Faith Step by Step; Finding God and Yourself by Reinder Bruinsma

I've finally completed reading this book, well beyond my end-of-2023 deadline. I had hoped to share a review in the first week of January, but alas, life had other plans. Setting aside the tardiness, I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed the read, turning my train rides to and from work into moments to eagerly anticipate.

The book delves into the concept of faith, as the title somewhat gives away. However, it offers a unique perspective, steering away from the often-abstract definitions we commonly encounter. Instead, it unfolds faith as a deliberate journey, progressing through various discernible steps. It's portrayed as a developmental process, a continuous cycle of improvement rather than a stumbled-upon phenomenon with a definitive endpoint.

One notable aspect that captured my appreciation is the author's impartiality. He doesn't impose his views or beliefs on the reader; instead, he presents a clear thought process, leaving it to the reader to agree or disagree. The pinnacle of the book, in my opinion, is the concluding chapter. It emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between faith and works, highlighting that genuine faith is evidenced through action, particularly in missions that bring hope to a world in need. This, the author contends, is the most significant mission, providing purpose to the giver and hope to the receiver.

In essence, the book begins with the fundamental concept of having a purpose and finding meaning. It underscores the universal need for belief, whether in a supernatural being, the universe, one's children, or oneself. Regardless of the specific belief, this conviction imparts meaning and purpose to our lives. The author addresses the complexities of truth and its interpretation in the postmodern world, acknowledging the role of cultural and personal opinions in shaping our understanding.

The discussion on the subject of origins is particularly intriguing. With none of us present during the dawn of existence, faith becomes the linchpin in our acceptance of what we consider truth. Drawing from a Christian perspective, the author navigates the meanings of truth, faith, hope, and grace, culminating in a distinctive definition of life.

The narrative doesn't shy away from the challenges faced by Christians in a postmodern context, with the Bible emerging as a cornerstone for believers. The subsequent chapter extends this exploration to the perspective of non-Christians, adding a layer of inclusivity to the discourse on faith.

The book's exploration of faith brings to light its inherent beauty: the infusion of hope into our lives. In a world that may seem bleak, faith sustains us, assuring us that there is more to life than meets the eye. The substance of our faith encourages us to keep hope alive, even in the face of adversity. The book beautifully touches upon the themes of grace, forgiveness, and the restorative power of taking a break. It reminds us that we are not the masters of our fate, granting us the peace of mind to rest and come together as a community to support one another and fulfil our responsibility to care for the earth.

In summary, this book has indeed been a transformative read, changing my outlook on faith, hope, and the intricacies of life. It serves as a testament to the power of literature to broaden our horizons and challenge our preconceptions.