Tuesday, September 18, 2012

"Because You Care: Spiritual Encouragement for Caregivers" by Cecil Murphey with Twila Belk (with photographs by Betty Fletcher)

This is a very nice little gift book for those who are caregivers.  It is short and has nice glossy pages.  The photography is also very vibrant.  The font is also easy on the eyes.  The book goes over various perspectives on caregiving, from caring for spouses to caring for parents to even--sadly--caring for children.  From those who are just plain ill to those who will never get better (and just get worse), the true stories in this book will tug at your heart.  The stories are quick, but they convey emotion.  There is some Bible quoted every so often for encouragement.  This is not a book stock-full of Bible verses to encourage caretakers.  It does not even get too theologically deep.  It is a simple book for simple people who are caregivers. 

Sunday, September 16, 2012

"My Journey to Heaven" by Marvin J. Besteman with Lorilee Craker

This was book an interesting read.  What I liked was that this book did not give too many details.  The author said he peeked into heaven but was not able to get int.  He apparently met Peter, who didn't find his name in the Book of Life...for that day.  The author was told he had to go back to earth because he had more work to do.  The few details given about heaven are written as being "indescribable."  The author does not see Yah.  He does see angels and lots of babies, though.  The book devotes a good portion of pages to the author's life and giving back-stories on people he met in heaven.  The only time I was skeptical was when the author talked about a sea in heaven.  There is no sea in heaven (Rev 21:1).  But, later, he called this sea a lake.  So, maybe he just couldn't tell.  Other than that, the book is nice.  There is some lack of knowledge when the author talks about the Malak YHWH (Angel of the Lord) and refers to this Angel like it's an ordinary angel and not YHWH Himself.  Also, when I say "author," I am talking about the man who had the heavenly vision.  The book is actually written with help after the "author" passed away.  Overall, this book is interesting.  However, if you really want to read about a heavenly encounter, I encourage you to read "Heaven is for Real."