Dear Readers:

I appreciate the fact that you have read my reviews of Christian books for more than three years. I’ve attempted to bring you a broad range of books, both from the past and the most recent books published. You’ve been allowed to see my “heart” as I write these reviews, whether the review is negative or positive. I’ve always been honest with you about my opinion of that particular book and will continue to do so.

Other Book Reading Interests

I’ve enjoyed nature study all my life. Friends never understood why I pulled my little red wagon full of jars of grasshoppers, crickets and other critters instead of the dolls that they enjoyed playing with. Hours were spent cracking rocks in half with a hammer so I could see what the insides looked like and try to find them in a book. These interests have continued into my retirement years. Now, instead of collecting the real critters, I collect them on stamps.

Gardening became a major interest when I moved into this townehouse cooperative twenty years ago. We were given annual plants each year and encouraged to “beautify” the townehouses for the summer. Naturally, I began learning all I could about gardening and became a “plant collector”.


Using my Nature Study/Gardening Interests to Introduce Others to Christ

People frequently ask me why I don’t just give up my gardens when they see me lying on my stomach in the grass so I can do some weeding or add another plant to my garden. This gives me an opportunity to share a little of my Christian beliefs with them. Generally the conversation goes something like this:

Me: “Where did God put the first man and woman?”

Other: “in a garden”

Me: “What did God tell them to do?”

Other: “take care of it.”

Usually, the person is now laughing. I frequently share a bit of my wonder at all that God created with that person. If given a chance, I also tell them of my belief in Jesus as savior.

Studying nature always leaves me in awe about all that God created. Unfortunately, today’s scientists want us to think these things just evolved through millions of years. I’ve never accepted that viewpoint in spite of college courses where professors tried to ram evolution down our throats.

Reviewing Nature/Garden Books from Christian Viewpoint

Studying nature and gardening is a big part of my life. Since I know that Christians aren’t just interested in studying the Bible or related topics, I’ve decided to expand the type of book I’ll review for your convenience. Starting with the next article, you will find that I have reviewed a nature study or garden related book for your benefit. Please remember that although the author may be an evolutionist, I’ll ignore that part of the book and tell you why I think it is still a good book on its particular topic.

I hope you enjoy seeing my reviews of books that I recommend for your children or yourself.

Sincerely,

Diana Pederson
Christian Literature Host