Ruthless trust (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

Back in 2008, I borrowed Brennan Manning’s book ‘Ruthless trust’ from a friend who recommended it. I quite liked it, and thought it well-written. But for some reason it didn’t particularly resonate or strike me as anything special.

However, I’m rereading a lot of books, and decided I would like to try again. So I put the book on my wishlist, and was given it for Christmas at the end of last year. I started reading it at the start of the month, and planned to read around one chapter per day.

The book opens with a thoughtful introduction by Richard Foster. He starts with a simple example of a child’s implicit trust in his earthly father. And goes on to say that trust in the Christian world is sadly lacking. So it’s a timely book, one that looks at difficulties with trusting, and doesn’t try to pretend that the Christian life is easy, or that we should gloss over difficulties or tragedies.

‘Ruthless trust’ was written in the year 2000, and Brennan Manning makes some references to the turn of the century, wondering what the new millennium would hold. Despite a quarter of the ‘new’ century having passed, this book is still very relevant, and I found it both inspiring and thought-provoking.

Manning is very honest about his failings; at the time of writing he was a reformed alcoholic who left the Catholic priesthood in order to get married. But he was still very much a follower of Jesus, and in this book he calls us to have not just faith, or even basic trust, but what he calls ‘ruthless’ trust - trust that is there, no matter what is happening around us. Sometimes it may be just a thread in the darkness; sometimes we might not feel as if God is there at all. But, Manning says, he has learned to cling to whatever trust he has, knowing that God loves him no matter what.

Each chapter takes a slightly different angle, as Manning invites us to learn to trust. One chapter reminds us to notice God in all we see and do, a message that I’m hearing in other places too. It’s far too easy to concentrate on the past, or the future, and miss what is happening in the present. He does agree that sometimes planning for the future is essential, but that by thinking too much about what we might do, we miss what is going on around us. 

Manning is probably best known for his excellent ‘Ragamuffin Gospel’, which is the first of his books that I read, back in 2006. It’s the book which inspired me to continue acquiring the author’s other books. ‘Ruthless Trust’ is, in a sense, a sequel, where Manning sees himself moving on from being a ‘ragamuffin’ to becoming a follower, if only clinging on by a thread. Indeed, the subtitle (or, perhaps, the byline on the front cover) is: 'the ragamuffin's path to God'. 

As I've come to expect with Brennan Manning's books, the style is somewhat rambling, as he recounts anecdotes from his life and that of others he has known. But it works well. He was a gifted writer, and he brings his feelings and thoughts to life in ways that I felt resonated quite strongly with me. Once again, a book that passed me by fifteen years ago feels a lot more meaningful today. 

So I would definitely recommend this book at this stage of my life. It’s a book to read slowly, to re-read paragraphs if your mind wanders; to pause and ponder. One doesn’t have to agree with everything the author says to appreciate what he says, and it’s certainly not a book to read in one sitting. 

 Review copyright 2025 Sue's Book Reviews

All is Grace (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I have very much appreciated the books I have read by Brennan Manning. I started acquiring his works after one of my sons sent me his best-known book, now a classic, ‘The Ragamuffin Gospel’, about fifteen years ago. Manning was a Catholic priest and a popular speaker, but his life was plagued by feelings of insecurity, and increased alcohol dependency.

I knew parts of his history, as mentioned in others of his books which I’ve acquired over the years; he was a fascinating person, very honest about his failings, relying so much on the grace of God. So when I discovered that he had written an autobiography - or a memoir, anyway - entitled ‘All is Grace’, I put it on my wishlist, and was delighted to be given it for Christmas.

There’s a prologue by Philip Yancey. He’s another excellent Christian writer from the United States, but there, superficially, the resemblance ends. Yancey grew up in a fundamentalist Protestant church, and writes for broadly evangelical audiences. I was pleased to discover that Yancey had a tremendous regard and admiration for Brennan Manning.

The style of the autobiography, subtitled, 'A Ragamuffin Memoir', is straightforward, acknowledging the author’s many faults. He tries to be as fair as possible to his parents, too. Clearly they made many mistakes in his upbringing, but he accepts, in hindsight, that they may have been under great strain, and that part of his negative reactions were a result of his own personality.

He is warm in remembrance of his grandmother, who offered him unconditional love and encouragement. But he also explains that his mother, trained as a nurse, was taught that children needed discipline, rigidity and minimal affection. He was clearly a child who needed love, who wanted friends who liked him for who he was. He recalls one such friend who made a tremendous difference in his childhood.

It’s a heart-wrenching story, yet told without excess of emotion and without allocating blame. It states the facts - not baldly, but written in the context of family life and day-to-day experiences, yet the people come to life so strongly that I feel a tinge of regret that the author never (as far as I know) published any fiction.

When he became a priest, Manning felt as if perhaps, at last, his parents would approve of him. But even in his early years he struggled with some aspects of priesthood, finding more spirituality and contentment in physical labour than in his ministry.

He recounts how he left the priesthood to be married, after falling in love. But he didn’t really know how to be married, as he puts it in this book, and the marriage sadly ended in divorce. Again, he is entirely open and honest about his failings and regrets, as well as touching on the happier aspects of his married life.

The writing, as I expect with this author, is excellent even though he was quite elderly by the time this was published. He had help from his close friend and editor; a picture is drawn of him ending his days dependent on help even to get dressed every day, receiving the kind of care and affection that he had longed for as a child.

Although Brennan Manning says little about his successes, it’s clear that he had a positive effect on many, in his speaking and writing, and also in his friendships. At the end of the book there are some letters written by some of his closest friends - a group who met yearly, at his instigation, calling themselves the ‘Notorious Sinners’.

All in all, I would recommend this very highly to anyone wanting to know more about this extraordinary man, or indeed anyone who likes reading memoirs of ordinary, fallible people whose lives are drenched in the grace of God.

Review copyright 2021 Sue's Book Reviews

Above all (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

One of the modern Christian songs which I have loved ever since I first heard it is the short but profound ‘Above all’, which was first sung by Michael W Smith. The writer Brennan Manning was so moved by this that he wrote a book, a kind of devotional based on the words of the song. I found the book in an online bookshop about eight years ago, and read it in 2017.

It’s a beautifully presented book. My edition is a hardback with a very attractive cover, and the inside is nicely laid out with some pages blank other than containing a phrase or two from the song, or a quotation from the book. I expect that this is, in part, to pad out the contents since it’s really a very short book. Even with this spaced layout, and including an introduction by Michael W Smith, it’s only 140 pages.

And yet there’s a lot in the book. I have always liked Brennan Manning’s writing. He had an interesting life, which is recounted in others of his books. He was a Roman Catholic priest for some years, although he eventually resigned from the priesthood and got married. He was a recovering alcoholic when he first became a believer, and had several relapses. In his books he acknowledges his many weaknesses, and also the immense power and strength derived from his love for Jesus.

In the first chapter - after a brief introduction - Brennan Manning talks about who Jesus is. Not in ‘religious’ phrases, but from his own personal experience. He points out that most of us have a very skewed view of Jesus - we either tend to see and love his tender, loving side, or the powerful creator of the universe who was very outspoken against hypocrites. But Jesus is all of these and so much more - ‘above all powers, above all kings, above all nature and all created things…’, as the song puts it. 

In just seven pages of text in the first chapter, Manning gives an overview of God’s overpowering love. He demonstrates how even the most broken or sinful of people can be forgiven. While the concept is, of course, not new to me, I found it moving and thought-provoking.

Other chapters follow a similar pattern. A small phrase or line from the song is used as an introduction, and the author then expands on that. The first half of the book - the first three chapters - is headed ‘above all things’, and concentrates on the holiness, wisdom and other aspects of God as displayed in Jesus.  

The second part (three more chapters) is headed, ‘You thought of me above all’ - the final line of the song. In these chapters, Manning reminds us what Jesus went through, and how much he loves every individual. He looks at the way Jesus was rejected and alone, reminding us that if we feel that way, we have someone who can sympathise and understand. And the last chapter looks at the transformation that is available to each of us, if we allow the risen Christ to live in us.

In one sense it’s fairly simplistic, laying out the truths of the gospel in quite basic terms. With such short chapters the author can’t go too deeply into any of the concepts, although he does that in some of his other books. In another sense, this is really all that needs to be said. It’s beautifully written and presented. 

In my view, this book would make a good gift to anyone feeling lonely, or unsure about their faith.  Sadly it's no longer in print, but can sometimes be found in excellent condition, used. 

Review copyright 2025 Sue's Book Reviews

The Ragamuffin Gospel (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I had never heard of Brennan Manning when my son sent me his book ‘The Ragamuffin Gospel’ for my birthday many years ago. I thought it excellent, and then gradually started acquiring more of the author’s books. I re-read this one in 2012, so after a ten year gap it was more than time for another read through.

Brennan Manning was a Catholic priest who left the priesthood and got married fairly late in life. He knew how much God loved him, and he also knew that he was far from perfect. He made mistakes, he committed sins, his lifestyle was not compatible with following Jesus… and yet he knew, without a doubt, that God loved him, and would always welcome him back to the fold, no matter what he did.

The message doesn’t seem particularly dramatic today, when there are many excellent books about God’s love and grace, but back in 1990 when this was first published, it was seen as rather in opposition to the somewhat performance-based Christianity of the American church - the Protestant evangelicals in particular, but apparently the Catholics too. Manning hated seeing people acting, pretending to be better than they were or - almost worse - so screwed up that they felt unable to approach God at all.

The book is divided into eleven chapters, the first one simply called ‘Something is radically wrong’. It outlines what Brennan Manning saw as the main problem with Christianity and following Jesus towards the end of the 20th century. Subsequent chapters explore different aspects of this, in different ways.

The writing is good, peppered with relevant anecdotes and some confessions from the author. There’s plenty of good applications of Scripture too, but the overwhelming message, coming through repeatedly, is that God’s love covers everything. The parable of the Prodigal Son is discussed, as a supreme example of the Father’s love, going to meet even the smallest hint of moving towards him. 

Definitely recommended for all Christian believers, including those who are on the fringe of the church, or who have lapsed entirely. The book is positive and encouraging without denying the reality of sin and evil in the world.

Review copyright 2022 Sue's Book Reviews

Souvenirs of Solitude (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I have appreciated and savoured the books I have read by Brennan Manning. He was a deeply flawed and somewhat outspoken Catholic priest whose books were honest, moving and - at times - controversial. So when I saw his book ‘Souvenirs of Solitude’ available for download free for the Kindle, I took advantage immediately. 

That was eleven and a half years ago. Books on my Kindle often stay there, unread, for many years until I happen to be travelling and scroll through to find something I want to read.

I started reading ‘Souvenirs of Solitude’ while I was away in the Summer, and then forgot I was reading it until I had another week away early in December. I picked it up again and found it so engrossing that I finished it at last, reading just a chapter or so each day. 

There’s so much to think about in this book. It’s perhaps a bit random, consisting as it does of articles written by Brennan Manning when he was alone, with time to pray and ponder and realise, once again, who he was, and what was important. As he wrote, he discovered more about himself and his faith.

The main theme of the book is the need to spend time with God, to be alone to pray and listen and accept oneself as a beloved child of the Father.  A lot of the book involves the idea of being ‘enough’ - with no way to earn more favour, no need to compete with anyone else. I was challenged several times to let go of my own inhibitions, defence mechanisms, or need to argue a point of view.

I am God’s child, so is everyone around me. We’re all at different stages, and nobody should judge or condemn anyone else. The church, too often, has introduced rules and regulations that turn people away, or - at the other extreme - has tried much too hard to use evangelistic methods and techniques, which are often more harmful than helpful. My role, I am reminded, is to listen, to follow, to accept, to love. It’s not my job to change anyone’s opinions or behaviours, or to judge them for what they do or say.

It’s a book I want to re-read regularly, so I hope I’ll be able to find a copy of it in paperback form to dip into, rather than the more clinical Kindle version; on the other hand I’m immensely grateful for having had the chance to download it free albeit surprised that it took me so long to read it.

I’m not sure exactly why Brennan Manning’s writing appeals to me so much, but I find his style very readable, his comments and suggestions highly motivating, and his anecdotes moving even when they relate events or situations which feel entirely foreign.  There are some inevitable sports references, or mentions of something only relevant in the United States, but even those don’t detract from the overall book.

Very highly recommended, although it no longer seems to be available for the Kindle.

Review copyright 2022 Sue's Book Reviews

Abba's Child (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I always appreciate the thoughtful books written by the late Brennan Manning. I have acquired many of them over the past couple of decades, and every so often I re-read one of them. Recently I’ve delved into ‘Abba’s Child’, which I last read in 2014. It’s a tad heavy-going in places, so it’s taken me a few weeks but I finished it this morning.

The subtitle is ‘The cry of the heart for intimate belonging’, and that’s really the theme of the book. Manning’s books mostly focus on the passionate love that God has for his people. He talks about how most of us hide behind masks, and that what we show to the world is the ‘impostor’ rather than our true selves.

The first chapter starts with an allegorical story, highlighting the way that many Christians see God. A boy has a prayer answered, and thinks his family are going to be pleased and proud of him. Then he loses what he found, and becomes terrified. Some believers, Manning asserts (maybe most) see themselves as primarily hateful and find it very difficult to understand God’s overwhelming love and grace.

The ‘impostor’ is explained in chapter two, with many examples to balance the somewhat weighty explanations. He gives a quotation from Susan Howatch’s novel ‘Glittering Images’, which shows very clearly how one fictional man did all he could to gain approval of his mentor. He had to hide his thoughts, and turn the conversation around to the other person rather than admit who he was inside, and what sins he had committed. 

It’s easy to relate to the impostor, who wants us to look or behave better than our nature would suggest. Not that we should go around being unkind, but our kindness and altruistic acts should be because we are followers of Jesus, filled with his love, not because we want to gain his approval. And certainly not because we want to be seen doing these things, to get kudos from others around us. Instead we need to accept the imposter within, as part of who we are, and work alongside, as we offer ourselves to God.

Other chapters talk more about God’s love. As a parent and grandparent, I entirely understand the concept of all-encompassing unconditional love that will never let go. Nothing my sons or grandchildren could say or do would stop me loving them, and wanting what is best for them. And my love is just a tiny fraction of how God perceives us. Yet somehow it’s not easy to take that on board, day by day, when we’re feeling angry, or frustrated, or just don’t get things done when we should. God loves us anyway.

There’s a lot more in this book, much to think about and principles to believe in. It’s not that there’s anything new, but as a fallible person I need regular prompts to remember who I am in Christ, and that my actions, thoughts and behaviours don’t make any difference to how much I am loved. Of course it’s not always possible to be our authentic selves with everyone we meet, or we would cause offence or annoyance. But we can be aware of the impostor within, finding a balance between brutal bluntness and insincere charm. 

I only read a few pages each day, as the text is somewhat wordy in places. Sometimes I had to re-read a paragraph as my mind had wandered.  I don’t think it’s a book to read in just a couple of settings anyway as there’s so much in it. It’s important to process each section before moving on to the next.

There are many books on this topic, by a variety of authors, but they give different perspectives. Brennan Manning committed many sins over his life, which he freely acknowledges. Perhaps that's part of what gave him such a wonderful perception of God's unconditional love. 

I will continue to re-read a variety of books on this subject, and hope that gradually the message will get through. 

Definitely recommended.

Review copyright 2024 Sue's Book Reviews

Above All (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I have very much appreciated the books I have read, over the past decade or so, by Brennan Manning. He was a Franciscan priest, as well as a speaker and writer whose main message was the love of God for even the worst of sinners. I first came across his writing in 2006 when my son gave me ‘The Ragamuffin Gospel’ and have gradually acquired several more of his books over the years.

Browsing the AwesomeBooks site a while ago, I looked to see if there were any more books by this author. I spotted ‘Above All’, one I had not previously read. It was in the ‘Bargain Bin’ so I added it to my order, and have been reading it for the past few days.

My copy is hardback, in excellent condition. And it’s a gorgeous looking book. There’s a peaceful picture on the front, line drawing illustrations in between each chapter, and even in the middle of each chapter. The cynical part of my says that this is to make it longer; my one criticism is that it’s really a very short book. It's just under 140 pages, and would have been nearer 120 without the drawings. There are only six chapters, divided into two sections.

The focus of the book is the song ‘Above All’, which was becoming popular in 2003 when this book was written. Sung by Michael W Smith, it moved Brennan Manning deeply, and he wrote this as a devotional study of the words, and the theology behind them.

The writing is inspiring and encouraging, with a few personal anecdotes and much to ponder. It doesn’t exactly offer anything new, but looks at the words of what is now a well-known song, and reminds readers what they mean. Manning takes a look what Jesus did when he died, and how the love of God is, for each of us, ‘above all’.

There’s not much more I can say. Had I paid full price (I have a US edition that was apparently $16.99) I would have been rather disappointed because it’s so short, although it would make a lovely gift. But I liked reading it very much, and would recommend it to anyone, particularly those who might be feeling discouraged or unloved. No longer in print, but widely available second-hand.

Review copyright 2017 Sue's Book Reviews

The wisdom of tenderness (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I do like Brennan Manning's books. He seems to get criticism from various organisations, but then so does just about every Christian author - it's a sad fact of the divisiveness and judgementalism of many in today's church. Moreover, those who pass such negative judgement are perhaps those who would most benefit from reading and assimilating the messages of Manning's books.

Having said that, I didn't find 'The wisdom of tenderness' as moving or inspiring as either 'The Ragamuffin Gospel' or 'Abba's Child'. But it was still well worth reading, if a little long-winded in places.

The premise of this book is that we need to allow God's 'fierce mercy' to transform our lives. In doing so, the author claims, we will no longer have any desire to sin (or, indeed, to judge). The Brennan Manning suggests that many of us have a false image of God, and that we need to let go of it and allow ourselves to be changed by his indwelling Spirit.

Perhaps if I had read this before his other books, I would have found it more exciting. But what he says in this isn't really any different from what he said in the others, and it's not exactly new anyway.

Still, I enjoyed reading it and would recommend it to anyone struggling with judgementalism, or wanting to understand what Christianity is really about. It's a bit shorter than the other books by this author, so perhaps more accessible.

Ruthless Trust (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I first came across Brennan Manning's writings a few years ago, when my son gave me the excellent 'Ragamuffin Gospel'. Since then I've bought or borrowed other books by the same author, and found them mixed. Some inspiring and moving, others blander.

I borrowed 'Ruthless Trust: The Ragamuffin's Path to God' from a friend who recommended it. Unsurprisingly, it has a similar theme to 'The Ragamuffin Gospel' - that of God's unconditional grace, and the importance of trusting him.

There are chapters on thinking big, on the infinite, on trusting Jesus, and more. There's one that expounds on the famous story of the cracked pot and one that talks about being thankful for the moment, rather than constantly thinking about everything but what is happening now.

It's all good stuff. It's well-written, and there are some anecdotes interspersed in the general writing.

And yet... it didn't really inspire me. I read it over about a week, finishing today. I liked each part as I read it; but I didn't find any of it memorable. I had to glance at the chapter headings just now, even to remember what the book was about. Indeed, the only thing of interest that I do remember from the book is that the author's Myers-Briggs personality preferences are INFP, and his Enneagram type is Four.

Perhaps that Enneagram type Four is significant, in that it tends to give people poor self-esteem, and a feeling of shame. I got the impression that Brennan Manning writes almost to expunge feelings of guilt and shame - and I don't identify with them at all. Probably because my Enneagram type is most likely Nine, with the sin of sloth rather than of envy, and a tendency to see everything through rose-coloured glasses.

Anyway - I shan't be buying the book, unless I happen to see it second-hand. I should think it might well be useful, even inspiring to someone struggling with self-esteem issues, feeling shame about their past, and unable to trust God for any reason. But it didn't particularly strike any chords with me.

Review copyright © Sue's Book Reviews, 12th June 2008

The furious longing of God (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I do like the books by Brennan Manning. He was a Roman Catholic priest and a reformed alcoholic who wrote some thought-provoking books about what it really means to be loved by God. I have been rereading some of his books, and remembered that I have ‘The furious longing of God’ on my Kindle. I wanted a Christian book to read while travelling, and I last read this in 2013. 

It’s not a long book, and it’s divided into quite a few sections with titles such as ‘healing’ or ‘boldness’, each one looking at a slightly different aspect of God’s love, and with a page of points to ponder at the end of each section. But since I was with family, and very busy, I didn’t read this every day; or sometimes only a couple of pages.

The author expounds on his favourite theme, which I first came across in ‘The ragamuffin gospel’ many years ago. But in this book it’s as if he takes a step deeper - he points out, more than once, that being a Christian believer is not just about becoming a nicer person, or avoiding certain behaviours. It’s about becoming a new creation, caught up in the passionate love of our father who created us. 

The Ragamuffin Gospel (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I first heard of Brennan Manning about six and a half years ago, when I was given this book. When I read it shortly afterwards, I found it inspiring and encouraging - and went on to buy a couple more of the author's books.

Since it was six years since I had read 'The Ragamuffin Gospel', I thought it time for a re-read. I took it slowly - just ten pages or so per day, over a couple of weeks.  I knew what to expect this time - a focus on the many ways God expresses his love for us, and the need for Christian believers to accept and live in that love. But I found it thought-provoking and also encouraging, all over again.

Manning was a Catholic priest who struggled with alcoholism for some years; he left the ministry to get married in the 1982, when he was nearly 50. So he has quite an experience of life from different perspectives. He remains Roman Catholic. However this book is appropriate for - and relevant to - all believers from all denominations or confessions. It looks not at doctrine or even morality, but at the overwhelming love God has for his creation.

Critics have said that Manning does not describe a clear conversion experience on his website - yet his writing is an incredible testimony to the work of the Holy Spirit in his life. He fails - as we all do; but he acknowledges it, and that God continues loving him anyway.

The books has anecdotes, Scripture thoughts, suggested meditations, and more. And the overwhelming message is that God is committed to our welfare - that he loves us, and will never stop loving us.

Definitely recommended.

Note that this is not currently in print in the UK, but it's available on Kindle, and can also be obtained relatively inexpensively from the US. It's also often available second-hand.

Review copyright Sue's Book Reviews, 8th June 2012

Abba's Child (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

This is the second book I've read by Brennan Manning, and I thought it even better than the first. Of course, this author is widely criticised in Christian circles. He used to be a Roman Catholic priest. He struggled with alcoholism even after becoming a Christian. 

In addition, Manning believes in reaching out to everyone, to seeing God's image in all mankind. And he hates legalism. Naturally those caught up in legalist mindsets will dislike what he says, but in my view that's all the more reason to read it.

'Abba's Child' is an exploration of what it means to be truly a child of God. It's about unconditional love, and acceptance, and the real meaning of grace. It challenges us to listen to what God is saying, to behave a little more as Jesus would behave, rather than criticising and condemning those who see things differently. It's only in love that we can ever reach out to others, and only in love that God reaches out to us.

Manning looks at the 'inner child' from a Christian rather than psychological viewpoint, encouraging us to embrace our entire selves and acknowledge that God knows and loves us in every part. It's love and acceptance that gives us the freedom to move forward in the Holy Spirit, not repression and legalism.

I can't do justice to this amazing book in just a few paragraphs. Instead I recommend everyone read it, with an open mind and take to heart the inspiration and examples that are given.

Note: you can also read my longer review of 'Abba's Child', written in 2014 after re-reading.

The relentless tenderness of Jesus (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I have very much liked and appreciated the books by Brennan Manning, after my son introduced me to one of his books sixteen years ago. I have acquired several more of them and re-read some, but I had not read ‘The Relentless Tenderness of Jesus’ since 2007.

I read a chapter at a time - sometimes less, and on many days I didn’t read any at all, too caught up with other things. In fact I'm shocked to find that it took me over three months to read this book! When I did read, I found the writing excellent, the anecdotes interesting, and the overall message both challenging and immensely encouraging.

Manning, a former Catholic priest, writes about being overwhelmed by God’s love. Not just knowing it mentally, or appreciating it in a general way, but living our lives in full awareness. This leads not to wild actions or constant sinning, but tremendous humility - and the ability to get up and move on from things we do wrong, rather than wallowing in guilt.

The book is set out as a kind of study guide, and a brief prologue recommends reading each chapter slowly, maybe more than once, and then discussing a few pertinent questions with like-minded people who have also read it. There are fourteen chapters; it could be done in a weekly home group over three months or so, and I think would work well.

However I read it by myself, and not always as slowly as might have been recommended. There are three main sections: Experiencing Jesus, Jesus at Easter, and Jesus at Christmas. My gaps in reading meant that I read the last section during Advent, which was a good time to read them.

As with any book of this nature, I appreciated very much what was written, but recall very little of it after the event. However what I do remember is the awareness of God’s ‘relentless tenderness’, as the author puts it in one of the chapters. God is both Lion and Lamb: he pursues us without letting us go, and loves us unconditionally.

It’s a book I should probably re-read every couple of years.

Very highly recommended to all believers or those who would like to know more about God’s love.

Review copyright 2021 Sue's Book Reviews

Abba's Child (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I’ve loved all Brennan Manning’s books since first being introduced (by my son) to the ‘Ragamuffin Gospel’ some years ago. When I first read ‘Abba’s Child’, I liked it very much - that was about eight years ago, so I thought it time for a re-read.

At the end of the book, right before a short study guide for groups, is the comment that the author has two modes of reading non-fiction. The first mode is to read ‘externally’ - for information which he might want to use in a discussion, or a sermon, or perhaps even a book. The second mode is internally, taking it in short chunks, perhaps re-reading passages, and spending time pondering them.

Although I had quite forgotten about this distinction until I reached the end of the book, the latter mode is exactly how I read it - just a few pages each morning over about six weeks. That’s a very long time for me to take over a book which I loved - and it’s not even long; there are fewer than 170 pages in the actual book itself. Some days I re-read a section which I had read the previous day; some days I managed only a couple of sides of text.

It’s not that it’s heavy going or requires extensive digestion; far from it. This is a very well-written book intended for the general populace, without academic language. The theme is the love of God as father - something which, the author believes, most of us barely grasp in its real sense.

He begins with looking at what he calls ‘The Imposter’ - the image we portray to our friends and family, even sometimes to ourselves. He make several references to Susan Howatch’s brilliant novel ‘Glittering Images’, which prompted me to re-read that too, a few weeks ago. But rather than throwing out the imposter, Manning suggests we need to embrace him (or her), accept the imposter as part of who we are, offering our whole selves to our Father who loves us more than we can possibly imagine.

The rest of the book enlarges on the way we are loved, examining some common prejudices and misconceptions. The author describes many of his own mistakes and ways he missed God over the years; he is honest and open about his failings, and I found this very encouraging.

It’s a book to be taken slowly, savouring each paragraph, absorbing the wisdom and letting go of the false images and ideas we so often cling to. It’s written from a strongly Christian perspective, of course; but I would recommend this to anyone exploring the faith as well as those who have been committed to God for years. Too often Christians portray themselves as judgemental or angry - this book demonstrates a much gentler and yet also more powerful faith, one that grows and changes, and one which is very, very appealing.

Very highly recommended. Now available in Kindle form as well as being still in print in paperback.

Review copyright 2014 Sue's Book Reviews

The Importance of Being Foolish (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

It’s many years now since I first read Brennan Manning’s classic book on grace, ‘The Ragamuffin Gospel’. I liked it so much I put some of the author’s other books on my wishlist, and found them all inspiring, encouraging and thought-provoking in different ways. In recent years I’ve started re-reading some of my favourite authors’ books, and decided - some time ago - to pick up ‘The Importance of Being Foolish’, a book which I first read in 2007.

The subtitle of this book is, ‘How to think like Jesus’, which is a tall order for any writer. However, Manning attempts to do that by first deconstructing some the ways we tend to live our lives. In the second part of the book, he then by focuses on different aspects of Jesus’ life, based on some important gospel passages.

The first section looks at the three topics of truth, transparency and diversions. The chapter about truth is not just about speaking the truth, but about being honest with ourselves. This includes our motivations, our expectations, and our acknowledgement of what we have done wrong. There is no place, the author contends, for trying to look good in other people’s eyes, or of hiding parts of who we are when seeking help.

He gives examples from secular life (such as in rehabilitation groups) of the vital need for total honesty. Sadly it’s all too lacking in parts of the church today. We say glibly that we’re fine, and everything is okay, and somehow it’s not acceptable to acknowledge that we feel awful, lacking in faith. Yet until we are open, truthful in every way with ourselves, with God and with other people, there can be no real relationship.

Similarly in the next chapter he gives examples, as well as Scriptural basis, for the need for transparency. By this he means an open window reflecting God’s love. In the third chapter he looks at what tends to consume most of us most of the time: the need for security, pleasure and power. We don’t all chase after all these things in equal measures, but to some degree the majority of us spend much of our time following these diversions, which often lead us away from God.

These three chapters are lengthy and challenging, and constitute the first half of the book. The second half has rather shorter chapters, each one looking at - for example - the work of the Kingdom, or what it means to have a true heart of forgiveness. In each, he demonstrates how Jesus was free of the 'diversions' described earlier.

It took me almost two months to finish reading this book. This is partly because I was away for a couple of weeks and didn't take it with me, but mainly because there was much to think about. I found it quite difficult to concentrate on more than a few pages at once. The writing isn’t heavy, or even difficult to read, but is so full of ideas and challenges that I found it quite tiring. Some days I re-read a page I had read the day before, and found new insights; sometimes I could not remember having read some of it previously at all.

This is a book for those who take faith in God seriously, who would like to follow Jesus more nearly. Not everyone will agree with everything in the book, but there’s a great deal to ponder, and I would recommend it highly.

Review copyright 2018 Sue's Book Reviews

The Ragamuffin Gospel (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

Apparently 'The Ragamuffin Gospel' was first published in 1990 and is now considered a classic. But I had never previously heard of Brennan Manning. I started to read the book because I was given it... and continued because I was so impressed by the writing, and so very encouraged by the content.

The book is, as the final chapter says, 'unbalanced'. It focuses on God's unconditional love for mankind, and the saving power of Jesus. It tries to help Christians to understand what they mean when they use the oft-quoted phrase about 'saved by grace'.

Most importantly, the author points out that we're all 'ragamuffins'. He deliberately doesn't use the word 'sinners', perhaps because that flows all too easily off the tongue. Instead, the picture of a ragamuffin is used throughout. Someone like Oliver Twist, perhaps: with nothing of beauty, no reason for anyone to care for us, nothing in ourselves that merits attention.

Yet God loves us anyway, with the deep and passionate love of a father. We don't have to do anything to merit his grace. As Philip Yancey says in his book on the same subject: there's nothing we can do that will make God love us more, and nothing we can do that will make God love us less.

Does that mean we can do whatever we like, that our lifestyle doesn't matter? Of course not. Manning doesn't focus on our response, or Christian living, although there are many books which do. Certainly God has standards, and we're called to holiness. But we don't have to strive for it, or struggle in our own strength. We accept God's love, take hold of his hand, and then find ourselves motivated to follow his commands and guidance. Will we ever succeed? Of course not, but every little step in the right direction is worth taking.

All in all, I thought this an excellent book. It is very well-written with an interesting style, including relevant anecdotes now and again, and often inspiring. There weren't any brand new insights, to be sure. But for those struggling with the concept of works vs grace, or caught up in legalistic forms of Christianity, I recommend it most highly.

(Note: you can also read my slightly longer review of 'The Ragamuffin Gospel', written after re-reading this book in 2012)

The furious longing of God (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

I first came across Brennan Manning a little over seven years ago, when my son gave me his classic book 'The Ragamuffin Gospel'.  I found the writing powerful and moving, and since then have acquired and read others of his books.

There's a strong theme running through them all - that of the immense, tender and overwhelming love that God has for mankind. And, unsurprisingly, 'The furious longing of God' covers the same topic yet again.

It's a good reminder for everyone that Christianity without an awareness of God's love is meaningless, a pale imitation of what it should be.  This book is short, with a few anecdotes and - as always - clear, positive writing. At the end of each chapter are a couple of points to ponder about how we love God, and there are suggestions of brief prayers, times to make ourselves open to God's love in a new way.

The author's personality type is not mine, Moreover he has had a very hard life, working as a Roman Catholic priest but eventually getting married, and regularly struggling with drink problems. So the sense of God's passionate love - furious in the best sense - must be of immense reassurance to him. I am thankful, too. But I did find myself thinking, once or twice, that it was basically the same book as all the others.

Still, the message needs to be said, and probably said repeatedly in slightly different ways.  I think I might have felt a tad disappointed if I had paid a lot for this, but as it was special offer to download for my Kindle (under two pounds at the time, although it is now more) I'm pleased to have it in my collection.

Generally recommended. Note that the Amazon link is to the paperback edition of this book.

Review copyright Sue's Book Reviews, 11th March 2013

The importance of being foolish (by Brennan Manning)

(Amazon UK link)

'The importance of being foolish' is a thought-provoking book by Brennan Manning, showing what it means to be a 'fool' for Christ.

The author points out the dangers inherent in modern life. He describes, for instance, the quest for power, security and pleasures. He also talks about how different the Christian life can - and should - be if we are dedicated to following Jesus with all our hearts.

I didn't find this as inspiring or compelling as either 'The Ragamuffin Gospel' or 'Abba's Child' by the same author. But then those rank as two of my all-time favourite Christian books. Still, there was plenty in 'The Importance of being Foolish'. It is a book to savour and to re-read in sections, a little at a time.

There are some anecdotes, some personal experiences, some Scripture exposition, and some gentle guidelines. The overall theme is that most Christians are only half-living. We say one thing, and behave another way. We may not commit obvious harmful sins, but we get distracted by what's around us and miss - most of the time - the voice of God.

There are chapters on truth, transparency and diversions. The second half of the book looks at how we can become more like Christ, seeing a little of how his mind works, and what he would wish us to do. Mostly that isn't about being a 'fool' in the sense of an idiot or a clown, however. It is more about renouncing worldly standards and wisdom, in favour of the one thing that matters.

Recommended for anyone looking for more meaning in their Christian life.

The Relentless Tenderness of Jesus (by Brennan Manning)

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I like Brennan Manning's books; they're thought-provoking, well-written, and have useful and interesting anecdotes spread throughout the text. They're also very honest, making no pretences about the author's past, and his descent (more than once) into alcoholism.

'The Relentless Tenderness of Jesus' is a book about the nature of God, particularly as seen in the person of Jesus.

I didn't find it as powerful as 'The Ragamuffin Gospel' by the same author. However it was still very readable, if a little heavy in places. I read it over about three weeks. It's only a little over 200 pages, but there's a lot in each chapter.

I didn't find it 'unforgettable', as the blurb on the back says, but then that means I'm all the more likely to re-read it in another year or two. It's certainly something to make people think, particularly if they've never got beyond basic or fundamentalist ideas of who God is. Paradoxes are confronted, and horizons expanded.

Recommended.

Love Beyond Reason (by John Ortberg)

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There are a few modern Christian writers whose work I find thought-provoking and enjoyable. One of my relatively recent discoveries is John Ortberg, a pastor in the USA. He writes an a light, almost flippant style at times, with plenty of anecdotes, a dose of humour, and some rather different ways of expressing Christian truths.

'Love Beyond Reason' is, basically, an explanation of what it really means to be loved by God. In the opening chapter he writes about his sister's much loved rag doll (in her childhood), as an analogy for the way God sees us.

In this, and elsewhere in the book, I was reminded of Brennan Manning's excellent 'The Ragamuffin Gospel'. I also found hints, here and there, of the concepts explored in Philip Yancey's classic 'What's so Amazing about Grace?'.

Still, this book stands alone and focuses perhaps more single-mindedly than either of those two books on the different aspects of God's love. Ortberg writes about knowing we are loved, about forgiveness, and second chances, and what it truly means to be loved in this way.

I read it over a couple of weeks, just ten pages or so each day. There were anecdotes scattered throughout, often making his points clearly. In a sense there was nothing new, but at the same time it's good to be reminded of what it really means to follow Jesus and be loved by God.

Definitely recommended to any Christians in any doubt about this. It also might be of interest to those who cannot easily reconcile the apparent unloving aspect of so many Christians today. This book is about ideals, and is a great reminder of what is really important.