Wild Goose Chase Review

A few weeks back I was reading a post on Mark Batterson’s blog where he offered a copy of his new book, Wild Goose Chase to anyone willing to review the book on their site. I sent in my plea. I thought there would be no chance because there are a ton of other people out there with higher readership, but I got my copy a few days ago and am honored to offer my review of it here. Note: This will not be the fancy “back of the cover” type review. These are just my thoughts straight up after taking two days to read this wonderful book.

A little background first. Mark Batterson pastors National Community Church in D.C. NCC is recognized as one of the most innovative churches in America. They meet in movie theaters across the metro D.C. area. I have been following his blog now for some time and consider it to be one of the few that is shaping me the most right now. On to the book.

Two of the things I love most in this world are a good adventure and a great story. Mark beautifully crafts these two together in Wild Goose Chase by reminding Believers about the adventure they are on and using stories, both Scriptural and modern day to do so. We tend to get caught up in the mindset that Jesus is just another part of the pie that makes up our life, but Mark challenges that idea and dares us to run after the Wild Goose on whatever journey He would lead us on in order to open our minds up to the wonder and mystery of this God we serve. Mark’s ranks up there with several other great authors that I highly respect in giving me a little peak into that awe-inspiring world.

The book was full of quotes (I’m the kind of guy that likes good quotes) that I will most likely steal use often. If you ever seen one of my books when I’m through with it, you know I love to write in them. You will be doing well to read this book now that I’m done with it. There are stars and lines and notes everywhere. Furthermore, the questions at the end of each chapter lend this book to be a great small group resource. I am quite confident that I will be using it for that very purpose in the very near future.

I can tell you that I was captivated by the book and my assumptions and views of God were challenged and stretched. I have a renewed desire to chase the Wild Goose in Auburn and see what kind of adventures He has for me here.

Next to lastly, being one who loves writing, I always think how cool it would be to have a conversation with the book/author that I am reading. While it is doubtful that Mark will read this and have that conversation with me, I plan on having that conversation with the book. Because of the impact it has made on me, and because I’m still processing so much from it, I have decided to enter into a discussion with Wild Goose Chase on Mondays for the next few weeks to come as I rework through this book and take on some of the ideas that it has spawned in me. I hope you’ll pick up a copy and join in the conversation.

Lastly. I will be giving a second copy of this book away on Tuesday. That’s right, you heard correctly. I will be giving a copy of Wild Goose Chase to someone on Tuesday. So, come back on Tuesday for further news in that area.

You can order a copy of Mark’s book at Amazon.com or Borders.com or BarnesandNoble.com.

You can also access 10 Steps to Setting Life Goals at www.chasethegoose.com.