Finding our Way Again is the first in a series of eight books that will be called The Ancient Practices Series. The books, written by eight expert authors, will tackle the practical application of spiritual disciplines, the Church’s hunger to revisit ancient spiritual practices and what is causing this spiritual revolution. Second in the series is In Constant Prayer (to be released in May), followed by Sabbath; Fasting; Sacred Meal; Sacred Journey; The Liturgical Year; and wrapping up with Tithing, (the last being released February 2010).
Brian McLaren kicks off the series by explaining the seven spiritual practices, from ancient days to now. This overarching introductory book will pave the way for the next seven, which are all specifically themed for a different discipline.
In three parts, McLaren presents the disciplines as a way of life, an introduction to intensive Christian living.
Part One, the “Way,” talks about how Christians have begun to lose their way, but also the necessity of spiritual disciplines in the Christian life and how we are to regain that. McLaren says that we must rediscover our faith as a way of life, not simply as a system of beliefs.
McLaren stresses the idea that spiritual disciplines are not a set of rigid rules but are instead catalysts through which believers may become more in tune with the world, both physical and spiritual; they are opportunities to become more alive.
In Part Two, “Practices,” McLaren introduces the practices and explains how to incorporate them into your personal life. He makes it clear that the disciplines do not exist just to add more busyness to our lives; on the contrary, he said, “It would be tragic for you to read this book and walk away with a longer to-do list.” Instead, the disciplines are attributes of a lifestyle that seeks to please God by becoming closer to and more like Him.
“The ancient way is about joining God in the spending of every day,” says McLaren, encouraging readers to seek a relationship with God through the disciplines instead of feeling weighed down by more rules and laws.
Part Three, “Ancient,” delves into the rich Judeo-Christian history of the spiritual forefathers and the lives and events that inspire today’s believers to deepen their spiritual walk. McLaren says, “When our churches are schools of practice, they make history and change history.”
“Ancient” is further divided into what McLaren refers to as the three dimensions or emphases of the spiritual life: katharsis, fotosis and theosis, or self-examination, illumination and unification with God.
Drawing on biblical truths and works from noted theologians such as Saint Francis, McLaren presents a well-rounded view of spiritual disciplines that is logically and historically sound.
At the end of every chapter are “Spiritual Exercises,” which are questions or activities that help the reader connect with the concepts in the chapter and evaluate their own life in light of new information; they provide interactivity to help readers become doers through tangible opportunities.
Finding Our Way Again is an excellent read for anyone researching the spiritual disciplines, or anyone who is simply interested in a deeper walk with God. Sure to be beneficial to both the mildly interested Christian and the committed theologian alike, Way is simple and easy to follow but soaked with meaning and layered with symbolism.
In the same way that has made McLaren a favorite of many, Finding our Way Again is counter-cultural and uncompromising. Not guilt-inducing but change-inspiring, Way is a practical look at the spiritual disciplines’ history, practice, and application.
Editor's Note: Finding Our Way Again (Thomas Nelson) will be available May 6.
