What I've Been Reading

Somebody on a message board asked, "What are you currently reading?"

I am doing the Bible in a year plan that I linked to in a previous post. I am currently in the books of Acts, Joshua and Job. I am delighted and amazed how the chapters I’m reading seem to be so apropos to something that is going on in my day or week, or somehow relate to some question I’ve had.

I just finished Heart To Heart with Pastors’ Wives by Lynne Dugan, and added A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce to my bag. Those are two books I’ve had around my home for years and years now. I have even picked them up a time or two, but never finished them. My plan is to finally read through the books I’ve collected before I borrow or buy another!

I have also begun (again and in earnest!) the book The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. I have been doing my journaling as part of that book’s exercises, and in addition I have been sketching regularly in my sketchbook. This is a HUGE step for me personally, in overcoming the artist’s block I have been in for so long. I am so hopeful and pleased about this. Someone recently blessed and surprised me with a set of art pencils and other various supplies. God bless them! I have been putting them to productive use.

You might think it’s odd that I am reading two or three books at a time, in addition to a few Bible chapters. I never used to operate that way. I used to read one book until it was finished, often quickly if it was of interest to me, and then begin another. This new way of reading a couple at a time is helpful for my current condition. I like to read a ministry related or Christian theology type of book, and then a fiction or non-fiction book. I read a chapter or two at a time in each book. When I find myself a little bored, distracted, perplexed or even needing to ponder something in one book, it’s helpful to switch gears to another book. I keep a big tote bag with me, with my books, including the journal and sketchbook, and when something I read gives me an idea or an inspiration I can jot it down or draw it out. I am ready to make a note so I can study something I have a question about more in depth later.

I am trying to surrender myself more fully to the Lord in the areas of art, study, prayer and discipline. It is only by God’s grace I can do any of this. I was (and am) so sick of the procrastination and disorganization that plagued me for so long, I have been yielding to the Lord and trying to do better. I have been blessed with some quiet time on my job where I am able to read a little, and been making baby steps toward this end. So that is what I have been reading. What have you been reading?

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This is a lot like me:

Easter Sunday

CHRIST is RISEN!
He is Risen, Indeed!