The entire book was free for 2 weeks until February 3rd. But you can still download the Introduction and Chapter 4 in PDF. Here's a description of the book.
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When He came to earth, Jesus Christ was rejected in every quarter in which He stepped. The Creator was rejected by His own creation. “He came
to His own and His own received Him not,” said John. For this reason,
Jesus Christ had “no where to lay His head.” There was one exception,
however. A little village just outside of Jerusalem named Bethany. Bethany was the only place on earth where Jesus was completely received.
God’s Favorite Place on Earth
is a retelling of Jesus’ many visits to Bethany and a relaying of the
message it holds for us today. Frank Viola presents a beautifully
crafted narrative from the viewpoint of Lazarus, one of the people who
lived in Bethany with his two sisters.
This incomparable story not only
brings the Gospel narratives to life, but it addresses the struggle
against doubt, discouragement, fear, guilt, rejection, and spiritual
apathy that challenges countless Christians today. In profoundly moving
prose, God’s Favorite Place on Earth will captivate your heart
with its beauty, charm, and depth. In this book you will discover how to
live as a “Bethany” in our world today, being set free to love and
follow Jesus like never before.
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"In Frank Viola's hands, the story of Lazarus--like Lazarus himself--once again comes to life. In a world where hope is battered and
life can so easily beat down the human spirit, we are reminded once
more of the possibility of becoming a host of Life."
John Ortberg
"God's
Favorite Place on Earth realigned my heart toward Jesus and His
mysterious, confounding, surprising, beautiful ways. It's not often I
learn something new when reading a book, but Frank Viola's sharp
storytelling and insightful interpretation made me hunger for more of
the real Jesus."
Mary DeMuth
"God's
Favorite Place on Earth is the kind of book I've discovered I need to
periodically find and read. Frank Viola's pen and voice are consistently
both penetrating and trustworthy. Beyond his invitingly beautiful
writing skill--which makes reading a joy and a sight-seeing tour that
brings God's Word into 3-D when he relates narrative passages, I'm
grateful for the depth of his themes."
Pastor Jack Hayford
"This
is a masterfully engaging book that distills the vision of the
Christian life into one focused quest: To be God's favorite place on
earth today. I recommend this little volume to all Christians and
Christian leaders."
Mark Batterson
"Combining
masterful storytelling, historical knowledge, biblical insight and
practical wisdom, Frank artfully uses the Gospels' depiction of Lazarus
and the small town of Bethany to lay out a beautiful and compelling
vision of a God who longs to make every human heart and every church
'His favorite place.' This is a beautifully written, timely, prophetic
work all would benefit from reading!"
Greg Boyd
"A
lot of people write books, Frank writes stories and in this one we
once again see why he's such a master. Honored to call him a friend,
excited to call him an author I love to read."
Jon Acuff
"Frank
Viola surpasses himself in his best book yet—a work of serene, soaring
magnificence. Part novel, part biography, part theology, part Bible
study, Frank’s imaginative touch and command of prose haiku leaves the
reader resolved more than ever to be a Bethany—God’s favorite place on
earth."
Leonard Sweet
“Reading
God's Favorite Place on Earth by Frank Viola, my soul began to burn
from Chapter One. To delve into Lazarus' heart and thoughts ... I
received a beautiful glimpse into the life of Christ on earth. Lazarus'
stories make a perfect foundation for God's truth, God's intimacy. I
can't wait to share this book!”
Tricia Goyer
"In spite of my Ph.D. in Theology, I had never considered the importance of Bethany in the life of Jesus."
Phil Cooke
"Reading
God's Favorite Place on Earth illuminates the story of Jesus in such a
new and captivating way that it's bound to impact your life. Read this
powerful book and reconnect with the Lord's heart for every Christian,
every church, and every city. "
Pete Wilson