Jesus Today: A spirituality of Radical Freedom

Jesus Today: A spirituality of Radical Freedom

How is Jesus' spirituality revolutionary?

Nolan writes poignantly about the mysticism of the man from Nazareth — his experience of union with God as Abba — and how it was connected to his prophetic mission. This blend of spirituality and a passion for justice gives Christians a model to follow in daily life(Nolan, 2006). The author is convinced that Jesus did not reject the law of the Torah, but relativized it with such statements as "The Sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the Sabbath. The laws were intended to be of help to people but should not be worshipped in themselves.

Jesus was a revolutionary in other ways too; especially in challenging his disciples to move beyond the limitations of the blood family to the broader family of God's kingdom. Although he was radically critical of the world, he never singled out individuals for blame, condemnation, or hatred, no matter what they did. He was also a healer, an aspect of his ministry that Nolan thinks is very important(Nolan, 2006).

Jesus demonstrated a path of personal transformation that we would do well to emulate today. His practice of silence and solitude led to an inner peace and tranquility. He saw himself and his mission clearly. He was grateful to God for all the blessings in his life. And he proclaimed that the child was for him a model of humility, trust, wonder, and playfulness.

Although Jesus never used the word detachment, he exemplified it in his ability to let go and not cling to things, ideas, people, places, and tradition.

In the final section of this paperback, Nolan reveals the ways in which Jesus was practiced unity, an important element of living a sanctified life on earth. Jesus' ...