Current Reading

Holy Available, by Gary Thomas

I'm currently reading "Holy Available: What if Holiness is about more than what we don't do," by Gary Thomas. I got acquainted with Gary Thomas' writings a while ago when a friend recommended his "Sacred Marriage" book. He's a engaging writer, drawing from a wide range of source materials--everything from scripture to early Christian writings to contemporary family life research.

The whole premise of this book is a call to action. Thomas asks us to think of Holiness and identify what kinds of things come to mind. Most Christians would admit that the kinds of things that immediately come to mind are 'negatives'--the typical list of 'no-no's' (e.g., no cussing, drinking or smoking, no immoral behavior, no sinful entertainment, etc.). Thomas challenges this kind of moralistic view of holiness. Instead of what we don't do, Thomas insists that Christian holiness is about what we do! The second part of the book is essentially a homily on incarnational reality (seeing, hearing, speaking and feelings with the eyes, ears, mouth and heart of Jesus). This is true holiness, according to Thomas.

What is most challenging about this book is Thomas' observation that moralistic holiness simply doesn't work. The problem is that we Christians still sin. As James says, "For we all stumble in many ways" (3:2a, ESV). So, in this view, holiness (lit. 'being set apart') is less concerned with an individual believer being set apart from personal sin, but that same believer being set apart to God for his special use. Holiness is a means to an end. We are cleansed and sanctified by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, whose shed blood does the work. Then, we go on to perfect holiness (2 Corinthians 7:1) not by keeping up appearance with mere moralism, but through giving our whole beings to God for his use. Of course, a person who is "Holy Available" for God's service, will naturally be a person who keeps himself from sin and uncleanness.

This is the point of the book: If we put the focus on being holy in moralistic terms, we fall short of God's purposes. But, if we focus on being "Holy Available" for God's purposes in our lives, then we will be morally pure.

Both "Sacred Marriage" and "Holy Available" are on my recommended reading list. Next, I hope to get into Thomas' "Sacred Parenting" and "Sacred Pathways" books.

Peace and all good,
Ryan