Synopsis: "In my continuing spiritual journey I have become increasingly convinced of two truths: first, that each individual has the capacity to be touched by the divine and thereby to be made whole; second, that the combination of reason and materialism are literally destroying the world and its creatures, human and otherwise. This little book is implicitly a plea for the reinstitution of love and peace-as opposed to hatred and war-as the animating principles of life. Perhaps you will find your own search for the divine reflected in it."-from the Prologue.Over the course of a long, rich life and legal career, John Rehm realizes there is much more meaning-and joy and pain-than mere reason can convey. Attentive to the variety of his "peak experiences" and glimpses of the divine, Rehm discovers a renewed love of and trust in life: the more he acknowledges its polarities and mystery, the more he understands. Simple couplets describe the life of Jesus, torturous poems reflect lives of the saints, and charming fables give us closely observed glimpses of the freedom that often only comes with age. Rehm's words and truth telling transport us on our own onward journey of seeking the Divine.Endorsements: "Like some long lost gospel found in a desert cave, this book is fragmentary, pungent, and absorbing. Its personal directness and lyrical style capture the reader and lead to a fascinating journey through a constantly searching life. It will appeal to believers, skeptics, and researchers."--Harvey CoxHarvard University, Author of The Future of Faith"The John called to Christ this time is John Bartram Rehm. Onward Journey: Seeking the Divine is one man's faith made visible. Here are reflections about biblical characters, as well as daily moments in life. If there is reason to celebrate after reading this book, then it means Rehm has touched the spirit in you. This is a book full of light."--E. Ethelbert MillerDirector, African American Resource CenterHoward University"Gentle, mystical, and haunting. I have had the privilege of sharing parts of John Rehm's journey, and I can promise the reader that your own spirit will be pierced and healed. I envy his experience of being caught by Christ."-- Bishop Jane Dixon"In his Onward Journey: Seeking the Divine John Rehm gives us wisdom and whimsy in poetry and prose. Finding the spiritual in everything from saints to stones, this is a book both to carry with you, dipping into it for some surprising observation, and to sit and savor as Rehm reveals the steps along the way of his journey toward the Divine."--Cokie Roberts(NPR/ABC)Author Biography: John Bartram Rehm was from 1962 to 2000 an attorney representing both the government and private interests championing the cause of liberal trade among nations. After his conversion to Christ he completed a Master of Theological Studies at Wesley Theological Seminary to help him understand the significance of his experience. He is married to NPR talk-show host Diane Rehm with whom he co-authored Toward Commitment: A Dialogue about Marriage (Knopf/Random House, 1992).
