Whenever I watch the Wimbledon Championships, I want to grab my tennis racket, go out on a court and hit tennis balls. I want to volley like the pros do, I want to serve at incredible speeds and I want to be part of strong baseline ralleys. Watching the professionals play tennis makes me want to play tennis.
Reading Max Lucado’s latest book Fearless made me want to grab my computer (or a notebook and pen) and write. Journeying with Lucado on the back of his words made me want to be a better writer. Obviously he’s a true professional.
I honestly haven’t read many of Lucado’s books (we have most of the children’s books and in my defense, I am kind of from another planet), but Fearless brought me to a place of great respect for Max Lucado as a writer. He is a great writer. (And then, I’m probably preaching to the choir here.) Still, I learned lots and was inspired.
Sadly, I might not have bought the book if it weren’t for the Thomas Nelson Publishers blogger review team I am a part of. Why not? Likely because of the blurb on the back combined with my lack of Lucado history. The marketing language just seemed a little too dramatic. I couldn’t identify with the fear scenarios set up in the blurb. Unfortunately that would have meant missing out on a great and inspiring reading experience. I’m glad I didn’t miss out.
On a personal note, I find it ironic that Fearless is released on the day we will walk our five-year-old daughter—our eldest—to elementary school for the first time. She is going to Grade One today and will start off a whole new era in our family. It is understandable that in this season of my life, chapter 5, entitled, “My Child is in Danger: fear of not protecting my kids” spoke to me on a deep level.
“The semitruck of parenting comes loaded with fears,” writes Lucado. “We fear failing the child, forgetting the child. Will we have enough money? Enough answers? Enough diapers? Enough drawer space? Vaccinations. Educations. Homework. Homecoming. It’s enough to keep a parent awake at night.”
I am releasing my daughter into the world today. It comes with its unique set of fears and questions. Lucado reminds me to be fearless, because I have prayed and I will continue to pray for her and our other children. He writes: “Prayer is the saucer into which parental fears are poured to cool … Each time a parent prays, Christ responds. His big message to moms and dads? Bring your children to me. Raise them in a greenhouse of prayer.”
I would recommend Fearless for the inspiring journey it is. Lucado does not disappoint.
Get a preview of the book here.
You can check out these further resources on Fearless:
Thomas Nelson Publishers
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