The Deeply Formed Life: Book Review

While I’m taking some time to plan out some content for Resilient Rhythms in 2022, I thought I’d share a few book recommendations that have shaped my own formation and thinking over the last few years.

The Deeply Formed Life by Rich Villodas was my favourite book from 2020. It goes without saying that it was a tumultuous year, yet the vision cast in these pages was one of a hopeful and whole way forward in Christ.

What sets ‘The Deeply Formed Life’ apart from other books on spiritual formation is the breadth of its practices. It covers contemplative rhythms, similar to the ones we’ve explored here, but it also integrates practices for racial reconciliation and sexual wholeness in a world that desperately needs them. In short, it invites our whole being to come under the transforming power of the gospel through considering our inner life, relationships with others, and missional presence in the world.

While there are books that cover each of these topics in greater detail, I found the integrated approach that Villodas takes to be refreshing, confronting and captivating for most areas of my life with Jesus.

I couldn’t recommend it more highly! It’s definitely worth grabbing a copy, and even trying to read it with friend or small group to discuss the practices in the book. You can pick it up here.

I hope it’s a blessing if you read it.

Here’s one of my favourite quotes from the book, too:

‘The Sabbath reminds us of the gospel of grace. In actuality, Sabbath keeping might be the greatest sign of grace because it’s while we are intentionally accomplishing nothing that God loves us. This, indeed, is good news.’