An Unhurried Life: Following Jesus’ Rhythms of Work and Rest

Spiritual leadership in a harried culture is about learning to be grateful for the “gifts of following an unhurried Savior,” writes Fadling, who describes himself as being on a “journey of recovery” from a life of busyness. A staff member of California’s Leadership Institute, an organization committed to developing and mentoring Christian leadership, the author’s work is the fruit of many years of reflection. His approach is practical, eclectic, self-revealing, and rich in biblical allusions and applications. Like many other evangelical Christian authors who have ventured into the field of spiritual direction, he does not hesitate to draw deeply on the work of such Catholic writers as Henri Nouwen and to draw upon centuries-old disciplines such as Sabbath rest and extended periods of quiet to enrich spiritual life. Though his approach in these meditations on topics such as productivity and Christian maturity is partly intended to diagnose the problems associated with being a Christian leader in a culture of busyness, he is also creative in offering a cure. The book is aimed at leaders and those who simply aspire to the “unhurried life”; readers are encouraged to think about the questions at the end of each chapter. While little of Fadling’s recommendations are revolutionary, the book integrates diverse resources in ways that may be useful to those seeking a manual for changing course. (June)