Life of the Beloved

Spiritual Living in a Secular World

By: Henri J. M. Nouwen

Narrated by: Henri J. M. Nouwen

Length: 2 hrs and 37 mins

Publisher's Summary

How does one live a spiritual life in a secular world? Henri Nouwen responds from the depths of his heart to this dilemna posed by his friend Fred Bratman. Nouwen's own interpretive reading of the text lends a sense of immediacy to the audiobook.

©1992 Henri J.M. Nouwen (P)2002 St. Anthony Messenger Press

Critic Reviews

"Nouwen uses Jesus' experience in baptism, 'You are my beloved Son,' and Jesus' life example of living as God's beloved, chosen, blessed, broken and given for the whole world to help readers see themselves as God's beloved." ( Christian Living)

Listening Is Life Changing

Several years ago, when I first listened to this reading by Henri Nouwen in my car on my way to work, it didn't seem that big of a deal. But by the second day of listening on my commute, something happened. I noticed myself interacting with co-workers in good humor where only days before I experienced anger bordering on rage. Suddenly other people seemed transformed. I held the door for a woman, a total stranger, carrying packages at the mall and she said, "God bless you today." I stopped hating my job. I stopped hating the traffic on my commute. Externally, nothing in my day-to-day life was any better, but I felt better. Nothing outside me had changed, but something in me had changed.

Compelling

Compassionately read by the author in a way that makes what might otherwise be too removed from daily life into something that deeply informs. I am glad I listened.

Beloved

One of my all time favorite books of any kind. I have read it many times and know I will read it many more. In my darkest hours I remind myself that I am a beloved child of God in whom he is well pleased, as are you.

A very good "read"

If you could sum up Life of the Beloved in three words, what would they be?

1. beloved 2. joyous 3. inspirational

What was one of the most memorable moments of Life of the Beloved?

The view of people as God views them, and the view of myself as God sees me!

Have you listened to any of Henri J. M. Nouwen’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No, this is my first.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes. It was addictive. Each chapter built upon the previous one. It was hard to take a break.

Any additional comments?

I gave this 4 stars in performance, simply because Henri Nouwen's accent can be difficult to understand at times. He is very articulate, but there are a few instances, that needed to be reversed and listened to again.
That being said, It is an inspirational and joyful book, filled with Nouwen's understanding of a loving God. There's something about his voice, though difficult to understand at times, that is like having your grandpa read to you. His voice is soft but firm, educational yet very friendly.

Beautiful reflection!

This is a great book for someone who is new to the Christian faith. It is like receiving spiritual direction from a priest who really cares and wants you to know that you are loved, by sharing his experience with you.

Life of the Beloved

What a gift to have this book read by the author. I have listened to this book several times - Each time I discover something new and meaningful to me and always at an appropriate time when I needed the insights that Henri Nouwen had to offer. Thank you

POWERFUL MEDITATION

Would you listen to Life of the Beloved again? Why?

Yes I would because he is reflecting deeply on timeless and life-giving truths that we easily forget.

Who was your favorite character and why?

This question does not apply.

Which character – as performed by Henri J. M. Nouwen – was your favorite?

It is not a novel

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Discovering you are the Beloved.

Any additional comments?

Henri speaks to our hearts more than to our minds and his refreshing simplicity makes him a joy to listen to always!

Life changing

What made the experience of listening to Life of the Beloved the most enjoyable?

How something can fail utterly at its original purpose and yet accomplish an even greater good.

A beautiful book

Inspired. As a non-religious person who has spent a lifetime asking, my thanks to you, Fr Nouwen, for insights that are compassionate, Illuminating, and deeply moving.

A bridge between God’s love and life in a secular world

Life of the Beloved came to me at a time of a painful rejection by a dear friend and has provided deep insights, clarity and relief. A most wonderful book.

Simply wonderful

Such a huge blessing --thank you Henri - We do need to know that we are the Beloved and live out our lives from that stand point - grounded and rooted in Christ.

Deep and Meaningful

This book was written by a Roman Catholic priest for a secular, Jewish friend. He tries to explain what it means to live with God and for God. I enjoyed the first few chapters and the last two, but got a bit lost in the middle. It is read by the author, who is Dutch Canadian, so his accent is interesting, but well worth listening to as he unfolds some wonderful truths .

Phenomenal

So beautiful. This book has rocked my world. I was gutted when it was finished. I even listened to all the acknowledgements! He writes with such grace and insight, peace and authenticity.