Book Reviews: Through the Eyes of a Lion

Through the Eyes of a Lion by Levi Lusko (Thomas Nelson)

In his heartbreakingly personal and honest book, Pastor Levi Lusko tells the story of his daughter Lenya, a loving and fiery 5-year-old who went to heaven just days before Christmas.

Lusko’s book deals with death and grief, but it serves a much greater purpose as well. It will remind readers that although death is inevitable, we should face it head on as our motivation to live God’s calling for our lives. It is an inspirational story that instructs us to see our lives through the eyes of Jesus and to find power in the hope he gives us. 

With the perfect balance of stories, encouragement and direct calls to action, Lusko is able to reach even those who haven’t experienced such incredible loss. Heaven, Lusko insists, is not the end of our lives but the beginning of an eternity with God. 

Through the Eyes of a Lion is an easy read, and it is written beautifully for those who appreciate good literature. Although I never met Lenya or the Lusko family, I’m honored to have read about her life. This book is one I highly recommend and will remember and carry in my heart. 

Olivia Williams, communications intern

Baptist Standard

Pilgrim at Baldy Mountain by Wilson Wayne Grant (CreateSpace)

You don’t have to love the Pecos Wilderness of New Mexico to enjoy Pilgrim at Baldy Mountain. But readers who fondly remember exploring the area bordering Glorieta Conference Center particularly will appreciate the way Wayne Grant—pediatrician and longtime medical director for Texas Baptists’ River Ministry—relates lessons he learned hiking mountain trails to a spiritual pilgrimage.

For example, Grant recalls how a park ranger told him animals seeking food or water originally created most wilderness trails. Later, prospectors, trappers and traders widened and removed some obstacles from the paths. Finally, settlers smoothed out some sharp curves and carefully placed steppingstones in streams. Anyone who hikes a trail today benefits from the gifts of those who traveled it earlier. Likewise, on our spiritual journey, we owe a debt to those who went before us.

At 120 pages plus endnotes, some readers may choose to read this book in a single sitting. Since the author has divided his reflections into 30 brief chapters, others may prefer to savor it for a month of daily devotional readings. Whether you choose to join Grant for an afternoon stroll or a four-week trek, enjoy the journey.

Ken Camp, managing editor

Baptist Standard