When I was in my early forties, I began writing a regular column for the newspaper sent to Episcopalians in the diocese of Chicago. In Faithwalk, I tried to describe my struggles as a believing Christian set against my background as a lawyer, single parent, son of aging parents, and sinner. This venture in self-analysis continued a process of trying to square my life with God's call to a Christian begun many years earlier, but the writing was, I believe, an insight into how God works in all lives. Though written from a Christian perspective, these essays should appeal to anyone struggling with his or her faith in a world that seems spinning out of control. And I believe that God uses nonbelievers as a fulcrum to test our own belief.

Now in my early sixties, after the columns collected dust, I reread them, and I think they stand the test of time. So, I have decided to publish them in a book, adding a bit of commentary to provide the context. They have been arranged, not in the order they were written, but rather according to topic, topics suggested by the biblical narrative by which the Creator of the universe loved us so much that he sent his only Son to die for us. I hope you enjoy them.

"All Men are Dogs" is a provocatively motivating eye-opener that will empower men with the ability to reclaim the foreign estate of their rightful position as the image of God. Every woman who reads this book will be endowed with the power of healing and forgiveness. This book will bring a new direction to men, new prospective to women and radical changes to the life styles of men, women and families. Men the revelatory knowledge contained in the book will give you the courage to change yur life and the wisdom to find your lost identity, integrity and authority. No longer will you have to settle for less, living beneath your privilege. But you will be able to " walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called." To operate in the principles and standards that God had designed for your life. As new creatures in Christ Jesus living in the fullness of God's grace. This book will be a lethal weapon in the hands, heart and mind of any man or woman who would dare to read and accept the challenges perscribed in it and for those who are willing to conform to the inspired Word of God contained in it.

Covering secret societies, mysterious ancient traditions, and the often-mistaken history of the world's religious symbols, this book takes readers on a tour through the fascinating world of religious symbolism and reveals the most mysterious and misunderstood facets of religion. Hidden Religion: The Greatest Mysteries and Symbols of the World's Religious Beliefs not only explores the history and origins of widely recognizable symbols, like the Christian cross and the Star of David, but also introduces readers to more obscure symbols from religious traditions around the world-even defunct ones like those of the ancient Aztec and Mayan societies. In addition, the book discusses the "religious secrets" found in the major religions, including secret societies of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism. Containing more than 170 entries, the encyclopedia is organized by religious category, such as Abrahamic, East Asian, and African Diasporic religions, then alphabetically within each category. Each entry is prefaced with a short introduction that explains where and when the religious tradition originated and describes the religion today. This information is followed by an analysis of the historical development and use of symbols along with an explanation of connections between symbols used by different religions, such as shared astrological symbolism in the form of moon, sun, or star motifs. Provides fascinating historical and contextual information about religious traditions and symbols Addresses the roots of some of today's most popular superstitions and conspiratorial theories Focuses primarily on religions that are dominant or are becoming widespread within the United States, allowing students to gain a better understanding of religion in American society and greater appreciation for cultural diversity Develops a unique thesis about utilizing religious archetypes to facilitate understanding of religious ritual and organizations Includes a phonetic pronunciation guide with each entry to help students become comfortable with unfamiliar terminology

ABOUT THIS BOOK The idea of living as an ordinary person without enthusiasm, vigour, or energy is about to take a new turn. You are about to embrace truths and experience a re-direction which will move you closer to the original intention of God for your life. The MYSTERY OF YOUR SEED seeks to transform the readers perception about their future with deep revelations which will leave them totally reassured with thoughts of new possibilities. Your hope for a better life is definitely a supreme reality which you will encounter after this sojourning moment with this book. Get ready to discover the ultimate meaning, capability and value of the seeds in your life. You are welcome to the new you

Generational diversity has always existed, but it has now intensified due to the recent technology explosion, the early entry of younger generations into the workforce, and the late exit of Baby Boomers from the workforce. Many mangers have to deal with several generations on the same team. It requires a deeper understanding of management and better understanding of people skills to handle a diverse staff. In order to get the best from the entire team, it is important to satisfy their needs while retaining individual talent. Surveys indicate that fully 60% of employers report tensions between employees of different generations. Join Alex Steele as he uncovers the challenging differences between these generations and develops a game plan to lead a better team. Along the way, he discovers not only the skill to lead, but the skill to live. The journey is deep-rooted in pain and darkness at times. In the end he emerges, not only with a better understanding of people, but a better understanding of life.

Women of Courage: They Never gave Up, is an inspirational book that tells how three brave women fought back from adversities to live productive lives, and give back to the community. Linda Warren suffers from rheumatoid arthritis. She would not let this disease, or years of rejection of her first book, keep her from becoming an award winning author. Her novels entertain and help readers by relating to concerns in their own lives. Teresa Maurer has multiple sclerosis, but lives a full life. She is a successful Beatrix Potter Storyteller and literacy advocate encouraging hundreds of children to read each year. Her performances draw school children from all over Texas. Their smiles as she relates a Potter story are rewards she cherishes. Marsy Clarke is a crusader for the physically and mentally challenged citizens in Texas. For more than a decade, Marsy has helped implement programs that find jobs and housing for those in need. Her desire to become a crusader was kindled by her son, Andrew, who was born with disabilities. Travel with them through their lives. Feel their despair and triumphs as God leads them to reach higher planes.

THE DELIGHT OF THE FATHER AND OTHER LYRICS is a collection of over sixty biblically based poems, many of which were written to be sung. The book is arranged throughout with relevant scripture on the page facing each poem.

These poems deal with how God, with tender love, powerful wisdom and patient invitation, intersects the lives of people, and how we may, if we wish, respond to such intervention. They touch on a variety of circumstances and influences that are the common experience of all, whether Christian or non-Christian: confusion, decision-making, defeat, disappointment, entanglement, forgiveness, marriage, national life, personal private devotion, prayer, resentment, success. It is hoped that the index of scriptural references will encourage the reader to build worthwhile bridges between scriptural truths and daily living; that the built-in metrical arrangements in the poems will encourage the singing of some of the poems as hymns, and that the content, convictions and connections expressed in each poem will, after the final poem is read, enable the reader to respond positively and sincerely to this powerful invitation from the triune God: I kept the cruse of oil from running dry; The loaves and fishes I did multiply; I rescued Daniel from the lion's den; I even gave my life for you. But then Your doubts still hold you in captivity. I'm in control, my child Just trust in Me

Ever wish for something to challenge your thinking? How about a fresh application of looking at something? Well, The Daily Thought Shaker (R) could be just what the doctor ordered. It is a collection of devotions that adhere to the truth of God's Word with new twists at just about every turn. Whether you like to start out your day with a new thought about how God wants you to live, or if you prefer to end your day thinking about God, The Daily Thought Shaker(R) can help. Just flip through the pages and take a random sample of the titles: "Batteries Not Included" (April 29-30), "Hypothetical Grace" (June 26), "Are You Done Yet?" (March 17-18), "Are You Living by Faith or by Credit?" (May 22), "Who in Hell Knows Your Name?" (October 29), and "Customized Christianity" (July 15), just to name a few. The Daily Thought Shaker(R) will challenge your thinking in the application of Biblical truth in your daily life.

HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO REALLY UNDERSTAND BIBLICAL PROPHECY? NOW YOU CAN. There is an absolute Truth that everyone should know: The world as we know it will come to an end, and it will be in the near future. There is going to be a day of reckoning for our world. God Almighty is going to judge the Earth and the entire universe and it will all be destroyed in an instant. This is an absolute fact, whether you choose to believe it or not. Within the pages of The Ultimate End, you will find a clear and concise explanation of the very synopsis of the end times written by the Apostle John in the Book of Revelation. Here you can discover that The Revelation is not a book of vague mystery, but rather a writing of true revelation, which is intended to be understood by anyone who will trust and believe God's Word.

Come along as author Douglas E. Holzmeier, explains why You Are God's Best Idea and how accepting your inherent inner divinity leads to living the Undeniable Life

The ideas and epigrams behind
"You Are God's Best Idea Living the Undeniable Life:
"Life is a gift exchange."
"If you go into the darkness, to fight darkness with more darkness, it's going to be awfully hard to see."
"Great expectations begin with great acceptations."
"The stage is set, reputation preceding; summoning the star in the seated spectator; a performance at your command; heaven's ovation standing; God's cause for applause."
"Enlightenment is the understanding that you are the answer to your prayer."
"You're the boss of your thoughts. Hire the good ones, fire the bad ones."
"I would rather set sail upon the uncharted seas of possibility than row across the pond of probability."
"Stop chasing your dreams; they haven't run away."
"Dreams are not meant to be followed; they are meant to be followed through."
"Going through life miserable makes as much sense as going to school to study truancy."
"Your life will not be measured by treasures acquired but by the love you've inspired.""

I wonder what the Samaritan woman who met Jesus at Jacob's Well was like. What were the circumstances that led to her being there, drawing water in the heat of the day? The New Testament does not give us much background on the people involved in some of the familiar stories. This book brings those characters to life by letting the reader imagine what their life might have been like. Consider Joseph as a man wondering how he got himself into a situation where he and his pregnant wife were traveling to Bethlehem. What happened at the birth of Jesus from the perspective of another guest in the Inn? Did the jailer in Philippi have a son? If he did, how might he have viewed the events that happened while Paul was a prisoner? A Centurion had a servant who was ill. What was the relationship between the Centurion and the servant? How did the Centurion happen to get sent to Galilee? These stories take New Testament stories as a starting place and consider a different possibility. They will challenge you to think again about the people who might have met Jesus in person.

Recent arguments surrounding the meaning and message of the Qur'an often focus on whether or not it supports or exhorts violence. Such arguments, though, tend to ignore the fact that the scriptures found there speak to various aspects of life and living. The Qur'anic Narrative attempts to show that the Qur'an has an inspiring message that aims to enlighten the path of those who embrace it and guides them through the journey of life. Exploring various themes related to everyday experiences, Safi reveals the meaning of the Qur'an with regard to issues of spirit, faith, charity, patience, fasting, salvation, pride, charity, moral discipline, and other relevant topics.

In an attempt to recapture the Islamic spirit promoted in the Qur'an, this book offers an approach that speaks to areas of life many people are concerned about. It pastes together a narrative that is more consistent and more representative of the overall Qur'anic message, which, the author contends, is ultimately one of peace and hope. Safi places the Qur'an in context, too, by examining its meaning to early recipients of the scriptures and its place in that particular social and historical context. He continues by updating that meaning for modern readers and adherents, relating the intended meaning to an evolving human audience and to contemporary experiences. The author contends that extremist readings are misinterpretations and that those who may view the Qur'an as a holy text that encourages, even demands, violence are incorrect. Ultimately, readers will come away from this work with a broader appreciation of the Qur'an and its intended meaning and message.

Do you always seem to wake up on the wrong side of the bed? Do your days start off bad and go downhill from there? Daily Dose of Sonshine can help focus your day on the Lord from the time you wake up, to help your day get started on the right foot. Daily Dose of Sonshine will give you a practical, everyday truth coupled with Scripture to help you start your day right.