Between the Tackles
by Tom Houck
Overview
From the publisher:
In this easy-to-read and useful book, Tom Houck uses football to help readers learn about God and apply Biblical principles in the real-world. While reading about your favorite teams and players, these 20 practical messages will be sure to advance your faith!
My thoughts
I always like to disclose anything that could be misconstrued as bias when I write reviews of books so I want to start off by telling you that the author of this book contacted me to ask if he could send me a free copy of his book. He knew from my Seahawks web site that I'm interested in football and that I share his faith. It was an unsolicited offer and he asked for nothing in return.
Now that we have that out of the way, let me tell you that I couldn't be more pleased! The book is a gem! Let me also say that I'm a bit critical when it comes to religious books. For every good one out there, there are a dozen mediocre books and twice as many scary ones! The religious genre has its share of books that are so far over my head I'll never understand them, and unfortunately, a large share of books that put me to sleep. I often find it hard to connect even with highly successful religious authors for reasons I've yet to ascertain.
Between the Tackles has been delightful to read. The author draws parallels between action on the football field and stories from Biblical times, backing them up with short passages of scripture. He relates Bible passages to the current events in a way that is easy to understand and makes very clear points. And he writes with a sense of humor! The chapters are short enough that even the busiest people (college students, for example) can squeeze one in each week, and I just love it that there are 20 chapters - enough to last through the preseason and regular season - or through the regular season and the playoff season!
I'm always looking for a good devotional. If I can set aside a few minutes over my lunch hour to center myself, I find the day goes much better. This book is absolutely perfect for that. It combines my love of football with my desire to grow in faith and become a better person.
And I forgive Tom Houck for being a Saints fan! Go Seahawks! :-)
Favorite Passage
Goliath was a beast, a monster-of-a-man. Think Baltimore Ravens' offensive tackle, Jonathan Ogden (6'9", 345 pounds). On this particular day, the Philistine warrior was engaged in some serious trash talking. "This day I defy the ranks of Israel!" he taunted. "Give me a man and let us fight each other." (1 Samuel 17:10).
None of the Israelite soldiers were willing to accept Goliath's challenge. But out of the blue, a little shepherd boy stunned everyone by announcing he would take on the intimidating giant. That's right, David, the little boy who played the harp. Think veteran kicker Martin Gramatica (5'8", 170 pounds). Talk about a mismatch.
Buy This Book
I usually don't do this, but since this is a new book and it may not be in your local bookstore, I'm providing the link to the website where the book can be ordered on-line. faith360.org
