Finally, pastors recognize the importance
of a dedicated and dynamic devotional life. In addition to scripture,
many of us find value in using devotional insights of other believers.
This year is the 100th anniversary of the birth of Dietrich
Bonhoeffer, the German theologian who opposed Hitler and paid with
his life, so it is an appropriate time for the publication of A Year With Dietrich Bonhoeffer
(HarperSanFrancisco), which includes a year's worth of daily
meditations drawn from the letters, writings and sermons of
Bonhoeffer.
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From the entry of March 27, taken from A
Testament to Freedom: "Jesus says that all Christians have their own
crosses waiting for them, a cross destined and appointed by God. Each
of us must endure our allotted share of suffering and rejection. But
each of us has a different share: some God deems worthy of the
highest form of suffering, and gives them the grace of martyrdom, while
others God does not allow to be tempted above what they are able to
bear. But it is one and the same cross in every case."