I just finished reading a great book. Rob Bell’s Jesus Wants to Save Christians is the best book I’ve read this year. Granted, it’s the only book I’ve read so far this year, but no matter. Bell has a real gift for situating the Old Testament’s story of Israel in a way that has relevance and resonance for today. But he also writes a word to challenge today’s church to answer the call to be a light to the world, to actively participate in the ministry of Jesus to bring healing to the nations. He also does a great job of articulating the New Exodus theme that is woven throughout the Biblical narrative. If you’re looking for a challenging, well-written, and incisive assessment of the church in exile, pick up a copy of Jesus Wants to Save Christians. I can’t promise it’ll always be pleasant, but it’s sure to kick start your imaginative desire to live more fully into the unfolding story of God.