Sommers
has written a good devotional created from her thoughts on
experiences and Bible passages. Her Mennonite life is an example of a
simpler life, one she invites readers to experience.
The
Mennonites have distinctive dress. More than their clothing, Sommers
desires that their “faces and actions also speak distinctively of
God.” (111) This was highlighted in a devotional that impressed me
- one on true beauty. Sommers notes that spending too much time (and
money) on looking pretty may distract us from following after God and
his righteousness. “Life is not about me,” she writes. “It's
about my Lord. … May I hear 'She is beautiful' from God's
viewpoint.” (141)
I
really liked her devotions on the sea. Observing severe weather
patterns reminded her, “Sometimes he calms the storm for me. …
Other times he lets the storm rage and calms my heart.” (103)
That
somewhat identifies the strength of these devotionals. There is a
calmness that permeates them all. It was refreshing in this era of a
distracting lifestyle involving cell phones and social media. Sommers
has written inspiring devotionals for those looking for an example of
a quiet yet strong faith from a woman not mired in contemporary
culture.
I recommend these 90 devotions. They are lessons from Sommer's
experiences, from working the soil to wrecking the family car. They
include her thoughts on a variety of topics, from the attributes of
God to spiritual growth to being a woman who serves. A prayer and a
reflection are included with each devotion, making this book a good
choice for spiritual reflection and renewal.
My
rating: 4/5 stars.
Faith
Sommers is a conservative Mennonite mother, wife, and columnist for
Ladies Journal, a publication for Amish and Mennonite women.
She and her husband live in California and have six children.
Herald
Press, 200 pages.
I
received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My
comments are an independent and honest review.
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