Mark Braaten

NCLA Review - "This book is written for people who struggle to pray." If we are honest, that includes most of us; and at one time or another, includes us all. There is nothing ground-breaking here, just plain, simple and heartfelt talk about prayer by a veteran of prayer. In less than 100 pages, the author, the Rev. Dr. Mark Braaten, Senior Pastor of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Tyler Texas, deals with all sorts of prayer (from prayer as confession, to prayer as praise; from prayer in times of doubt, to prayer when the answer is no). Dr. Braaten's main resource for what he has to say about prayer is the Bible. However, he consistently grounds his insights in his own personal experiences, not as an expert in prayer, but as a "fellow struggler." It's that willingness to be at one with his audience rather than to stand over them, which gives this work a down-to-earth quality missing in many works on this subject. As a pastor and worship leader who often struggles with prayer, I found much to like about this eminently readable book. I think you, and the people of your parish, will like it too. Rating: 4—WS… (mais)