Tired of books that seem soul-less and out of touch? Youth ministry guru and modern-day trailblazer Mark Oestreicher combines life stories, fresh perspectives on biblical narratives, humor and personal vulnerability to author his latest work, Hopecasting. Consider this book to be a guided tour of how to redefine and experience true hope in our current reality—something too many of us dismiss until heaven. After a somewhat slow beginning to lay a foundation, Oestreicher plunges into a raw and honest third chapter that serves as a gateway to the rest of the book. Hopecasting builds anticipation with each page while avoiding any hint of becoming a self-help, knowledge-based, or a principle-packed read. It is truly in its own class and incredibly easy to read. With Christians and ministry leaders as his main audience, Oestreicher draws out the contemplative traits in all of us to address something so simple and yet so profound as hope. His section on the enemies of hope is brilliantly done and probably his strongest contribution. For extra measure, each chapter ends with a short list of questions to work through personally or in a group setting. Hopecasting is a breath of fresh air and bursts with the things of God. I think it should be a featured and highlighted read for many months to come.
Hopecasting: Finding, Keeping and Sharing the Things Unseen
Mark Oestreicher
InterVaristy Press, 2015, 208 pp., $16
