I first "heard" this book on audio driving to and from Weslaco TX a few years ago. Decided to read it. A powerful story.This is a story about Joshua, a quiet and simple man who supports himself as a carpenter. His insights, however, are profound. For example, "It is difficult ... for people to think in spiritual terms. The world of the senses is so vivid and so real. The world of the spirit is real to God, perhaps, but to human beings it is hard to believe it even exists. For someone to talk about it makes people uncomfortable, yet it is important that they be reminded of the spiritual world."
As anticipated, the topic of "religion" comes up: "God never intended that religion become what it is today. Jesus came to earth to try to free people from that kind of regimented religion where people are threatened if they don't obey rules and rituals invented by the clergy. Jesus came to teach people that they are God's children and, as God's children, they are free, free to grow as hum beings, to become beautiful people as God intended. That can't be legislated."
Joshua's interaction with people, both friendly and adversarial, is very inspiring. He deals with conflict head-on, but without judgment. He provides a magnificent model for us.
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