Reviewed by Rev. Len Delony
Publisher: Abingdon Press Publication Date: 11/2007 Binding: Hardcover
ISBN-13: 9780687649662
Last spring at General Conference, Bishop Rueben Job talked about his new book at one of a series of luncheons sponsored by the UM Publishing House entitled, “Ideas to Live By.” Bishop Job pointed back over 200 years to simple guidelines that John Wesley found crucial, and Job stated the General Rules as:
- Do No Harm.
- Do Good.
- Stay in Love With God.
This book, which draws from our roots in the Wesleyan tradition, is especially pertinent in our current, complex world. As Job points out, the way forward in these overwhelming and complicated times can be discerned best through following such simple, basic rules – rules that open us to the Presence and transforming power of God’s love.
If we are to grow in our spiritual journey as individuals and as a people called Methodists, we need to return to the basics that unite us in the common ground of grace. It is from these simple roots that we can best find our way through all our differences and the devilish details of the day. With words that are accessible to all and rooted in our tradition, Job invites us simply to be present to God’s call in the moment. It takes courage, but through that depth of presence we might live in a way that is more open and responsive to God’s transforming power in the world.
Also, with this simple, 77 page book, we are given opportunities to join with others and “be on the same page” in a growing community committed to the basics (leading us to a life-long adventure of fresh beginnings in God’s grace.) Many have already used this book for study and reflection (over 100,000 copies have been sold in English, plus it has been translated into several other languages.) Lenten studies are being developed for children, youth and adults, and should be available by the end of the 2008. In this book we are reminded of
a simple, ancient wisdom that rings true for the ages, especially ours.