Kingdom Citizen - Tony Evans

Dr. Tony Evans offers a healthy dose of hope: the solution to our nation’s problems and unrest isn’t out of reach. The solution is here―and each one of us as Kingdom Citizens has a vital role to play.

Be assured that our God is greater than any challenge―and He has promised to equip His people. In Kingdom Citizen, you’ll discover how to respond in faith, in spite of a country and culture in decline.

Here is a powerful call to action for concerned Christians. Here is a call for unity and restoration. And here is strong assurance that each of us has the ability to walk justly, to seek truth, and to stand in the gap for our land. (Amazon site)

My Review: Kingdom Citizens is a short but insightful read on how we, as Christians, should have a role in rebuilding and restoring our relationship with God, the church, our nation, and our fellow citizens. Our country has been in turmoil for several years and it often feels as though we are on a brink of another civil war.

Pastor Evans reminds us to look at our nation's problems through a spiritual lens. We see the mess instead of focusing on how big our God is and leaning on Him. One example used in the book is Nehemiah and rebuilding Jerusalem. He turned to God first and then stepped out in faith, knowing God would move. Most of us worry, get angry, and/or try to figure out a solution. Then we turn to God to pray for his blessing or response to our requests.

This is an excellent book that reminds me of God's promises and encourages me to lean on Him. And... to take action, trusting God to clear the path and show me the way.

I received a copy of this book from the Tyndale Blog Program at no cost to me. However, all opinions are my own.

"Les Miserables" - Focus On The Family

Victor Hugo's classic book Les Miserables  has always been popular, but this story of love, redemption, and forgiveness is once again in the headlines due to the release of the filmed version of the musical.  Focus on the Family Radio Theatre's Les Miserables is a bit different from the onscreen version, but this is much more family-friendly. Brian Blessed, Geoffrey Palmer, and Leo McKern are some of the better known (to me anyway) actors who bring this story to life in a manner that is sure to capture the attention and imagination of the entire family.

I listened to this radio drama, saw the 2012 film currently in theaters, and watched the 25th anniversary musical version online. All 3 have their good points and their bad ones, but I would say that this radio drama holds its own with the others. I have only read summaries and abridged (children editions) of the story, so I honestly cannot say who stays closest to the original story. I suspect each had twists and tweaks to the vision of the one responsible for the making of each but each tell the story of forgiveness and mercy versus unforgiveness and legalism. Love, loyalty, and sacrifice are themes that reverberate throughout, and this would be an excellent introduction to children of a classic tale that remains relevant.

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a free copy of this audio drama. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review, and all opinions are my own.