I spotted this book on a shelf in my local minister’s office. I was drawn to it because of the author - Brian McLaren - and the theme. I heartily recommend it to anyone wanting to (re)discover Christian faith as a “transforming way of life”

Brian McLaren is a well-respected commentator on contemporary Christianity. Although some of what informs him is the American religious context - which in many ways differs from ours because of the enmeshment of evangelicalism with US nationalism and politics - the author’s message has universal appeal. He is an internationally respected speaker and has visited New Zealand.

In this and subsequent books, he ably holds a mirror to our faith institutions and prevalent western theology. He offers readers thoughtful analysis and reflection, and practical suggestions for infusing daily life with faith. Most chapters have suggested reflection questions to ponder and work through.

This book may appeal to spiritual seekers and Christians alike. It (re)introduces us to an ancient approach to spiritual formation and development, and invites us to (re)discover helpful ancient practices. Apparently, there’s renewed interest in these by young people, as well as those wanting to develop the spiritual trajectory of their lives.

By dividing the book into three parts, McLaren clearly explores why our spiritual rituals and practices matter, suggests individual and community practices that help develop our faith (drawn from the monastic tradition), and describes a three-fold process of spiritual formation.

The concepts of katharsis, fotosis and theosis might sound highbrow and more than a little Roman Catholic, however, McLaren writes in a style that is contemporary and easy to understand and includes illustrations and explanations that draw on real life. Ultimately, his objective is for the ancient way and ancient practices to “make us more alive” not “more religious”. He wants us to see “the normal things of our daily lives differently”.

To that end, and perhaps of interest to readers familiar with Christchurch artist Peter (Pete) Majendie, is the concept of “faithing our practices”. McLaren met Majendie when on a lecture tour of the garden city, at which time the quote, by Catholic sister and educator Dr Elizabeth Julian, came up in conversation. McLaren reflected that Julian’s quote sums up the essence of our desire as Christians for ‘full aliveness’. Ironically, rather than adding yet another set of practices to our already busy lives, the book invites us to encounter God through the activities (and moments of silence and sabbath) we already do.

Publisher: Thomas Nelson, USA, 2008. 216 pages.

Megan Blakie is a communications specialist and professional spiritual director. She loves sailing, reading, being creative and talking about the deeper things of life with anyone willing to participate in the conversation! You can find her details at acsd.org.nz/spiritual-director/megan-blakie/