An Easter Book

If you have not read this book, go get it, hole up in a closet, and pore through it immediately.

King's Cross: The Story of the World in the Life of Jesus, by Timothy Keller

Orca put it down long enough to let me take this picture.

In the introduction to this book, Keller writes:

"[The book] is an extended meditation on the historical Christian premise that Jesus's life, death, and resurrection form the central event of cosmic and human history as well as the central organizing principle of our own lives.  Said another way, the whole story of the world - and of how we fit into it - is most clearly understood through a careful, direct look at the story of Jesus.  My purpose here is to try to show, through his words and actions, how beautifully his life makes sense of ours."

The book follows the gospel of Mark (a fast-paced, action-packed Biblical narrative) in its description and portrayal of Jesus.  The intent is to convey what the original writer(s) of Jesus's time were trying to convey about him, and also why those portrayals and descriptions were (are!) important.

In these days (and in our culture) of moral relativism and religious tolerance, at times it can seem rigid and uninformed to point out one sole thing as "the truth" that will make all other claims false.  Keller very gently (and intellectually) points to Jesus as the dividing point in history.  He does not bash other religions but deftly points out key differences in Christianity.  He does not bash doubters, but respectfully (and meticulously) responds to their arguments against God.  Additionally, and it bears noting, he does not bash believers either, but gently points out the times we miss the forest for the trees, and why those dang trees are important to begin with.

Keller tackles complex, emotionally-ridden topics with both attention and ease; his writing style and speaking style are so approachable that I always get the feeling I walked in on him having tea with some good friends.  His tone sounds like he's sitting back, with a friendly smile on his face, and thoroughly enjoying the conversation.  He has been called "The C.S. Lewis of our time" and it's easy to see why.  I want to pull up a chair, sneak a glass of wine under the table, and join him.

In my opinion, we live in sensationalistic times.  Maybe I feel it too deeply or am too sensitive to it, but it is hard to turn on the news these days without my heart rate soaring into the stratosphere as commentators and reporters have heated discussions about everything from politics to pet sitters.  I truly appreciate how Keller can take the most important topic in the world, in all of our lives whether we believe or not, and have a measured conversation about it.

For that reason I recommend this book for Christians and non-Christians, for the curious, the skeptical and the disciples.  Anyone who has ever wondered about this Jesus guy and what the fuss is all about, and anyone who thinks they already know everything about it, will find important take-aways.

Enjoy!  And Happy Easter prepping!