I will begin by saying I know very little about the author, his theology or background. I might disagree with many things he taught while a professor at Yale Divinity School. However, in this particular work he seems very inspired and has much to say which I believe will encourage all Christians in their walk with Christ.
Nouwen's premise is that we are all called to follow Christ on a "downwardly mobile road" which leads to love and selfless service for the Kingdom of God. He writes of how this "downward mobility" is in contrast to the "broad path of success, fame and influence" which our culture has defined and thrust upon us. Nouwen contends that the culture's demands stand in direct contrast to a Scriptural understanding of growth, success and ambition. He believes the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness were temptations to be relevant, spectacular and powerful. Nouwen believes these temptations are the same we all encounter on a regular basis and must deal with in a Christ-like manner if we are to truly be a follower of Christ. Christ set aside the glory of Heaven to pursue a "downward mobility" in order to love and serve; we too are called to the same downward mobility, setting aside what might be for our own glory so we might love, serve and give glory to Christ.
Nouwen finishes the book by giving a "game-plan" for facing temptation and the self-serving ambition it entices us to pursue. He encourages us to grow in our walk with Christ through participation in the church, time meditating upon the Word of God and personal prayer. His writing on these three subjects is very good and will encourage readers to pursue all three with renewed passion and discipline.
This is a good book little book (can be read in an hour or so) and I recommend it to those looking for a shot of encouragement in their walk with Christ!
James
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