Burnt Offerings

To gaze at the pyre of the world's injustices, to stare through its bitter smoke in search of life, to love upon one another even though (and because) the fire has singed our spirits--this is the labor of faith, and this is the gift of Burnt Offerings.

Dedicated to the survivors of the pyre and the resisters of empire, Burnt Offerings provides a poetic theological reflection for each Sunday and holy day in the liturgical year. Amy G. S. A. Brooks enriches the texts of Lectionary Year A with poignant insights on ancient lessons.

"When you think on all the ways reality has failed to meet with expectation, of all the sacrifices you have made to be here, of all the times others have tried to make a sacrifice out of you, of endless dry days in the pitiless light of a scorching sun ... well, it's no wonder if you are slightly singed. You are not alone in feeling less like a phoenix rising and more like a burnt piece of toast. Let's find hydration in the sharing of stories, precious as sips of water. Let's remember: this is wilderness, not wasteland, and the Holy is here. Beloved, you are holy and wholly loved."

(excerpted from Introduction)