It's so trendy these days to write books about how the church is too wrapped up in "modernism" or to criticize them for how they've all missed the point (except apparently the author of the book). I've read dozens of those books, and while I've enjoyed most of them, they don't seem to offer anything in return for their criticism. It's as if they spend so much time defining themselves by what they are NOT, they never actually define what they ARE. Granted, there is plenty that the Church needs to be criticized for; plenty of ways that we've been caught up in the spirit of our times and missed the point, but it's as if without everyone's favorite punching bag (modernity), they wouldn't actually have much to offer.
This book is different.
Rod White (and all those who also helped to write, edit, and inspire this book) are more concerned about what we can be instead of what we shouldn't be. It's a story of the driving "proverbs" that make Circle of Hope the authentic community of faith that it is. If you don't believe that the Church can actually live out the radical calling that Jesus set before us, then I suggest that you read this book. If you want to know what it actually looks like for a church to be a "safe place", then read this book (or visit Circle of Hope).
Overall, this is a well-written, heartfelt, insightful book that I would HIGHLY recommend.
