Irene Howat

Book 61 - Irene Howat - Ten Boys who used their talents

Way back in early December - Book 41 - I read ‘Ten girls who made history’ - the wonderful stories of ten girls who came to know Jesus and went to make life changing decisions that impact the world even today.

This is another book in that series which gets us thinking about God can use all us...no matter how stubborn...I’m looking at you John Bunyan...no matter how much we hide our faith sometimes...I see you CT Studd ...all to show more further God’s glory.

A wonderful little series, written very simply and in short sections that teach us about the simple faith of JS Bach and his love for music to Samuel Morse and his determination to come up with a way of messaging over long distances. This was due to the fact that his wife passed away and if he had been able to message home he would have known how ill she was and he could have been with her at the end.

The one that touched me was John Bunyan...he of ‘The Pilgrim’s Progress’ fame...a rebel of a man who went out of his way to avoid thinking...talking and being in God’s presence at every turn.

Now when I think back to Book 51 ‘The Pilgrim’s Progress’ I do so with enlightened eyes and am full of admiration for someone who was still gathered home in the end. The message being from his story ? It is never too late to turn back to God - He will always welcome you home. show less

Book 41 - Irene Howat - Ten Girls who made History

Another great wee book about how God can use us all...young...old...well and infirm. In the case of this book it details in short chapters ten girls who trusted God at an early age and devoted their lives to Him and His service.

There are many well known girls that are written about - from Florence Nightingale to Elisabeth Elliot.

For me the one that stands out for me is Henrietta Mears. She fell ill with muscular rheumatism and was bedridden show more for two years when she was young. As she slowly recovered she suffered from severe nosebleeds and at university was told that her eyesight that was always poor would only get worse and if she didn’t stop studying she would be blind before she was 30. With a heart for God she responded that she’d better get as much studying in as possible if she wasn’t going to be able to read after the age of 30.

She taught Sunday School and saw attendance numbers climb. In 1928 when she was 38 she accepted a job as Director of Christian Education at the First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood. When she arrived there were 450 students, two and half years later the number had grown to over 4000. Her motto of ‘Dream Big’ encompassed all that she believed...dream big as we have a great big God.

More than anything this wee book has reminded me of how lucky I am with my wife, who challenged me to lead at CSSM many years ago...she challenged me again when we were leaders of a youth group and with each of her writings ‘In His Heart’ I am reminded how lucky I am to be married to her - spiritually wise, lovingly thoughtful and the very best of friends. ❤️ show less

A fascinating book detailing the history of the London City Mission since its inception in the 1800's. This reads, at times, like a Dickens novel, and gives an honest overview of the development of British urban society through the generations.

It is incredible that the mission managed to keep its focus on the Gospel as the primary source of help and hope even when faced with terrible circumstances including both world wars, famine, overcrowding, disease etc. The moral decline and flagging show more numbers attending church are also documented along with the various missionaries' views on this subject. LCM has never set out to be a network of churches, but rather a vehicle to draw those who wouldn't otherwise go into a church building under the sound of the Gospel.

This book is now 15 years out of date, but still provides a valuable insight into the principles and workings of one of the most effective missionary organisations in England.

Highly recommended both for the historical value and for consideration as we find creative ways to continue sharing the Gospel in our day.

The post-script is a letter written to LCM by a man who witnessed an encounter between an LCM missionary and a drunkard lying on the floor. I wrote it out when I first read this book as a reminder that we never know who is watching us as Christians. show less

This is a fun, fast-paced read for the younger readers or a good read-aloud for the older elementary ages. I read it to learn more about Patricia St John, and I am delighted with the lady I met! If you have girls who need a great role model or a push to be a little more adventurous, the story of Patricia St. John is just the story!

We have read books she wrote and have seen the movie Treasures of the Snow - all based on places she has lived. Her books are based on her life experiences, and show more she had some real adventure along the way! show less