The following is a quote from Dr. James C. Dobson in which he cites those books and authors which have impacted his life. (c) 1987 Focus on the Family
Rather than select three or more books which exceed all others in their impact on my life, I prefer to commend the authors whose collection of writings are most highly prized. This is an easier assignment because the best writers require several books to state their cases and leave their mark. Toward that end, I'll mention three individuals who stand together at the top of the heap.
First, I admire the memory of Dr. Francis Schaeffer and the anthology he left to us. He clearly perceived the significant moral issues of our time and articulated the evils that infect the fabric of our society. Even when dying of cancer, he found time and energy to counsel with pregnant young women in front of abortion clinics. Yet he never forgot who he was. Recently, our organization wanted to write a cover story about Dr. Schaeffer for our monthly magazine. We found that it was impossible to obtain an in-studio photograph of this great man. He had no time for such vanity.
Second, I have great appreciation for the writings of Chuck Colson. This man endured one of the most dramatic descents from power in American history. At his zenith, he worked next door to the President of the United States. A few weeks later, he was assigned to a tiny, stinking cell in a federal prison for his role in the Watergate scandal. But the measure of the man became clear when he was released. He could easily have returned to his former life with a six-figure income, a yacht and a New York law practice. Instead, he chose to minister to the prisoners he had learned to love...to the down and outers who were so incredibly needy. This is the man, I recall, whose "Christianity" was mocked and doubted by the media. They no longer scoff. Chuck Colson's best book, I believe, is LOVING GOD. His life is a demonstration of its theme.
Third, for the sheer enjoyment of reading, I would rather spend a weekend with William Manchester than any other writer. He is a master of historical chronology, making people and events come alive. Being a history buff, I especially appreciated DEATH OF A PRESIDENT, AMERICAN CAESAR, and THE LAST LION.
It is difficult to select three writers who stand out above the rest, especially in regards to Christian authors. To choose from among the many men and women whom God has uniquely blessed and gifted is hard, but Dr. Francis Schaeffer and Mr. Chuck Colson certainly deserve to be among the giants.
