns himself with development of specific attitudes and character attributes--the fruit of the Spirit--that come out of a life of devotion to God. He discusses how to cultivate the fruit in our lives in a grace-based way. Good stuff.

I finished this on November 25, 2013 during a vacation in Florida. I added it to my (small) Jerry Bridges collection.

Compassion, Justice and the Christian Life: Rethinking Ministry to the Poor by Robert D. Lupton

After reading When Helping Hurts (Fikkert/Corbett), Lupton's book is a great supplement on how effective urban ministry can be done in the US. His emphasis is on building the self-reliance and dignity of the people and truly renewing the community. Opening clothing pantries employs no one and takes money out of the local economy, where instead, selling used clothing at nominal prices can create jobs and ensure no one takes things they do not need just because they are free.

Lupton and his ministry learned a lot of things the hard way, and his book helps to rethink the role of urban churches in their communities. Many are "drive-in" churches (the members no longer live in the neighborhood). One example he gives is of a church that defined its need as "more parking" because people had all moved away and needed places to park when they drive to the church. They were going to knock down existing homes in order to build the parking, hence removing homes from the market and creating empty space that would be used for a couple of hours a week. Lupton worked with them to use the space wisely and in a way that helped the neighborhood as a whole.

Finished this on October 27, 2013. Had a good discussion about it with Lyss and her roommates who had been reading it for their internship in Memphis. Hanging onto it and have recommended it to several folks,.