George Fox University | Parents | Perspectives | October 2007New Page 1

Perspectives | October 2007New Page 1
From the Executive Director

 I just finished a fantastic book called The Shack by William P. Young. It was just released in May 2007 so you may not have heard of it yet. Since you're technologically savvy, I'll encourage you to visit Amazon.com and search for information about the book. The editorial reviews and personal comments are astounding and will whet your appetite for this novel.

Without giving away any details of the plot, this story is about a man who is wrestling with unspeakable pain and tragedy, and how he becomes healed and transformed by God's love. Reading this book is a spiritual experience - like prayer or meditation. It is a story that brings you into the story in a way that captivates and changes you. Since I started reading it, I haven't been able to get it out of my mind.

Why am I gushing about this book? It's renewed my commitment to live only to glorify God, and to deeply enjoy my relationship with my heavenly Father. Living in relationship means that he will expose places in my heart where he wants to work. He then gives me the opportunity and the strength to do the work (work that feels a lot like weeding a garden at times). When I obey, he is glorified. When I choose not to obey, I prolong the process of the transforming work he wants to do in my life.

I don't have a special way to apply the story of The Shack in this article to parents of George Fox students. I'm writing about the book because I believe it is worth your time to read it. And, I think the Lord can use this book to help each of us look at life with an eternal perspective - the most important aspect of the Christian journey, whether you are a parent or a student.


The Lord bless you,

Sheri Philips
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