Down-to-Earth Spirituality: Encountering God in the Ordinary, Boring Stuff of Life
"Paul Stevens's passion for the wounded patriarch Jacob has found its full expression in this, his latest work,Down-to-Earth Spirituality. Stevens's unique approach of blending theological themes with the narrative story gives the book a heightened relevance for the modern reader. After decades of study and reflection, Paul gives us the fruit not just of Jacob's journey but, as a patriarch in his own right, of reflections from a lifetime of wisdom. Thus he is able to speak with authority regarding all the "earthly" contexts where God shapes the human soul. Who cannot identify with Jacob's longing to see God's face in dysfunctional families, oppressive work environments and in marriages where love has grown cold? I found Paul's book so valuable that it became my primary tool to train lay missionaries who will be teaching Jacob's story in Romania." (Brian Morgan, pastor, Peninsula Bible Church, Cupertino, California)"A thought-provoking, heart-searching excavation in the rich narrative mine of the second half of Genesis. The family focus and the corrective and directive wisdom are brought out most strikingly." (J. I. Packer, Board of Governors Professor of Theology, Regent College)