Brennan Manning
More than several years ago I decided to purchase every one of Brennan Manning’s books. I had to purchase many used books but my goal was reached. Are you familiar with Manning? If you are not, I highly recommend.
My lofty goal for 2021 is to read all of his books. I’ve read a number of them but not all. I began with “The Furious Longing Of God.” This was a second read of the title – it didn’t disappoint. The chapter, “Boldness,” got me. He asks the question,
“If Jesus were to ask you, right now — what do you want? — what would you say? Seriously, what would your answer be?
My Answer
I immediately answered the question with something, a current fleshly desire, and then Holy Spirit instantly checked me on it and I had to “take it back.”
I quickly changed my “want…”
I bowed my head and kind of laughed and said to the Lord, “Lord, You know out of everything and anything I could ask You for, my one desire is, I have no greater joy than to hear my children and their children and their loved ones walk in Truth – Your Truth. 3 John 4
Honestly, I almost heard Jesus chuckle out loud!
What Would Your “Want” Be?
Think about the question and you don’t really have to tell me but I think it’s a question that demands some thought. You can share if you wish but don’t feel obligated. But, do ponder and make the want important. Then go boldly.
Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, 21 and having a High Priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10.19-22
Holy chutzpah. Have any? I’m building mine.
Without hesitation……I shall say “ditto” because it is the truth for me.
I know it is, Kathy. I know it is. xo
The only book of his that I’ve read is Abba’s Child and it is really good.
And my want is the same as yours. It’s what I want more than anything in the world. Blessings to you, dear Susan! xo
I have it and perhaps I’ll go there next after Ragamuffin Gospel.
The only book I’ve read of his is Ragamuffin Gospel and it changed my heart. And yes, my desire is the same as yours! So deeply praying for each one of them.
I’m starting this one next!
I join you in praying for my children and grandchildren. And actually, I would add other family members too 🙂 May they know Truth and walk in Truth all of their days!
Oh yes, Jo. My list is long!
I have read 2 of his books, enjoyed them so much. I do not have children so pondering this question. I think it is my greatest want, since a youth, is to be part of the healing journey for abused children, part of God’s rescue team.
We are God’s rescue team – I pray you get to do this.
I’ve read his Furious Longing for God. It’s time for a re-read. And I need more of his books!
And yes, I want more than anything to know my kids and grandchildren – and their spouses! – are walking in Truth.
Our greatest Joys!!!! xo
I haven’t read Brennan Manning for several years but I have read several of his books. Of course, I loved the Ragamuffin Gospel. Hmm…what a good question. My want. Like this verse from 1 Peter, my want is humility: “Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'”
I’ve heard it said, by reliable sources, “Humility is the greatest virtue.” I pray you find it. xo
Susan, such a great post! I love Brennan Manning and have read most of his books. The Furious Longing of God is my personal favorite read many times and shared with others. I love that quote/question you pulled from the chapter on Boldness; I did the same thing you did, but have pondered that question long and hard many times since that first read. Currently I would answer that my son be rescued from his life of addiction and brokenness due to an episode of abuse when he was a child. He has lived in torment some 25 years before even telling anyone about it. Isn’t it amazing how most moms don’t ask for themselves, but for their children?
We have no greater joy, amen? Thank you for sharing that with me. I’m honored.
I have not read his books. I certainly want the Truth for that is the way we are to live. I have chosen for my One Word 2021 “decrease” as in John 3:30. I must decrease so He can increase…and I want to shine the light of Christ through and in me … less of me with each day, more of Him each day.
Great word, Linda.
I have not read any of his books, but now I’m going to look them up because your post as well as everyone’s comments have piqued my Christian curiosity. Blessings.
Brennan is all about GRACE.
Great question Susan! The same answer came to mind as yours but then I hesitated & pondered my answer which is the following;
‘I want the Lord’s perfect will & timing in the lives of my loved ones & my life. For us to be His people, for His time in the places He leads. Because often it’s the journey before our relationship with Him & then with Him, going through the experience of both hard times & good, that we are then able to minister to others on those same journeys. Without the experience of both, while we may have sympathy for others we will not have true understanding & empathy for their experience.’
Blessings,
Jennifer
Jennifer, without our experiences we have no 2 Corinthians 1.3-5 Amen?