In the Presence of My Enemies is a true story. This story is told by Gracia Burnham, missionary held hostage by the Abu Sayyaf, a Muslim extremist group in the Philippines. This is a first-hand account of the nearly one year of traveling on foot in the jungles of the Philippines as captives of terrorists. It is both chilling and brutal. Gracia struggles to endure. Her husband, Martin Burnham, is resolute and strong in faith but his physical health declines. An attempt eventually is made to rescue them. Gracia makes it but Martin is not so fortunate. In the telling of this story, I find myself particularly drawn to the person of Martin Burnham. There is a depth in him that speaks of the person deeply at one with God. In the Presence of My Enemies is an intriguing and interesting read.

The Curate’s Awakening by Scottish minister, George MacDonald (1824-1905), is an enjoyable work of fiction, a murder mystery and much more. If you’ve not read MacDonald, you are in for a treat. He is a master storyteller of who C.S. Lewis said these words “I have never concealed the fact that I regarded [George MacDonald] as my master.” I selected this work since it is the first book I read authored by George MacDonald.  Another of his books is At the Back of the Northwind , a well-known and more complex novel. In The Curate’s Awakening we find curate Thomas Wingfold newly established in his first pastorate. As time goes on he is faced with a dilemma, to preach what is expected or to preach from the heart. He isn’t even sure of his own beliefs. It is a journey the reader takes with him. In many ways, the messages found in this book are timeless.  I think you will like  The Curate’s Awakening.