My spirituality was rote in many ways until I was almost 30 and began to question why I believed what I believed. With my discovery came a determination to encourage my children to question the faith they were reared into and discover with clarity their personal manifesto. My son’s manifesto and its evolution over 10 years, beginning at age 14, reflects his spiritual growth. Somehow, putting down in writing your reasons why you believe what you do has more of an impact that just knowing about it in your head. When it’s tangible and portable, your beliefs are more apt to be passed on and shared to bring meaning to someone else.
The Reason Why is that kind of book. It is a rewrite of one man’s manifesto written about a hundred years ago. Passed on, it has been used by and inspired millions. There’s nothing revolutionary or revelational about the content. It’s simply one man’s reasons why he believes in the Bible as God’s inspired Word, why he believes in Jesus and His forgives, why he believes he is called to be a Christian. Yet, in its simplicity, you can see his sincerity, his faith, his conviction.
Mittelberg does a great job is editing the original manuscript for clarity and relevance. His use of modern-day examples and quotes from writers such as C. S. Lewis is well-balanced and appropriate.
This is the book no matter who you are–For the seasoned Christian, it is a refreshing affirmation of faith; For the curious wondering what Christianity is all about, it’s the perfect primer; For the casual reader, it reads like the autobiography of a man on a journey of self discovery.
My son’s manifesto has impacted his immediate circle over the years. I’ve used it as an outline for a Bible curriculum; a friend used in for a series of Bible studies for youth; others have read and been encouraged to reexamine their spirituality. A manifesto is meant to do just that–to bring purpose and meaning to your choices. And this book does just that–Laidlaw’s reasons why cause the reader to find purpose and meaning.
(I received this book free from Tyndale. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Says Fyl 