"The Rabbi's Heartbeat"

Tonight I finished reading "The Rabbi's Heartbeat," by Brennan Manning. This was my first time reading a book by this author, but plan to read others in the future because I really enjoyed this book.

If I had to summarize this book in one sentence, I would write the following: "In 'The Rabbi's Heartbeat,' Manning reminds the reader to listen to the heartbeat of Jesus, allowing that to be your guide and Him to be your focus." (You know, I am really not satisfied with my summary statement, but I do not have the energy or time to fix it, so it will remain how it is...because after all, it is only for my Blog and not for a Grade =)

This book spoke to my heart. I felt uplifted as Manning pinpointed how I am first a child of God and that needs to be enough for me and be my foundation.

The book was beautifully written. Here are some excerpts from the book that really grabbed me:

• "The longer you spend in the presence of Jesus, the more accustomed you grow to His face, the less adulation you will need because you will have discovered for yourself that He is Enough. And in the Presence, you will delight in the discovery of what it means to live by grace and not by performance." (pg 32-33) How freeing is this truth!

In one chapter, Manning discusses how we need to radically define ourselves "as one beloved by God" (40). This is my true self. As Manning discusses this concept, he quotes Eagan writing:

• "Define yourself radically as one beloved by God. God's love for you and His choice of you constitute your worth. Accept that, and let it become the most important thing in your life."

My possessions, talents, accomplishments, applause from others, or lack of any of these things do not define my personal worth.

I LOVED this book and am sure I will re-read it. I must say I did have to read it slower than I usually would because of Manning's writing style and the fact that most of his sentences caused me to stop and reflect for a while.

Manning ends his book with these Beautiful words:

• "Let the Great Rabbi hold you silently against His heart. In learning who He is, you will find out who you are: Abba's child in Christ our Lord."