Today is National Read a Book Day! Our hope is that during these surreal and strange days we’re all living in, you’ve not only had opportunity to read the Bible, but that you’ve also had a chance to catch up on some favorite books or discover new ones.

Reading about the journeys of fellow believers who lost much and yet gained so significantly, the wisdom of those who write about life principles rooted in His Word, the frailty of the human condition to moments of pure childlike joy when sweetly reminded by authors like Max Lucado of God’s love and acceptance, can be such a rich blessing. Reading books can help steady our hearts when life is unsettling and unsure . . . especially during COVID-19.

This long holiday weekend is a great chance to pick up a good book and refresh your heart and strengthen your faith!

Lee Ann Jackson, Social Media Coordinator

Need some suggestions? Here are a few top picks from our Church of the Open Door team:

David Anderson, Lead Pastor

Abba’s Child by Brennan Manning

This is one of my favorite books because it powerfully plays out who we are in Jesus.

Judy Cocoris, Senior Ministry Coordinator

Shadow of the Almighty by Elisabeth Elliot

This is Elisabeth’s account of the martyrdom of her husband, Jim and four other missionaries at the hands of the Auca Indians in Ecuador. It’s an oldie but it had a major impact on my life as a teenager.

Tiffany Czarnota, Church Receptionist 

The Children of the King by Max Lucado

I love this book because it’s just a sweet reminder of God’s unconditional love and acceptance of his children in words anyone can understand.

Annette Greek, Properties Supervisor 

It is not Supposed to be This Way by Lysa Terkeurst

I was naive for many years and I thought being a perfect Christian that I would have some troubles but never did I think in a million years I would have the troubles that I have encountered in my walk.  Finding unexpected strength when life shattered me at times is what this book offered . . . along with the reminder that I was not alone.

Jessica Lee, Children’s Pastor

The Red Sea Rules by Robert Morgan

A quick, powerful book full of insights about going through difficult times as illustrated through Exodus 14.

Melissa Muller, CODlittles Coordinator

The Monster at the End of This Book: Starring Lovable, Furry Old Grover by by Jon Stone

This is my favorite book because I am around children all the time. I love this book so much because you can be so animated while reading it and change it up every time! Children really get engaged when whoever is reading to them adds that little silliness to it.

Lee Ann Jackson, Social Media Coordinator

Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court, by Coach John Wooden with Steve Jamison

There are so many great take-aways from this book – here are some favorites:

Be true to yourself. Help others. Make each day your masterpiece. Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible. Make friendship a fine art. Build a shelter against a rainy day. Pray for guidance and count and give thanks for your blessings every day.

David Newkirk, Next Generation Pastor

East of Eden by John Steinbeck

Of the novels I’ve read there has rarely been the feeling of sadness and loss I felt when finishing this one. I wanted the characters to continue to evolve and live on. Steinbeck lets us walk the road of forgiveness and free will with his characters while tackling the intricacies of the human condition. This book was one of the reasons I was so excited to learn Hebrew in seminary.

David Schaller, Associate Pastor

A Praying Life by Paul Miller

This is one of the most motivating, honest, encouraging books on prayer that I have ever read.  Not guilt and shame-based, but grace based.  Miller shares lots of helpful examples from his own prayer life.