Well folks its already 2011, wow another year come and gone. I wish everyone a peaceful, healthy, and joyful new year full of God's blessings. I also hope everyone keeps following the Lord each and every day. It's not easy, but if we encourage and support one another it might be a little easier.
Over the course of the Christmas holidays I read some great books on spirituality. More reviews will follow in the coming days but today I have a new book by Trevor Hundson called Discovering our Spiritual Identity: Practices for God's Beloved (InterVarsityPress, 2010). Hudson is a pastor in the Methodist Church in South Africa and is the author of numerous books, most recently Listening to the Groans. He also works closely with the Renovare Spiritual Formation Institute as well. I look forward to reading Hudson's other books.
Discovering Our Spiritual Identity is not only a collection of spiritual tid-bits and insights but a full fledged book that you will want to read, take notes, and read again. The book is constructed as a workbook. After every chapter, which are not very long, Hudson offers some very insightful questions for the reader to answer. I must say that I read the book without answering the questions, however, I will certainly go back and re-read parts of the book and answer those questions! Hudson created a book that can be used for spiritual journaling and will foster group discussions. I envision this book being used for small groups and personal devotion.
The book is divided into 16 chapters each of varying length and each chapter has the same format: signpost, reading, holy experiments, following the signpost together, and reflection questions. This book is not a quick read, you savor it like a fine meal, enjoying Hudson's many stories from his long pastorate. Hudson is a master story teller sharing stories from his many years in ministry and travel. This book is not a dry at all but full of the Spirit.
The chapters deal with all sorts of topics such as God's call to discipleship, dealing with our memories, becoming who we are, as well as mission and formation. I could see how pastors would use this book in their parishes, each chapter would encourage conversation and reflection on the Word of God as we all strive and struggle as disciples of Christ.
I commend Mr. Hudson for writing this book and quite frankly was a bit jealous too-----I wish I had written it!
Don't delay, pick up a copy of Discovering Our Spiritual Identity and take this long spiritual walk with Trevor Hudson as he leads you to the still small quiet place in your heart where God dwells.
