I’ve been silent on my blog lately as I press into the final two months of manuscript writing/editing. Thanks to a walking pad, I’m staving off the stress of this process. I’ll be honest, though: trying to manage full-time music work, ministry, and writing has been a lot.
A LOT.
But I love it.
I plan to go on a blogging rampage in November once my book is submitted. In the meantime, here are a few things I’ve found enjoyable and edifying lately that you should check out:
1. This article on Christians as a singing people.
By now, you know that singing is my favorite topic to write about. This article is simply beautiful. I hope it encourages you to sing with great gusto every chance you get.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/why-christians-singing/
2. This book on IVF that is at once timely and ahead of its time…
As political and theological lines are drawn and redrawn (and erased) over IVF, Christians cannot turn a blind eye to this issue. We need to understand it medically, ethically, politically, and—above all—biblically. While Christians have led the charge in defending unborn life against abortion, we have failed miserably to uphold a coherent and wise view of IVF. This book, originally a lecture series, is compassionate and convicting. It is also eerily prescient. Written in 1984, it predicts and examines the current confusion we have over fertility treatments with tremendous nuance. At only about 80 pages, I believe all Christians should take the time to read and digest it thoughtfully and prayerfully.
3. This podcast about how Christianity has, historically, been a positive force in the world.
I love the Crossway Podcast. It’s simple, clean, and not overly stimulating. It feels restful even while it is packed with great information. This one was especially enjoyable and encouraging.
4. This artist whose gospel-centered music provided a much-needed boost to my workouts.
British-Nigerian artist Samuel Nwachukwu has a voice like butter and blends genres in a way that is at once unique and familiar. His music is different than my usual listening tastes, which tend toward acoustic singer-songwriter and folk, but I have really enjoyed his work. I’ve added several of his songs to the playlists I’ve made to accompany my book.
5. This novel that combines speculative and historical fiction with grace and poignancy.
I’ve been meaning to read this one for a while and it did not disappoint. I’m already on the hunt for Butler’s other books, which seem to be more cleanly classified as science-fiction. I’ve linked to Amazon, but encourage you to try to buy used if you can! Your wallet (and the rows of used books sitting forlorn on their shelves) will thank you.
Ryanne Molinari 