Greeters

The church library is waiting for you in its quiet corner of Grace. Our library has nearly 500 books and videos for you to enjoy. There is something for everyone, from parents with young children to people looking to grow spiritually. Find something you like? Please indicate the books you borrow on the new sign-out sheet. Just return them when you are done. Shirley Callison welcomes your comments and suggestions of books, videos, etc. you would like to see added to the church library.

BIBLE STUDIES, DEVOTIONALS, GUIDANCE

* Max Lucado is a New York Times best-selling author. His latest book is the numbers of Hope 3:16 or John 3:16. A twenty-six word parade of hope: beginning with God, ending with life and urging us to do the same. Brief enough to write on a napkin. If you know nothing of the Bible, start here. If you know everything in the Bible, return here. He loves. He gave. We believe. We live. If 9/11 are numbers of terror and despair, then 3:16 are the numbers of hope. They are the Hope Diamond of scripture.

* Finding Home - Orphaned at an early age , Jim Daley , author and CEO of Focus on the Family, saw first hand virtually the worst this world had to offer. He relives the horrors no child should endure. A bloodcurdling neighborhood murder serves as a back drop to the abuse and alcoholism within the four walls of his own home. His father left the family, his mother died of cancer, yet he managed to rise above his harrowing childhood. "Need encouragement, help and significance in your life? You'll find it in Jim Daley's book, Finding Home."

* We have the book, "Twelve Extraordinary Men'', but now we also have the female counterpart, "Twelve Extraordinary Women'' by John MacArthur. Learn how God shaped women of the Bible and what he wants to do with you! You will recognize yourself in Mary Magdalene or Sarah, hoping against hope, or Ruth, a picture of loyalty and love. All of these women offer an incite into what we as women are today. This is an excellent book to use for a Bible study.

* Bill Hybel's wife, Lynne, of Willow Creek, has just published her latest book, "Nice Girls Don't Change the World.'' Per Lynne, "Nice girls are taught early that serving God means earning God's love and sacrificing oneself to meet the needs of others.'' Unfortunately, after living a life she thought was what God demanded, her husband wanted, her kids needed, and her church expected, Lynne felt utterly lost - both to herself and to God. It's never too late to discover who you really are! Ladies, you will love this book, new in our library.

* "Ninety Minutes in Heaven'' is a true story of death and life. Don Piper's car was crushed by a semi truck that crossed over into his lane. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Ninety minutes after the wreck, a minister prayed for him - he was still trapped in the car. The experience dramatically changed his life and it will change yours too. This is a must read! A brand new book now in our church library.

* We have several "Boundaries'' books. We now have a brand new one called "Boundaries in Marriage.'' Previously here at Grace, we have had evening studies by these two authors, Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend. If you long for a marriage marked by lifelong love, intimacy and growth, it can be yours. Seek these wise boundaries to protect that union. Each person in marriage needs to read this affirmation of two becoming one.

* "Healing is a Choice": Author Stephen Arterburn has sold more than 5 million books. He is also a featured speaker and guest on the Moody Bible Institute's radio station. Perhaps you have heard of him as the co-author of "Every Man's Battle.'' In his recent book, "Healing is a Choice,'' you will find ten decisions that will transform your life and ten lies that can prevent you from making them. Another new must read in our church library.

* "The DaVinci Deception": Have you read the DaVinci Code? In our church library, we have an excellent book by Moody's senior pastor, Erwin W. Lutzer, named "The DaVinci Deception". It is mandatory reading for anyone who has completed Dan Brown's book and wonders, "What does it mean for us as Christians?" Dr. Lutzer is a respected Bible teacher will give you answers in his reader-friendly and accessible style. He exposes the myths behind these and other legends. He also uncovers the historical distortions presented in the novel and equips you with the real story behind the story.

* "Next Door Savior'': This is the latest book by Max Lucado, a renowned author and pastor of a church in San Antonio, Texas. This New York Times bestselling author of "Traveling Light'' has another book on our Savior and friend, Jesus. Do you want him to live closer to you? Do you want to know him better? "Near enough to touch - strong enough to trust!''

* "Helping Your Struggling Teenager and Relationships'': This book is written by Dr. Les Parrott is a professor of clinical psychology at Seattle Pacific University. He has written many books to help guide people through relationships. His book, "Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda (but you didn't!)'' approaches the subject of regrets. Don't let it pull you down. Transform pain into a springboard for a better tomorrow. Learn how to forgive yourself.

* "Books of the Bible'' and a "Bible Commentary on the New Testament'' : Are you ever stumped with a Bible question? In your Bible studies, do you wonder about the period written about in Bible times? These two books hold a treasure of information regarding Bible study: i.e., "Martin Luther called Psalms a miniature Bible.'' Also, why are the first three books of the New Testament called synoptic? See Page 121--take a look!

* "Angels'': "He will give his angels charge of you, to guard you in all your ways.'' Psalms 9:11. Dr. Billy Graham, in his best-selling classic, "Angels'', states "angels have a much more important place in the Bible than the devil and his demons.'' Angels comfort, and provide for God's people. They aren't all sweetness and light; they are also agents of God's judgment. "Somehow it has always been easier for people to believe in demons than in the brighter side of the unseen world - the world of God's protecting angels," Rev. Graham writes. Because of angels, we are never alone.? Check it out and know that upon your death angels will usher you into the very presence of God.

* "The Prayer of Jabez": This small, but powerful, inspirational book h Bruce Wilkinson topped the non-fiction bestseller list for weeks. Jabez's prayer can be found in I Chronicles 4:10 hidden among the family tree of the Hebrew tribes. Discover how this book and this prayer can help you find God's favor, power and protection.

* "Secrets of the Vine'': This is another bestseller by Bruce Wilkinson. It explores John 15 and four levels of "fruitful bearing''.

* "Too Busy to Pray: Slowing down to be with God'': the author is Bill Hybels, Willow Creek's pastor. The book contains in layman's terms a discussion on prayer that "speaks to our hearts''. Most of us have trouble finding time to pray. Then a crisis hits. As a pastor, Bill Hybels is well acquainted with schedules like this. The ideas in this practical book will help you to slow down to be with God.

* "Boundaries": Josh McDowell says, "As the authors discuss how to take responsibility and ownership of our lives, they give hope that we cannot just survive - but thrive!'' Drs. Cloud and Townsend is a book that answers when to say yes and when to say no. Christians often focus so much on being loving and giving that they forget their own limitations. "Boundaries'' are personal property lines that define who you are and who you are not. They influence all areas of your life.

* "Boundaries with Kids'': Drawing on principles from the Bible, Drs. Henry Cloud and John Townsend. help parents prepare their children to assume responsibility for their own lives. Topics include how to set limits and still be a loving parent and how to instill in children the kind of godly character that is the foundation for healthy, productive adult living.

* "Why True Love Waits'': Another fine book by Josh McDowell equips you with overwhelming emotional, relational, physical and spiritual reasons to share with your young people for resisting sexual pressure. This is a must-read for parents!

* "Finding God in the Lord of the Rings'', "Walking with Frodo'' and "Walking with Gandalf'': Explore the deep Christian faith of J.R,R. Tolkien as reflected in his amazing trilogy, "The Lord of the Rings'' through these easy-read books.

* "The Other Side of Love'' or "Handling Anger in a Godly Way'' by Dr. Gary Chapman is a book in our church library that explores the emotion of anger. Some of the questions you may ask are: "Why do people get angry? How can I make anger productive? How do I process long-term anger? All these questions and more are covered by Gary in his latest book. He is a wealth of knowledge as a marriage counselor and best-selling author. Filled with insights and techniques that have helped hundreds of individuals and families to find a better way to deal with anger. "The Other Side of Love'' will help you to understand the source of your anger and guide it toward productive purposes.

* "Bringing up Boys'': Dr. James C. Dobson is a favorite author of many millions of readers in America and foreign lands. His sensible ideas in raising a family are renowned. In, his practical advice and encouragement is shaping the next generation of men. Our library also has "Night Light for Parents'' by Dr. Dobson and his wife, Shirley. Trying to remember why you wanted kids in the first place? Try reading this devotional book!

* "Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul'' is the subtitle of John Eldredge's book, "Wild at Heart''. He invites men to recover their masculine heart, defined in the image of a passionate God. And he invites women to discover the secret of a man's soul. Men - this is the book you are looking for to read!

* "The Ultimate Gift" by Jim Stoval: What would you be willing to do in order to inherit one billion dollars? Jim Stoval had enjoyed success as an author, athlete, investment broker, and entrepreneur while dealing with the challenge of his own blindness. When he writes about Jason Stevens news that his great uncle Red has died, he is greedy with anticipation, as are Red's other relatives, to divvy up the man's massive fortune. One by one, Red's beneficiaries receive their portions of the multi-billion dollar estate. But when it is at last Jason's turn to collect his inheritance, he finds quite a different fate in store for him. Join Jason on a memorable discovery!

* The Tales from Grace Chapel Inn series
Once you visit the charming village of Acorn Hill, tucked away in rural Pennsylvania, you'll never want to leave. These books remind me of the Mitford series. "We Have This Moment'', "Going to the Chapel'', and Small-Town Reality'' are all Tales from Grace Chapel Inn. Townsfolk relax on their porch swings or gather to discuss the day's events at the Coffee Shop. It's the kind of town where friendship and faith flow together like a wide river on a fine spring day. The Mitford series has come to a close - take a look at Acorn Hill. -Shirley Callison

* From the best-selling author of "The Book of God'' comes its perfect companion, "Jesus, a Novel". Walter Wangerin, Jr., a professor at Valparaiso University in Indiana is a prolific author of good Christian books. He finds the voice and heart of Jesus in this latest effort. He turns his pen with power and conviction to Jesus of Nazareth and his story, putting it in novel form. Moment by moment you will follow Jesus' story from boyhood on. This is a must read for the Christian reader.

* "The Conversation Continues.'' Remember the book, "Dinner with a Perfect Stranger"? Well, now we have an addition to the story from the wife. "The last thing she wanted was to talk about God; talking to him had never entered her mind." This small book continues the story with the wife not pleased with her husband's new-found faith. Aboard a plane, Mattie finds herself seated next to her own "Perfect Stranger". Another interesting conversation!

* "Divine'', a novel by our favorite Karen Kingsbury, is a #1 Best Seller! Her heroine, Mary Madison, was a child of unspeakable horror, a young woman society wanted to forget. At the crossroads of her life, only one power set Mary free and gave her a lifetime of love and hope. A power that could only be Divine. Read about this educated young woman in the nation's capital, Washington D.C. A new book in our church's library. (The prettiest corner in the Church!) Stop by sometime!

* "Even Now,'' by Karen Kingsbury is a soul-stirring tale of lost love and forgiveness. No one weaves a story of lives, losses, love and faith like our Mrs. Kingsbury. Check it out!

• "Blue Like Jazz'' by Donald Miller is the new bestseller in the Christian book scene. "It is hard to find people who write about God from a position of commitment, but still sound as if they are being human and honest," says John Ortberg. "Donald is such a person.'' This book is for anyone who is thirsting for a genuine encounter with a God who is real. "Blue Like Jazz' is fresh and real! Check it out in our church library.

* "The Priest'' by Francine Rivers is another small book in the same vein as the series on women of the Bible. This book underlines the value of encouragement. Aaron was his brother's "right-hand man. Never before Moses, but by his side.'' Moses parted the Red Sea, but in his shadow stood a man who symbolizes forever our great High Priest, per Francine. This book will help you remember the man who was not the number one leader. He was the man who encouraged. We can all be encouragers!

* "A Thousand Tomorrows": Karen Kingsbury is a very familiar author to all of us here at Grace. She is the author of the Redemption series. Her later book, "A Thousand Tomorrows,'' is about a talented young man who is angry and isolated. Also a woman with a secret. How could they know what would happen when their two worlds meet? Karen has written over 30 emotionally gripping novels; some have been adopted for film and TV. She is a favorite of ours! (Can you believe she has six children?)

* "Twelve Ordinary Men": "If you were going to recruit a team to alter the course of history, how would you begin? Jesus began with a walk by the lake." And so begins a book entitled "Twelve Ordinary Men." He didn't select a rabbi or recruit scholars. He didn't ask celebrities or those in power. This is an informative and interesting book on the twelve chosen disciples. It will challenge you to take a close look at the commonplace activities of your own life. It is in those everyday details where Jesus is most at work. Slow down and look for Christ in your life.

* "Fame'' is a continuation of the Redemption series. If you enjoyed the Baxter family and their story of hope, love, tragedy and faith, you will become enthralled with Karen Kingsbury's new book, "Fame''. One Kingsbury fan says, "Your books have changed my life. Thank you for helping me to find God again.'' The Bookmarks, Grace's book discussion group, reviewed the first series and loved it. Tune in for more with "Fame''.

* The Bookmarks book club recently had a lively discussion of the book , "This Present Darkness'' by Frank Paretti. According to its news releases, "Not since "The Screwtape Letters" has there been a novel with as much insight into spiritual warfare and the necessity of prayer.'' This book is a thriller better than James Patterson, more riveting than any present author on the bestselling list, and faster moving than the latest bestsellers. You will not be able to put it down. Mr. Peretti is at the top of his field in Christian fiction. He will tell you a story of the college town of Ashton, and once you pick up the book and read the first chapter, you will not be able to put it down. When a skeptical reporter and prayerful pastor start to compare notes, the reader will start on a journey down a New Age path. The work will be eye-opening!

* If you enjoyed the "Reunion'' series by Karen Kingsbury, you will want to read our latest addition to the Grace Library - " One Tuesday Morning.'' Yes, it is about that Tuesday now known as 9/11 in 2001. Jamie Bryan's husband, Jake, is a firefighter called to the Twin Towers. By the end of that day both lives are changed with the loss of Jake's memory. How can this loss ever be resolved? What strange circumstances will be unveiled? Read it and see!

* "True Honor (Uncommon Heroes)'' is book three in the Uncommon Heroes series by Dee Henderson. This is a work of fiction that Dee has endeavored to be as accurate as possible in both the terminology and tactics of a Navy SEAL, and those who work in the intelligence agencies. SEALs have a motto, "The only easy day was yesterday." Chief Petty officer San "Cougar" Houston is keeping busy deploying his team around the world. Darcy St. James is his CIA intelligence contact. They meet under the pressure of war and even though romance is not expected, love flourishes. The terrorists have chosen their next targets, and Darcey's name is high on the list. Dee Henderson writes with the skill of an F/A-18 Hornet pilot, says the Romantic Times. She is a best-selling author of eleven novels.

* "When Angels Sing'': This is a Christmas Story by Turk Pipken. When Michael Walker was a child, he wanted Christmas everyday. But that was thirty years ago, before a tragic accident changed his life one Christmas morning. His young son faces a sadness as profound as his own, and Michael finds he is the only one who can save him--a testament to the depth of a parent's love. When Angels Sing is a life-affirming story you won't soon forget. It has only 111 pages, but is a real miracle story.

* "Hideaway'': "As an ER doctor, Cheyenne Allison is used to handling emergencies on a daily basis - until her own sister comes in the trauma bed.'' This is the beginning of this book by Hannah Alexander. In a picturesque Ozark town, Cheyenne finds an unexpected demand for her medical skills. This fictional novel is a must read. Hannah Alexander is the pen names of a husband-and-wife writing team, who make their home in the Ozarks. You will want to read more in their Healing Touch series. Our church library includes many other good fiction novels.

* The "R'' Series: If you enjoyed the Mitford series, you will also want to read Karen Kingsbury and Gary Smalley's newest endeavors - the "R'' series! (Redemption, Remember, Return and Rejoice.) All are located in the Grace Library. The Baxter Family learns about commitment, forgiveness, faith and the redeeming bond of God. Mom and Dad Baxter have raised their family and find many hills and valleys to journey with their grown children and grandchildren. These are stories of unspeakable loss and the overwhelming miracle of new life, not unlike our own situations. You will enjoy your travels with this fictional family.

* "Joshua'': This national bestseller is a parable for today. (This is also a movie.) The book is the first in a Joshua series by Joseph F. Girzone. The story is fictional, as are the characters, but the author feels that what takes place in this book could very easily happen in real life. Give it a try--you will enjoy the read!

* "Shepherds Abiding'': This Jan Karon novel is a continuing story of the town of Mitford centers around a long-forgotten nativity scene, including a flock of sheep that have suffered indignities of time and neglect. Can Father Tim, the longtime pastor, give this small assembly new life? The eighth novel in this best-selling series is a meditation on the best of all presents - the gift of one's heart. Father Tim and Cynthia discover again what millions of readers know: There is no place like Mitford for the holidays...

* "The Brother's Keeper'': Published by Moody Publishers, Chicago, this is a novel by Tracy Groot, The sad fact is that in the beginning of His ministry, Jesus' brothers did not believe in Him. This book is a fictional story of Jesus' everyday life and how his family may have dealt with reports of His healings and exorcisms. The story ? brings back one of the Magi on another mission. "I am too old for this,'' mutters Balthazar, and the pilgrimage continues.

* "Unshaken'' and "Unveiled": The author of these two books, Francine Rivers, is a unique and interesting writer who tells the Bible stories of two Old Testament women, Ruth and Tamar. She fills in, according to a study of history, the lives of these ladies and what their lives may have encountered. With her touches of brilliant prose and gripping characterizations, Francine tells these women's stories in a way you've never heard before. Remaining true to the facts given in Scripture, she brings these long-ago women to life.

* "And the Shofar Blew'': Once again Francine Rivers, has produced a novel that is both timely and timeless. is the 20 th century story of a modern pastor and his race to have the largest, biggest and most famous new church. In his hurry to produce, even the word "Christian'' is eliminated from the name of his building. His parents, wife, and child become the victims of this obsession to have the largest church for God, not the largest heart for God. It's a thought-provoking novel.

* "Heaven's Wager'': Ted Dekker's novel is the first book of the Martyr's Song series. It is the riveting story of a brilliant, young software designer on the brink of becoming a millionaire. He is ready to risk his soul to get whatever he thinks he deserves. On one level Heaven's Wager is a psychological thriller; on another level it's a romance. But most of all it's an imaginative window into a world more real and vital than most people ever discover here on earth. This is a page-turner and a thought provoker. You will be thinking of it for months to come.

NON-FICTION

* "A Reason for Hope'': Michael S. Barry is the pastor of Hope Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Libertyville, and a chaplain for the Cancer Treatment Center in Zion. His book, "A Reason for Hope'', has an insider's understanding of the cancer patient's needs. Cancer patients are quoted as saying, "From the moment you are told that you have cancer, you must overcome the initial shock and begin to fight for your survival. This book is inspiring and motivating to me.'' If you or a friend are fighting this challenge, please read this newest book in our church library.

* "Jesus And His Times": Have you ever wanted to see the Holy Land? Well, now you can take a trip while seated on the couch in your living room by checking out this Reader's Digest book . This large size book is filled with pictures and information of Jerusalem, village life of Bible times, The birth of the Savior, trade and travel, and the spread of the Gospel. The places in Bible times will come alive for you. Experience the everyday life in the bustling world that Jesus knew. Understand the customs and ways of the New Testament times and accompany the apostles as they spread the word. You will emerge with a deeper appreciation of the man and his message.

* "Unveiling Islam' : You can't find a topic more current today than this book by two Muslim brothers who became Christians and lost their family and friends. Ergun and Emir Caner have produced a timely and valuable work for all who wish to understand the relationship between Islam and Christianity, per the Southern Baptist Texas church. This insider's look at Muslim life and beliefs will help you understand some of our questions regarding their way of reasoning. They have read both the Qur'an and the Bible. A must read!

* "More than a Prophet'' also by the Caner brothers, Emir and Ergun, features an insider's response to Muslim beliefs about Jesus and Christianity. They are of Arab descent and were converted to Christianity in their college hears by a friend. The authors have been interviewed by NPR, CNN, The 700 Club, Billy Graham's Decision Today Radio, and the BBC, among many others. This is a must read if you have access to friends in the Islam community.

* "Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire'': The story of what happened to a broken-down church in one of America's meanest neighborhoods points the way to a new prayer life for you and your friends and loved ones. Jim Cymbala is the pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle. His wife is the leader of the famous Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Twenty-five years ago they could barely draw 20 people to a Sunday service. Now the church is 6000 strong. What is his secret? Prayer! If you want to develop more vitality in your prayer life, read his best-selling book, "Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire.'' "The times are urgent, God is on the move, now is the moment to ask God to ignite his fire in your soul!'' says the preacher. His story will inspire you.

* "Family Comes First'': Mike Singletary, the former Bears great, tells of his decision to make his family his number-one priority and the transformation of self that's required for a man to become a supportive husband and nurturing father. This book is "from one dad to another'', the everyday dad who struggles to pay the bills and wants to give more to his family, but wonders what it will take.

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

* "The Next Place" is an inspirational journey of light and hope to a place where earthy hurts are left behind. Warren Hanson is a gifted writer and illustrator. This would be an excellent book for children (and adults) when they lose a loved one to help explain the concept of life after death.

* "The 10 Commandments of Dating'': Attention young singles and teens: Time-tested laws for building successful relationships. "The 10 Commandments of Dating'' is a book you will want to read. Are you tired of pouring time, energy and money into relationships that start off great and end with heartache? Maybe you are frustrated because you cannot find "the one" for you, no matter who hard you pray, primp and plead. If so, you need to read this book about dating. It has hard-hitting and practical guidelines for dating. This guide will help you keep your head in the search for the desire of your heart. The Ten Commandments of Dating isn't' more relationship advice, it's relationship common sense. Authors Ben Young and Sam Adams will help your relationships run more smoothly. "Seeds: God's Awesome Computers: This children's book by Priscilla Mitchell all began when the author was working in her garden and carefully examined her columbine flowers. "How do all these little parts know where to go?'' She provided her own answer: God programmed the whole process, and thus ? began her book about seeds. A perfect book not only for parents who are tending their own gardens this summer, but for Sunday School teachers also, to teach the wonders of God's world.

* "The Chronicles of Narnia'': Junior high students will enjoy reading these books of fantasy by C.S. Lewis, adding richness, beauty and fantasy to their world.

* "100 Bible Games'': This is a fun book for kids that asks questions such as, "what word in a parable is a ship?'' (Answer: Vessel).

* "You Are Wonderfully Made'': A kid-friendly devotional by Lois Walfrid Johnson features short, fictional stories that portrays children with real life questions about physical development from a Christian perspective. Each chapter concludes with a Scripture verse and prayer to reinforce the miracle of God's plan, the gift of sexuality.

* "Time for a Story'' : Five short tales help inspire children to be kind to others, discover their potential to do good deeds and develop positive values and a loving heart.

* "God Said it and ...BANG It Happened'': Best-selling authors Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz help young believers understand that according to His perfect plan, God created everything, from planets and moons, to dinosaurs and hotdogs. Uproariously funny and biblically sound, is a great book for a young person to read. It might even help explain things to us older people as well!

* "Galen and Goliath'': is one of several Kidwitness Tales in our library that allows the reader to imagine what it might have been like for a Philistine boy to see his people's hero defeated by an Israelite teen.

* "The 10 Commandments of Dating": This book by Ben Young gives practical guidelines addressing teens questions and frustrations about dating.