Reading a Dictionary?

Yesterday I was a substitute teacher in a middle school reading class.  One part of the class period was dedicated to Silent Reading time.  I decided that I too would read (to set a good example of course).  So I pulled out my book and began reading.

Back to the middle school.  One student was talking and decided he did not want to read.  So I told him, "well if you can't find something to read I can find a dictionary for you and you can read that."  To which he said, "No one reads a dictionary.  It's too boring."  I then showed him the cover of my book, "Well (little irritating, non-direction following child)(no I did not really say that) I am reading a dictionary and I think its actually pretty funny."

Yes, I am reading a dictionary.  It's only 183 pages.  There are lots of pictures and its wonderful.  It's funny, witty, entertaining and educational.  I was using it as a reference for a discussion in a HS youth group I work with.  It's called "Crazy Talk:  A Not-So-Stuffy Dictionary of Theological Terms" and its way awesome.  It's hip and modern and keeps your attention.  It describes and depicts things in a way that connects to people in the 21st century.  At one point under the definition of ATONEMENT after some explanation about the fact that "for all of you are one in Christ Jesus" they try to explain how Jesus does this.  They describe thee metaphors that are found in the New Testament: Jesus as Money, Jesus as Hermione Granger and Jesus as the Terminator.  How cool is that!  It makes more sense once you read it.

I just wanted to pass along, for anyone interested in Christian Theology and learning a bit more about all the terms that we sometimes hear and have no idea what they mean, that this is a great resource.

I am also reading some books that have been on my shelf for awhile but have not been read.  Several Nora Roberts novels, a Debbie Macomber novel and then I will go back to some old favorites.


Have you read any good books recently?  


Remember the sunset won't wait.  Go out and enjoy life.  Live it.  Love it.