The Series Isn't Lousy

When Baker asked me to write a book, we discussed how we could use it to bless churches and pastors. One idea was to create a message series and offer it (along with all kinds of creative content) for free. That idea became a reality and has been available for about a month at http://www.lousytshirtbook.com/. I just received this e-mail (which I have permission to use) and I have to tell you that this is EXACTLY what I was hoping for:

Vince, I am a planter/pastor in a frontier called ... Wyoming (yes, that is in the United States!) I lead a small congregation of a church that is 100 years old and most of the congregation is over what I would say (being as PC as possible) old.

As a young pastor, I sometimes struggle to develop message series that will touch their lives in a way as to reignite their passion for Christ. I have to say the book and materials that you have produced in "I Became A Christian and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt" have truly been a blessing from God. I wasn't sure at first how they might respond to it, but have been overwhelmed by the comments that I have received.

I preach to people who have been Christians for decades and have been in the same old religious rut for many years. The themes of Lousy T-Shirt help to to explore possible reasons why they have lost their fire and explores ways to get it back. However, part of the beauty of the series is that it is written is a way that it touches the hearts, not only mature Christians, but that of new believers and non-believers alike.

Being a pastor in a small, rural church challenges me to incorporate multimedia into the services, primarily becuase of lack of resources and time. I will be ever thankful for the materials that you all have put together that work to enhance the message, from the "Counseling" videos to the graphics. It probably wasn't your intent to help out a dude in Wyoming when you wrote the book or produced the Experiencing Together materials, but know that you have accomplished just that. I pray that many churches will incorporate this series into their churches soon!

In Christ,Willy Maxwell

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