REFLECTIONS

A debut collection of essays about the nature of faith.

In this book, Ferguson takes a look at some of the essential aspects of spirituality, including faith, suffering, love and eternal life. Although the book purports to present an interfaith perspective, it’s largely focused on Christianity, quoting liberally from the New Testament and stemming from Ferguson’s own beliefs as a Catholic. That said, it also draws on beliefs from other faiths, particularly Buddhism, in its exploration of modern living, and the idea that people suffer based on their desires, their clinging ways and their refusal to see the world plainly. The author believes that faith calls people to be open to what is: “Ultimately the question is not whether we are a believer or a non-believer, but rather whether we will cling to the comfort and security of our beliefs or dare to embrace the vast uncertainty that comes from living a life of faith.” The book also examines in detail the nature of love, and in particular, the soul’s natural disposition toward wholly loving others—which, in turn, is largely a reflection of the love of God. The author then explores how such love plays out in people’s daily lives. He presents his series of essays in no particular order, but each one expands, to various degrees, on the lessons of the others, creating a comprehensive whole. Ultimately, this collection will give readers plenty of ideas on which to reflect and meditate. Although the ideas here aren’t necessarily new, Ferguson offers them up in a readable, good-hearted way. Readers of all faiths are likely to find something that will expand their understanding of the role that spirituality plays in their lives.

A clear, well-intentioned and thoughtful religious compilation.