William E. Jefferson

In this book, I had anticipated a quasi-scholastic presentation on theology that is built upon foundational metaphor. I was surprised to find that it is actually a novel written in refreshing parable style. In the tale being told (no spoiler alert here!) there are storied statements that may challenge or even confound the reader... some that will be familiar to those well-versed in their understanding of the Bible, and some less so. Of particular interest is the way in which William Jefferson subtly relates the dance of deception led by the fallen angel and Enemy. In "Divine Choreography of Redemption: Setting the Eternal Saga in Time" he illustrates the nefarious nature of false idols and how the enemy yet ploys by mockery and mimicry. In particular is the description of burning coals to the devil's lips, which of course is the enemy's vain and prideful attempt to mimic the grace-filled angelic encounter experienced by the prophet Isaiah. In that Seraphic act, Isaiah was told that his guilt was removed and his sins forgiven (Isaiah 6:7). So what of the enemy's attempt? We know that God alone can remove guilt and forgive sins. That, I believe, lies deep in the heart of this book. And, its moral is perhaps best summed up in William Jefferson's own words, found on page 146: "It is not up to angels and men to prescribe the thin space God commands."… (mais)

Brother Narrative has somehow crossed into a mirror world, like yet unlike, his own world. People he knows are the same, yet different.

This is an interesting take on our current culture of social media and the cult of personal branding. Lives lived online are ephemeral and easy to manipulate while lives lived in the company of friends and family take work but offer emotional and personal reward. The struggles for the minds and hearts of humans comes down to what values are most important; a life of living behind the anonymity of the internet or the more difficult life of living among friends and family in the “real” world with the attendant duties of care for others.

It’s taken me awhile to read this book. I kept stopping to make notes in the margins and would occasionally look online (smile) for some background on a particular word or idea. Then, more notes to add to the ones already scribbled.

The author has a beautiful way with words and because he has degrees in Theology as well as Media and also Communications, his perspective is fascinating. It’s not necessarily an easy read but if you’re in the mood for something different and thoughtful, this just might fit the bill.

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book in exchange for a fair review.… (mais)