GPS: Finding Direction on Your Faith and Life Journey
How Luther’s Theology Connects Faith to Life
Foreword by Patrick Keifert
Imprint: Resource Publications
256 Pages, 6.00 x 9.00 x 0.51 in
- Paperback
- 9781666781465
- Published: July 2024
$30.00 / £23.00 / AU$45.00
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"What's the point of it all?" In the postmodern world, the meaning and direction of human existence is increasingly a question mark with few satisfying answers forthcoming. People of faith are not immune to such questions as they struggle to meaningfully connect their faith to their daily lives. In GPS: Finding Direction on Your Faith and Life Journey, Strommen makes the case that much of this existential struggle is born of an anthropocentric worldview that has banished God to the margins, leaving humans with the futile task of playing God as they attempt to create their own meaning, purpose, and identity. Drawing on core Christian understandings through a Lutheran lens, the author asserts that life-giving meaning and purpose are gifts given by God alone, who frees people from their self-justifying ways to take an inventory of their many gifts and participate in a new creation where love of neighbor is the social currency. It is the core theme of this book that God is in fact present, deeply invested and at work in the everyday world, calling everyone daily to partner with God to co-create a more trustworthy, loving, and hopeful world.
John Strommen is a retired Lutheran pastor, avid photographer, and recently completed a master of theology degree in systematic theology at Luther Seminary, St. Paul. He lives in Plymouth, Minnesota, with his wife, Heidi.
“In GPS, John Strommen helps us discern how God is not only deeply invested in our world, but is also calling us to be partners in creating a more trustworthy world for ourselves and others. I highly recommend this book for anyone eager to claim God's promised future over the anxiety and despair that often captivate us.”
—Lois Malcolm, professor of systematic theology, Luther Seminary
“John Strommen’s GPS is a wonderful resource, whether you preach from a pulpit, sit in a pew, or just wonder if there is a way of looking at the world that makes any sense. Rich in illustrations drawn from contemporary culture and his years as a pastor, Strommen has figured out a way to be both profound and accessible. Take and read. You won’t be disappointed.”
—Mark D. Tranvik, professor of Reformation history and theology, Luther Seminary
“From a pastoral perspective, GPS is a refreshing read. Through his love of history, cultural connectedness, and a pastor’s servant heart, John Strommen clearly articulates the necessity of reclaiming a biblical understanding of a God who is surely in this place with us. I highly recommend this as a primer for church small groups to read together and discuss its points in order to deepen their own discipleship journey and, in turn, broaden the church’s relevance in a world seeking meaning.”
—Jason Folkerts, associate pastor, Parkside Church
“GPS is a gift to church leaders as they seek to help people discover how faith can provide meaning in their daily life. As a seasoned pastor and articulate theologian, John Strommen names the complexities of our time and provides a theological and practical response. I highly recommend this book!”
—Terri Martinson Elton, professor of leadership, Luther Seminary
“This book is one of those rare resources for Christians without degrees in theology for doing theology out of their day-to-day experience. It works because it was developed out of the practice of exploring what God is up to in persons’ everyday lives and supporting that practice with solid learning practices, delightful contemporary sources, and strong theological reflection. I strongly endorse its use and praise its creator.”
—Patrick R. Keifert, president, Church Innovations Institute
“This unique and valuable work combines clear theological insight with effective activities for ministry. Tapping the heart and spirit of God’s grace, Strommen develops faith foundations, pastoral imagination, and ministerial actions in one approachable book. Leaders will find it firing their imagination for ministry; it affords all Christians a dynamic guide for discipleship.”
—Roland Martinson, professor emeritus of pastoral care and counseling, Luther Seminary
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