The summer months are right around the corner and one of the things our staff team has been really trying to push is getting some extra time in this season to disconnect and invest a little more time in areas or hobbies we enjoy. For me, that’s certainly a reading list. Over these next two weeks, my family and I are taking a vacation and I’m looking forward to spending some time in a couple of books.

So, for summer 2019, here are the books I’m reading:

The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch
I’m really looking forward to this read. I have listened to a few podcasts review and reference this book. Crouch, from what I understand, does a great job in supplying the reader with hard data along with how he and his family operate when it comes to screen freedoms. As Chango (my son) gets older, Rebecca and I are looking to hook him up with a phone, but we want to digest a couple of practices or rhythms that we may not even be applying.

Rhythms of Grace by Mike Cosper
This is another book I’ve heard referenced a great deal in recent podcast listens. One of the ongoing conversations I’ve been having with staff and other friends has been on the depth and study of liturgy. I think the central piece of a Sunday gathering is and should be the Word of God and I personally believe that our services should be better shaped by the Word of God for the people of God. I love liturgy saturated in scripture, but I wish to better learn how that shapes what we do on Sunday mornings at Storehouse McAllen.

Holiness by J.C. Ryle
I have read Holiness once before and it’s one of those books that should be read multiple times by Christians. I believe it’s that impactful. Bishop Ryle’s classic, Holiness is, in my opinion, the best book on the pursuit of personal holiness. He is both convicting and comforting; challenging and pastoral. Ryle essentially challenges his readers in the practice of holiness as it is formed out of our understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Throw by Ruben Degollado
My very good friend and brother published this book earlier this year and the reviews are astounding. I’m very excited to read this book that takes place in the 80’s here in the Valley. I meant to read it earlier this year, but wanted to give it my undivided attention as he provides so many cultural references like la llorna that I wish to enjoy it at a pace. If you don’t follow Ruben, you should.

The Apostle’s Creed by Al Mohler
We’re kicking off a new series later this summer on the Apostle’s Creed and I’ve been diving into some study over the past few months, but Al Mohler’s new book was just released so I couldn’t help myself to check it out. I’m really excited about this series as the Apostle’s Creed is not only a great and historical creed held by many evangelical church, it’s also a cultural value in the Valley. Also, our graphic designer/production guru, Everett, has done a phenomenal job with the graphic:

That’s all I have for this summer. I’d love to hear what you’re reading. What do you suggest for additional reads this summer?