I’ve been on a bit of a roll blogging lately. In a desperate attempt to finish looking back on 2009, here is the final post in the reflections blogs. Enjoy!
Of the 50 or so books I have read this year, the ones I seem to have enjoyed most have been predominantly biographies and autobiographies. I try to read a variety of books and at any one time am reading a fairly large number of books, so I would say this list is slightly skewed. However, in no particular order, here are some of my book, film and song highlights from 2009.
‘Flowing Streams: Journeys of a life well-lived’ – Stuart Briscoe
I’ve only just recently finished, but had read it within a few days of buying it. The autobiographical story of Stuart Briscoe. Originally from the North of England, it tells the story how God takes and uses an ordinary man in all sorts of circumstances. It’s quite simple, but really encouraging and contains some great lessons inside.
‘Axiom’ – Bill Hybels
I like Hybels. I don’t agree with everything he does, or even every way he approaches things, but his creativity and commitment to the church stand out. This book is collected wisdom that he has learned in his years in ministry. I enjoyed gleaning from someone who has fascinated me for some time.
‘Cricket, Lovely Cricket’ – Lawrence Booth
A simple, but amusing book. I love sports books and this was classic observational comedy in written form. Genius.
‘Lion Man’ – Sir Ian McGeechan
This was probably my most enjoyable read of the year. I like McGeechan. The fact he’s a Yorkshireman helps, but his writing demonstrates the man as a true legend. After reading this, I warmed more to McGeechan than I had before. His humility oozes out of this book and his genuine love of the game and love of people strikes me as unusual in the era of professionalism. I realise not everyone would enjoy this book, but as a rugby fan, it was a good and simple read.
‘Trouble is My Business’ (Film)

This is a film documentary following the inspirational Gary Peach round Aorere College in South Auckland. His love for Maori and Pacific Island kids who others have no time for and his investment and input into them is a bright and shining example and a joy to watch. Jen and I went to see this with no idea what it was like. It would rank as one of my favourite films and having now met Peachy, I can vouch that he is like that in real life. It’s a great Kiwi film.
‘Bright Eyes’ – Simon & Garfunkel (Song)
I consider myself privileged to have been able to hear Paul Simon & Art Garfunkel sing in concert earlier this year in Auckland. They are lyrical genius & musical genius combined. I’ve known the song ‘Bright Eyes’ for some time, but Garfunkel’s haunting rendition has remained with me through the year. It’s become a favourite song, even if it is about rabbits dying of myxomatosis!
‘Shooting Dogs’ (Film)
I’m not sure how much a film can convey of the horror of war, never mind genocide. The various accounts of the Rwandan Genocide move me and sadden me. The West sitting back and ignoring the attrocities of 1994 is unforgivable. This film was a good reminder of the awfulness of sin and its most potent effects.
Thankfully, I am reminded through the work amongst students in Rwanda, that the gospel is still true and has the power to change lives. I would love to visit this country and see God’s grace at work.
‘The Busy Christian’s Guide To Busyness’ – Tim Chester

I like Tim Chester’s writing. He’s readable, but also writes things of Biblical and gospel substance. I read this through with Peng, one of our students and thoroughly enjoyed it. It is basically applying the gospel to all areas of life written in a book. I recommend it! (I also prefer the old book cover for this!)
‘Outnumbered’ (TV Show)
I discovered Outnumbered on a flight into Wellington. I only saw one episode and as a result decided to try it. I bought series one on DVD for Jen & I. We watched it as “parenting prep”. It’s good fun, good British humour and for me, took over where no-one has picked up in the post-‘Office’ era. Hugh Dennis is fantastic and the kids hilarious.
If you’ve never seen it, here’s a clip to get you started:
Other notable mentions for 2009 would be Colin Durez’s biog of Francis Schaeffer, Dan Kimball’s ‘They Like Jesus but not the church’, ‘It’s not about the coffee’ – Howard Behar, John Stott’s BST on Ephesians, and Peter Allisson’s ‘Whatever you do, don’t run!’
Looking at this 2009 list, it looks like I may have to add some heavier tomes, but reflecting on 2009, I enjoyed reading and learning from the lives of others. Watch this space for (hopefully) more regular reviews, courtesy of an initiative by Thomas Nelson books.



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