It is such a joy to be one of those reviewing the book,
Wild Goose Chase. I'm honored to do it. I am not being paid for my review - except for receiving 2 free copies - one for me and the other for one of my readers (maybe you?).
I met Pastor Mark Batterson, years ago when I was the Youth Ministry Specialist at Valley Forge Christian College. I was immediately impressed with what I called "a practical passion" - there are lots of people with charisma and personality, but Mark had a humble, quiet confidence. I never sensed that he was trying to impress or that he was impressed with himself. Simply said, He was (and is) REAL. Click his picture to visit his blog site.
I received Mark's first book,
In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, as a gift from Mark to "church planters" - I thought this was extremely generous and meaningful back then. Since then, that book has impacted churches & individuals all around the world. It is an amazing read. IF you don't own a copy, click on the title and get one (for a great price). Sometimes the sophomore project is a let down to such a successful beginning, however, I have found
Wild Goose Chase to be even better! I recommend it to anyone who is ready to pursue God's destiny with a reckless abandonment.
When I first heard the title of this book (long before I possessed a copy), I did what many web-addicts might do, I wiki'd it! A 'wild goose chase' was defined as:
a lengthy or useless pursuit or task whose execution requires inordinate resources and circuitous execution. Hmmm, sounded interesting. I think, in today's curiously cynical culture, choosing the right title is really important. And now, having read the book, it's clear that Mark continued with this deliberate provocation by choosing unique chapter titles. Hey, like it or not, we are easily distracted and lots of things compete for our attention, but this book makes you want to read it, page by page by page... yeah, including me! I read it cover-to-cover beginning late one evening - into the early hours of the next day - pausing to rest a few hours - then, waking with anticipation to pick up and finish it.
I'M BETTER FOR READING IT.Some of the features I love are: short & exciting chapters, amazing quotes, personal applications, Biblical infusion throughout and the "Your Chase" application/discussion questions at the end of each chapter. I know my staff and team are going to gobble this thing up - which is kind of a bummer - because I won't be able to steal any of these great principles & practical wisdom - ha! Seriously, I'm really excited to have this book impact their lives.
Wild Goose Chase is so helpful & encouraging. Chapter Six was especially meaningful to me, here's a quick glance,
"... sometimes a closed door is the very thing that gets us where God wants us to go. I've come to think of closed doors as divine detours. And while our failed plans can be incredibly discouraging and disorientating, God often uses the things that seem to be taking us off our course to keep us on His course." (page 122) -- so, good.
Mark speaks truth without sugar-coating or compromise. The character and nature of God is obvious and attainable throughout. It convicts, encourages and provokes. Ultimately, I think you'll find yourself saying things like, "I can do this" ... "wow, he's totally talking to me" ... "I've got to share this with someone"...
One of my all-time favorite books is
The Pursuit of God, by A.W. Tozer - early in my life, it was so helpful to me in finding and living my path with God. I think this book can impact today's generation in similar fashion - I pray it does.
FROM THE PUBLISHER:Summary:
Most of us have no idea where we’re going most of the time. Perfect.
“Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit–An Geadh-Glas, or ‘the Wild Goose.’ The name hints at mystery. Much like a wild goose, the Spirit of God cannot be tracked or tamed. An element of danger, an air of unpredictability surround Him. And while the name may sound a little sacrilegious, I cannot think of a better description of what it’s like to follow the Spirit through life. I think the Celtic Christians were on to something….
Most of us will have no idea where we are going most of the time. And I know that is unsettling. But circumstantial uncertainty also goes by another name: Adventure.” --from the introduction.
Author Bio:
Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of Washington, DC’s National Community Church, widely recognized as one of America’s most innovative churches. NCC meets in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the city, as well as in a church-owned coffee house near Union Station. More than seventy percent of NCC’ers are single twentysomethings who live or work on Capitol Hill. Mark is the author of the best-selling In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day and a widely read blogger (www.markbatterson.com). He lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora, and their three children.
HOW TO GET IT:You can buy this book for a great price on Amazon.
Simply click the book:
I also encourage you to check out:
chasethegoose - on this site, you can access Mark’s
10 Steps to Setting Life Goals. Great stuff!
IF you're holding out for a chance at receiving a
FREE copy of this book: Leave a comment on this review - sharing:
1] What's been the biggest distraction to your pursuit of God?
2] What, specifcally, has helped get you back on track?
3] Why should you WIN this book? C'mon, be creative (offer a good trade) - ha! The winner will be announced Thursday - be sure to provide a link, email or other way for me to contact you. I'll cover the shipping costs.
