a divine presence

i recently completed the shack by william young.  i would definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking book.  i have been trying to read more this summer.  after all, with all the traveling that i have been doing, now is the perfect time.

the shack honestly taught me so much, and i am thankful that our paths crossed.  i don't want to ruin it for anybody; however, i do want to point out a couple of themes that really stuck out to me.  first of all, the whole idea of my relationship with God was blown out of the water within the first seven chapters.  i was reminded that just when i think i have Him figured out, there is so much left for me to learn.  i guess my tendency is to become slightly arrogant sometimes.  after all, i am a minister.  shouldn't i have "all things spiritual" figured out by now?  yeah right!  i am such a work in progress.  the book reminded me not to put God in the "clay mold".  He is not meant to be limited.

the second theme that i loved, centered around making a difference in this world.  the author talks about the impact of our small decisions.  each act of kindness and each act of righteousness alter the world forever.  i tend to obsess over achieving larger goals.  in my struggle for success, i often overlook the little ways that God is working through my life.  i want to give Him glory where glory is due.  things are not always as they seem.  work is being done.  we should be encouraged through the smaller victories, because the impact is so much greater.

like i said before, you should definitely pick up a copy of the shack the next time you get a chance.  you will be glad that you did.  just like in the book, God often reveals Himself in the strangest places.  go to the the shack and experience a divine presence.