Title: Life of the Beloved: Spiritual Living in a Secular World
Author: Henri J.M. Nouwen
First published January 1, 1992
160 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780824519865 (ISBN10: 0824519868)
Rating: 4.22
Overview
Henri Nouwen’s Life of the Beloved is a beautiful testament to the transformative power of Christ. Originally intended for a Jewish friend, this book has become a treasured gift to Christians everywhere.
With heartfelt sincerity, Nouwen invites us to embrace a more meaningful spiritual life in the midst of our secular world. His words are a poignant reminder that we are all beloved by God, and that through faith we can find the peace and purpose we seek.
This book is a must-read for anyone seeking spiritual guidance and a deeper connection to their faith.
About the Author
Henri Jozef Machiel Nouwen, a Catholic priest and writer of Dutch origin, wrote 40 books on spiritual life that are widely read today by people of all denominations. Some of his well-known titles include The Wounded Healer, In the Name of Jesus, Clowning in Rome, The Life of the Beloved, and The Way of the Heart.
After teaching at various institutions for almost two decades, he chose to share his life with mentally handicapped individuals at the L’Arche community of Daybreak in Toronto, Canada. Despite chronicling his declining energy in his final book, he died suddenly from a heart attack in 1996.
Nouwen’s spirituality was influenced by his friendship with Jean Vanier, who invited him to visit L’Arche in France. This was the first of over 130 communities around the world where people with developmental disabilities live and share life with those who care for them.
In 1986, Nouwen became the pastor for a L’Arche community called “Daybreak” in Canada, near Toronto. In his book titled Adam: God’s Beloved, he wrote about his relationship with Adam, a core member at L’Arche Daybreak with profound developmental disabilities.
Father Nouwen was also a good friend of the late Thomas Merton.
According to a magazine survey conducted in 2003, Nouwen’s work was a first choice for Catholic and mainline Protestant clergy. His diary from December 1987 to June 1988, chronicling one of his most serious bouts with clinical depression, is one of his most famous works.
Additionally, there is a Father Henri J. M.
Nouwen Catholic Elementary School in Richmond Hill, Ontario.
Editoral Review
In her gripping novel Prodigy, Marie Lu explores the depths of human nature through the lens of a dystopian society. First published in 2013, Lu’s imaginative and thought-provoking work delves into themes of power, rebellion, loyalty, and sacrifice, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Set in a near-future United States, the story follows the journey of teenage prodigy June, who has been recruited into the powerful government agency known as the Republic after completing her specialized military training. As June navigates the dangerous world of political intrigue and espionage, she finds herself working closely with Day, a notorious criminal mastermind who has his own reasons for opposing the Republic.
Lu’s writing is fast-paced and dynamic, seamlessly weaving together action, romance, and political commentary. The chemistry between June and Day is palpable, their unlikely partnership adding depth and complexity to their characters.
Alongside the main plot, Lu also explores issues of class, prejudice, and propaganda that resonate deeply with contemporary readers. One particular strength of Prodigy lies in Lu’s vivid storytelling, which draws readers in and keeps them invested in the characters’ fates.
The world-building is immersive and well-crafted, seamlessly blending elements of science fiction with political drama. Lu’s attention to detail is impressive, and the story’s various subplots and twists come together seamlessly in the thrilling conclusion.
However, there are some minor flaws in Lu’s work. While the characters are compelling, their backstories and motivations could have been fleshed out further.
Additionally, the dialogue occasionally feels stilted or clichéd, which can detract from the realistic tone of the story. Overall, Prodigy is a thrilling and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique take on the dystopian genre.
Fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent will find plenty to enjoy, but Lu’s nuanced exploration of power dynamics and social commentary sets Prodigy apart from other YA novels.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves fast-paced action and World-building
4.5/5
