Walter Brueggemann is a fascinating character among contemporary American theologians. He is ordained clergy in the United Church of Christ, one of the most liberal denominations in the entire landscape of American Christianity. He is principally an Old Testament scholar who taught at the seminary level for more than four decades in both Church of Christ and Presbyterian Church (USA) seminaries. He is a prolific author who is into his fifth decade of publishing.

Theologically, Bruggemann is definitely left of center--a liberal or a progressive by anyone's definition. He pulls no punches criticizing conservatives or liberals, pointing out what he sees as flaws in both, especially consumerism, nationalism, militarism, novelty, self-centeredness, and the like.I disagree with many of Bruggemann's ideas, yet I am at the same time challenged by them. Reading him reminds me of advice from one of my Old Testament professors, who encouraged us to read two books we disagree with for every one book we know will reinforce our beliefs.

This Lent, I'm going to be reading from his Lenten devotional book, A Way Other Than Our Own. I've read through it before and been challenged by it. This time, I'll be posting some quotes and commentary on ideas I find thought-provoking, convicting, or just plain misguided.