I enjoyed and benefited from this little book, which is both beautifully written and challenging. It is a series of meditations for Lent on events in Luke’s Gospel, from Peter’s confession at Caesarea Philippi, to the resurrection of Jesus.
The meditations are divided into six weekly sections, each opening with an appropriate hymn and prefaced with a reference. The writer explains the passage and draws out one main point. He often begins with a telling illustration from which he asks questions, sometimes enlivening the episode by imaginatively entering into the minds of the main characters. Each of the chapters ends with a point to ponder from the passage, with space for the reader to write down their response.
I was especially moved in the sixth week with his reflection on the cross. It combined the main elements of the story, in all its cruelty and injustice, with the fact of God’s sovereign will being done. A particularly poignant touch was to show that the Gospel narrative opens with a Joseph and ends with a Joseph.
Though an internationally respected theologian, Dr Ferguson shows the teacher’s gift of communication. His writing is simple and accessible: there is no mistaking the point that he is making in each meditation. He also manages to combine simplicity with respect for the reader. He is your companion as you walk with Jesus on the road to the cross. It is clear as you read this book that he has the highest view of Scripture and of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Patrick Buckley
Truro
