I just wrapped up Mark Batterson’s newest book, Primal – A Quest For The Lost Soul Of Christianity. Overall a great read!

In Primal, Batterson expands on what Jesus called The Greatest Commandment – “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” (Mark 12:30) To illustrate he uses a blend of personal story, scripture and corollations from science, history, and literature. Each chapter was engaging and spiritually challenging.

The focus of the book is to help readers peel back layers of religion or tradition from their faith, and to recapture and reignite that primal faith in Jesus. One particular aspect in Mark’s writing I appreciate is his sincere and challenging love for people. Mark honors his readers while spurring them on to a deeper, more passionate faith.

And that’s what happened, for me at least. As I read Primal I was brought back many times to those core moments in my faith. The simplicity of following Christ, with all I have – heart, soul, mind and strength.

If you’re looking for a heart-challenging book for the New Year, I would suggest putting Primal on your list.