Out of Solitude: Three Meditations on the Christian Life

By Henri J.M. Nouwen

Book Overview

With more than 400,000 copies in print, Out of Solitude by Henri J. M. Nouwen offers a timeless reflection on the sacred tension between our longing for quiet communion with God and the unrelenting pull and noise of daily life. Drawing on three pivotal moments in the life of Jesus--his retreat to a lonely place to pray, the feeding of the five thousand, and his promise that, after going away, he would return to them--Nouwen shows how Christ himself turned to solitude to receive the Father's love and to discern his will.

Nouwen names the truth we often sense but rarely articulate: "Somewhere we know that without a lonely place our lives are in danger. Somewhere we know that without silence words lose their meaning, that without listening speaking no longer heals, that without distance closeness cannot cure. Somewhere we know that without a lonely place our actions quickly become empty gestures."

With pastoral insight and deep compassion, Nouwen reveals how time alone with God grounds our identity in divine love rather than self-reproach, deepens our compassion for those who suffer, and renews our hope as we await Christ's return. He reminds us that authentic service and generous love can only flow from a living, personal relationship with the Lord.

Beautifully written in Nouwen's signature simplicity and depth, Out of Solitude remains a fresh and moving guide for everyone seeking to root their lives in prayer, solitude, service, and joy.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0877934959
• ISBN13: 9780877934950
• Release Date: April 2004
• Publisher: Ave Maria Press
• Length: 63 Pages
• Weight: 0.22 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 4.8" x 6.8"

Customer Reviews

Great book for contemplation

During my fast, and contemplation, times and again, I'm drawn to this little book. It is a great book. This little book slowly, bit by bit, through 3 meditations on Christ, directs my mind from the "secular world" to Christ. It draws me to silence, to face myself, to God, and to caring for others and hope for the future. It takes me to a journey and after that, I am filled with constance and strength.

This work will challenge your walk with Christ

Outstanding work. This book will cause you to stop and look at your relationship with Christ. Nouwen's words will touch you deeply in your inner man.

A small, but loud volume

This book spoke deeply to me. As a parent with young children, I have often felt guilty for needing "my space." Nouwen removes my feelings of guilt and selfishness by explaining this need for time alone as being a spiritual need where growth and connection with God are possible. Contains few pages, but a big message.

my favorite gift to others as well as myself

Without getting the reader distracted by or caught up within his own life and story the author concisely brings us back to a spiritual balance with God.

I can't believe no one has reviewed this book!

It is one of Nouwen's finest works and one I frequently givemy business clients who are struggling with success driven life stylesand non-caring work environments. I am an older (64) counseling/industrial/ organizational psychologist and currently specialize is exceutive coaching. Books like this help me create and sustain the most fulfilling work I have ever done. The book is simply three short mediations on solitude, action and community. I have read it many times, given it to my children and family, and highly recommend it to all who need to pause in the midst of life to focus on what their life is all about. I will use it this year at a retreat for men in April.A few other books I currently recommend to clients and friends along with Out of Solitude are: Let Your Life Speak by Parker Palmer; The Power of Now by Ekhart Tolle; and Stopping by David Kundtz. Nouwen was a gifted priest, healer, and shining light of faith, hope and love in a time of confusing worldwide transitions. He will be missed and he left a great legacy.