A Friend's Commission

He sails the sea, his vessel
set and tuned by his hands
to catch the Spirit,
catch the wind
that bends and bears him
farther out, farther on
than he has ever known.
For this he asked;
for this the wind
has come and blown
and shown him his task:
to scale this sea, then beyond,
strike home.

(written for a close brother, a number of years ago, in a time of spiritual stirring)

Recently Read and Recommended

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When Sinners Say "I Do": Discovering the Power of the Gospel for Marriage -- by Dave Harvey --

I think this is the best book on marriage I've ever read. Dave's a fine writer, often humorous, and always honest and transparent. His book helps us center marriage on Christ and the cross in a thorough, daily way.



China Road: A Journey into the Future of a Rising Power -- by Rob Gifford --

Fascinating, highly informative, and extremely well written. For six years, Gifford (a Christian) was the head correspondent for NPR in China, and he's been a lifelong fan of China. This book looks especially at the changes now taking hold in the common people of China, who will ultimately determine her destiny.

Tolkien: Author of the Century -- by T. A. Shippey --

A must read if you're a Tolkien fan. Shippey will help you appreciate more than ever Tolkien's talents and labor, and especially all that went into the creation of The Lord of the Rings.