Intimacy and Grace

In her epilogue to "Love, Henri: Letters on the Spiritual Life" Sue Mosteller states, "Henri's letters reveal the ever-evolving, ever-deepening, ever-struggling heart of my strong yet vulnerable friend." This statement, which also appears on the back of the book, certainly encapsulates this collection. Through the careful hand of Henri Nouwen as presented in these letters the reader is exposed to a man of passion, a man of integrity, a man of deep feeling, a man of love, and man of God.
Each letter has the potential to touch the heart of someone seeking after God. Henri's advice given to friends struggling with divorce, spiritual malaise, job transition, and any number of issues always comes from a gentle spirit that guides people toward Christ's cross. The heart felt emphasis on prayer throughout the letters guides readers to discover what it means to commune with God. Henri both offers his heartfelt prayer and encourages his friends to pray. This is a constant theme throughout the letters.
In addition, Henri touches on many spiritual issues such as life and death, restoration and redemption, forgiveness and grace, reconciliation and rekindled friendship, care for the poor and compassion for the outcast.
This collection of letters gets into the heart of Henri Nouwen. As with many letter collections, it often gives an intimate window into a precious soul. That is the richness of the collection even though it sometimes seems a little too raw.
Unfortunately, while most often the editorial comments added between letters are insightful, every so often they break into the meditation that the letters encourage. The biographical information is insightful, but sometimes causes disruption.
Nonetheless, those who appreciate Nouwen and those who need fresh insight into living from a passionate and loving man should dig deep into these letters. Many will return to read them again and again.
I received this book as part of the blogging for books program connected with Convergent Publishing.