Dancing in the Storm: Hope in the Midst of Chaos

I found this book to be very comforting to someone like myself, who likes complete order in their lives, even though life doesn't work like we think it should. Dancing in the Storm gives us permission to take each day as it comes, and make the most of each opportunity. I found this to be a very refreshing approach to life, much different from other books I have read. It reminds us that Our Creator is in charge anyway, we aren't, so we might as well relax, and enjoy the ride. I feel this can be a life changing opportunity for many of us if we are willing to apply the concepts in Linda's book to our everyday lives. I for one, have been doing just that and find myself much more relaxed and free to enjoy what comes my way. Very worthwhile reading.

Readers who enjoyed When Bad Things Happen to Good People and When Life Doesn't Make Sense, will find insight in McGinn's exploration of chaos. She brings Chaos theory to the Bible in Dancing In The Storm. The topic is complicated but McGinn writes clearly. Scientists define a chaotic system as one in which a number of nonlinear functions interact deterministically in a manner such that outcomes cannot be predicted by humans, even with powerful computers. The example often cited is of a tiny butterfly flapping its wings somewhere in Asia, kicking up a wind that becomes a gale force by the time it reaches U. S. shores. Chaos theory suggests the amazing and energizing fact that the smallest changes can make profound differences. Even the tiny, individual decisions we make can cause positive change in our lives and the lives of others. You and I are not just a number-we're butterflies! Why should you read this book? To think deeply about life choices, to see where you are engaged in destructive coping strategies, and to make some course corrections for your journey of faith. Be prepared to think. McGinn's book covers three main points: Understanding how chaos theory affects you personally; Finding your response to Chaos theory; Coping with the consequences of personal choices. McGinn asks: How do you resist chaos (you do, you know)? Are you a list maker? Do you simply refuse to see it? Chapter two includes a self-test that will guide you to discover your chosen strategy. Once you identify how you cope with chaos (through trying to order it., through legalism, or through spiritualizing the chaos), McGinn calls you to abandon your defenses and devices and learn a new level of trust in God who ultimately orchestrates all the tiny butterflies. McGinn offers a solid Biblical base as well as a genuine understanding of the confusion with which many Christians struggle in their daily lives. It's not a button-down solution or a how-to guide, but a challenge to a new way of thinking. McGinn touches our perceptions about God, faith and choices, and offers suggestions for rethinking our coping strategies.