The Making of an Ordinary Saint: My Journey from Frustration to Joy with the Spiritual Disciplines

"Thirty-five years ago, Richard Foster introduced a generation to the spiritual disciplines. Now his son introduces another generation to both the glories and the frustrations of seeking to practice them--to master and be mastered by the craft and art of the spiritual life. This is a book of honesty and hope."-- John Ortberg , senior pastor of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church; author of Soul Keeping More than thirty years after his father's classic book brought them to the masses, Nathan Foster took his own unique path into the spiritual disciplines. As he sought day by day to develop habits that would enable him to live more like Jesus, he encountered problems both universal and personal. Along the way, he found creative new ways to practice the disciplines and discovered that a vital, conversational relationship with God was truly within his grasp. Now he invites you to join him on the journey. You may just find that holy habits are truly possible for all. "Nathan Foster has written about the Christian life not impersonally and objectively but as a participant. Read this book and find yourself a new companion as you follow Jesus."-- Eugene H. Peterson , professor emeritus of spiritual theology, Regent College "Delightful . . . simply delightful. Nathan's reflections on the spiritual disciplines are honest, fresh, and insightful. Read and be blessed."-- Ruth Haley Barton , founder of the Transforming Center; author of Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership and Sacred Rhythms "Nathan has a unique voice so badly needed today. He is a storyteller whose raw honesty disarms the reader and allows us to join him, without fear of judgment, on a journey toward an imperfect sainthood."-- James Bryan Smith , associate professor of religion, Friends University; executive director of the Apprentice Institute; author of The Apprentice Series Nathan Foster is director of community life at Renovaré. Formerly he served as the Andrews Chair in Spiritual Formation at Spring Arbor University and the pastor of spiritual formation at a Free Methodist church in Jackson, Michigan. Nathan is a licensed clinical social worker and a certified addictions counselor and he plays bass in the indie rock band Istra Blue. Learn more at nathanfosterprojects.com.