Abundant Life: Books to Read

Four books that will breathe hope and beauty into your life

A great story, the thoughtful memoir, a deeply reflective book on some aspect of the faith—here at The Bookery, it’s no secret that we believe books can add to the beauty and richness of our lives. So, as we continue our Abundant Life series, we’re turning our thoughts toward the books that have breathed hope, love and fullness into our lives recently.

Gentle and Lowly

Dane Ortlund

Listed on our Spring 2023 Reading List, we’re a little embarrassed to say we aren’t quite done with this one yet. A small, beautifully written book, Dane Ortlund uses Gentle and Lowly to challenge us to not simply know what Jesus has done, but to know him. Gentle and Lowly is a call to get to know the heart of Christ and to rest in the goodness of the one who is gentle and lowly in heart. Get your copy here.

A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society

Eugene Peterson

In A Long Obedience, Eugene Peterson invites us into a deep meditation of the psalms (specifically the Songs of Ascent) and a call to the life of faith and discipleship. We like instant in today’s world, and Peterson’s book is a reminder that God gently shapes us more and more into Christ’s image through our obedience in the big and small things. Becoming more like Christ is continuing to walk in obedience in fits and starts throughout our lives. This gentle book will encourage and inspire. Don’t miss it! Get your copy here.

On the Spiritual Disciplines: An Introduction to Christian Practice

Brandon Spun

Brandon Spun hasn’t given us a step-by-step handbook outlining a million different spiritual disciplines and how you can do more. Instead, this book calls us to understand the meaning and goal of spiritual disciplines: to learn from and walk with the Lord. Rather than being outward actions we take to find favor with God, Spun posits that spiritual disciplines should help us find our rest in Him. Get your copy here.

Gilead

Marilynne Robinson

We can’t create a list like this and not include a novel! Marilynne Robinson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is the life story of the Reverend John Ames, told in his own words as he pens a memoir/letter to his young son. Gilead isn’t the easiest read—as a letter, there aren’t really natural stopping and entry points—but it is book well worth the time and effort. Get your copy here.

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