Lenten Reading List: Update 1

1) "The Irrestible Revolution: Living as an Ordinary Radical" by Shane Clairborne
This book was very convicting. I don't think that Shane's lifestyle is the only option for Christians, but I think the lifestyle most of us lead is not so much of an option at all. Shane talks about shunning both the prosperity and the poverty gospels. He advocates a gospel of abundence. His community is very socialistic- there is not much need for money if all share. I'm not sure about everything he advocates. But I see a need for strong convictions that alter the way we live. What is the difference between the way I live and the way my wholesome suburban non-christian neighbors live?

2) "Crunchy Cons" by Rod Dreher
I LOVE THIS BOOK! It completely fits with Clairborne's book. What would my life look like (the little everyday things) if I lived the principles I believe (or claim to believe)? Dreher covers some basic movements that I think will be worth checking out.
-Slow Food (local produce, local cuisine, no mass produced food)
- Dominionism (our responsibility to take care of creation)
- Homeschooling (not just to shield kids from sex ed. but to really take the time to teach your kids what you believe and consider important)
- orthodoxy (Dreher discusses a generation that wants a religion that requires sacrifice)
- arts & craft house (authentic beauty in everyday things; anti-suburban mass produced homes)
- and anti-consumerism in general

3) "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" by John Berendt
A narrative of the author's experiences in Savannah. His characters are amazing and his detailed picture of this eccentric southern town makes me want to move. There's a movie out. I want to find it for this weekend.