Unbridled Grace

Joseph A. Sittler (1904-1987) was one of the most influential theologians of the twentieth century, distinguished for his pioneering work in ecology and for his preeminence as a preacher. He gave both the Beecher Lectures at Yale and the Noble Lectures at Harvard. As the "preacher's theologian," Sittler approached the interpretation of Scripture with a clear understanding of current critical scholarship, but also in the freedom of the gospel at the center of Scripture and with the humility of a theologian of the cross. In following the trajectory of the text into the preaching situation he gave a lively, timeless, and eloquent expression to the fact that the interpretation of texts is in the service of proclamation.This collection of readings from Sittler's rich legacy contains a great many presentations and sermons that have never before appeared in print. Theologically serious preaching, close attention to language, engagement with the best of sacred and secular culture, and a deep respect for the text, all characteristics of Sittler's work, are the sort of features that continue to edify. They remain as benchmarks for good preaching even as styles and contexts evolve.

"A naive doctor fresh out of school was just what the Russian Mafia sought for their fraudulent medical ring. As a surface Christian living a self-absorbed life, Dr. Michael Norman was the perfect hire for their web of evil after answering a two-line classified ad in the newspaper. Months later, it became difficult to distinguish the bad guys from the good guys as Dr. Norman's cooperation was cruelly turned against him by corrupt government officials well aware of his accidental ties to this criminal conspiracy. What follows is a frightening true story that could occur to any of us, and a powerful faith journey to redemption that is made possible only through our Christian faith and the bold use of our power of choice for God.

This is the first comprehensive resource on the subject of love in the teachings of the world's major religions, cultures, and philosophies. Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions is the first reference work to offer a comprehensive portrait of love in the context of the classic and contemporary literature of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, as well as other cultures and philosophies. Like no volume published to date, it reveals the full richness of religious teachings on love in all its many forms, exploring an extensive range of topics that offer philosophical, psychological, and religious perspectives to guide the quest for the meaning of love. Encyclopedia of Love in World Religions features approximately 300 subject entries, as well as insightful biographic sketches of preeminent thinkers, all written by a multidisciplinary team of some of the foremost scholars on the subject. Entries examine both general and culture-specific interpretations of love: not just the dichotomy of spiritual and physical love, but the full emotional spectrum of love in relationships and practices. Collectively, they encompass love's integral—and sometimes conflicting—role in shaping beliefs and behavior in a vastly diverse world.

An unpredictable tale of an independent young woman who disappears from her trip to finishing school to hook up with Wild Buffalo Bill's show.

Explore the timeless wisdom of God's Word through this beautiful horse devotional. Horses nuzzle their way into our hearts and have a way of teaching us a lot about ourselves, about life, and even about God. Just ask horse enthusiast Cara Whitney, wife of comedian and actor Dan Whitney (aka Larry the Cable Guy). Through years spent working with these majestic animals, Cara Whitney has learned countless spiritual lessons that have brought her closer to God. She shares those stories in Unbridled Faith. In 100 heartfelt devotions with stunning photography, you'll: Learn about being flexible in your faith from a gangly legged colt. Discover the secret to overcoming temptation through a horse's "sneak and eat" game. From a pony with a sweet tooth, find out why we should be glad God doesn't answer yes to all of our prayers. Be reminded that you are priceless to God by a one-eyed quarter horse named Roanie. This devotional is perfect for anyone who adores horses and the simple farm life.

TRILOGY BOOK ONE includes three books from my numerous writings. As a writer and philosopher these many years, its been my pleasure to ponder the world in ways that most people dont have time to do. In my wanderings, I wonder if I am getting any closer to the Truth. How can any of us distinguish for sure? I suppose all we can know is that, as long as we are alive, we still have the opportunity to keep searching, while happily delving into this adventurous world of amazement, wonder and awe.

For those who dont know, PD stands for Parkinsons disease. I could think of other names right now as well, but Ill stick to the subject. Technically, theres a portion of my brain that produces dopamine, a chemical necessary for nerve conduction (and a bit of sanity), where cells have died. Theres a technical term for those cells as well, but this is neither an anatomy lesson nor a pharmacological treatise, so Ill forgo the technical details. I want to talk about what its like for me to experience this depletion of dopamine and the nuances of daily life therewith. I have no intention of keeping this totally rational. I can do that, but it would be dishonest and not be helpful as I work through each day genuinely. Fortunately, I stay neither in the rational nor irrational all the time. The irrational side of me says, No one wants to hear your bellyache about whats going on with you. Theyre too busy with their own stuff to care. The rational side says, If one person who reads this is helped or inspired to go on one more day, this expression has been worth it. So damn the irrational and on with the rational. Here go both!