The Way of the Heart (Paperback)

~ (Author) "THOMAS MERSTON WRITES in the introduction to his The Wisdom of the Desert: Society . . . was regarded [by the Desert Fathers] as a..." (more)
Key Phrases: unceasing prayer, Desert Fathers, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit

Editorial Reviews

Review

?In these increasingly more sound polluted and frenetic years, Henri Nouwen?s simple words about the prayer of the heart will be helpful for all who seek to turn from the complex wiles of the world to the simplicity of the love of God.?
?MADELEINE L?ENGLE -- Review

Review

“In these increasingly more sound polluted and frenetic years, Henri Nouwen’s simple words about the prayer of the heart will be helpful for all who seek to turn from the complex wiles of the world to the simplicity of the love of God.”
–MADELEINE L’ENGLE

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Product Details

• Paperback: 112 pages
• Publisher: Ballantine Books (December 2, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0345463358
• ISBN-13: 978-0345463357
• Product Dimensions: 7 x 5.1 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #12,532 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

40 of 42 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books I've ever read, October 4, 2001

By	Brook Boddie (Shreveport, LA United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Way of the Heart (Mass Market Paperback)

This book was my first introduction to Nouwen, and if his other books are anything like this one, I believe that I've stumbled on one of the greatest Christian writers ever. This little paperback contains some of the greatest, most basic truths Christianity, silence, solitude, and prayer, and reminds us that in the practice of these simple truths that we can find the true essence of God and of our relationship to Him. Through the example of the desert fathers, Nouwen reminds us that secrets to a more fulfilling life are found not in the number of books we read, the number of extracurricular activities we participate in, or even in the number of church services we attend. True peace with God can be found in the simplicity of quietness, silent devotion, and the willingness to be still and listen for God to speak. For those who are caught up in lives that never slow down or never take time to stop and rest, this book is for them. For those who are looking for a simpler, more genuine way to practice their faith, this book is for them. And, for those who are in the midst of the valley or whose journey of faith is at a dead end, this book will provide refreshing insight and will hopefully lead the way back to fellowship with the Almighty. Wherever you are in your walk with God, this book will surely become one of your all-time favorites as it has mine.

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The pathway to God, June 24, 1998

By	Thomas J. Campbell "Tom" (Albany, Georgia USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Way of the Heart (Mass Market Paperback)

Modern Christians can benefit from this insightful little book as the author describes three essential disciplines for spiritual growth. The very word "discipline" will turn many people away from this book and the message it delivers and this is unfortunate. Rather than becoming a burden, the excercise of solitude, silence, and prayer are actually life living and refreshing. When we excercise these disciplines we enter into a new and intimate walk with God that transforms both our daily walk and our witness to others. From our excercise of these arts God is able to work in our souls to purify and soften us and to bring us to true compassion and wisdom. I found that to get the most value from it I had to read it in small segments and then meditate on it for a few days. Highly recommended.

13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books I've ever read, December 22, 2001

By	C. Vandu "Chippla Vandu" - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Way of the Heart (Mass Market Paperback)

Nine years ago when I was still a teenager, I obtained this book from my late Parish Priest in Yola, Nigeria. Hardly had I started reading it when I realised it was speaking to me as a person. Nouwen's introduction to the life of the Desert Fathers and the role Silence, Solitude and Prayer can have on our lives is thought provoking. This book has affected me in the most positive of ways. It is for everyone, for those busy with work, for those who go to Church, for those who frequent the bars...evreyone. This book would introduce a peaceful and calm spirituality to you - I highly recommend it and would not hesistate to give it a 10 star!!