TRANSFORMED BY LOVE: The Story of the Song of Solomon (Virtual Book Worm , 2012)

A positive read that encourages spiritual relationship with God. Kevin King is passionate about his subject. His enthusiasm graces this book like a refreshing breeze. This book makes me think of a Bible book study. It contains many insights into the Shunamite woman and her relationship with King Solomon as it is depicted in the story found in the Old Testament book, Song of Songs. King describes the Shunamite woman’s insecurities, emotions, and the dynamics between the characters in the story. He writes their love story in conjunction with a second love story, a person’s relationship with Jesus Christ and the God-head. Transformed by Love reads like a teacher teaching an important lesson to a student. The message to be gained is this–that one can be transformed by love, the love of Jesus, a process that occurs over time and through circumstances. The awareness of true love begins a process of change which transforms the person’s perception of self. I particularly enjoyed the depiction of Jesus and His work in His chosen, beloved, children. The only difficulty I found with this book is that the text reads somewhat awkwardly because it jumps between three different “thought” voices–although this doesn’t detract from the message of the book. Transformed by Love is a book you will enjoy reading.

 

Becoming a Good Neighbor (14)

A few weeks past I mentioned wanting to become more neighborly, to be a neighbor in my thinking and life style. It is interesting how God has taken my statement and prayer and is making it into a new reality for me. All I have provided is a willingness and a desire to change in this area of my Christian living. Nothing else.

It is happening. I have listened, babysat, provided meals, opened my home for visits, and have allowed my daily agenda to be altered at will. I am learning to “let it flow.” Sometimes I begin to resist because I have my plans and wish to stay home, and then I remember my prayer and my wish to change.

In this endeavor, I am finding myself saying “yes” instead of “no” to things that take up my time, time I would actually prefer to keep to myself. I am reminded, a person should never pray for something they are unwilling to do. God takes us at our word. We should too! If we ask for something, we should expect Him to act on it.

I am finding that being a good neighbor is helping me to come out of my self-imposed “hermitage” and moving me forward. I must say, it is becoming a great blessing to me. A new day is here!

Excerpt from October, 2014 in my upcoming new book “A Golden Silence: Moments with God at Vina Monastery.”