Rusty George

I think many of us have been in a situation where we've prayed and nothing seems to happen. In this book, Pastor Rusty George takes some everyday examples of prayer and ponders the waiting in-between. What happens in the waiting? This is an unusual take, at least for me but this is where people often lose faith. The waiting is often so critical because we all want our prayers to be answered, in a timely manner and for the outcome we desire. But when that prayer isn't answered, what happens? Doubt sneaks in.

Through simple language and relatable stories, Pastor Rusty shows us that there is another way. You can choose to look for direction because one action could lead to another and sometimes prayers are answered in this way. Not the straight-forward, hit you over the head way, but sometimes you are led to a person who can help or you are made aware of larger issue that needs your attention. But you have to listen for God's instruction and not quickly give up only to let doubt move in.

Right now, a lot of people are praying. Praying for their jobs, their health, their family members who have been affected by this pandemic in some way. After Amen offers a gentle hug and encouragement and we ALL need this right now. Pick up a copy.… (más)

As I read through Better Together, I thought that I should tell everyone longing for community and everyone in a community group to read it. It’s a cut above the cookie cutter idea of community. It’s a call to vulnerability and admitting we do need someone.

The pages dive into the “we” of scripture and the Jewish culture.

“I remember when WE crossed the Red Sea, when WE were fed by manna, when We heard that Jesus was the Messiah, when wE found out Jesus was alive...” It dismantles the western ideal of me and my experience. It reminds us to take joy in the success of others.

“Our problem is not the monster, the clown, or even the haunted house. Our problem is that we have failed to lock arms, circle up, and walk bravely into the darkness.”

This book is full of beauty and reminders of real men like CS Lewis and fictional men like Frodo who found healing in community and went on to heal others in community.

It’s grand. Read it. Be encouraged to love again.… (más)