Frederick: A book review

Frederick Ndabaramiye has a powerful story to share!  He grew up in Rwanda during the genocide, losing his hands because he refused to follow the soldiers orders to kill his countrymen.  In Rwanda, to have no hands meant there would be no hope of having a productive life.  That is, until Frederick and a group of caring Americans began to intervene...

Frederick's story brings hope to those with disabilities.  While at one point he did feel like ending his life, he decided instead to persevere and make the most of every day.  Because of that, he formed relationships that put him in contact with some Americans who decided to help him.  They weren't aware of it at the time, but by helping this one boy get prosthetic fingers, they enabled Frederick to start what has become a huge learning center to help other Rwandans with disabilities learn and become productive members of society.    God's fingerprints are all over this series of events.  What was intended to harm has been used for a great good.

What touched me most was Frederick's perspective.  He could have focused on the hardships and tragedy in his life.  He could have written God off as unloving and cruel.  Instead, he recognized the times during his childhood when God had used people to save him.  Since God had allowed him to live, he dared to hope that there was a purpose for him still.  By focusing on the good in the world - the generous Americans who helped him - he was able to forgive his attackers.  He continued to dream, to hope, and to move forward through his challenges.  That's a lesson we all could learn from.

I recommend this book as an inspirational story, but also as a way to learn more about the Rwandan way of life and what happened during the genocide. 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for an honest review.

Never Ever Give Up by Erik Rees

This is an inspiring story on many different levels.  Some may have heard of 12-year-old Jessie and her battle with cancer or her famous NEGU "Never Ever Give Up" motto.  Others may have seen her on the news or heard of fundraisers to fill JoyJars for children with cancer.  Or, like me, you may have never heard of Jessie Rees until this moment.  No matter where you find yourself, this is a story worth reading. 

There are unfortunately many children who get cancer, all of which have stories to tell.  What makes this situation unique is Jessie's reaction to her circumstances.  Instead of wallowing in self-pity, she looked to the other children suffering through treatment and asked "How can I help them?"  What began as a simple act of her filling a few jars with toys to give to children at a local hospital has grown into a huge foundation (www.jessie.org) that has raised over $3 million to give hope to children with cancer and their families.  Jessie's life only lasted 10 months after her diagnosis, but her legacy continues.

This book can also be a resource of hope to families dealing with similar issues.  What really stood out to me was when Jessie's father talked about making the decision to be bitter or better.  No matter what difficult circumstance we find ourselves in, isn't that always a choice?  This family was hurting and struggling - but their choice to continue to care for others in the midst of their pain is an example to be followed.  Erik writes "We cannot understand with our finite minds God's infinite plans.  All we can do is to trust that when we are suffering, there is a greater cause.  God doesn't let us suffer pointlessly.  So when you're hurting and wondering why God isn't taking your pain away, consider that you're playing a role in a greater picture than you could ever imagine."

Yes, this story was written to raise awareness of childhood cancer and rally support.  But it was also written to inspire us to take the initiative to care for others and make a difference in whatever way God has impressed on your heart.  Use your gifts and passions to help others.  Jessie left us a great example of how to do just that. 

Thank you, Rees family, for sharing the intimate details of your story with the world.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for an honest review.

Compassion Without Compromise by Barr & Citlau

Finding the right balance between love and truth can be tricky sometimes.  Compassion Without Compromise uses biblical teaching and personal stories to "help Christians find balanced ways to respond to the issue of homosexuality."  The authors are both pastors and have experience in counseling people struggling with this issue.  One of the authors, Ron, was once living a homosexual lifestyle and has since been transformed.  They have compassion for others with this struggle.  They have also studied the Bible and believe it is fully inspired by God - it's the truth.  It is from their experience of balancing compassion and truth that this book is born.

I have read other books with a similar theme.  One thing I like about this book is that it is short and not bogged down with quotes and studies from other sources.  The text asks questions that are relevant to our society today, and at the very least can ignite some great discussions.  At the end of each chapter there is a Takeaway paragraph that sums up the main idea of the chapter.  I found that to be very helpful.  There is also a list of resources at the back for people who want to research these ideas further.

The author's "hope begins with the message that we all need God's forgiveness and joyfully proclaims that Jesus has made a way".

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

A New Song for a New Year

I recently heard "Keep Making Me" by Sidewalk Prophets and liked it instantly.  It's as if God put it before me and said "Here, Jeanette...this is what you need right now."  But once I really focused on the lyrics, I had to re-evaluate whether I wanted to be singing them!  Do I really want to be broken, empty, and lonely?  Those things are scary and can hurt!  But as the song reminds me, those things also lead to healing, fulfillment, and fellowship with Jesus - all of which I desperately need.  So this will be my song for a while.  Praying it will bless and challenge you as well. 

Make me broken
So I can be healed
‘Cause I’m so calloused
And now I can’t feel
I want to run to You
With heart wide open
Make me broken

Make me empty
So I can be filled
‘Cause I’m still holding
Onto my will
And I’m completed
When you are with me
Make me empty

 

[Chorus:]
‘Til You are my one desire
‘Til You are my one true love
‘Til You are my breath, my everything
Lord, please keep making me

Make me lonely
So I can be Yours
‘Til I want no one
More than You, Lord
‘Cause in the darkness
I know You will hold me
Make me lonely

Unplanned by Abby Johnson

Abby Johnson's story presents a unique perspective on the pro-life v. pro-choice debate.  She has been on both sides.  Abby was once the director of a Planned Parenthood clinic that performed abortions, until witnessing an ultrasound-guided abortion that opened her eyes.  She has since continued to support women - but this time from a different viewpoint.  This story takes you behind the scenes of Planned Parenthood and the Coalition for Life and will make you evaluate your stand on this important issue.

One thing I appreciated about this book is that it presents a well-rounded view of both sides of the debate.  Abby writes," We all long for a story that shows that our side is right and good, and their side is wrong and bad, don't we?  But I testify that there is good and right and wrong on both sides of the fence.  And even more shocking - we have far more in common with the other side than we might imagine."  Reading about this experience helps me to be more understanding and compassionate.  Both sides have good intentions - they both truly want to help women!  However, beliefs cause us to disagree on how that is best done.

Abby's story demonstrates that love and prayer are powerful.  It took many years for God to change her heart.  But once He did, He used her to make a real impact in the world!  Many people prayed for and patiently loved Abby while she was working at the clinic.  It's really neat to see how those efforts paid off and how God orchestrated her journey.

The only thing I didn't like about the book is that it seemed very repetitive.  I wanted to know her thoughts, feelings, and motivations....but once or twice is enough.  Instead the book consistently reminds the reader of thoughts already written about, which to me was slightly annoying.

Overall - great insight into an important issue.  I know her story has made a difference, and will continue to make a difference, in the lives of women.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World by Joanna Weaver

This book was first published 14 years ago.  Even though I knew it was popular, I am just now getting around to reading it!  The topic is one I believe every Christian woman has struggled with...how to find intimacy with God in the busyness of life.  How do we balance work and worship?  Joanna uses the biblical story of Mary & Martha, as well as her own experiences, to shed light on this difficult question.

My biggest take-away from this book is perspective.  Even though Martha got her priorities mixed up at times, she had something of great value - a teachable heart.  Joanna writes, "Martha thought she had value because she was productive.  Jesus wanted her to learn she had value simply because she was his.  I'm sure Martha's feelings must have smarted at Jesus' rebuke.  After all, no one enjoys the exposure of his or her blunders.  I wouldn't be surprised if there was a moment when Martha was tempted to pack up her bruised ego and stomp out of the room....But instead, Martha stuck around and heard Jesus out.  And if we want to be his disciples, we must be willing to do the same.  Even when his words cross our will."  We are all works in progress. If we maintain a teachable heart, we can learn from our mistakes and slowly be transformed.  I like that Joanna was transparent in sharing her own transformational journey.

The only thing I didn't care for is the overlap of information between this book and the future books written in this series.  I had read Lazarus Awakening previously...which I now know is an expanded form of Chapter 8 from this book. 

The Study Guide included in the back of the book makes it a great choice for a Women's Group.  It is a 12-week study, with 8 discussion questions per chapter.  Discussing in a group would help with life application and accountability.

If you would like to shift your focus away from your busyness, and dwell on some ways to connect with God and find balance in your life - this book is for you!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.

Fearless by Eric Blehm

I didn't grow up in a military family and I don't know many people who serve in the armed forces.  This book gave me a greater appreciation for what our soldiers go through in order for us to be free. 

Adam Brown was a Navy SEAL who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country and he wanted his story to be shared.  His story isn't just one of a soldier...it's a story of a man who rose from the pit of drug addiction to become a hero.  Fearless is the perfect name for this book.  Adam was fearless to the point of being reckless....but that trait is what set him apart as a true warrior who persevered through many trials that would have caused others to quit. 

This biography was put together through the memories of Adam's friends, family, and fellow SEALS, as well as journal entries and official documents.  It is very well-written and interesting to read.  I never found myself bored with unnecessary details or background information.  The type of man Adam was during the majority of his life is inspiring.  His faith, priorities, perseverance, and courage are to be admired.  I enjoyed the many pictures shared throughout the book as well.

I highly recommend reading this book about a true American hero, Adam Brown. 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.