Rad·i·cal/ˈradikəl/

I was introduced to this book, Radical by Dr. David Platt, by several women in our bible study in Houston.  I had heard of it before, but didn't know much about it.  Honestly, I originally thought it was some 'hippie-we-should-all-live-in-a-shack-and-go-green-cause-Jesus-was-libertarian' nonsense.

I was very wrong.

After talking to my girlfriends about it, I thought it sounded really interesting and come to find out, David Platt's church is actually in Birmingham.  That night I couldn't sleep.  I ended up staying awake for hours reading book reviews, excerpts from chapters, youtube videos, such as the one above, and even clicking through his church's website (The Church at Brook Hills).  I couldn't get enough of this book.  The next day I went to B&N and bought it.

Over the last couple weeks, I've been eating it up and talking to others about it.  On our vacation, I found out my sister and brother have both recently read it and so we were able to almost have a book club of sorts or at least great discussions on a lot of the main points and our take-aways.  James is currently reading it now and I really implore you, my friends, to give it a good look.

Most of the book, I felt, just confirmed convictions James and I have had for years and gave me great scriptural references, but then other chapters really stretched me and pushed me to where I openly wept to James afterwards as I felt God calling me to let go of the things (and even people) of this world.  Chapter Eight - Living when Dying is Gain revealed a deeply rooted belief I've held or maybe wished to hold onto that God would not send my husband or me into harm's way for His name's sake-- especially not now when we have a young daughter to consider.  But, I don't believe that is true.  He does not promise comfort and safety to any one of his followers EVER; quite the opposite.

Sorry for the rabbit trail... Anyway, this past Sunday (our first Sunday in Birmingham after our vacation) we attended The Church at Brook Hills.  I had some anxiety beforehand, because this would be our first Sunday putting Georgia in the nursery!  The first time any non-family member has held and watched her and it would be perfect strangers!  Oh, the distress!  :)  We arrived 45 minutes early for the service.  This was partially due to the fact that the church was 3.2 miles from our home, that I insist on punctuality (if not being early), and that I was NERVOUS and wanted plenty of time to get comfortable with the nursery folks and such.

So we get to the church and check her in at the welcome desk and are walked back to the nursery.  The women were very sweet and kind and put me at great ease.  The volunteers were all already holding babies, so James went to lay Georgia down in a crib when we were about to leave.  Now, if you have ever been in a church nursery, then you probably know these 'cribs' look more like cold, lonely, stainless steel cages.  As he lay my sweet baby girl on the stark white mattress and kissed her forehead, I lost it.  Tears sprung to my eyes and, unwillingly, flowed down my cheeks.  There was no hiding it.  All the women let out a collective 'awww' and tried to reassure me she would be fine.

I felt like a silly, young, first-time mom, but I guess that's exactly what I am!  I gathered what was left of my dignity, took one last look at my baby, and made a speedy exit.  But, not before I grabbed a 'baby beeper'-- just in case they needed me!!!

We loved the sermon (Dr. Platt is humble, sincere, knowledgeable, and passionate - my favorite qualities in a pastor) and service (despite it's almost 2 hour time span) and I couldn't wait to pick up my Georgia!  We walked back to the nursery and I saw her sitting quite contentedly in the arms of an older female volunteer.  I pointed her out and said I was here to pick up my daughter and the sweet lady at the door said, "Are you the mother that cried?" ... Yes, yes I am.

Georgia did great in the nursery!  She didn't cry a bit and loved being held by the sweet arms of her caregivers.  I am so thankful for the wonderful experience and they will see us back there next Sunday!!!

Read the book!  And, find a great local church to attend!