Un-American Activities: Countercultural Themes in Christianity, A modern father and a postmodern daughter reflect on their pilgrimages of life and faith
"What is the Spirit saying to the churches? Christians who wonder where God is leading us will want to check out this collection of lively exchanges between professor Tom Wilkens and his witty daughter Kim. Amusing and provocative, their reflections allow us to share the surprises that accompany learning beyond the classroom and living outside one's comfort zone. Reading this book is like sifting through a box of souvenirs: stories, letters, papers, and sermons laced with personal vulnerability, theological depth, and a profound sense of social responsibility. It is a book that "goes the distance," traversing hemispheres, cultures, and generations." Mark Allan Powell, Professor of New Testament Trinity Lutheran Seminary, Columbus, Ohio "Like standing on a peak viewing an intriguing horizon, and then traveling toward and into the horizon, father and daughter invite the reader on a journey of exploration and discovery of distinct but meshing worlds. Part memoir; part transformational; part world-view changing; part personal intrigue and renewal intertwined — leading to a wholeness of deeper health and shalom for both authors and readers. I plan to use material from this book as I consult with congregations in transition." Paul J. Blom, Bishop Emeritus Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church in America "Subversion, liberation, solidarity with the poor social justice — ingredients that develop into a feast of thoughful dialogue between father and daughter, and we are invited to the table. The conversation questions the comfortable, unreflective, triumphalist theologies that are so pervasive among Christians and the churches they attend. Be prepared for a Christology in the dirt where most of the world really lives. This is no tame book that one can play with and not get messy. Be careful. Christians will have to re-evaluate what it means to be like Jesus." Jim Taylor, Pastor Mosaic Community Church, Seguin, Texas
