The cactus stabbers (by Jeff Lucas)

(Amazon UK link)

I’ve collected quite a few books by Jeff Lucas over the years. He was originally British, but worked for many years as a pastor in an American church. He’s now retired. I like his writing very much. He includes anecdotes, many of which show up his faults and weaknesses. But he also includes thought-provoking comments and Bible teaching that’s relevant to 21st century readers.

I first read ‘The cactus stabbers’ in 2016. It’s a short book, and I couldn’t remember anything about it. In particular, I was slightly puzzled by the title, which leads to a bizarre and memorable image on the front cover of the book. So I decided to reread it over the past ten days or so.  I just read two or three chapters each morning, as there are always things to think about. 

The preface explains what the book is about. Jeff Lucas has travelled widely in his many years of ministry. He visited and spent time with people of many different countries, cultures and Christian denominations. He glosses lightly over some rather strange experiences he’s had, because this book is dedicated to a handful of some wonderful folk he was privileged to meet. None of them is famous, nor would they want to be. But each one shows a facet of God’s love, and inspired the author in different ways. 

Chapter one explains the mystery of the book. Lucas mentions how, in his early days as a new convert, his enthusiasm for the gospel was sometimes overwhelming. He tried to talk about his faith everywhere he went, and probably put a lot of people off. Then he meets a couple who are passionate about something they believe in… and he realises that sometimes it’s important to speak up for what we believe in.

The next two chapters are about camping, and the author’s negative experiences with tents. They don’t describe any specific individuals, and I’m not entirely sure why they were included in the book. But they’re quite amusing, and Jeff Lucas points out that his dislike of the open air and putting up tents is rather at odds with Biblical teaching.

Then we meet Isla. It’s a sobering chapter about a lovely lady who lived quite an adventurous life. But she has a terminal diagnosis, and the author visits her in the oncology ward. They know it’s likely the last time they will see each other on earth, and it’s both poignant and encouraging. 

There are 22 chapters in all. Many of them introduce other unassuming people who take just one small step in the right direction to promote peace and healing. Others are more general. Most are not particularly memorable, which is part of the point of the book: these are ordinary people. They live their lives not in extraordinary ways, but taking small actions as followers of Jesus that have a rippling impact on those around them. 

While I have already forgotten much of the detail, I hope that the underlying philosophies and examples are still in my subconscious, reminding me once again what it means to be part of the Kingdom of God on earth.

The writing is somewhat informal, with a relaxed, friendly style which I appreciate. If that appeals to you too, I would recommend this book.

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