You might not realize that a book simply called "Lucky" actually covers as much as this great book does. Reading "Lucky" made me recall my seminary days, as I rediscovered some of the essential truths about the Kingdom-focus of Jesus' message, something that we can so easily lose track of. For those who haven't been to Seminary, this book will be great exposure to parts of Jesus' message that, though often neglected, are essential to understanding God's work in creation. However, unlike my seminary professors, Packiam has the great ability to explain this simply and easily - without doing it any injustice.
More importantly, though, is that "Lucky" doesn't just expose its reader to lofty theological principals. Instead, it makes them real for our lives. Its main point is promise. There is so much to be hopeful for, so much to be grateful for - we are, after all, very lucky. Even if you are poor or lowly or rejected by the world's standards, God accepts you and blesses you. Further, being blessed - lucky - is a promise that changes the way we live. Since, the world's standards no longer matter, being lucky means that we can reject the world while still engaging it.
I recommend this warm and encouraging book. You will find it easy to read, but it is also deep and engaging. Most importantly, though, it teaches us directly from Scripture. "Lucky" reminds us of the central truths of Jesus message about the Kingdom, and those who belong in it (we, the unlikely).
*I recommend it both for individual reading or for a book study group.
