Veritas et Lux

WHEN CHARACTER WAS KING – Peggy Noonan (2001)

A number of years ago, I began devouring books about my favorite president. When Character Was King by Peggy Noonan emerges as one of the most thoughtful and inspiring books about the former president.

Noonan paints a compelling portrait of President Reagan; a portrait that is an exceedingly human portrayal of a man who feared God, loved his country, and cherished freedom. The author writes, “As president, Ronald Reagan believed without question that tyranny is temporary, and the hope of freedom is universal and permanent; that our nation has unique goodness, and must remain uniquely strong; that God takes the side of justice, because all our rights are His own gifts.”

Reagan opposed the godless ideology that held millions of Russians hostage from 1917 to 1991. Lenin said in 1920, “We repudiate all morality that proceeds from supernatural ideas that are outside class conceptions. Morality is entirely subordinate to the interests of class war. Everything is moral that is necessary for the annihilation of the old exploiting social order and for uniting the proletariat.” In contrast, Reagan knew that virtue and morality are directly related to one’s relationship with God.

A few quotes reveal the man we know as President Reagan:

“We had strayed a great distance from our Founding Fathers’ vision of America. They regarded the central government’s responsibility as that of providing national security, protecting our democratic freedoms, and limiting the government’s intrusion in our lives – in sum, the protection of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. They never envisioned vast agencies in Washington telling our farmers what to plant, our teachers what to teach, our industries what to build.”

“Don’t give up your ideals. Don’t compromise. Don’t turn to expediency. And don’t for heaven’s sake, having seen the inner workings of the watch, don’t get cynical.”

“All of these things – learning to control the government, limiting the amount of money it can take from us, protecting our country through a strong defense – all of these things revolve around one word, and that word is ‘freedom.'”

President Reagan was and continues to be a breath of fresh air in an increasingly pessimistic political climate. He was unafraid to stare evil in the face. He courageously stood for the cause of freedom. Indeed, he was jealous to see the flag of freedom fly in every land. He opposed despotism, communism, and socialism. He promoted free enterprise. President Reagan refused to capitulate in the face of adversity.

THE REBELLION OF RONALD REAGAN – James Mann (2009)

The day was June 12, 1987. President Ronald Reagan stood in front of the Brandenburg Gate in West Berlin and uttered these crucial and historic words: “General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization: Come here to this gate! Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate! Mr. Gorbachev, Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”

James Mann’s, The Rebellion of Ronald Reagan is a fascinating and readable account of the days leading up to the end of the Cold War. Mann clearly describes the inner workings of the Reagan administration and the resistance from liberals and conservatives alike to the president’s approach and methodology.

The Rebellion of Ronald Reagan relentlessly presents the former president’s love for freedom and his passion to eliminate totalitarianism. I was reminded of Reagan’s love for freedom in 2005 as I stood on a bridge that spans the Moscow river. As I gazed at the Kremlin and reflected on the new found and relative freedom the citizens of Russia enjoy, I glanced at the”goon-inspired” graffiti that was etched onto the bridge. The words, “Heil Hitler” were mindlessly inscribed on the edge of the bridge. The graffiti reminded me that freedom will be short-lived if liberated people grow apathetic and fail to guard their freedom. It reminded me that fascism is still visible in the rear view mirror, not to mention the horizon. And it reminded me that Marxism still has momentum and must be stopped at every juncture. Liberated people everywhere would do well to seriously consider the warning of Thomas Jefferson: “When the people fear their government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty.”

President Reagan was acutely aware of these concerns which helped fuel the fire of his policies and interactions with Gorbechev. The Rebellion of Ronald Reagan is a helpful reminder of events in the distant past. While the Cold War is over, the ideology that inspired Lenin, Stalin, and Hitler is still very much alive. Ronald Reagan reminds us of the importance opposing the enemies of freedom; he reminds us to stand on the watchtower and jealously guard our freedom. He reminds us that freedom is not free; it is a precious commodity worth dying for. And he reminds us that freedom is never guaranteed in the future.

Reagan was aware of the protesters that gathered to voice their complaints over his appearance at the Brandenburg Gate. His speech closes: “And I would like, before I close to say one word. I have read, and I have been questioned since I’ve been here about certain demonstrations against my coming. And I would like to say just one thing, and to those who demonstrate so. I wonder if they have ever asked themselves that if they should have the kind of government they apparently seek, no one would ever be able to do what they’re doing again. Thank you and God bless you all.”

President Reagan is no longer with us but the Reagan revolution is still alive and well; much to the chagrin of the liberal elite and secular progressives. Big government, nationalized health care, excessive taxation, a reduction in personal liberty, and a weakened national defense was never tolerated by Reagan. And the current progressive agenda will not be tolerated by the American people.

3.5 stars

REAGAN ON LEADERSHIP – James M. Strock (1998)

He is man who inspired the United States of America after four years of economic disaster in the Carter administration. He is the man who called out a Communist leader as he stood before the Brandenburg Gate in Germany. He is the man who is largely responsible for the demise of the former Soviet Union. He is the man who restored faith in the American ideal of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. His name – President Ronald Wilson Reagan.

President Reagan was a first-rate leader. His approach to leadership emerges clearly in James Strock’s excellent project entitled, Reagan on Leadership: Executive Lessons From the Great Communicator.

Part one discusses President Reagan’s approach to Leadership. The author notes the importance of crafting a compelling vision. Anyone who is familiar with Ronald Reagan will admit that he was the master of vision casting. Reagan’s leadership was tough and decisive. He proposed policies with boldness and humility that was laced with a depth of character the many Americans relegate to the good ol’ days.

Part two discusses the Management philosophy of President Reagan. A plaque that set on his desk in the Oval Office communicates the heart and soul of his approach to management: “There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn’t mind who gets the credit.” He repudiated a micro-management approach and was happy to delegate authority to his staff. He said, “The way I work is to identify the problem, find the right individuals to do the job, and then let them go to it.” So his management philosophy had an inherent trust in people. His desire was to unleash the gifts and talents in others for a the benefit of the American people.

Part three overviews Communication. Of course, Reagan is best known as the great communicator. In a poignant moment, the former President admitted, “I wasn’t a great communicator, but I communicated great things.” And so the leader of the free world inspired Americans with lower taxes, a strong military, and a smaller government – three pillars that have all but crumbled under the current administration.

Part four focusses on Self-Management. The author zero’s in on the character qualities of courage, authenticity, confidence, optimism, empathy, grace, charm, discipline, constancy, perseverance, and humility to name a few. These are the marks that made the made. The combined total of these characteristics shaped the man that we know as President Ronald Reagan.

Reagan on Leadership is a reminder that leadership matters. It is a reminder that great men are great leaders. It is a reminder that character matters; that leaders are made, not born. This is a book that is greatly needed in our day and will help inspire the next generation of leaders committed to the rise of conservative values and policy.

THE FAITH OF RONALD REAGAN – Mary Beth Brown (2011)

February 6, 2011 marks the 100th anniversary of President Ronald Reagan’s birth. Mary Beth Brown honors the life and legacy of the fortieth president in her book, The Faith of Ronald Reagan.

The Faith of Ronald Reagan uncovers what most books on the former President miss – a deep trust and reliance on the sovereign God of the universe.

The author explores the faith of Reagan’s mother and the spiritual influence she had on her son. As such, she tracks the spiritual pilgrimage of former president and notes special moments that contributed to Reagan’s walk with God.

Mary Beth Brown does an excellent job highlighting President Reagan’s Christian faith and especially marks his deep trust in Christ and his reliance on the Providence of God. She notes, “Reagan was the great communicator as we all know, but the key to his political success was his unparalleled ability to speak the language of faith and values. This ability was a result of his strong faith and close relationship with God.”

Additionally, the author stresses Reagan’s love of personal dignity and freedom – freedom that grows weaker as segments of America embrace liberalism. Brown adds, “Reagan firmly believed that if we couldn’t convince the nation of the immortality of abortion, that we were in for a dire future.”

President Reagan modeled humble leadership. The sign on his desk in the Oval Office read, “There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn’t mind who gets the credit.”

I will never forgot the day I heard of President Reagan’s death. My wife asked, “Are you crying?” I tried to hold it back, but the tears were welling up in my eyes. America lost a great patriot on June 5, 2004.

Ronald Wilson Reagan will consistently be remembered by American’s as the greatest presidents of the twentieth century and one of the most influential presidents in American history. Indeed, he stands alongside the likes of George Washington, John Adams, and Abraham Lincoln. He taught us that freedom matters. He taught us that freedom is not free. He modeled good leadership. And President Reagan demonstrated the importance of living out the Christian worldview. We are the beneficiaries of his legacy.

4 stars

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program.

11 PRINCIPLES OF A REAGAN CONSERVATIVE – Paul Kengor (2014)

Ronald Reagan was a principled man. Unlike most modern-day politicians, President Reagan governed from a set of unchangeable principles that guided his life, not to mention, his nation.

Paul Kengor presents these unshakable principles that undergirded President Ronald Reagan. These principles of conservatism include:

1. Freedom

2. Faith

3. Family

4. Sanctity and Dignity of Human Life

5. American Exceptionalism

6. The Founders’ Wisdom and Vision

7. Lower Taxes

8. Limited Government

9. Peace Through Strength

10. Anti-Communism

11. Belief in the Individual

Kengor summarizes each principle and backs his study with a steady diet of Reagan quotes. This is a highly readable and informative book that would be perfect for a high school student or anyone who seeks to learn more about President Ronald Wilson Reagan.

4 stars

RONALD REAGAN 100 YEARS (2011)

Ronald Reagan 100 Years is a celebration of the life and legacy of Americas greatest president. The chairman of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, Frederick J. Ryan, Jr. writes, “In celebrating the centennial of Ronald Reagan’s birth, we remember an extraordinary man who touched our hearts. A man whose natural optimism gave us hope. Whose strong principles and devotion to the cause of freedom gave us confidence. Whose smooth, reassuring voice gave us courage. And whose unwavering belief in the American dream made us believe in ourselves.”

Ronald Reagan 100 Years is a vivid reminder of the influence of the man who reminded us of the importance of a strong work ethic, the peace through strength, lower taxes, and the pursuit of the American dream. This beautiful edition is filled with memorable photographs that will stir the memories of readers and inspire them to return to the American ideal.

June 5, 2014 marks the ten-year anniversary of the death of President Reagan. In memory of my favorite president, the next seven days will be devoted to posts that celebrate his memory.

HOW GOD BECAME JESUS – Edited (2014)

Bart Ehrman is the James A. Gray Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His Christological musings have caught the attention of scholars and pastors alike as he repudiates much of what passes for conservative scholarship.

Ehrman maintains that Jesus thought of himself as Messiah, but did not think of himself as God. He argues that Paul understands that Jesus is an angelic being. He holds that Jesus is not God.

The authors of How God Became Jesus respond critically to his Ehrman’s primary assertions, some of which are noted above. Frankly, How God Became Jesus contains a wealth of apologetic material in the title alone. The title itself runs contrary to Ehrman’s latest work, How Jesus Became God.

Michael Bird, Chris Tilling, Craig Evans, Simon Gathercole, and Charles Hill gather forces to respond critically to Ehrman’s arguments. The writing is scholarly and offers a rather systematic response to Ehrman. Readers can decide for themselves if the authors are successful. In mind, they do succeed, although not without some concern. There is a degree of sarcasm that surfaces in some of these responses, which in the final analysis does not pay proper honor to their opponent. I would prefer that the responses were informed by Paul’s words to Timothy – “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome, but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness” (2 Timothy 2:24-25, ESV).

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.

THE CREEDAL IMPERATIVE – Carl R. Trueman (2012)

Several months I ago, I posted a piece on Veritas et Lux entitled, “No Creed But Christ.” I have received a great deal of traffic as a response to this post and much of the feedback has been negative. Carl Trueman also recognizes (and repudiates) this anti-confessional agenda and affirms the importance of creeds and confessions and seeks to develop a case for the creeds and confessions in his book, The Creedal Imperative.

Trueman’s primary objective is to convince readers that “creeds and confessions are thoroughly consistent with the belief that Scripture alone is the unique source of revelation and authority.” He also adds, “I want to argue that creeds and confessions are, in fact, necessary for the well-being of the church, and that churches that claim not to have them place themselves at a permanent disadvantage when it comes to holding fast to that form of sound words …”

The Creedal Imperative is a welcome addition to the growing list of resources that is devoted to reviving the historic creeds of the Christian faith.

SEEING BEAUTY AND SAYING BEAUTIFULLY – John Piper (2014)

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” So says King Solomon in Proverbs 25:11. These wise words are the biblical basis for John Piper’s new book, Seeing Beauty and Saying Beautifully. Nearly fifteen years ago, Dr. Piper embarked on a series of books called, The Swans Are Not Silent. The beauty of these books is found in a combination of brevity, historical narrative, and theological depth. The books set out to introduce key figures in the history of the church – from Augustine, Calvin, and Luther to Bunyan, Wilberforce, and Cowper. The newest volume introduces readers to George Herbert, George Whitefield, and C.S. Lewis.

The author’s aim, as he says, is “to probe the interrelationship between seeing beauty and saying it beautifully.” And he accomplishes his goal by pointing to Herbert, Whitefield, and Lewis by demonstrating how these men pointed others to see the beauty of Christ.

Piper spends much of his time laboring over the poetic effort of these men: “Poetic effort is the effort to see and savor and speak the wonder – the divine glory – that is present everywhere in the world God made, in the history God guides, and in the Word God inspired.”

This is the sixth volume in the Swans Are Not Silent series. Each book stands alone and is brimming with joy and hope, which are centered in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The newest edition is no exception. John Piper continues to equip and encourage his readers. Over and over again, he proves, the swans are not silent.

5 stars

Personal Productivity Unleashed With God-Centered Resolve

It’s been almost twenty-five years since I first read The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. Since then, many of the principles that Covey explores have been a part of the fabric of my life.

A few years back, I had the opportunity to read David Allen’s best selling book, Getting Things Done. Like Covey, he added some ammunition that helped in the area of personal productivity.

Matt Perman picks up where Covey and Allen left off. His new book, What’s Best Next contains the best of Stephen Covey and David Allen. But Perman’s work contains a significant difference. And the distinction he introduces makes all the difference in the world. Matt Perman helps readers understand how the gospel transforms the way we get things done.

What’s Best Next is filled with practical hints that will ramp up personal productivity – but never as an end in itself (which appears to be a flaw in both Covey and Allen). Perman argues that personal productivity should have an end game. Personal productivity, should enhance our ability to help people. He adds, “We should care about personal productivity not simply for our own sakes but also for the sake of others.”

Anyone familiar with Covey or Allen will freely admit that these writers have the best intentions in mind. And I have personally benefitted greatly from their work. But Matt Perman is concerned first and foremost with the gospel of Jesus Christ. He helps readers understand how their productivity can be enhanced in four specific areas including personal life, work life, organizational life, and society.

What’s Best Next is one of those books that is nearly impossible to review in a comprehensive way. Principles could be explored that the author promotes and productivity hints could be shared. But readers would inevitably be cheated – because this book is a gold mine. It deserves to be read by every person who has a passion for the great commission and the great commandment. Simply put, it will enhance one’s ability to serve God and people with maximum effectiveness.

The aim of Matt Perman is to “reshape the way you think about productivity and then present a practical approach to help you become more effective in your life with less stress and frustration, whatever you are doing.” The author succeeds, and then some. I cannot recommend it highly enough!

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.