:: In.a.Mirror.Dimly ::

In one sense we can’t “make” ourselves want more of God. There is a spiritual element at work in which God’s Spirit does something in us, and we respond in faith and in faithful actions. However, it is extremely important to participate in developing a craving for God by creating space and circumstances in which God can work in our lives.

I’d like to end this series with a practical next step. Like a good American, I’m going to suggest that you consider buying something.

Chris Tomlinson, a first-time author, has recently released a subtle, but powerful book entitled Crave: Wanting So Much More of God. Tomlinson, not to be confused with Christian singer Chris Tomlin, has a solid ability at telling stories and speaking of encounters with God in everyday life.

In cultivating spiritual disciplines and creating space for God to work, we change our habits and our desires over time. There is work for us to do, even if it’s only getting ourselves and our distractions out of the way so God can work. That’s what Lent is all about, and that is something that Tomlinson can help you do.

The pacing of the book isn’t for everyone, but thankfully Tomlinson is a regular blogger and has shared several chapters on his web site to give a taste of his book. I suspect that many readers will find his book an encouraging read. He is particularly adept at introducing a tired theme or topic and taking it in a surprising and thought-provoking direction before you realize where he’s going. His chapter on sharing his faith is particularly worth reading.

As I shaped my thoughts about Crave over the past week, I had a few concrete thoughts besides the ones I just shared. When I looked up his book this morning, I found that his stellar review in Publisher’s Weekly, no small feat, says it far better than I could. So I’ll leave you with that review:

This first book by Tomlinson, a management consultant, is a perfect fit for the booming spirituality market, particularly for enthusiastic, evangelical 20- and 30-something audiences. He begins his personal musings with a simple thesis: it is too easy to become a “comfortable Christian” and we must always search for ways to express our active devotion to God and Jesus Christ. This premise is not particularly innovative, but his writing style is straightforward and personally honest. The author acknowledges his own struggles with pride while retelling, often with humor, his only-too-human attempts to reach lofty spiritual goals such as charity and purity. Every chapter opens with vivid and iconic imagery—a spoon, a bit of floss, a pager—tangible symbols throughout the book for more abstract ideas like obedience, joy, and comfort. In sum, the product is endearing and inspiring, especially appealing to young, male evangelicals. One chapter specifically devoted to the intersection of his spirituality and military service will also draw the interest of Christian men and women in the armed forces. Tomlinson’s debut leaves room for future development while it meets the expectations of readers and the genre as a whole; he is worth watching. (Jan. 1)