On the Way is uplifting and delightful reading. The title, a play on Jesus’ name for himself in John 14:6 and the name given in Acts to followers of the gospel, suggests lessons learned and observations made along life’s path. That is what this book delivers. Covering numerous and wide-ranging topics in 71 short chapters, the book drives home lessons with touches of humor and sadness (which serve to enhance a serious message), and through Bible studies, in an engaging, personal style.
Each chapter stands alone, so the reader can skip around the book. My intention was to read it straight through, but some of the chapter titles were too intriguing not to read ahead. Among them were “Harold [not a typo] of the Coming Age”, “Has it Ever Occurred to You that You Might Be Wrong?”, and “Wesley and the Free Cheese”.
A mind attuned to spiritual things will find spiritual parallels even in ordinary life experiences. In “A Walk in the Park”, for example, the sight of special needs children each walking with one or more companions becomes a living parable for us: we are all handicapped in God’s sight; we all need His grace and help. Further, He has provided us with each other for help and support as we walk toward the Kingdom.
For Bible studies, a personal favorite of mine was “The Tower of the Flock and the Birth of Jesus”. In it, evidence is given which suggests that the Tower of the Flock (Migdal Eder, within the surrounding area of Bethlehem) was a place from which shepherds watched over their flocks and oversaw the birth of lambs for the Passover sacrifice, and the possible birthplace of Jesus. How very fitting if it was indeed Jesus’ birthplace. Without being dogmatic, a case is presented which left me marveling at God’s way.
There is much here for everyone, from lighter chapters to more in-depth Bible studies, but each one leaves the reader pondering a spiritual lesson or considering Divine things. More than one dinner table discussion was prompted by gems in this book. It was edifying and enjoyable from start to finish — regardless of the order in which it is read. I hope there’s a sequel.
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