Secrets in the Dark: A Life in SermonsFrederick Buechner has long been a kindred spirit to those who find elements of doubt as constant companions on their journey of faith. He is a passionate writer and preacher who can alter lives with a simple phrase. Buechner's words, both written and spoken, have the power to revolutionize and revitalize belief and faith. He reveals the presence of God in the midst of daily life. He faces and embraces difficult questions and doubt as essential components of our lives, rather than as enemies that destroy us. "Listen to your life!" is his clarion call. This theme pervades this definitive collection of sermons, delivered throughout Buechner's lifetime. Presented chronologically, they provide a clear picture of the development of his theology and thinking. Reflecting Buechner's exquisite gift for storytelling and his compassionate pastor's heart, Secrets in the Dark will inspire laughter, hope, and bring great solace. Turn the pages and rediscover what it means to be thoughtful about faith. See why this renowned writer has been quoted in countless pulpits and beloved by Americans for generations. |
Contents
The Magnificent Defeat | 1 |
The Birth | 9 |
Message in the Stars | 16 |
The Face in the Sky | 22 |
The Sign by the Highway | 27 |
The Calling of Voices | 35 |
A Sprig of Hope | 42 |
Come and See | 50 |
The Church | 146 |
The Kingdom of God | 154 |
Two Narrow Words | 162 |
Faith and Fiction | 169 |
The Good Book as a Good Book | 184 |
Paul Sends His Love | 195 |
Adolescence and the Stewardship of Pain | 205 |
The Longing for Home | 221 |
A Room Called Remember | 56 |
Faith | 65 |
Hope | 73 |
The Two Stories | 82 |
Emmanuel | 90 |
Love | 97 |
Delay | 105 |
Air for Two Voices | 114 |
The Clown in the Belfry | 123 |
The Truth of Stories | 131 |
Growing Up | 138 |
The Great Dance | 238 |
The News of the Day | 245 |
The Secret in the Dark | 251 |
The Seeing Heart | 258 |
Let Jesus Show | 265 |
Jairuss Daughter | 272 |
Waiting | 279 |
The Word of Life | 286 |
A 250th Birthday Prayer | 291 |
The Newness of Things | 298 |