Life Surrendered

The book only covers the final days of Christ's life, but Jessica's treatment of it leaves no stone unturned..
Like a surgeon wielding instruments of life saving surgery, she helps the reader see the layers of doubt, presumption and control that we are all guilty of, and has led me to the point where I can humbly admit"

"I don't know the beauty that comes from dying. I don't know the joy that comes from serving. I don't know the freedom of not knowing God's timeline. And I surely don't know the abundance found in letting go of control." My prayer is that God will take me from where I am, and teach me these profound lessons, that I may present to Him, A Life Surrendered.

Deeper Max Lucado. This book is one whose overall tone and structure fans of Max Lucado - a guy who has been writing books for decades and who is so popular he is on grocery store bookshelves - will easily recognize. But it is also quite a bit deeper than Lucado generally goes, and Herberger here brings up some great points about the various deaths she discusses as she looks at Easter Weekend. Ultimately a truly solid book of its type, but likely without a truly universal appeal. Should do *very* well within the Christian nonfiction market though, where in fact it could be a breakout book - it really is that good. And timed well, with publication roughly 6 weeks before Easter 2022. Very much recommended.

Review for: Life Surrendered: Finding Freedom at the Cross by Jessica Herberger

Jessica Herberger accomplishes more in sixteen chapters than many volumes written on the ministry of death. I chose the term “ministry of death” because that is what this book is about to me. Herberger takes readers on a journey of observations from Good Friday to the resurrection. While she alludes to the topic of death in her opening chapters, her story of Jesus’ service with the apostles, during his trials, his walk to the cross, his death, and his triumphant resurrection gives every Christian today hope and peace in living our best life for God. I have personally read many “Cross” books over the years in my faith journey, my undergraduate and graduate work, but this one will be revisited many times throughout my life. Herberger is a relatable, everyday person who deals with tough human struggles in a most transparent way.

I identify with many Christians who feel the urge to respond to every criticism aimed at Christianity or God, or both. This is why chapter three, “You Don’t Need To Respond,” brought me much to chew on intellectually. Our Lord and Master did not feel the need to respond to the politically and spiritually lacking accusers at his trial. Why do I, as his follower, feel compelled to jump into every fight along the way? Herberger gives us a fresh perspective and reinforces life as peacemakers for Christians.

Without giving away much of the strength of her work, Herberger excels in building each step of Jesus in his journey to the cross into a life lesson that is relatable and powerful when we are on our knees. Further, the last section of the book dealing with death and the rewards in death exceeded my expectations. In my humble opinion, this book is a must-read for new babes in Christ as well as those who may be dealing with taking care of an elderly or sick loved one, maybe a nurse or doctor or any healthcare professional who witnesses death every day, and especially every Christian who will face death unless our Lord comes back in our lifetime. Do yourself a favor and buy this book for yourself and a loved one. You will not regret it.