Joni Eareckson Tada

I've never read anything written by Brother Lawrence. I enjoyed how author Joni Eareckson Tada included brief devotions from Brother Lawrence on the left side of the book, followed by Joni's commentary on the devotion on the right. The readings include 110. The book brilliantly integrates illustrations by Joni Eareckson Tada who created these incredible pen and ink drawings with her mouth.

I thought the book's introduction did a good job of summarizing Joni and Brother Lawrence's difficult journey. I knew Joni's destiny, but I did not know Lawrence's.

The simple technique of praying for Jesus' presence makes it easier for the reader to sense the ability we have to cling to joy and hope in the face of the daily grind, which frequently pulls us away from our true mission in life, which is to grow in our love for God and one another. Joni has a special way of expressing Jesus' love. I have always found her to be inspirational, and this new devotional provides even more positive insight.

Both suffered immensely, to overcome the obstacles in their lives, they learned to rely on their faith and ongoing communication with their Lord. This book filled me with comfort, encouragement, and a new insight on life.

Disclosure Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/… (more)

3.5 stars

"Let those who seek death with dignity beware, lest they lose life with dignity in the process." - C. Everett Koop, as quoted on p 23

Tada reminds readers that those who seek to end their own lives or the life of someone they love don't say that it is "right" to die when life is too expensive to live, when death is simply easier, or for academic discussion. These individuals are in severe pain and/or despair. (p 64)

She also speaks to readers about the value of life - all life - and God's authority over it and ability to work within it. These were the strongest points of the book, in my opinion, particularly for those who are already Christians.

I did feel that this book was missing something, but I can't put my finger on exactly what that is.

"God works in your life up until the final moment. It may appear that nothing is taking place in the life of a dying loved one, an individual in a coma, or someone with a severe disability, but God is not hindered from accomplishing His work in life just because nothing seems to be happening. The work of God is spiritual activity, often separated a long way from one's cerebral, neurological, or muscular activity. Only eternity will reveal the work that was accomplished." p 119

"God can definitely work in the lives of people who have no intellectual capacity. Just look at the example of John the Baptist. While he was yet in his mother's womb, he leaped for joy. And even at his birth, he was filled with the Holy Spirit. Obviously, God did not need the baby to be able to process complex thought in order to make Himself known." pp 148-149… (more)