Christian Living

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Larry Lilly's Letter Tuesday September 26, 2006

The response to yesterday's letter was off the chart. I received notice from many souls giving the title of the last book they had read and for the most part the reading was recent. Other than the Bible the majority said the best book they had read in their entire life was, "Texas" by James Michener, and second, "Ben Hur" by Lew Wallace and in third place "Grapes of Wrath" the Steinbeck social classic.

I did not receive the best ever response, but the good response indicates that my audience can read, that they do read and they read a broad range of style and material. I was surprised that John Bunyan’s classic "The Pilgrims Progress" was not mentioned as an all time favorite. Several other books considered to be important parts of our literature were mentioned such as "Last Of The Mohicans" by James Fenimore Cooper

So, today I balance the value of reading with the necessity of living in the real world with a quote from a man known for his expertise in his chosen field and his common sense.

"I think everyone should go to college and get a degree and then spend six months as a bartender and six months as a cab driver. Then they would really be educated."

Al McGuire 1928-2001 (American basketball coach)

It has been stated on occasion that the average American life, if written correctly would be a best seller. I would qualify this statement with the thought, only if the imagined part is permitted by the editors. I am certain my imagined life would sell well, due to the fact that so many would want to see if I 'imagined' them in some way.

Al's advice is well traveled in that most folks know there is more to life than just reading and learning about life vicariously. Life at its best is personal.

I could name several preacher friends whose work with people would be far more effective if they developed the art of listening when people are trying to talk to them. Bartenders and Cabbies are great at this art. Years ago I threatened to decorate my office like a bar, with a brass foot rail, stools, and I was going to don an apron, have a towel over my shoulder and have glasses hanging from the ceiling. (One of the deacons described this setting). The Great Blonde coerced me into settling for a country kitchen motif. Coffee around the kitchen table while talking tends to put people at ease. I know having the Great Blonde happy put me much more at ease. Still, I am oft tempted to do the bartender/counselor thing as I am certain many of the counselees will feel more at home in such a setting. Of course no alcoholic libation would be served as this sort of thirst quencher is the primary culprit in folks needing counseling.

Has it ever occurred to you that the invitation from to Christ to pray is His assurance to you that He listens?

Larry Lilly Copyright 2006 © Use with credit.

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