Joy (ft. Ken Shigematsu) | Advent 2025 E3

Now I Become Myself by Ken Shigematsu draws from his experiences as a pastor and author to guide readers toward becoming their true selves through contemplative practices and gospel wisdom. Inspired by monastic traditions and his journey from corporate life at Sony to leading Tenth Church, the book addresses burnout, presence with God, and living fruitfully in ministry and daily life.

'God in My Everything' invites readers to discover the presence and activity of God in the midst of ordinary life. Shigematsu draws on his experiences as a pastor and leader to offer practical guidance for integrating faith into daily routines, relationships, and responsibilities. This book encourages readers to see their work, leisure, and even mundane tasks as opportunities to encounter God and express their love for Him. By cultivating a sense of awareness and intentionality, readers can transform their daily lives into a continuous conversation with God. He emphasizes the importance of prayer, Scripture reading, and community as vital components of a vibrant and integrated faith.

In 'The Return of the King', the third and final volume of 'The Lord of the Rings', Frodo and Sam face their most daunting challenge as they journey through Mordor to destroy the One Ring. Meanwhile, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli navigate the Paths of the Dead, and the armies of Rohan and Gondor prepare for the Siege of Minas Tirith. The book concludes with the destruction of the Ring, the defeat of Sauron, and the aftermath of the war, including the return of the hobbits to the Shire and Frodo's eventual departure to the Undying Lands.

A Prayer for Owen Meany, written by John Irving, is a novel that follows the lives of two childhood friends, Owen Meany and John Wheelwright, growing up in the fictional town of Gravesend, New Hampshire, in the 1950s and 1960s. Owen, despite his small stature and high-pitched voice, possesses extraordinary spiritual strength and wisdom. After accidentally killing John's mother with a foul ball during a Little League game, Owen becomes convinced he is God's instrument and destined for a higher purpose. The novel explores themes of faith, destiny, and the socio-political upheavals of America during the 1960s, including the Vietnam War. As the story unfolds, Owen's unwavering faith guides him through various challenges, ultimately leading to a heroic and tragic conclusion that deeply affects John and the community of Gravesend.

In 'Mere Christianity', C.S. Lewis argues for the existence of God and defends Christian theology. The book is divided into four parts: the first argues for the existence of God based on the 'law of human nature'; the second defends Christian theology, including the 'Liar, lunatic, or Lord' trilemma regarding Jesus Christ; the third explores Christian ethics, including the cardinal and theological virtues; and the fourth discusses the Christian conception of God, particularly the Holy Trinity. Lewis also addresses topics such as free will, morality, sexual ethics, and the institution of marriage. The book is known for its clear and logical presentation of Christian apologetics and has been praised for its straightforward and humorous writing style.