Are you searching for a ten-minute womans devotional to read as you drink your morning cup of tea? If so, Emilie Barnes book, Meet Me Where I Am, Lord, should interest you. Barnes has a homey way of reaching the reader as she instills small kernels of instruction on how women of all ages can live a more godly life.
In the eighty-seven devotions contained in this book, Barnes is neither bombastic nor preachy in her writing. Each Bible verse that she shares is chosen with care, and is the introduction to the rest of the devotion. If the Bible verse is the introduction, then the title would be the key that prepares the reader for what will follow. The core of each devotion is then told through the use of short parables, excerpts from other authors writings, and events from her life. She finishes each mini-lesson with a short prayer and an action. The reader is encouraged not just to read, but to put into action some morsel she has gleaned from her reading and then to reflect on it.
Throughout the book, Emilie Barnes has interspersed many themes. One theme that she touches on is ones relationship with God: We can feel the gentle touch of Gods comfort, soft as a mothers kiss, the quiet reminder that He is still here (p.21). Another theme is ones relationship with family and friends: When we join forces with others we become stronger, and it becomes difficult to weaken our position. There is great strength in unity (p. 37).
Yes, there are other devotional collections out there. However, Meet Me Where I Am, Lord reads like a comfortable chat between old friends. Barnes keeps the book from becoming one dimensional by sprinkling in short poems from such poets as Edgar A. Guest and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. She adds bits of wisdom from George Washington, Eleanor Roosevelt, John Wesley, St. Francis of Assisi, Catherine Marshal, and others. And, there are hymns that leave us humming; three of these are John Newtons Amazing Grace, John Petersons No One Understands Like Jesus, and Cleland McAfees Near to the Heart of God.
Barnes has written thirty-one books; many of them are devotionals. She has also co-authored five books with her husband, Bob. So, find a comfy chair and invite Emilie Barnes in for a chat. Oh, yes, dont forget the tea. Vicki Borgman, Christian Book Previews.com