Book Description:
Warning: If modern church culture makes
perfect sense to you, and you always fit in seamlessly, don’t read this. As for
the rest of us…
While American church culture (and American
culture at large) seems largely designed for the extroverted, it’s estimated
that half of the American population is introverted, and they’re often left
wondering how, even if, they fit in the kingdom of God. As one of them, popular
radio host Brant Hansen brings news. It’s wonderful, refreshing, and
never-been-said-this-way-before good news.
In his unique style, Hansen looks to answer
questions that millions of people carry with them each day:
If I don’t relate to God as emotionally as others
do, is something wrong with me?
How does one approach God, and approach faith,
when devoid of the “good feelings” that seem to drive so much of evangelical
church culture?
How does God interact with those who seem
spiritually numb?
Is the absence of faith-based emotion a sign of
that God has moved on or was never there?
What if we aren’t good at talking to people about
our faith, or good at talking to people at all?
What if I’m told I’m too analytical, that I “think
too much”?
Where does a person who suffers from depression
fit in the kingdom? Is depression a sure sign of a lack of faith?
This book is good news for people who are
desperately looking for it. (And for their loved ones!)
It’s also for those who want to believe in Jesus,
but inwardly fear that they don’t belong, worry that don’t have the requisite
emotion-based relationship with God, and are starving for good news.
Blessed
Are the Misfits is going to generate discussion, and lots of it. It’s
simultaneously highly provocative and humbly personal. It’s also leavened with
a distinct, dry, self-effacing humor that is a hallmark of Hansen’s on-air,
writing, and public speaking style.
My Review:
I enjoy listening to Brant Hansen on the radio. In
our area he's a D.J. on Star 93.3 in the morning, with his partner Sherri. He's
funny and insightful, with a unique perspective. All of those traits come
through in his writing. Blessed are the
Misfits is a quick and enjoyable read, with a good dose of observation and
wisdom. As an introvert, I appreciate Hansen's revelations on how difficult it is for introverts to be part of the modern church. But I
especially value the chapter called "Blessed are the Perpetual
Strugglers." He says, "The struggle means God is still working in
you." I love this because I like knowing that God is working 'in' me not
on me. I'm not his project, I'm his child who he loves. Brant
tackles some tough topics like depression, the inability to pray, skepticism,
and loneliness. I recommend this book for anyone who wants a better understanding
of people and those who assume all people are okay in an extrovert world. If
you're a misfit, read this book. If you're not, read it anyway and understand
those of us who are. 5 stars. I received this book for free.