links - 25/1/12

Bittersweet - Amy writes about her sister who recently died at the age of 40 from breast cancer. She became a believer in Jesus in the months before her death. A beautifully written and moving post.

Treatment of women in Vanuatu - Rachael shares her observations about the treatment of women in Vanuatu (where she is currently living).

Help for Clergy Wives - another post by Rachael, this time on the ministry wives' blog 'in tandem', reviewing a book for ministry wives. It's a good review which along the way raises some good questions about the language of 'self care', 'personal space' and 'boundaries'. A good discussion in the comment thread, too.

The Journey to five - Jenny shares her pregnancy history which, like many of ours (mine included) wasn't straightforward or painless. An encouraging read for those struggling with infertility or pregnancy loss and a good reminder that most of us don't know the details of each other's journeys in relation to motherhood. 

Seminary- life or death? A new series for those starting out at theological college, written in the hope of encouraging growth not drift while there. "Our prayer is that serious students of the Bible not only avoid spiritual shipwreck, but experience what it is to thrive in the disciplined study of the Scriptures, whether at seminary or in the local church."

Melinda Tankard-Reist (anti-porn activist, pro-life campaigner) has been under attack from many sources in the media and blogosphere over the past few weeks. Here are a few articles where she is defended against the recent vilification:

- Why being a Christian gets you crucified, by Miranda Devine.

- The authentic feminism of Melinda Tankard Reist, by Renate Klein and Susan Hawthorne

- Sisterhood beware - silencing ideas stymies progress, by Cathy Sherry.                 

Free download of Bloodlines by John Piper - "Bloodlines is one of the most autobiographical books I have written. It tells my story from racism to the path of redemption."