ULTIMATE REALITY

A debut religious book seeks to inspire readers with ruminations on Christianity and the Bible.

In his compact work, Willett advises readers that “while it’s true of heaven that you can’t get there from here on your own efforts, God in His infinite wisdom has already factored that into the equation and made the only adequate provision possible on our behalf.” The author explains that the Bible gives believers a road map showing how to reach spiritual salvation and eternal life in heaven with specific instructions: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. (Ecclesiastes 12:13 KJV).” But sometimes the Bible’s message can be confusing, and it is helpful to read about the paths believers have taken in deciphering its wisdom. Willett cites both popular and powerful biblical quotes and pairs them with an analysis of the Christian behavior they endorse. Those seeking their heavenly home can ponder the roads others have traveled when conducting similar journeys: “Don’t outsmart yourself. While God does have many mysteries on this planet, many things He has made very simple, clear, and straightforward, including His plan of salvation. What could be clearer than ‘we are sinners’? What could be simpler than to ‘believe on Him unto salvation’?” The author discloses his reason for producing this heartfelt book: “Answering the perceived need to write,” Willett “endeavors to share with the reader some of life’s most important” principles “found in the word of God.” But because the author is “a welding inspector by trade,” these are the observations of a layman, relying heavily on Bible quotes to make up the bulk of the 72-page volume. His introduction makes clear that this work is aimed at his fellow Christians: “I find it difficult, to say the least, to know how to communicate affirming words of love to those who plainly don’t want them.” The book lacks the scholarship and the elegant prose to distinguish its content in a marketplace crowded with religious titles. But with its wide-ranging quotes and uplifting analysis, this volume could serve as a solid framework for a Bible study class.

An earnest spiritual guide that should appeal to a Christian audience.