Wednesday, January 11, 2006

The Listener by Terri Blackstock

This was the first book by Terri Blackstock that I read. The author fills this 155 page novella with examples of the different ways you can witness to non-believers. Although this may not sound like an exciting story, I was hooked from the first page to the last. Based on the strength of this story, I will read more novels by the author.

After his pastor delivers a sermon on listening to people the way God listens, Sam Bennett has a dream about a woman looking for a lost coin. He hears a voice that speaks with the authority of God. When he wakes in the morning, Sam suddenly starts hearing people talking. The problem is that no one is speaking. It turns out that he has been given a gift by God. He can hear a person's deepest need just by being near them. Sam believes that he has been cursed by God. His minister explains that this is a blessing. The story follows what happens as Sam and his minister explore this gift.

Just reading this story will help you realize how many times we don't actually listen to people. Especially those in need of our help. The majority of people we come in contact with are looking for something. Even if only one person starts listening to those in need and fills that need by introducing them to Christ then this book will have accomplished it's goal. I cannot imagine the impact it would have on our communities. This is one of those books that should be read by every Christian.

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