When I picked up Mondays With My Old Pastor, I was
afraid it might be just another sentimental reflective book. But the
preface—and the entire book—captured me with its’ stunning allegory, parables,
and tangible storytelling.
The book starts with a discouraged young pastor whose wife
suggests he visit his “old pastor”—a term of endearment for the man who trained
him as a young man. What follows is a tightly-knit story about passing the
mantle, filled with refreshingly new stories and parables to illustrate the
point.
This book has intentional structure, where each chapter is a
visit, and is represented by a new rose that grows in the old pastor’s garden.
With each rose is a chance to pray and reflect after the visit—for the reader
as well as for the leading character. In this way, the structure and literary
devices prepare the reader for worshipful moments and meditation.
José Luis Navajo is no stranger to good storytelling, and it
certainly offers ample illustrations that could be used for sermons or
teaching. The story moves at a good pace, and I always felt that the “meetings”
ended too quickly, wanting to hear more instead of feeling lectured.
I highly recommend this book, without reservations. I
already have a list of people who would like to read it after me. It is both
interesting and encouraging. I hope you will have the pleasure of reading it as
well.
I received this book from the publisher for review. All
opinions are my own.
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