A Long Obedience in the Same Direction studies the fifteen Psalms (120-134), known as the Songs of Ascents, which were likely sung as Hebrew Pilgrims would make their way to Jerusalem for holy festivals. Eugene Peterson devotes a chapter to each Psalm and uses them as a way to cover some (not all) components of Christian discipleship. For, as he says, the Christian is both a disciple (a learner apprenticed to Jesus) and a pilgrim (a "people who spend our lives going someplace, going to God"), and studying these Psalms looks at elements of each. "It [these Psalms] is our best background for understanding life as a faith-journey . . . they provide a way to remember who we are and where we are going." They cover topics like repentance, providence, worship, service, help, security, joy, work, happiness, perseverance, hope, humility, obedience, community, and blessing.
A classic Christian work (written 40+ years ago), I thought this was okay. Some chapters, insights, or quotes were profound and helpful. Others seemed only okay or off the mark (I suspect Peterson and I differ on some elements of theology). Ultimately, I did appreciate the 'authenticity' of the writing: Peterson does a good job highlighting the harsh realities of walking in faith that some Christians avoid or gloss over. So while I think other works may cover this topic better, it's not a bad place to start, especially for new Christians.
Rating: B
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