I WAS THERE: Eyewitnesses at the Foot of the Cross by Peter Falconer Hansen (Bloomington: Westbow Press, 2014)
With insightful perception and careful precision, Peter Hansen takes us on a journey back to the day of all days—the most important day in Church history—the twenty-four hour time frame of events–preceding, during, and after–the crucifixion of Christ by taking what is known–from the historical biblical account and adding what is perceived–through character analysis and cultural references.
A blend of fact with fiction, one by one the personalities of nineteen eyewitnesses are explored. Through the use of scripture quotations along with a gentle dramatization, each person’s part is described in a thought-provoking, emotion-rich, dialogue-drama. The narrative is rich in clarity and construction and employs internal with external language. The reader is taken “there,” as they become another bystander viewing the unsettling, vibrant collision, the confrontation of man with Christ. They face first-hand the claims of the Messiah man.
I began reading this book on Good Friday. As a person who has great reverence for things of spiritual origin, I was both pleased and moved by Hansen’s treatment of this subject. His perspective forms a book written with skill and understanding of its subject. It is obvious that Hansen has an affinity for the person of Christ Jesus and a sensitivity toward the message that played out in Christ’s story. Through its implications, spiritual concepts are provided and maintained which are far-reaching and accessible for those who wish to ponder them. I find its portrayal to be interesting and informative, touching and reflective. I Was There is a book I will reread during future Easter observances.
Mary of Magdala, The Forgiven
“So, maybe I am crazy to be here and to watch my master, Jesus, die. But how can I live free, as he made me free, and forget what he has done for me? Of course it’s dangerous. But what can anyone do to a dead woman? I am dead. I have died to this evil world. Without Jesus, I would surely have been dead by now. But I live, and I am one with God’s goodness and mercy and purity and love. . . .And the best, most merciful, pure, and loving of all God’s beings is now dying before my eyes.”
I looked up some reviews before I purchased the book. The first one I read said, “This is a dangerous book.” That could have stopped me. Instead, it made me curious, so I read further. Soon I realized that the “danger” is a matter of personal interpretation according to one’s understanding of spiritual matters. Some do not believe God speaks today. This book is not for them. The author, Sarah Young, is sharing the thoughts she received during her quiet “alone” times with God. The words are recorded in a first-person style, like God is talking to you. I read these devotional-style entries and find myself blessed by their tone and content. Each writing speaks with the peacefulness that encourages and strengthens one’s faith. Jesus Calling has scripture verses sprinkled throughout and at the end of each devotional style text.
“May 1 – You are on the path of my choosing. There is no randomness about your life. Here and Now comprise the coordinates of your daily life. Most people let their moments slip through their fingers, half-lived. They avoid the present by worrying about the future or longing for a better time and place. They forget that they are creatures who are subject to the limitations of time and space. They forget their Creator, who walks with them only in the present. . . .Every moment is alive with my glorious Presence, to those whose hearts are intimately connected with Mine. As you give yourself more and more to a life of constant communion with Me, you will find that you simply have no time for worry. . . . Luke 12:25-26, Luke 1:79”
Religious people tend to put God in a box. But His ways are mysterious. The ones who seek Him will find Him. Sarah Young has sought God and found Him. She shares her writings that others may be encouraged in their spiritual walk. I believe God propels certain books forward–this is one of them. Jesus Calling draws a person into a more intimate walk with God. A biblical phrase comes to mind, “My sheep hear my voice.” To hear God’s voice requires that one attend to the One who is asking us to pay attention. During the author’s difficulties, she leaned on God and in the process, she learned to listen.
