Although I don't read too many modern day auto-biographies, I must say, I really enjoyed this book, Choosing to See, by Mary Beth Chapman. Of course a huge contributor would be the fact that I am so appreciative of the music ministry of her husband, Steven Curtis Chapman. God has definitely used this brother in my life, to change my life and draw me closer to the Lord, as Steven has offered up his gifts for the glory of God and the good of the people (like me).

Some elements that made this book such a good read was the absolute and unhindered transparency of Mary Beth. Some might not like her transparency, or even disagree with some of the decisions in the lives of the Chapmans, but the rest of us sinners actually find it very refreshing, and remember, it's pretty important to know that even the best of men are men at best. The basis and backdrop of much of the book is the passing of their little girl Maria – and it was for that reason that I cried a lot in reading this book. It might sound weird, but I actually found myself laughing frequently as well (a good mix – don't you think?). Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." And so the question is, do you know? Do you know that all things work together for good? And are you the "called" – are you saved, are you a Christian? (This promise is to them/us).

In this book, I read about a modern-day-living-illustration of Romans 8:28. God has taken this tragedy, and through all the tears, trial, hurts and heartaches, He has transformed it into triumph. Does that eliminate the pain? Oh no – the pain is still deep and real and devastating – a 10 on the richter scale of pain; but what we learn is that there is great purpose for the pain, God is glorified, His little girl is home where she wanted to be, in God's big, big house, and one day, by the grace of God and the cross of Jesus Christ  - we will join her in the true and tangible Kingdom of God.

May God help us in our Choosing to See Him and His ways, in all of our life, and all of our days. (Let me know if you want to borrow the book 🙂