I've had the amazing opportunity to review Mark Batterson's latest book, Wild Goose Chase before it's release. Not only has it been enlightening in the history of the Wild Goose Chase, but it has also reached me on a very personal, spiritual level.

As a pastor, how have I managed to come so far removed from the actual pursual of God and the Holy Spirit? Near the end of his book, it hit me like a ton of bricks.. I realize that many quotes taken out of context have little to no influence on one's self having not been through through the journey with a person. But, this quote spoke to me in huge ways...

"If we are going to fulfill our ancient commission, we need to get out of the comfortable confines of our Christian ghettos and invade some hellholes with the light and love of Christ." (pg. 150)

Now, I'm not afraid to say that I am a progressive thinker. But what I have struggled with is that I desire this type of response out of our church-goers but seldom do I find myself pursuing this on a daily basis...

Mark has really produced a great book with many great thoughts that will cause any pastor, such as myself, to stop and think about their own pursuit of the Holy Spirit. Check it out. It's worth it. So much so, in fact, that I have a copy of this book ready to give away to the 4th person to respond to this post.

Get involved... Get your copy for free...

I enjoy reading. This is truly something new to me as for the better part of my teenage years the only reason I wanted to read was to finish a book (I have a thing for completing something). I generally try to read a book or two a month. The two months have been rough as summer has set in...as has the remodel at church... both of which ask for much of my "spare" time... as if a Pastor ever had any...

I've really enjoyed this book. Nearly everything I do involves moving people in some sort of a direction. This book looks closely at "sticky" ideas and how they are formed, organized and presented. It has been a great help in figuring out how to form the ideas I present... ideas which I believe are of great value.

I'm nearly done with it (one chapter left) and am looking for another good read. So, what do you suggest? Are you a reader?