Ascent from Darkness: How Satan's Soldier Became God's Warrior... A GRIPPING TALE OF AMAZING GRACE

Ascent from Darkness: How Satan's Soldier Became God's Warrior

"Ascent from Darkness", a truly gripping tale, tells the story of a man who is worse than lost, far beyond God's reach, and what we think of as pure evil. However, the crux is that this man, who is seemingly beyond redemption, finds it through the GRACE of God and Jesus' unending love. It reminds me of the story of of Paul and his redemption on the road to Damascus. The story also brings to mind the hymn, "Amazing Grace", and how sweet it really is.

This story is not for the faint of heart, but for anyone going through a truly wretched experience, one does not have to look any further to find comfort in the tale of this man, for if the lesser of us can find hope through Jesus Christ, so may we all. Leehan's testimony not only serves as a cautionary tale, but also as a sort of guidance to find the light in the midst of the darkness.

I, myself, am a fan of true crime, documentary film, and the like, and found this piece an exceptional example of those with the addition of faithful testimony. I felt a strong sense of condemnation for his character, but then saw the sin in myself and how grateful I am for Jesus' atonement in my place. What a contemplative day today, being Easter, and a perfect day to write this review as I felt extremely contemplative during this read.

My only caution, and the reason I deducted a star from my rating, is the graphic tone of the book. I gauge this on a liberal scale, but could not recommend to my own mother. The aftermath of more than one night was a dark, depressing feeling. But, overall, I find that it was worth it for the accurate effect. If you can read something a bit lighter right before bed, you might be sleeping a bit easier.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Year with Jesus Daily Readings and Reflections On Jesus' Own Words...A Refreshing Look At Jesus' Words

This is an exciting devotional that looks at Jesus' words and draws the reader into a more personal and intimate relationship with Him.  I'm very much enjoying and benefiting from the book, as I appreciate the focus of the author.  I have been unable to put the book down even though it is formatted as a yearly devotional.  The entries are thought-provoking and I've gained more than one insight from the combination of Bible passage and commentary. 

I like having the full Bible passage and Mr. Nettelhorst's reflections together on the same page, as well as the use of different versions of the Bible, which helps to interpret the context of the words and not just one interpretation.  Having the different categories of topics with introductory comments is a good way to organize the passages.  I would give this book gladly and recommend it to others, and after reading the entire book, I would like to go back to read it daily as the author's intention, to truly meditate on it further. 

Furthermore, the topical organization of the devotional are so relative to our daily lives, but also show how 2,000 years ago, were the central focus of Jesus' message as well.  They include: 

• Love and Hate
• Truths and Lies
• Arrogance and Humility
• Friends and Enemies
• Belief and Disbelief
• Patience and Impatience
• Deserved and Undeserved
• Good and Evil
• Fidelity and Treachery
• Life and Death

While Jesus may seem like a fictional character to some, He is truly brought to the reader in a relatable and more personal way.  This truly shows me that God's plan in sending His Son to earth was to draw us nearer to Him, using His Son to not only bear our sin, but to bring to our reality the true best human to ever walk the earth.  Thank you for introducing me to this exceptional piece.




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”