In this truly refreshing book, Crockett (Weaving a Life of Prayer) guides readers through reflections on many difficult areas of life—loss, trials, confusion, loneliness and even weariness and fatigue. Unlike other authors who have attempted to navigate this harsh landscape, Crockett avoids simply giving up (no "Life is pain. You're a sinner. Get used to it.") or handing out simplistic answers (no "Just believe that God will help you and watch your trials turn to gold!"). For each area of "desert" she offers a biblical hope, and help with integrating that hope during the desert times of our lives. She also provides some marvelous imagery: "[God] waits to strike a holy match to ignite our lives with his passion, but few are willing to open their hearts and turn the tiny flicker toward God's consuming fire. Instead we want to control our own flame." The book is interactive, offering many "rest stops" with questions for reflection, and frequently encouraging the reader to pause and reflect on relevant Scripture passages. It will have great appeal as a devotional/journaling companion; an appendix contains excellent direction for those interested in journaling. Also very appealing is the author's frequent use of passages from well-known devotional writers, such as Brother Lawrence, Eugene Peterson, Teresa of Avila, Henri Nouwen and Amy Carmichael. (Mar.)
