I just finished reading Blue Like Jazz, by Donald Miller. Blue shot up on my list of books to read after my friend and aspiring writer Abby highly recommended it. I understand now her gleeful approval. Miller is a poet/philosopher of and for Generation X, expressing ideas from sources like Lewis (good and evil as a clue to the nature of the universe) and Chesterton (“I am the problem”) in everyday language. Miller promises to talk about Christian spirituality in nonreligious language, and, generally speaking, he delivers. He is something of a Whitman (whom he admires): a renegade observer of American life. Unlike Whitman, who wallows in his own high view of himself, Miller is humorously self-deprecating and explores the tension between his self-love and self-hate. I recommend the book for insight into authentic Christianity.

Walzer argues that despite the classic conception, a pluralistic type of egalitarianism free from political oppression, is not only possible, but pragmatic and within our reach. So far a delightful read.

Korten skillfully uses social data to show the devastating effects of corporate liberalism and forcefully makes the case that an ethic of profit maximization at all cost is shortsighted and destructive. Instead of a system that erodes democratic progress, violates the principles of the free market, and exacerbates the cycle of poverty and misery for most, Korten proposes a scheme that promotes human life, capabilities for development, and democracy. A must read for anyone involved in assessing the enormous crisis of our times.

The third and most complex novels in the space triology. Having followed the adventures of Dr. Ransom in the first two novels, Lewis confuses his readers by focusing the first 150 pages or so on Mark and Jane, a young couple who have recently moved to Bracton. The second part of the novel rewards the reader with the reapperance of Ransom and a host of trippy, fantastic events.

This book is real spiritual food, opening up the meaning of revelation. Peterson, better known for his paraphrastic translation The Message, uses his exegetical skills and poetic sensibility, learned from years of pastoral care, to describe the full, adventuresome life. Using the life of the prophet Jeremiah as a basis, Peterson reflects on what it means to be authentically human.

A concise history of the first 2,000 Christian thought from a decidely Lutheran perspective. What Hagglund lacks in objectivity he makes up for in brievity. A good secondary source for primary readings of the thinkers of the church.

Karkkainen’s sensitivity to Eastern Orthodoxy, his experience with the World Council of Churches, and his pentecostal perspective make this text more than just Western theological primer of ecclesiology. Karkkainen seems to have the pulse of the ecumenical movement. So far, suprisingly interesting.

A complete, concise treatment of the biblical, historical, and contemporary sources of pneumatology.

A witty, clever film. Has the feel of an adaptation from the stage without loosing any of the freshness.

A fascinating study into moral grounding of the person. Much more than your typical action film fare.