This past week I was unplugged from internet and cell reception for 7 days.  Wonderful days.  Important days.

I would begin each morning at 6 sitting by the Clarion River . . . praying, reading God’s Word, journaling, listening to and thanking God for this time with Him.

In 7 days I read five books–some purely for fun and others to challenge me with growth.

For many of us, summer provides an opportunity to dive into a great book.  Here are some of the best I can recommend.

The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson.  Hands down, this is the best book I’ve read this year.  In his book Mark challenged me to take a hard look at my life.  He encouraged me to sit with God and assess where I am heading and then to turn up the prayer temperature so that, by God’s power, my life will be used to impact God’s Kingdom now and forever.  If you want to be encouraged and challenged to make a difference with your life . . . this is a must read.

Barefoot Church by Brandon Hatmaker.  Brandon’s book needs to be read by everyone who is wanting to live life “on mission” with Jesus.  Hatmaker gives practical steps to building relationships, experiencing cummunity and sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ in our networks and neighborhoods.  Barefoot Church is an everyday guide for those of us who want to be disciples who make disciples.

Calico Joe by John Grisham.  This one is just for fun.  I’m a huge Grisham fan and this read was a pleasant divergence from his normal legal fare.  Calico Joe is a baseball story, a father/son story, but most importantly a wondrous story of redemption.  This is one to take to the beach.

The New Six Point Plan For Raising Happy Healthy Children by John Rosemond.  With the kids home tearing through your house you might need this one.  Rosemond’s book was a pleasant surprise that offered far more than nice philosophical platitudes.  The Six Point Plan delivers on its title–it gives step by step suggestions that may actually make a difference! (I’ll let you know.)

I Am The Messenger by Markus Zusak.  Zusak is the author of The Book Thief (which I’m trusting you have already read because it’s absolutely amazing!!!).  In I Am The Messenger, Zusak writes (in a wonderfully readable style) another story of redemption and the impact one life can make.  This one is pure fun with a powerful message.

I’m always looking for great books to read . . . please reply with your recommendations!!!