Date: August 13th 2008

Good Afternoon to all!

I hope this email finds you having had a fantastic summer thus far. My family and I have done a lot of traveling over the last few months and have been blessed in all of those wanderings. We have been through Iowa, Illinois, Ohio, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota, Indiana, and Wyoming. Before we are completely through we will have added Kentucky and Tennessee to that list. What a great country we live in.

The purpose of this email is to alert you to a new book that I have recently read. It is entitled: "The Way Home... 'there is always hope.'" The book was written by Johnie Scaggs, Jr. You may have read some of his previous books. He has been a preacher of the gospel for 27 years, having preached in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri. He is also the Co-Editor of "The Reasoner".

The book which he has written is a somewhat close look at how his young adulthood paralleled that of the younger son in the parable of the "Prodigal Son". Now, you may say that you have read this parable before or have even seen books on this topic before, however, I ask you not to dismiss the topic so soon. Johnie brings a unique perspective to this topic from within the Church of our Lord. It may very well strike the hearts and minds of many young folks you know if introduced to them. From talking to Mr. Scaggs, it was discovered that some congregations are even utilizing this book as a study in their teen classes. I would say this is a wise application.

Rather than give you a full summary of the book, I would like to point out three perspectives presented. The first is that of the younger son. Johnie really pulls the reader in as you see him in that roll of the prodigal son. The experience, the helplessness, and the hope that arises from this parallel is excellent. The second point that is driven home is the faithful response of the father with glimpses of how Johnie's father handled his return. The example is one that should be held close to the heart by all parents. The third point which I felt was very applicable is the examination that there were indeed two prodigal sons in the parable. How often families are never the same when calamities hit. Forgiveness is a tough thing to come by, compassion even more so.

I found this book to be a quick and easy read, but quite insightful and a very likely boost to those young folks who are also looking for hope in their lives. If you would like to know more about this book or obtain a copy for your own, you may contact Johnie Scaggs at: 1314 E. Broadway; Sedalia, MO; 65301 - Phn. 660-826-1950. The price is $6 plus shipping and I am sure Johnie would be glad to get any feedback you can provide him.

God Bless,

Travis