Daniel Hochhalter

What an interesting read. I began this book as a skeptic. I felt that I would not like the term 'loser' being applied to the disciples and myself. I did not feel that it would speak life into people's situations. Little did I know that the author would be audacious enough to apply the term to Jesus as well!

But I'm so glad he did.

Thankfully, he carefully defined what he meant by "loser" and explains how we all fit that label. He also explains that ultimately, if Jesus hadn't also fit that label, we would never be able to receive the comfort that he gives with the authority of having experienced the same hurts, betrayals and rejections that we also experience. We can relate to Him and know, without a doubt, He understands.

I appreciated the creative license he took to interpret the personalities of the some of the disciples. It helped me perceive them in ways I never thought of before. He slowed down the short references of them in the Gospels and helps to break those moments down to see them in less of a blur.

Still there were times in this book that the I still did not always care for the way the author framed his points. He has a scathing wit and sarcasm that delivered brutally honest thoughts that I easily understood and related to, even laugh out loud at, but I feel are perhaps a bit reckless in the delivery. ( I chalk this up to simple personality and writing style preference. Others may absolutely love this writing style.)

Ultimately, this book, especially in his chapter on Peter, gave me hope that in spite of my flaws, misunderstanding of who God is and weak efforts to love Him, Jesus still 1) wants a relationship with me and 2)will always pursue reconciliation me when I betray/fail him and 3) will let nothing separate me from Him while I am alive.

It was a reassurance of God's love and grace in different terms that finally hit me solidly in the chest that I can trust this idea I've been reading in the Bible for so many years.

I cannot agree to all the opinions, creative interpretations and style with which he made his points, but I give this book 4 stars because it still had a positive impact on me and I feel I can trust the Spirit to filter the truth that needs to be heard because there is indeed a message in this that needs to be heard.… (más)