Before Amen

Max Lucado never disappoints, and neither does his latest book--Before Amen: The Power of a Simple Prayer. In his inimitable style and with his signature sensitivity, Lucado distills the prayers of the Bible into six short lines:

Father,
you are good.
I need help. Heal me and forgive me.
They need help.
Thank you.
In Jesus' name, amen.

He writes of prayer in such an inviting way that any reader will be likely not only to keep reading but also to begin praying. And that's the point, of course.

Lucado's take on Scripture has always resonated with me, and this book is no exception. His recreation of the wedding at Cana is delightful. His illustration of the scapegoat is impactful. His retelling of the parable of the friend at midnight is fun. And I enjoyed his handling of the familiar (and often misused) Revelation 3:20 ("I stand at the door and knock"):

Jesus waits on the porch. He stands on the threshold. He taps...and calls. He waits for you to open the door. To pray is to open it.

Even better, pre-ordering the book (see the button below) could net you not only a free copy of Lucado's book, Second Chances, but also a chance to win an iPad mini. But notice that you have to pre-order by September 29. Which I suggest you do. And then give the iPad mini you win to me. After all, I'm the one who told you about it.