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Reviewed Titles Caught off Guard - Encounters with the Unexpected God	William P. Smith Reviews Added June 12, 2007 Caught Off Guard Encounters with the Unexpected God Author: William P. Smith Publisher: New Growth Press Available At: Bookstores everywhere Publishing Date: February 2007 Genre: Nonfiction: Christian Living Format: Trade paper Price: $15.99 ISBN-10: 0-9770807-7-3 ISBN-13: 9780977080779 Reviewer: Joyce Handzo Rating: 9 Gargoyles Caught Off Guard is indeed surprising. It’s packed with sound theology, yet instead of reading like a textbook, these pages have a conversational and enthusiastic feel. The reality of God in our ordinary lives is highlighted though biblical and personal stories, all of which gives the readers a feeling of anticipation and hope. The author’s goal “to make visible the invisible" is certainly accomplished. Carefully drawn portraits of God’s infinite grace, mercy and love pull back the veil separating the spiritual world, allowing glimpses of the Almighty in everyday situations. These demonstrations of God’s closeness offer reassurance, and at the same time, revive this necessary relationship for the believer. The mixture of candid writing and compassion hits a genuine note as the author avoids vague generalities and gets to the heart of our human existence. Readers will better understand why romanticized versions of biblical heroes keep us from Christ, while also coming face to face with some common misconceptions about God. Faith, fearfulness and failure are viewed through a scriptural lens, with real-life accounts fleshing out these truths. Caught Off Guard is a little like getting a new prescription for eyeglasses. Although the world doesn’t change, everything around you is seen with an exciting new clarity. The extraordinary wonder of God’s presence among us is shown in ordinary ways that have the potential to be life-changing. The author’s knowledge of the Almighty plus his awareness of daily human struggles give these pages a wonderful sense of power and purpose. Return to top of page. This page was last updated on January 1, 2008 This page and all its contents are Copyright© 2002-2008 In the Library Reviews and the individual reviewers. Except where noted, all graphics are Copyright© Eos Development and are used with permission. All book covers are Copyright© their respective publishers and are used with permission. The In the Library Reviews logo is Copyright© 2002 by In the Library Reviews/Sharyn McGinty. Site maintained by In the Library Reviews.