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.