This summer I’m beginning a new stage of life. I don’t forsee being a full-time student anytime in the near future after pursuing 7 years of higher education at college and seminary. Now, I’m trying to find out what it means to live in the work world, and specifically working as one called to the ministry. It’s time for resumes and job hunting as I search for the place God has for me in ministry.

In the meantime, I’m coming off of a fantastic Chaplain Candidate tour at Lackland AFB. It was there that I gained some great experiences, got several opportunities to see Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) up close, and to interact with the incredible young men and women who serve our country, not to mention those who train, lead, or support them.

More recently I’ve been enjoying some summer reading. One thing I’ve long anticipated is the opportunity to read the books that I want to read. So that is what I’m up to now. I’ve just finished what I believe to be one of the better (if perhaps premature) biographies of President George W. Bush. The book is entitled Dead Certain: The Presidency of George W. Bush. As I mentioned before, I do think the book is perhaps a bit premature–a better accounting of his life and presidency will surely come along (with a better perspective) in several years. On the whole, however, I do believe it to be one of the fairer, and more appealing books about this president.

Next up, I’m working on several at once. I’ve picked up Charles Swindoll’s character study on the life of David, entitled David: A Man of Passion and Destiny. It is making for a good read, and is an truly uplifting and informative look at the life of David.

Also, I’ve begun The Life You’ve Always Wanted: Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People by John Ortberg of Willow Creek fame. The third I’ve got going is the fourth volume of Forrest Pogue’s biography of General George C Marshall (currently out of print).

I’ll hopefully give a continued update as the summer goes along. I’ll be turning pages and hope you find something good to occupy your time too.