So, I have a new hero. The title of the book about him indicates his hero status: "Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Prophet, Martyr, Spy." He came from an extremely (no exaggeration) intelligent and dynamic family living in the most difficult of times in world history: Nazi Germany. I am overwhelmingly inspired in my life calling and pursuits when reading about this pioneer of a man. He was so far ahead of his time and generation that it is difficult to fathom the boldness that he possessed. He believed (in complete defiance of his world) that the L-RD is a living G-D who would talk to us and he put this into practice through the daily meditation of Scripture. He loved the Jews because they are G-D's chosen people and had action behind that love in the most difficult of circumstances--Nazi Germany. Here is a quote from a "confirmation" he presided over of 3 young people covenanting with the Living G-D of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in what I think is 1938:
"Confirmands [people who are officially confirmed] today are like young soldiers marching to war, the war of Jesus Christ against the gods of this world. It is a war that demands the commitment of one's whole life. Is not God, our Lord, worthy of this struggle? Idolatry and cowardice confront us on all sides, but the direst foe does not confront us, he is within us [evil inclination]. 'Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.'"
AMEN. Wow, he sounds like he preached and lived the pillars of our community in an epic way.
ReplyDeleteI want to name somebody after him.
I've actually had that thought! His story will knock your socks off and refill your faith tank. Thanks for sharing this, Hon. There are so many things from this book, his life, that are noteworthy. I'm glad you shared this one.
ReplyDeleteI read his book the Cost of Discipleship two or three years ago. He certainly did not believe in any sort of prosperity gospel. I remember thinking that I loved the book but a vast majority of it went over my head. It would be one worth picking up again. His story is amazing!
ReplyDeleteHe sounds amazing, I'm glad he has recently been brought into our lives. I'm excited to read his story...it's sitting by my bedside
ReplyDeleteKait- what do you mean name "somebody" after him?
ReplyDeleteDillon- maybe i'll borrow that book sometime
Jess- you are going to love it
My favorite professor in college use to read cost of discipleship every year leading up to good Friday. he is a hero indeed.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, I do not own it. I borrowed it from my old youth pastor.
ReplyDeleteSean and I got this for Christmas. I am very excited to read it soon. Thanks for your (and Leah's) tidbits and insights - it will make it all the more enriching. He truly was/is a hero.
ReplyDelete