March 22, 2008
The Beauty of Ambiguity (Mystery)
I am back in the warmth of the cabin, watching through the window as early spring rains drench the surrounding landscape, low hanging clouds darkening the day. A late snow is coming, but not quite yet. Even though the fire crackles and snaps as it eats through its main course, I still snuggle deeper into the heaviness of the quilt that Papa left for me. She is soon back with a cup of tea, something that smells of wood and mint and a hint of jasmine. I grin. She knows me best, and whatever it is that she is handing me, I trust.
I take a sip. It’s very hot, just the way I like it, and the flavor is perfect for the dreary day and for my mood. I swallow the warmth and can feel it fall inside and reach fingers of comfort into even the hidden places.
“Want to talk about it?” she coaxes, sitting down with her own cup of something that I can smell is at least part coffee.
“Nope…and yes.” I don’t really know where to start and she’s patient. I love just being with Papa, knowing that he knows, even before I say anything and yet respectful as she waits. I still don’t know where to start and finally she helps me with a little verbal push.
“The book seems to be doing well?” I look up and she is grinning. Papa is talking about The Shack, the little fiction story that I wrote for my children.
“Nothing or no one does anything on its own, not even me.” The statement makes me smile and I am comforted in the knowledge that Jesus and Sarayu are also present though unseen. Her observation is one of those invitations to go deeper, but I decline and go another direction.
“Of course you know that people are writing and saying all kinds of things about me…and some of it is simply not true. They make assumptions about my beliefs and motives and character as if they know me, and some of them are my friends.”
“I take it,” she continues, “that you aren’t so much bothered by the good stuff they’re writing and saying. Very complimentary, some of that.”
This time I laugh. “I get your point. Lots of that isn’t true either. I’m not that brilliant for sure. But even though compliments are a little hard to receive, they are definitely easier than the negative stuff.”
“Such as…?” she is leading me, but I am more than ready to follow.
“You know, there a few that are saying that I have a subversive agenda to destroy orthodoxy…”
“Maybe, but have you read some of those articles and blogs…of course you have, and the emails where people think that I should burn in hell.”
“Well, if it’s any comfort, it’s often true that the way people positively or negatively respond to a story tells you something of where they are at, more than about you.”
I pause and take another sip of tea. “Yeah, that helps some. I know that the overwhelming majority are wonderfully positive; folks whose lives you are touching, people taking significant steps in their healing process.”
“As wonderful as that is, it doesn’t mean that the vocal minority are not valuable and important…they matter to me.”
Whatever reserve I thought I had, she had just punched a hole it. “See, there you go…being all loving n stuff. Sometimes I would like you to just be on my side. People are saying that I believe all kinds of things that I don’t and sometimes they are just mean. Why don’t you do something about it? Why can’t you protect me better?” My emotional flurry ends and I am not even looking at her but at the floor. Some old patterns take time to break.
I have come to know Papa well enough to know that my little tantrums are never anything that divides us. It’s like ‘open up the window, let the bad air out’. Anyway, thoughts harbored inside always seem more justifiable and brilliant than when exposed; then they often look like the silly little rascals that they are. But she never shames me, even in this.
“Child, I am always on your side.” She shifts toward me and I look up into her teasing smile. “Would you like me to smite them, would that make you feel better?”
I laugh and begin to cry at the same time. “Yeah, a little smiting would be good…with a touch of wrath…yeah I think that might help. Isn’t that always what we self righteous people want?”
“Way too often,” she states, and hands me a tissue to blow my nose. “It’s always a good thing to know that you’re still in a process of healing, isn’t it? Like I said, I know exactly how you feel. But emotions don’t always tell you the truth. They tend to point you in the direction of what you perceive and believe.” She pauses and then continues, “So, tell me what in particular is being said that’s bothering you.”
“Let’s see,” I begin, running through my mental list, “Uh… that I am a universalist that I am an adherent of various religions, that I hate the Church…” I continue until I have exhausted everything I can think of. When I am done, Papa adds a few items that I’d forgotten or hadn’t even heard yet.
“Thanks, that makes me feel better,” I respond a little sarcastically.
“No problem. I just figured if you are going to make a list, you might as well put everything on it. Do you want me to tell you some of the stuff they’ll come up with in the future?
“You know that I’m not. I know that faith in Jesus is the only way into your embrace; that only what you did on that cross saves us.”
“So let me ask you this. I take it that it wouldn’t bother you if I decided to save every human being that ever lived?”
“Nope. I actually hope that you’ve figured a way to do just that.”
“Yeah, because I used to think that I was better than other people and that I needed to be rewarded for my efforts. I used to think that if I had to resist the ‘pleasures of sin’ then it wouldn’t be fair if you saved those people who got to do what I wasn’t allowed to. That was before I realized how hurtful and enslaving those ‘pleasures’ really are and how all my ‘religious’ efforts were ineffective at actually changing me.”
“Okay, then let me ask you this. Would it bother you if it’s my purpose to allow the majority of the human race to experience a place in which they will be tormented for infinite duration?”
I think carefully before speaking. “Emotionally, yes. Sorry, but the very idea troubles me a great deal. You’re talking about people that are precious to me, and people I know ‘you are especially fond of’…so yes it would bother me a lot… if I had my way no one would end up in hell for eternity.”
“But, what if that’s exactly what I am purposing to do, to allow people because of their ongoing choice of independence to experience and be lost in that independence forever with no possibility of escape? Would you trust me in that?”
I am silent for a while as I wrestle with the question. “Yeah, as much as I wouldn’t understand it, I do know that I can trust you and I am convinced about your character. Our only and final hope is that you are Good and that you are involved and loving. So if that is your intention and purpose, as hard as it is for me to understand or emotionally comprehend, I know that it’s motivated by both your goodness and love. I still don’t like it, but I do trust you.”
We both pause to take a sip of our drinks, steam lazily rising from the rims. I am thinking about what I have just said and it has sparked a new question.
“I guess here is my real question in all this…why couldn’t you have made things clear? People go to the Bible and find all these ways to disagree with each other, even or especially theologians. Everybody seems to want to acquire their little piece of doctrinal territory and put fences around it so only those with the secret handshake can get in. Some find support for Universal Reconciliation; some find proofs for eternal torment in hell, and some find it just easier to annihilate everyone who doesn’t make it.” Now I am ranting, but can’t seem to help myself. “The Calvinists find all their verses to debate the Armenians, who find their list. Then there are the ones who believe in eternal security fighting with the ones that don’t. Every silly idea of eschatology finds its own proof texts and in the middle of all these debates it seems that love is all that gets left behind. We even find ways to fight about grace and love. Couldn’t you have just made it simple and clear; unambiguous?”
I look up and Papa has a big grin on her face, but I don’t return the smile. Without really understanding why, this question is suddenly important to me and I can sense that it has threads connecting many of my internal conflicts.
Papa simply let me tread water in my rant for a while, until some of the emotional residue subsides. “Do you think that all this has surprised me?” she asks gently? “Do you think that I thought, ‘There, they now have the scriptures; they will totally get this’? Human beings are very creative. They have an incredible facility to take some of the simplest and most obvious truths and make them ambiguous. If I didn’t know better, it would surprise even me.”
“But,” I am struggling to keep my question from becoming an accusation, “Why couldn’t you have made it clearer? How hard would it have been to just have one of the writers put truth down in such a way that there would be no confusion?”
I look up and she is still grinning, obviously enjoying the conversation more than I am. “Like a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) at the back of the Bible?” I roll my eyes, even though part of me thinks that might have been a good idea. Papa pauses to take another sip of her steaming whatever. “Have you ever thought that ambiguity, that mystery, might have purpose?” she posed.
The question actually surprises me and I begin to feel the uneasiness that usually precedes my paradigms being challenged. “Nope. I’ve never thought about that at all. I’ve spent most of my life so focused on certainty, that ambiguity and mystery have always been, sort of…the enemy. Are you telling me that ambiguity is a good thing?”
“Just think about it. I have embedded ambiguity in everything, even physics? Do you really think that was a mistake? Do you really think that you humans have caught me off guard; that I am wringing my hands in heaven because some of your theologians have managed to misunderstand so much of what I have revealed? Do you think that your propensity to find ways to fight with each other is shocking to me? Could I have written scripture outside of a story, in bullet point outline, or had the prophets produce a massive FAQ? When Paul was killed by stoning and ascended into the spiritual dimension and I showed him things that for him would no longer be ambiguous, when I returned him to his body to finish the purposes we were working out together, why did I require that he not speak of what he saw? When John heard the thunders speak in Revelation, why was he forbidden to write what he heard?”
Papa opened her arms wide, “Because I delight in ambiguity. I relish what mystery brings to the table. It’s not that I don’t delight in clarity; after all, the Scriptures themselves are about revealing me so that you can know me. But part of that revelation is that I am completely different than you and you will never completely comprehend me or my ways.”
I am still at a loss and struggling for some ground that is firm. “I’m sorry but I don’t get it. What exactly is the value and purpose of ambiguity?”
“For one, it reveals the heart of the individual. In fact, mystery is at the center of both relationship and faith.”
“Are you saying,” I am stunned and struggle for the words, “you introduced all this ambiguity… on purpose?”
“Of course! I didn’t want you to become ‘people of the book’, in the sense that everything is reduced to some form of performance as mandated by written words, where you would end up in the seats of the judges to mete out retribution on all those who failed to live up to those words. I didn’t want you to replace tablets of stone for tablets of paper.”
“Of course he does. But you cannot separate him from love. For anyone to stand up on my behalf to protect me or defend me, and not express love inside the embrace of Truth, it is better they remain silent.”
I sit back a little stunned. I want to argue but can’t find anything that counters the simplicity and elegance of Papa’s words. “Okay, I think I get what you’re telling me; that we aren’t very good at loving, but a lot better at defending our turf.”
“See, another great reason for mystery. The ambiguity of belief, of doctrine, reveals the motives and the dark places of the heart…the places that need to be healed. Religious self righteousness and intellectual snobbery are kissing cousins. Intelligence was never created as a justification for the absence of kindness and respect and love. Do you remember the community of faith at Ephesus. I wrote a letter to them in which I commended their ‘orthodoxy’, that they wouldn’t put up with the Nicolaitans…”
“Not important right now, “ she cuts me off and continues. “The point is that they were all about theology and doctrine, but I removed their light, their influence, their very life; not because of doctrine but because they no longer knew how to express the love who is Truth that indwelt them. Ambiguity and mystery constantly raise real questions. In the face of uncertainty and differences of idea and belief, will we stop loving? Will I descend to the acquisition and defense of territory and turf? Will I even stop loving my enemy, let alone my brother or my sister?”
“Like you stated yourself, it is because love doesn’t come naturally to you. The closest you have is how you love your own children but even that is only a reflection of what love truly is. Turf and territory have always been about independence, while love is only present in dependence.”
We are silent for a few minutes while I try to organize the jumble of thoughts crashing around inside my paradigm. Papa, aware of my struggle, speaks first.
“Not everything is ambiguous or a mystery. There is much that is clear and evident. I even wrote it down for you. Very clear, very unambiguous. It is all over the scriptures. Start with I Corinthians 13…clear as the nose on your face. The question is why have you turned the clarity of love into something ambiguous?”
Again I am silent for minutes, allowing the words to penetrate in some deep and special places. “I still don’t like being lied about,” is all I can finally say.
“Ah…” Papa leans back, “The ambiguity of human existence. Not knowing everything or having all the answers. Now you might begin to understand that mystery is not only the center of relationship but also of faith. Faith grows in its embrace of the certainty of my character in the face of the uncertainty of existence.”
“Okay, I am beginning to understand why you love mystery and ambiguity. But I still find it unsettling.”
“That is such a wonderful place to be.” She pauses long enough for me to understand and then adds, “If it helps a bit, you do realize that no one can do anything to you unless I allow it?”
“And if I allow it, I already have purposes that will work these matters out in the best and most loving way, for all involved. Are you alright with that?”
I again finally nod as I submit to Papa’s love and hug. I hadn’t even heard her approach. “Anyway,” she whispers, wrapping me up in her tender but firm embrace, “the presence of pain doesn’t indicate the absence of love. Often pain is present because of love. I also don’t remember promising anyone that there would be no crosses to bear. But don’t let that concern you either. I’m good with crosses. Together we can do this.”
119 Comments on The Beauty of Ambiguity (Mystery) »
March 22, 2008
Doug H. @ 2:48 pm:
Whoa. Paul, you have cracked open a weighty area. I, too, have been a little troubled by some of the comments I’ve seen about the book. I’ve heard your some of your interviews, especially with Wayne and Brad, and I can tell from listening to you that these accusations are off-base. This ‘ambiguity’ that Papa seems to enjoy is sure troubling for us certainty types that enjoy staking out our positions so we can have something to hold on to (and judge others with).
I admit that my first reading of The Shack was done with my antenna up, the radar searching, being careful that there wasn’t some heresy. But the truth kept wringing true in my heart through the story. I would read with my head cocked to one side, squinting, then put the book down, say something to my wife, and conclude, “yep, that’s right” even though my paradigms and were being shaken. Papa has been taking me on a journey for the last couple of years to show me how much he loves me. Your book has been another chapter along the way.
I thank Father for using this story to help me grow in his love. We’ve shared it with scores of others who are also seeing his love.
He dances over me, while I am unaware. He sings all around me, and I never hear a sound. I am amazed by you, Father, how you love me.
Diane Muir @ 3:34 pm:
To tell you that I’m sorry you have to put up with the very vocal, very nasty criticism that is coming your way when you have shared such a tender part of your heart is probably a bit … well … lame. But I am.
I’m also grateful for your relationship with Papa that allows you the space to be as raw and as open as you need to be and to recognize that love reigns supremely, especially when it comes down from heaven. Sometimes all we have to do is stand under the flow, sometimes we have to open our arms and allow it to flow out from us.
And Doug H. is right when he says that the truth kept ringing true. Because that’s what truth does.
Leanne @ 3:46 pm:
I love you, Paul. Dinner for you and yours with me and mine anytime.
Sue @ 5:36 pm:
There is so much in here, dear Paul, that I don’t even know where to begin.
But gee, I say this, bro - your courage spurs me on. I love how you keep moving on, moving forward, willing to set aside or even outright discard what needs discarding, sitting in the paradoxes even while you want to sometimes scream at them. It is the safest place to be, which makes no sense. It also makes me laugh out loud (when I’m not screaming about it
Will the paradoxes never end? (I guess the appropriate answer would be something like, yes, they will. But on the other hand … 
I’m not surprised at the backlash. It was always gonna come. Tsunamis after earthquakes. Thank you for posting this lovely insight into your heart, Paul. I’m sure it must have been rather vulnerablefying to do so, but I’m sure you also know the benefits that flow out to the Body and which come back to you, too.
Barb @ 7:27 pm:
In the midst of all that you hear, know this. If it weren’t for your sharing of the Shack, my daughter who has been so wounded by the institution and life would have never been introduced to a Papa that loves her. If she is in a relationship with God at all today it is because of your story. Let the nay-sayers say what they will. They would never love my daughter anyway.
lee @ 7:54 pm:
amazing, this spoke right into the painful abuse i experienced as a child,love was present.I just realized I loved my grandfather.
Chad @ 11:25 pm:
I grinned as I read the opening paragraphs, especially when I realized that it was Paul having coffee with Papa instead of Mack.
It isn’t that I didn’t appreciate the direction of the story about mystery and ambiguity; I did need a gentle push in these areas. But what I really needed today was the sense of Papa sitting down with me and dialoguing about the conflict I am facing right now. In fact, I sensed Him calling out to me so I put the story down and we went and had our own conversation.
Now I am glad that I had a chance to come back and finish the story tonight. It is good food to digest. It was also good for putting Jamie to sleep as I read out loud to her. Of course, it was not the content that did that, but the peace of the message and my soothing voice…
Paul, thank you for sharing your journey in this way. It is told in a manner that is inviting for us to participate with. It is easy to find our way into Papa’s cabin. the directions you provide are not ambiguous at all.
Thank you also for responding back in the way that you are to the critics. This isn’t your fight. It’s His.
Much love from Boise!
March 23, 2008
Peggy @ 9:24 am:
This is so timely to what Papa and I have been processing, Paul. Thanks so much for sharing — and in this manner!
I love the imagery you have added to my already broad respect for embracing ambiguity. I will definitely be posting a link to this post on my blog — where, by the way, The Shack has been my recommended book during Lent
— because there are way too many important points to even begin to mention them here.
Blessings to you on this day when we celebrate The Great Eucatastrophe!
jewlsntexas @ 10:17 am:
I struggle with this too - while I have broken away from the ideas about faith and spirituality I used to hold for dear life, I struggle with putting myself out there for fear of criticism, lack of understanding, or even their stance of needing to save me from heresy.
Thank you for putting yourself out there. In spite of the criticisms, it has profoundly affected many. It’s all in Papa’s hands. For better or worse.
annette @ 2:19 pm:
oh, thank you for allowing us a glimpse into your relationship w/ Papa. it’s a blessing.
Lin @ 5:03 pm:
This is great. God is great! The Shack is an amazing book. I’ve read it twice (slower the second time) and keep continuing to pick it up. The conversations bless me so much! This post on The Beauty of Ambiguity rings so true. Papa…I love Him! Thank you for the joy! Keep listening, keep sharing. Papa bless you abundantly!
GaryFPatton @ 6:23 pm:
Hey Willie;
I’m sorry, lame as it sounds, for the flack you’re taking from so-called loving Christians (sic)!
Hopefully, you will take additional comfort, from that provided by Holy Spirit, from the wisdom of Roy H. Williams, aka ‘The Wizard of Ads’, on negative comments.(And can you imagine the reaction that Mr. Williams, a Follower of Jesus also, gets from some quarters of the Church (sic) by calling himself ‘The Wizard of Ads’?)
Mr. Williams, an internationally acclaimed advertising consultant, says that you can tell that an ad will work wonders if the first responses you get are negative. This is because:
o People buy for emotional reasons, not logical ones.
o To strike a strong emotional cord, your message must be provocative.
o Life is a Normal Curve, so you’ll get just as many negative responses to a provocative message as you will positive responses.
o The people who hate your message almost always speak up first.
What applies to successful ads probably applies to successful books.
Now, if there was just wisdom for you on how to develop a thick skin to protect your soft heart. Wait, that’s an oxymoron! And too ambiguous!!
Thanks for your great book!
In Christ,
Gary
WiredForStereo @ 9:48 pm:
I know these things are pretty taxing on you, I got quite a bit of negativity from my review of the book on my blog. But the whole thing was worth it when you left a comment and told me that I had gotten the point of the book.
I am glad you have begun to answer the accusations, and I am especially glad you have done so in the form of story, it seems to be something that works well for you. It will now be easier for me to answer questions that people have about the book directly from your words instead of trying to straighten people’s misunderstandings from the book.
One of the things your book and blog have helped to cement in my mind is that those mysteries and ambiguities are to be embraced, because God works in mysterious ways and we really should believe it, not just say it when we don’t understand things.
WiredForStereo
March 24, 2008
Gary Lackey @ 4:43 am:
I’ve been mulling over the question,”What constitutes a healthy, intimate relationship with God?” The element of ambiguity & mystery was not on my list. Being a male however, I’ve known a little of that mystery in relating to my sweety for the last 30 years. But your conversational/relational sharing of your relationship with Papa’s intentional ambiguity sounds as a very clear note, an aspect of knowing Him that’s real and wonderful. Even the switching back and forth referring to he then she strikes me. I enjoy the place it leaves me when I consider your sharings. Obviously, not everyone does, which is still a bit of a mystery to me, as well as not surprising. I suspect the element of pain that it puts you through in sharing these vulnerable/valuable encounters is also an element of a healthy, intimate relationship with Papa.
Thanks for sharing
Love
Gary
Kate LeBoeuf @ 10:24 am:
I love continuing the story with you (and the others). After walking through The Shack with my husband, I am now feasting on it with my 12-yr-old daughter.
I’m shifting from trying to defend your incredible writing, to just sharing it. The Beauty of Ambiguity brought me back where I needed to be…breathing deeply again.
Keep it coming!
Marilyn Coleman @ 12:21 pm:
I absolutely loved the way the author continued his conversation with “Papa” regarding the criticisms. He said what was in my heart. “The Shack” was a very difficult book for me to get through, as it was impossible to read through teary eyes. I had to put it down many times, ponder, and then pick it up again. Many people have called to ask me if I had heard of this book, and these are friends who are either still searching or those who don’t have a fellowship in a Church. They all want to discuss it with me, but in the positive way that touched their lives. I’ve thought of getting a few intimate friends together and discussing how the book touched their hearts. This week I will be meeting with one of my special friends, and we will do just that. Needless to say, I am looking forward to it. I think by discussing it with those you love and trust would give you true insight in why it made each of us feel as we did. All different depending on our past and our belief system. It would be a great group therapy session.
As for the negative responses, there will always people who cannot find the simple joy in anything, and for those, I feel very sorry. I guess they just find the need to spread their negativity and try to bring others down as well. These people will always try to be in control. I also have to remember that for some, hurt goes too deep to be reminded. God is in charge of how fast each of us grow, although I know fear is the greatest factor in keeping us from it. Once we grasp the concept of “Papa”, the fear is lessoned.
Thank you again for the great book.
Marilyn Coleman
Glenn F @ 1:29 pm:
Listening in on another conversation with Papa…
AHHhhhh, it is always a great way to see how small we try to make our Lord, and how big and loving Father really is. Thank you for once again for being transparent about your hurts and fears Paul… and giving us a chanch to step back and realize that our “wisdom” is foolishness and God’s love is powerful.
March 25, 2008
TCS @ 9:03 am:
Paul,
I saw this post this weekend on my bloglines feed but just read it today (25th). This morning I was asking ‘papa’ what to read, what he wanted to say to me. And John 2 came up. I thought, “well I know that chapter well” But at the end is this part about Jesus not taking the testimony of men. I think implying that it was “Papa’s” testimony that mattered.
I have to admit there is something in me that wants to go read the protesting comments. But I will resist as I have heard nothing but good and it will not do me any good to hear the negative.
I do know this. Mystery crumbles a lot of walls that people have built up and it is seen as a great treat. That all has to do with certainty not faith.
Michael J. @ 1:40 pm:
Hey brother I love you and your family very much. This is timely cause in ephesians the phrase ‘fellowship of the mystery’ has been stiring up inside for a couple months now. It is still quite amazing the wisdom that Papa pours into the world through you. A brother of mine in corvallis have talked about this and how that whatever people say it doesn’t change what Sarayu is deciding to do in the people that read the book. That change is what is important, when I think about it one thing comes to mind; how many times when all Papa asks is just to bring what we have, even if all it is is some bread and a couple fish. Not much, but for some reason He uses it. You have been a blessing in my life, thanks for your love and time.
for The Shack fans « alyssaroupp.wordpress.com @ 10:36 pm (Pingback)
[…] March 25, 2008 Here’s a link to Shack author Paul Young’s latest blog post: The Beauty of Ambiguity (Mystery). It’s like another a little dose of the book. And what I liked most about this post is that […]
March 26, 2008
Amy B. @ 3:12 pm:
Thank you.
Cait Needham @ 8:25 pm:
Paul,
Love the book. Absolutely loved it. I read it in one evening and then a hour in the morning. I’ve come to know Papa much better now and after this last year it’s a welcomed relief.
Again, Thank You
In His Mighty Grip
Cait Needham
March 27, 2008
Michelle @ 9:07 am:
wow… thank you so much for sharing this.
I loved the book but feel the sting of criticism myself, from my fundamental concerned friends.. and not just because I like your book.
It’s not fun to feel on the defensive.
These words from papa are going to be chewed on quite a bit… thank you so much. And thanks for being brave!
March 28, 2008
Ronny @ 10:21 pm:
Mercy brother, what an incredible adventure full of so many surprises and some hilarious nerve racking oppotunities to open up to embrace Papa on His terms and not mine.He is giving me an entirely new perspective to repentance, rethinking His ability/desire to love others in the depth of their messes in and through my own; the line about the presence of pain doesn’t indicate the absence of love really nails me, in the best of ways(grin). I have heard of Jesus all of my life yet I ‘ve never experienced His affection for me as I have in the last 8-10 months and my appreciation for Him (and you) continues to grow. I love you both to little bits.
March 29, 2008
William @ 6:50 am:
Aren’t we intrigued with what we don’t understand? And don’t we get bored with what we do understand? This might not be universally true [I love the simplicity of beef and cheese nachos, for example], but even the mystery of why the combination of spices, beef, cheese, chips, and salsa taste so amazing is, in large part, a key component of the joy of eating at my favorite Mexican joint.
If my wife gave me an outline of exactly how to love her, then I’d be thankful to know which buttons to push make her happy, but the problem would be I’d be pushing buttons. It would be like checking into work every day and filling my quota. Job well done, but where’s the relationship? Where’s the excitement? Where’s the mystery?
Love seems to only be necessary when the unknown is present. If we were only “pushing buttons” then I’d just need my brain to tell my finger which buttons to push. Love enters in when there is uncertainty, loss, joy, expectations [uh, oh, there’s that word], disappointment, pleasure, and pain.
Thanks, Paul, for another revelation into the heart of relationship. As I’ve leared what relationship really is and that relationship is all He created us for, I’ve really enjoyed experiecing this “relationship thing” with Papa and others around me. Now I’ll look forward to the mysteries:)
Ivy Gauvin @ 11:57 am:
Thank you for this latest update. I appreciate being on your email list, receiving the latest. May you continually be aware of how “especially fond” Papa is of you. Peace.
March 30, 2008
Amada, Australia @ 7:46 am:
The Shack has made me think and love before I judge someone now, especially those who still feel Christians have to control Christians and who feel a moral obligation to impose guilt and rules as part of my faith. No more. I follow Papa closer out of love and not out of duty, like a child following Papa in a beautiful, peaceful garden. For the first time in my Christian life I know what it is like to live with absolute peace. After reading a very extensive, unfair and vicious criticism I realised that in the past I would have formulated a strong response but instead I realised that the writer was in a ministry that requires controlling people and secondly I heard something like: “I am fond of him…”
Lorie @ 5:53 pm:
Paul,
I appreciated the continuation of the dialog between you and Papa. After I read The Shack, my first thought was, “Now what? I want more!”. I can’t begin to tell you, like many, of the incredible changes that have been brought into my life because of your…. at times brain straining…. understanding of the Trinity…..our Creator….and the essence of why & who we are!… But, as others, even reading it with caution it always felt ‘Right’….’True’….and while I unfolded the pages of words into a knowledge of my own….God became more real to ‘ME’and healing took place…..and continues to.
I have also read some harsh criticisms and I am sorry for the pain you have to journey through because of it. When ‘truth’ is presented there are always those that want to continue on in their own darkness and will fight for it to remain so. But, for those who seek ‘truth’ they will recognize it and/or find it.
Thank you so much for sharing your amazing understanding of who God is.
April 1, 2008
Joshua @ 8:58 pm:
I was asked to read this book along side a couple of others that had been brought to the attention of the church I’m on staff with. We were concerned about some of the rumors surrounding the book and wanted to see it for ourselves. Since I handle adult education I usually get the call, this was no exception.
I began the book with my guard up and my heretic radar at full capacity……. and then I was changed. I wept for hours on end staining the pages with my tears, as I read one of the most profound and bibliclly accurate sumations of God I have ever encountered. Years of intellectualism and tradition faded away as I began to hear the voice of God speak to me again after so many years of what seemed like scilence. I thank God for this book.
April 2, 2008
Kelli @ 7:29 am:
I just finished reading your book last night through many tears. I had been searching for some deeper spirit understanding for a long time and found it by reading your book! Thank you for your wonderful insight and I have been sharing this with everyone that I know!! I to like many have been wanting more and I hope that someday you will write another book and share your continued relationship with PAPA so that we can continue to understand and grow as well. For now though I will continue to read your blogs that you post here on the website!
W. Smith @ 1:52 pm:
God is desiring deeper relationships with His ekklesia. Those who desire Him will find Him! I read your book. It was a breath of fresh air!
Your March blog is outstanding. Be encouraged, your message is resonating with those that have and are going through similar things that bring us face to face with reality in Christ. Love relationship says it all.
Willard
Kay @ 2:50 pm:
Paul,
Thank you again for sharing some of the deep and vulnerable parts of your beautiful heart with all of us. Your book is so edifying, so uplifting that part of me finds it hard to understand the criticism. Our church/community has had several groups that have journeyed through and discussed your book in the last year. While we each had our own pet paradigms shifted and rocked, every one of us came away more in love with Papa, ourselves, eachother, and the world around us. (And I think that most of us bought at least 1-2 more copies to pass along to loved ones, too!!)
Be encouraged! While there will always be those who cling to and violently defend their brand of certainty with all their might, there will also be those who have let go of the chains (some of us with great apprehension
and are looking for others who will help them feel their way through the mystery. We need you to help remind us why we’re here and the ever-increasing depths of Papa’s love we’re journey towards.
April 3, 2008
Susan Ramey Cleveland @ 2:21 pm:
Mr. Young, thank you for writing this book. Through it, I’ve found some of he answers I’ve been searching for all my life. I’ve written a brief review of The Shack and posted it on my blog. If you’d like to see what I wronte, go to www.blackberrycreek.typepad.com. Again, thank you so much for The Shack.
April 6, 2008
Sandy @ 10:30 am:
Dear Paul, Here I am again, your friend Sandy.
I have walked a long way with Papa since I first read the shack and wrote to you. (back May? 2007) Your March writing showed pain and I understand pain very well, I have lost a lot of ‘Christian companions’ since I left the MCC (managed Christian community)to seek Papa in all faces and all forms. I have been accused of being apostate. But I have found a contentment of spirit, , a safe place, a true place, where like you, I can take my pain and my questions and come away comforted. Like you, many of my questions remain unanswered, but I trust Papa so much more than I ever did before I read the Shack.
I have read a lot of other writings since then, I have listened to Brad and Wayne, I have read my Bible with new eyes and have wondered at my blindness to such embracing Love. Any person who cannot want such unconditional love to fill this hurting world, must carry terrible anger inside of them. Not knowing THIS Papa must be in and of itself a form of Hell. I will always hold you, Wayne and Brad close to my heart. Is Jesus the only way, for me, Yes, Yes, Yes. The rest I leave, gratefully and trustfully, to Papa, Jesus, Sarayu.
If you are ever in Seattle, I would be honored to have you in my home.
Your friend, Sandy
April 8, 2008
Byron J. Ball @ 1:22 pm:
Mr. Young, I just finished watching your 2nd interview with Dr. Feazell of WCG and enjoyed the dialog even more than the first interview. Although I have not yet read “The Shack”, I determined from your conversation with Mike
what its content must consist. I look forward to reading it.
We indeed have a God of such immense love and compassion for his children that he includes us in that wonderful relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and it appears that the Holy Spirit is working much these days in bringing the Church to a deeper understanding of what that real love and relationship are about.
Mike may have already revealed to you a web site that may interest you. If not, take a look at http://theadoptedlife.org/.
Sincerely appreciate your thoughts,
Byron
April 9, 2008
Jeff Goins @ 8:13 pm:
Wow, great treatment of facing criticism and bringing it to the Father. I loved the Shack and am sharing it with my friends. In a “Christian” culture that esteems getting all the practices right, the book was fresh wind for my sails of creativity that sent me straight towards the Living God. Blessings.
April 10, 2008
Richard J. Doscher @ 12:15 pm:
One of my best friends handed me the book with a tear in her eye. Her only comment, “Please read it.” It opened a part of my heart and soul that needed some airing out
Thank you for a glimps of what relationship means. I will nbow give the book to a friend with moisture in my eye and the comment, “Please read it.”
Thank you Paul.
Bonnie Lacy @ 2:21 pm:
Just finished the book. So much of it paralleled my life and recent experiences with Jesus. Makes me think that I ain’t crazy! The color, and imagery. Makes me explode with joy!
Kelli Young @ 5:28 pm:
Mr. Young
Besides the Bible directly, there have been three books in my life that have made a profound impact on my life until today. I read your book and it became number four. I can’t tell you what an incredible confirmation it was to me and what Abba has been personally teaching and speaking to you over the past five years. It took me a lot deeper in understanding the personification of God that He has been trying to teach me. I loved how this book takes C-5 to the religious spirit of our day in regards to the church’s perception of God. He is so real and wants people to know that more than ever. Your book does just that!!! Yay Papa!!
Kelli Young @ 5:37 pm:
*whoops meant to say “speaking to me” over the past five years. C-5 = explosive
April 11, 2008
Heather Thomson @ 1:29 pm:
Thank you so much for this book. I can’t tell you how much I needed to hear and know the things that you wrote. My nephew passed away at 19 months due to a genetic disorder and I have huge trust issues with Papa. I know that because of your book, I have a better understanding of Papa and why things happen. I know that I will have to re-read this book so that I can gain more insights, but I am so thankful that you wrote it!
I’m sorry that people are criticizing you and being so cruel. Papa is reaching so many people through you.
I am just “down the road” from you in the Columbia River Gorge. I also loved that the story takes place in Oregon.
Anyway, I just wanted you to know that your book has touched me.
Thanks again. Heather
April 12, 2008
Toni @ 12:09 pm:
Forgive those who say negative things, they just don’t get it. Maybe with a little prayer they will. I loved this book so much, I am giving a copy to all of my friends and family for christmas. So they will feel the warmth and comfort I did when I read it. THANK YOU!!!!!!!GROUP HUG
Bete @ 2:50 pm:
I have just finished reading “The Shack” and then went to your website and read “The Beauty of Ambiguity”. I want to thank you for being honest in your writing. Like many other readers, I was brought to tears many times while reading it. I tend to be a black and white kind of person and through reading your book, and doing the “3:16″ study (Max Lucado) our church just finished, I am learning to live with more ambiguity and actually enjoying life more. Your book was right on the mark with what God showed me in the 3:16 study. I love how you call God “Papa”. My children call my husband “Papa”, and since I was raised Jewish and asked Jesus to live in my heart when I was 29, I like to call him “Abba”. Please be encouraged that you are doing the will of “Abba”, and that your gifts are setting many people free to love the Lord more and have a more personal relationship with him in a way they have always dreamed.
April 13, 2008
hank @ 3:25 pm:
i awoke yesterday from a nightmare… words resounded w/in the dream… ‘read the shack’. i had been given the book 2 weeks ago and started it but got busy and so it gathered dust. busying myself in the morning, a very random text came through about 10:30 saying, ‘have you read the shack yet?’ dumbfounded i wondered what in the world was going on. then the electricity went out. with nothing to do, i figured i had better follow through w/ these strange invitations to read so i sat down and began a journey that would be monumental. at points laughing outloud at the banter between the characters and other points — many, many of them — i would have to set the book down as i wept and wept through heaving sobs.
through years of being a christian, serving as a missionary, and now an associate pastor i had begun to question everything i knew to be true. everything. and sad to say, i have been teetering on the decision to completely walk away from the God i love…
this book was a lifeline. having drank deeply from the cup of shame and regret throughout my life, it came at the most critical moment. years of training and conferences and bible study have numbed the reality and the ‘wonder’ of who God really is… and something w/in my spirit was reawakened.
thank you.
i look forward to laying in the grass on our backs w/ Jesus and looking at the stars as the comfortable silence between us simply states, ‘it’s okay. i’m here.’
April 14, 2008
GES @ 6:43 am:
The Shack gets more profound every time I read it! A well known speaker recently talked about how Jesus, in relating to his disciples, would “offend the mind to reveal the heart” to help them see earthly things from heaven’s perspective. Through books like The Shack, He is still doing that today. Thank you for making this book available!
Kathleen Langridge @ 5:49 pm:
So much, just so much of who you are, what you say is Papa. I have so long believed that fiction is his way past the walls, the barriers into his joyful ambiguity. I experience such joy and energy when you express Papa. Thank you. I have just finished my first reading of the book and want to rush into the streets and hand it out while letting Papa’s love penetrate, (no soak into my soul) and continue my own healing. What a gift you have given to the world at a momenteous time. There is just too much to say and as I wrote to the Bishop of York, we’ll probably have to wait until heaven to sit down to tea and a face to face.
I have known for a while now that the main, (perhaps even only) purpose of the Bible is to reveal the reality that is Papa. I have known of his intended purposes for equal relationship between the genders and that together we more accurately reveal Pappa. I have known this and so much more through relationship with him and I have attempted to communicate to others through preaching and gossiping the gospel but I have also known that I didn’t know his love, didn’t know Love. There has been past healing but something was always not quite complete. Now reading the Shack has opened doors I didn’t know I had shut, bolted and barred.The doors are opening and the Three in One the I am is here to welcome the healing. Now I know why my story was not ready to come out.
Thank you from an American in Papa’s service in England and the Anglican Church, owch.
April 15, 2008
just James @ 11:48 pm:
I really and honestly can’t say a positive thing about the book. The way that our age succumbs to emotional gobbledygook is terrifying and tells the truth that Truth, real Truth, has been locked up and forgotten on a reservation and left to rot.
Remember when it mattered? Now what do we have left? Emotional “weeping” and what’s next? “Gnashing of Teeth”?
I don’t hope you “hugs and kisses” like so many here, fawning, but I do hope you return to the Truth.
Viz: God portrayed as a woman (2 out of 3 persons of the Trinity?).
Viz: Your confusing statements on gender, roles, and hierarchy (ultimate egalitarianism is NOT Biblical nor to be found in the roles of God the Father, Son and Spirit. Patripassionism was denounced as heresy ages ago.)
Viz: Your appeal to a relationship with “Papa” or “god” without drawing readers and pointing them to the Book the Spirit of God wrote. Rather, your book is focused on an existential experience and good feeling…
The whole thing, at root, utterly lacks discernment.
I’m praying the Emergent Church movement goes the away like the Bubonic Plague, but knowing people and the utter lack of discernment in this age, I won’t hold my breath.
Cheers.
And: Please, write another book. Call it, “My Retraction of the Fallacies I Taught at the Shack.”
April 18, 2008
Jerome @ 11:52 am:
Thank you for exploring the ambiguity and mystery that is inherent in the Christian walk. I, too, have faced criticism from other Christians for not following their form of orthodoxy. In the past, I would refute them with my own set of points and proof texts. I found that it always led to strained, if not broken relationships. I have (pretty much!) stopped doing that! Understanding that the Trinity shows us that the fundamental truth of God is relationship, it is important that we approach our defense of the gospel with people in mind - life, and Christianity is not about who is right and who wins. We watched one of your interviews with Mike Feazell at Wednesday night Bible study here in Big Sandy, TX, and we were really touched. Hang in there, brother, and thrive in Papa’s embrace!
Theresa @ 1:22 pm:
No profound words from me, just a word of thanks. This book reached a place in me that no bible story had, it allowed me to realize that our father loves unconditionally.
How sad that the “James” above my post chooses to only see fault and find no good in the great thing that you have done for so many……
Keep writting and reaching out to his people
And reminding all of your readers that we have to love or have a great fondness for all of the “James’” in our world : )
Sylvie @ 2:22 pm:
Paul, I have read your book a couple of months back, since then bought about 30 copies and cannot keep myself from giving them away to anyone searching and/or questionning the purpose of life. Yet I had not made it to your blog before today. I am totally crushed, I have not finished meditating on the book and here you are giving even more to think, meditate, pray and delight in. After reading this, I simply want to enjoy even more the present and discover more of my Daddy. Thank you for your obedience because this is so much more than you…. God uses you to touch his children. As for the negative comments; simply keep in mind that “One day every tongue will acknowledge He is God and every knees will bow down..” Thank you!
Mike & Brooke M. @ 8:41 pm:
To our brother Paul, we have both been incredibly blessed by the sharing of your heart’s story. I am thankful that you shared the pages of your yellow legal pad, the receipts, etc. !I am not interested in getting involved in all the people who rant and rave about discernment, destroying the Church or whatever. Through Papa God you have done a great thing Willie! It is he who gave you the ability to write and you have changed the hearts of this young couple. We are sharing The Shack with our friends and family and invite you and your family to our home for coffee and hot chai tea anytime!
April 19, 2008
Gladys Blyth @ 3:26 pm:
Hello Paul
Many members of our family are in cliff-hanging excitement re The Shack. Excitement is hardly the word.
In writing The Shack you have put your finger (I mean pen or keyboard) on that exact sensisitivity of what God and his purposes for humanity are really all about. Keep right on not backing up in what you are trying to get across to the masses.
I love you and my prayers are with you all the way.
Your Auntie in British Columbia, Canada.
April 21, 2008
Lucky and/or Sarah @ 8:43 am:
Mr. Young,
Thank you so much for your willingness to write such a beautiful depiction of our Father’s love for us. This book has touched me and those I know that have read it in such a profound way. For the past 6-7 years I have been saddened by the direction that churches are going. All about performance, cliques, rules, etc. I, too was caught up in all this for so long thinking that that was how I grew in my relationship with the Lord. All that time, I was getting farther and farther from Him because I could never measure up as far as the church (building and those in it) were concerned.
I knew deep down inside that I was missing something. Something that I had when I first came to know Him. It was intimacy. I lost that somewhere along the way. So, I left “church” and began to seek a closer and more intimate relationship with the one I met 30 plus years ago. I’m so glad I did. Because I have come to know the One that loves me more than I can grasp. Your book brought all that into perspective for me. Speaking to my heart what I had been trying to hear for so long.
I know now that no matter what I do, what mistakes I make, where I am in life, HE LOVES ME! HE HEARS ME! HE IS ESPECIALLY FOND OF ME! And I can take your book and give it to people and tell them that if they read this it truly will change their lives and know that it’s true.
It’s hard, I know because I have experienced negativity toward me in my life for what I now know is true because I broke all their rules, but don’t get too discouraged by what these people are saying about you. Remember what they said about Jesus. That he was possesed by the devil. That’s pretty bad. So, you and all those who know what’s true are in good company, ya think?
Thank you again for sharing such a beautiful story.
When you came to speak at the church in Powell Butte, OR, I was there and we had a small conversation. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I came to hear you speak because I hadn’t read your book yet but I was struck by the absolute love that shown in your eyes for everyone that came to speak to you and that can only come from spending time with Love itself.
I have printed out your writings on Future Tripping and the others that you have written and sent them to family and friends. No comments yet but it should be good for some family discussions, hmm?
Well, I certainly have gone on long enough.
Again, thank you for writing this book. It has been and continues to be a wonderful journey.
Papa’ full blessings on you and your family.
Steven M. Dodd @ 2:52 pm:
I told a friend that nothing I have ever read or heard describes my relationship with Abba (Papa) as perfectly as this story. My journey has taken twenty some years not over a weekend but the result is the same. I have only one thing to add…He taught me to never close my prayers. Do say amen to end a prayer like hanging up the phone. Instead talk to Jesus everyday about everything no matter how small. Papa is concerned about every detail, ask Him how to cut your hair. Ask him how to stay on your diet, ask Him for directions when you get lost in traffic. Relying on Him for little things excercises your spiritual muscle. When the big things come along you will be able to hear Him.
You will be able to here him just like Mack only you will be awake!
April 22, 2008
oregon writer @ 1:24 pm:
great way to handle public criticism and rumors.
love how this humble book is inspiring many people of all ages towards a more meaningful friendship with God.
“Fiction is the lie that tells the truth truer,” I heard a novelist once say. Yes, The Shack is fiction which is telling the truth truer about God than many sermons are today.
Thank you to Paul and the Young family for sharing this story beyond the boundaries of yourselves…
April 23, 2008
Melvin Oakes @ 11:34 am:
Thanks for one of the greatest books of my experience. I knew that when Eugene Peterson recommended it, it would be tops. It amazes me that anyone can condemn it. On its most elementary level, it reinforces the Bible in that it teaches that one CAN have an experience with God. Check out Moses, Balaam, Peter, Paul, etc. All of these were different. You have shown us that we can have one, too, and I would expect it to be different. (In fact, mine was.) And this post shows that it can happen more than once! I am looking forward to seeing you at Catalyst later this year. I will re-read your masterpiece and check back here many times. Thanks!
Kathleen Langridge @ 3:31 pm:
I referred to the book in my sermon on Sunday and I had a request for further information from a lady who speaks of God and Mummy & Papa. This was not in my church but I gave her my card and I hope to hear from her. I am trying to read it again inbetween my husband reading it as I am featuring it in a presntation tomorrow evening in my Reader Training class on suffering. I’ve sent a copy to a missionary friend in Latvia, recommended it in my yahoo group, on face book and Amazon. I talk about The Shack in most every conversation, about the deep healing God has done leaving me with such a sense of cleaness and wholeness. I have had many intimate encounters with God but out dialogue prompted by the book heads the list.
If people decry this book it says more about their pain than the value and importance of this powerful work. When we see a disparaging comment lets hold the person up before Papa and ask that Sarayo surround them with singing, dancing and her dazzling colours while the reality of Jesus presence sweeps them away. Remember these are ones that he is especially fond of.
April 24, 2008
Scott Larson @ 7:26 am:
I received The Shack as a gift from my sister over Christmas and didn’t pick it up until 2 weeks ago. We decided to read it aloud (my wife Christen is pregnant and the story telling lulls her to sleep and the Baby likes it too). But I must say, that this is one the most compelling books I’ve read in a long while. The only complaint was that it didn’t read “aloud” as well as I thought it could be.
Papa, Sarayu, Jesus and Mack most certainly captivated us every evening as we read just a chapter at a time, allowing for discussion the following day about what had transpired. It’s a parable worth sharing with others, whom I’ll gladly give a copy of this book to. Many thanks on a job well done, and I look forward to my own conversations and relationship with Papa,Jesus and Sarayu.
God Bless
Scott Larson
Kansas City
Stacy Thorn @ 7:01 pm:
Wow. I just finished this incredible book. One of the Vice Presidents in my business refered this book to me, after she read it she had a 180 on her attitude toward people. I had to read it just because of the positive change it had made in her life. What a huge impact you have made in so many lives! It has affected me in a totally as impactful but different way. The way Papa was portrayed just shattered my preconcieved ideas of God…as I read the book I just cried and sometimes I didn’t even know why. My favorite part of the whole book is on page 182 where it reads,”I will travel any road to find you.” This book has given me a connection with God that I always wondered to be possible… I get it. The good news is just that. The good news…and maybe when Jesus died to save us, he did just that. He saved us. Thank you for writing this book!!! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! - Stacy Thorn, Bixby, OK
April 29, 2008
Stutz @ 2:58 am:
Papa has allowed so much ambiguity in this world that it is certainly legitimate for one to conclude, based on the evidence, that he probably does not even exist. While the answers in the book to the common questions of those struggling with faith are enticing, there’s not much reason to think that any of it is true outside of our own minds — the product of centuries of tradition and mythology, fueled by complex psychological needs.
The Shack’s theology is smart and sophisticated. I liked the book. I wanted it to be true. But I can’t bring myself to buy that the author has figured out the right answers to questions that centuries of philosophical and religious thinkers have struggled with. When the hardest questions arise (such as why billions of humans, especially the ones who lived before Jesus, will spend eternity in hell just for being raised with the incorrect belief system, or why all available evidence indicates that the universe is billions of years old), saying that ambiguity is important feels woefully inadequate.
To paraphrase Papa, once you take care of the head stuff, the heart stuff comes much easier. Ambiguity doesn’t take care of the head stuff for me. I can’t be convinced of God’s character or even his existence if it means that eternal torture exists too.
Hopefully that’s not too critical. I did like the book much more than I expected to, and I’m glad it was written. My beef is with bigger things…
Rebecca @ 4:26 am:
The Shack has just arrived to our international school in Moscow, Russia, and is starting to make the rounds. I am just beginning my journey with it and look forward to discussing it with my 15 year old daughter who is so moved by this book.
The Beauty of Ambiguity gives me a lot to think about and especially resonates with me in this land of Russian Orthodox who think any other Christian believer is a heretic or part of a sect. This sentence is profound: “Faith grows in its embrace of the certainty of my character in the face of the uncertainty of existence.”
One unfortunate misunderstanding is perpetuated by your article, however; one I’ve grown weary of over the years when sincere but ignorant people have confused my ethnicity with a theological belief. About halfway through you write, “The Calvinists find all their verses to debate the Armenians, who find their list.” Being ethnically ArmEnian does not automatically mean one has anything to do with ArmInian theology attributed to the Dutch Jacob Arminius.
The above gripe aside, thank you for allowing God to use you to challenge us!
God bless
corinne kohler @ 5:22 pm:
Thank you for beautiful minds eye visions of Papa, Jesus and Sarayu as well as your words that soothed my soul. I will have to buy copies of this book for my children as I want to keep my copy for rereading
custody @ 5:32 pm (Trackback)
custody…
It is essential that you offer mediation before initiating a child custody dispute in court. It is also essential that you offer the best deal possible to get exactly what you want for you and your children and make sure it is a deal that would ALSO re…
April 30, 2008
Pete Norman @ 7:52 am:
Thank you for showing me a REAL God that I can actually believe loves me and really does care. Those who criticize this work are quite possibly dealing with the very religious spirits God came to set us free from. What is amazing about this book is how it challenges the “box” religion puts God in. The book has definitely rubbed some folks the wrong way because it shows God as very REAL and wanting REAL relationship and some people see that as too familiar…they want Him to be Holy Holy Holy on a throne and unapproachable I guess. Can’t He be holy and real and approachable? Just a thought. The book also shows the Trinity in the most awesome way. Parts of the book will challenge traditional “church” teaching, but that isn’t a bad thing in my opinion. “The Church” offers more relgion then relationship a lot of times. Everyone should read The Shack and see for themselves. All I know is that in reading it, I was able to see bits and pieces of my life in it, was able to deal with forgiveness, bitterness, resentment from my past hurts, and I have such a REAL desire to know God on a more personal level then ever before. If a good tree bears good fruit, then The Shack is an amazingly good tree.
May 2, 2008
Cait Needham @ 12:51 pm:
Are you a “Believer”?
May 3, 2008
Byron J. Ball @ 8:51 am:
As I mentioned in my first post on April 8, I had not yet read “The Shack.” I have now completed it and was totally captivated by the story. The dialogue between Mack and God illustrates so beautifully the real peace and joy that proceeds from such an open and honest relationship with our Father. Paul, your thoughts are so well defined in your story, touching all of our emotions. I cried, laughed out loud, and simply smiled while fully engaged as if I were inside of Mack’s skin. What a wonderful service you have done for the Christian community - no, for the whole world!
My Pastor has read the book also and we agreed to purchase books for our entire congregation and are planning a six weeks discussion of it in the Sunday school class I facilitate. For weeks now, we have been studying the nature of the Triune God and what Jesus reveals himself and the Father to be. It all boils down to love and relationship and “The Shack” will enhance our study, providing for much discussion of that very subject.
And to the Stutz posting on:
April 29, 2008
Stutz @ 2:58 am:
You seem like a nice fella and are asking the right questions. I suggest that you don’t listen too much to the “scare” tactics of religion; rather, listen to the “love” tactics of Jesus. The “heart stuff” is how Papa can work with “the head stuff.” Just be patient and think of the consequences of love.
Paul, continue your good talk/walk/talk/walk …
Chad Estes @ 5:06 pm:
on May 2, 2008
Cait Needham wrote,
Are you a “Believer”?
_________________
Hi Cait,
Last night I listened to a radio interview where Paul shares a lot of stories about his life and his journey to where he is today. I think you might get some more clarity to your question if you had a chance to listen to it. Here is a link:
http://www.drewmarshall.ca/listen2008.html#080426
May 10, 2008
Troy @ 1:15 am:
Hmmmm…. so along with your obvious talent as a wordsmith, your are also telepathic…
How else could you have so succinctly, accurately, poetically have taken the ethereal, concepts floating in my mind and articulated them.
The stuff about colors, scents and food were good too, don’t get me wrong, it’s your characterization or the three Persons that really got me.
My Granddaughter succumbed to liver cancer at 3 years, 9 months 7 and 1/2 days. I’m still pissed at Pappa about that, but we’re working thru it. Your book is helping, I will re-read it after my wife is through. My heretic radar was on (like so many other readers) and nary a blip.
Our church book store will soon have a rack of your.
Stay humble (your wife and kids will help with that) and don’t give out your street address, as this becomes huge, and it will, the crazies…. never mind, you know. Just remember that even after a weekend with the Three, drunks can run red lights, so look both ways.
Yolande @ 12:46 pm:
Absolutely LOVED the book!
Papa have been preparing me, breaking down the strongholds of religious ideas over some time in my life, and breaking open the incredible truth of Christ in us, the hope of glory! This book came at a time that I was so absolutely ripe and ready for it.
Those of us who are ready to receive and celebrate the book and the wonderful warmth and depth disclosed in this book as well as this latest conversation about mystery…let us be thankful with grateful hearts for His grace that have worked in us such that we can receive it. And for those weaker brothers, who are still so stuck in the claws of organised religious ideas, which leads them to judge, criticise, condem and act aggresively out of their own fear, towards any ideas or people that threatens their current beliefs, let us be patient with them…for love covers up and is patient and eager to believe the best of every person.
Paul may feel the effect of their fearful aggressive outbursts of criticism towards him and the book…but when we grow in understanding, of their desperate fear to cling on to those things and ideas on which their entire lives and sense of identity are founded and built, one can actually start to feel deep compassion for them.
If there is one thing the book has spoken to me so strongly about once again, it is not to judge…it is our expectation of people to love and embrace everything that we find valuable, that leads to disappointment, that leads to offense, which fuels pain in us. But being perfected in love, we can grow in love, in Him, to where we do not take offense any more.
Yolande @ 12:49 pm:
I include a link to Christ life fellowship, with free magazine downloads, which underlines what Papa was teaching in ‘the Shack’ book.
Yolande @ 12:50 pm:
http://christ-life.org/lis.htm
May 11, 2008
cecilia hamill @ 8:44 pm:
ambiguity and mystery are fascinating but i’ve met people that are so ambiguous they’ll drive you absolutely nutty! Thankfully, God is not one (not to that degree anyway!) Nonetheless, i do run into multiple scenarios whereby i find my perception and understanding of God to be different than others, and certainly than the portrayal given in this book.
The portrayal of God in this book is all about infinite grace, grace for a murderer who is, at least by the closing, non-repentant. I love the book because it stretched me, like a gumby, a very stretchable rubber band. However, i can’t help but think of various passages in the New Testament that speak not only of grace but of judgement. (”cast him out in to utter darkness where there is gnashing of teeth”) i’ve spoken to so many people that say the New Testament is all a/b grace. So many times it seems people pick the passages they want to pick (usually the happy, jolly ones) and me, who struggles with the glass half empty syndrome, sees all the passages that ARE IN THE BIBLE that noone else either sees or wants to talk about.
Your book gives such a warm, fuzzy albeit all-knowing, omniscient portrayal of God. I see God as a judge EVEN in the New Testament. And i also see myself as one who is very angry with God at times. Not that i don’t see my own failures and foibles because surely i do, even when i get angry and short circuit and point the finger. I know God is loving for , “Why”, Nicole Nordeman’s portrayal and every other out there shouts the reminder. But still, it seems that God and some of God’s would be elect pass judgement just as readily as showering grace.
Ambiguity and mystery
fascinating companions
Double dutch jumping
Spinning and twirling
But never revealing the path, the direction, not even the next step.
But if God’s the light upon our path
Why can’t we see? Where is the understanding?
Does He want us to understand?
I know His ways are not ours.
But HE says pray for wisdom and understanding and knowledge.
That’s what HE says. HE SAYS He’ll be the light unto our path and yet i can’t see. So why does the ambiguity have to be so overwhelmingly extreme so much of the time?!
Yes, it IS FRUSTRATING! And NO, I DON’T TRUST GOD to keep me safe. No, I absolutely do NOT! It’s true that HE knows everything that’s going to happen but that makes me trust HIM even less. What that really means is i can’t trust anyone. I sure as hell can’t trust people and now, knowing that God allows everything to happen and does NOT intervene, I guess i can’t trust HIM either.
I know that is not the purpose of this book. I also want to say that I’ve felt this way for a VERY long, long time; Long before i read this book. I trust God with my salvation but I don’t trust HIM in general with everyday life. I do NOT and i probably never will again!
If HE knows everything that’s going to happen i do think HE should intervene and not just for the children whose mommy’s and daddy’s sit around and pray over them and draw the bloodline of JESUS around their little kids, and raise them with a silver spoon and dedicate them to the Lord. I think the LORD should be true to HIS word. HE says HE is a Father to the Fatherless. i don’t SEE it. He says He is there for the widow. i don’t see it. He says a lot of things that I just don’t see.
I know i’m sinning in speaking from my heart, which obviously is wicked. But i’ve seen too much in all of my years. And it seems that only the good little christian boys and girls who were spoiled and pampered and grew up in their perfect little christian worlds get prayers. And all the kids in the lock down facilities who were sent their by their jack ass parents have no future. (I know the plans i have for you .. .) Where are their futures? In jail because they weren’t fortunate enough to be given the right set of parents.
Don’t get me wrong i know we all sin and fall short; i’m chief among sinners. I just don’t see God helping those who are already bludgeoned. The only part i see happening is a/b the sins of the parents to 4th and 5th generations (i may not be quoting that exactly correctly).
anyway, I’m glad for this book inspite of my open frustrations. It has helped me because i have been wrestling with a lot of questions for a very long time. I still wrestle although i have periods of absolute peace. Usually it’s when i’m listening to music, running and worshipping and not looking at the things of this earth. Therefore i don’t watch the news and i do try to keep my head in the sand just as much as i am able to do so. I think this book is wonderful! And i don’t want my questions, nor position to taint it’s message and it’s value. It may have been written for the multitude of people that wrestle with some of these same questions.
It definitely is food for thought. And it definitely has provided comfort, like a warm cup of chai tea.
Chai Tea ROCKS!
May 12, 2008
Sheila Q. @ 8:42 am:
Well, the world is a little better for your wonderful book. I think a layer of “church routine-religion ladden motions” have been wiped away. There is a clearer view, although it is still difficult. I love, loved, and will continue to love this book. It lives. No, it is not my bible, nor replaces the scripture. But it is definitely a reference tool to remind me that I, nor any of us, have all the answers - only God. He is beyond our complete understanding but what joy there is the journey of trying. Thank you for taking the risk.
May 14, 2008
David Van Diest @ 11:51 am:
Paul,
Before you came to Remond last week for your chat, I didn’t even know your name. Oh, had read the book and it was evidence that what God w