Penelope Wilcock Boeken

Our spiritual growth has been stifled by our long obsession with consumption and possessions. This practical yet visionary book offers a model for a truly healthy life based on gospel simplicity. Ditch the stuff that gets in the way, and your heart is free to respond to God. 'What is in these pages works,' Pen says. 'It's the medicine for today, it transforms life. It's the part of the Bible that shouts off every page but is silenced before it ever gets to church.' Christian simplicity affects our management of time, money, possessions, speech, what we do, eat and hear, our relationships, resources, homes, transport, the way we dress. It requires discipline. 'But as we journey, a wonderful sense of freedom permeates our lives; the light heart that is necessary to walk gracefully in Christ's way.'

Many Christians still feel uneasy about the idea that women are equal, preferring to speak of complementary roles, rather than genuine equality. This attitude has deep roots. An emphasis on the story of Adam and Eve has shaped the entire Judaeo-Christian tradition, and frequently appears in Church teaching.

Get into the heart of Advent with Pen Wilcock and discover what Christmas really means to Jesus as he talks to her about God, the universe and a few other things.

In order to say ‘yes’, we must learn to say ‘no’. Relinquishment is the way to get things done. It allows priorities to emerge. When we set stuff aside – status, possessions, our addiction to busyness and being right – we create opportunity. Relinquishment is vital for friendship, and marriage. It helps us know when to back off. Learning to keep quiet is part of building relationships.Relinquishment alleviates stress. It is the art of letting go — relieving, relaxing, sighing out that pent-up frustration. Relinquishment unbuttons the strait-jacket of pressure, and restores the richness of being alive.Relinquishment creates simplicity. By living as simply as possible, we can become a greater channel of blessing.By living with less we have space for what matters. Penelope Wilcock lives on England’s south coast, and is author of many books including The Hawk and the Dove series. She blogs at Kindred of the Quiet Way.