A Fruitful Work

I had such a great conversation in the church library yesterday morning.

A few months ago someone asked me what my favorite book was--my favorite book in the church library.  I responded by handing the lady my own personal copy of Thomas Goodwin's 'Heart of Christ.'  I gave her a few directions in terms of reading it (you know, take your time, it's pretty intense at times--don't feel bad if you have to put the book down at times).  Well, yesterday she came back to the library to return the book to me.  The effect the book had on me was almost exactly mirrored in her experience in reading the book.

She read it slowly.  She told me that at times she could only read 1 paragraph.  The intensity of the words hit her with such force that she had to put the book away and digest what she had just read.  I had that exact same experience.

The entire message of the book just blew her away.  Not to mention, she fell in love with the language too (it's written in an older style English).  Just like I did.

She told me that she wants to read it again.  I offered my copy back to her but she declined.  No, she had already ordered her own copy with the intent to mark pages, underline pieces and make marginal notes.  I also had done that exact same thing.  In fact, I own 2 copies of the book--one is completely marked up and the other one is in perfect condition--that's the one I loan out.  I also have now read the book 3 times--almost back to back.  The book was first loaned to me by my pastor when I mentioned that I was interested in reading a little of Goodwin.  Soon thereafter I asked for my own copy for my birthday.  While reading that one, I ordered another copy to mark up.  I don't know what it is about that book.  I have never read anything like it. 

Anyways...back to yesterday....
It is absolutely thrilling to see that a recommendation meant so much to a person.  I was deeply grateful to the one who lent me the first copy.  I am thankful I could pass on the 'gift'.  It is at times like this that I love my job in the library.  It's not just about checking out and shelving books...putting in the 20 minutes of 'service' for the church on the occasional Sunday--it's about finding the right book for the right person and seeing the fruits of true spiritual growth.  That's what a church library is built for.

May God continue to bless the work.