Good books have a way of finding us when we need them most, offering reassurance, fresh spiritual insight and even unexpected friendships.
Several years ago, when tragedy struck our home and we were buried in grief, our pastor, recalling her own seasons of sorrow, recommended reading the Gethsemane chapter in The Desire of Ages.
The words on the first page of the chapter resonated so deeply with my heart and brought immediate comfort. I pulled out an art journal and started illustrating word art quotes. As I savored the words, often a sentence or phrase at a time, my heart found healing sitting with these words and illustrating the entire chapter.
My reading morphed into other chapters that immersed me in the life of Jesus and left a lasting impact on my faith.
A couple of years later, I saw a Kickstarter campaign from Types and Symbols for a project called Conflict Beautiful. Their goal was to present a beautifully designed, expertly crafted NKJV edition of the Conflict of the Ages series.
Once our books arrived in our preferred print and digital formats, my husband and I started a friendly couple's reading challenge of The Desire of Ages. He won the reading race, and I was totally fine with that! I loved our reading reflection conversations.
Most recently, to save time one morning, I took my devotional book to breakfast at my hotel during the 62nd General Conference Session.
"Oh, you're a reader!" exclaimed Willie, my server. "Who is your favorite author?" Before I could answer, he rattled off a long list of favorite books and authors.
Books came up in conversation the next morning. "Willie, I'm going to find you a book," I finally told him. His excitement soared.
Later that day, I went to the Adventist Book Center at the convention center. Considering the substantial works Willie had mentioned, I knew a book of the size of The Desire of Ages wouldn't scare him off.
Two mornings later, I saw Willie again and had his book gift and a note ready.
Willie was overjoyed. We talked about how the world needs more readers, and I asked if we could take a picture together to help encourage more readers to pick up a good book. He happily agreed.
Preparing this issue’s feature led me to read multiple people’s stories of engaging with Ellen G. White’s writings — and in doing so, I rediscovered their wisdom, strength and spiritual guidance for my own life.
Wherever you are on your reading journey, I pray you’ll discover a meaningful connection between scripture and her writings — something that encourages, challenges and draws you closer to Jesus.
Table Talk Prompt
What’s a book — by Ellen White or another author — that found you at just the right time and helped shape your walk with Jesus?
Heidi Baumgartner shares The Desire of Ages with Willie, reminding her how reading can plant seeds of hope and connection.
