Evangelicals Now
Christian news worldwide
magnifying glass Search archives
home Home check the archives Archives Subscribe Subscriptions Advertising Information & booking of classifieds Adverts Find a local evangelical Church Find a church for the search engines and extremely curious! About us Contact us Site Map
Printable
Version

Helps to a happier (and holier) holiday

Time to pack those bags for the annual holiday. Whether you're going with the family, friends or joining a Christian holiday group, here are some suggestions for things to read or listen to during those precious idle hours. Make the most of them, they don't come again for another 12 months!

Oldies but goodies

The book by Jim Packer 'Among God's Giants' is one of those that other people assume you have read. Like me, it may have been one of those that you just never got round to. Recently, I did get round to it at last! And lo and behold, they were right all the time. It is one of the most stimulating and rich books that I have enjoyed in a long time.

The giants referred to are the English Puritans of the 16th and 17th centuries, and Packer, with his usual depth of insight reveals their history, spirituality and teaching, which will leave the reader longing for more. It was first published over ten years ago, but hopefully you can still pick it up for £11.99 (Kingsway).

Another classic on my bedside table at the moment is 'In the Grip of Grace' by Max Lucado. It is basically a simple exposition of the themes of the book of Romans - but don't let that put you off. Lucado writes for a popular audience, and his illustrations and stories bring to life the great themes of the Bible: sin, forgiveness and redemption.

Kids' stuff

If you are going with children in tow, can we recommend that 'Summer Signposts' nestles in the suitcase next to your trunks. This is a Bible-reading guide for 6-10s that goes through the signs in John's Gospel. It includes a family Bible time guide that you can do round the table over a meal. 'Summer Signposts' includes a free magnifying glass that the kids use to find clues in the book. Girls will enjoy using it for the intended purpose. Boys will find delight in frying insects! Available from The Good Book Company (020 8942 0880).

We know that this is a little risky, but holiday time for married couples, away from the pressures of home and work, are often special times of, ahem, nuptial indulgence. 'One Flesh' (Matthias Media, 020 8942 0880), subtitled a practical guide to honeymoon sex and beyond, may be just the thing to read together to keep the embers glowing...

Easy listening

Stewart Townend has become one of the best-loved writers of modern hymns over the last few years. Back in 1999 he produced a CD called 'Personal Worship' (Kingsway Music), which is basically just him singing and playing the guitar. It contains some very moving songs including his classic 'From the squalor of a borrowed stable'. Obviously, tastes vary, but we have found it a great blessing to listen to, and something that would give spiritual enhancement to a holiday. And don't forget to pack some simple tracts, and a Bible or two!

JEB and TT