Official Review: The Tears of Gethsemane by Deborah Faulks

Renu G · Post by **Renu G** » 04 May 2019, 10:49

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Tears of Gethsemane" by Deborah Faulks.]

3 out of 4 stars

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“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done. An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” —Luke 22:42–44

I was hesitant to select The Tears of Gethsemane for reading during the Easter season. It seemed to have been more appropriate for Lent when Christians meditate on this theme. However, I am grateful to Deborah Faulks for giving the reader enough reason to be nourished by it throughout the year. This is because it is not only about the agony of Jesus in the garden but also concerns a Christian’s own tears in the face of suffering. Focusing on this poignant mystery in the gospel, Deborah Faulks touches the core of one’s heart, urging it to make a choice aligned with God’s will especially if one is called to a ministry in the church. The believer will either get stuck due to the fear of dying to self or overcome the spiritual struggle with the power of prayer. God strengthens the disciple to complete the mission he has entrusted to him or her.

The book has 136 pages and 10 chapters. Faulks explains the meaning of the Gethsemane experience and how to recognize its characteristics like humility, sacrifice, obedience, love of God and many more. She then offers instructions for one called to service on how to persevere through trials and temptations. This is followed by a comparison between the garden of Eden and the garden of Gethsemane. The author also describes what can paralyze the individual in this situation and Jesus’ own disposition when he was praying.

This is a unique theme applied to ministry. I like how the writer describes it as a crossroad where one can either choose to die to self or allow God’s purpose itself to die in one’s heart. The former requires that we leave the garden instead of getting stuck in it because of fear, sin, and negativity. God gives us the spiritual gifts we need to serve others. Faulks does not hide the implications of following Jesus on the way of the cross. There will be suffering, but it is not meant to make one so bitter that one is disqualified and deprived of God’s blessings.

I like the questions listed after some of the chapters for further reflection, and there is a joke on the “missing rib syndrome” which really made me laugh. This book is well edited although I found a few grammatical errors. The only problem I experienced while reading was the overuse of words like “must” (92 times) and “should” (42 times). It seems to be intended for people called to be leaders in the church, and they may feel uncomfortable with the author’s preaching tone. Overall, the book is useful for those who are serious about their mission. It could be utilized for a day of prayer or a retreat to refresh one spiritually. I am happy to rate it 3 out of 4 stars. I did not award it 4 stars because of the above-mentioned reasons.

I wholeheartedly recommend The Tears of Gethsemane for young people who are discerning their calling in life, for pastoral ministers, and Christians who are serious about discipleship.

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The Tears of Gethsemane
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Agnes Masobeng · Post by **Agnes Masobeng** » 06 May 2019, 23:52

Actually I think the tears of Gethsemane is the right book during Easter. It will help to reflect on the love that God has for us.

Post by **kandscreeley** » 07 May 2019, 09:23

This sounds like a great book to reflect on all that God has done for us and to help us to learn how to better follow Him. It's one I will put on my reading list, as it sounds like it'd be great for a devotional time. Thanks so much!

kdstrack · Post by **kdstrack** » 07 May 2019, 10:55

This seems like a good book for people looking for direction and guidance. I think the title of 'leadership' can be expanded to a much wider range of people (parents, caregivers, etc.) who could benefit from this book. Thanks for describing the format and for the suggestion that this would work well as a devotional. Great review!