The Imitation of Christ

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Not for the faint hearted - Rated
Outside of the Bible, this is the timeless heart of the Christian message. This was not written for priests or holy orders, but for those of us living in the world, coping with the pressures, battling with sin and temptation, holding down jobs and so on. And yet, it is a forthright rejection of our world and its temporal gods. This translation by Leo Shirley-Price is the best. It is a book you could sometimes hurl across the room in your frustration and weakness, but you will never find a passage or page that does not respond directly to your spiritual need. This is the narrow way that Jesus taught, laid out in the simplest language. There is no ambiguity here for those who prefer a more comfortable faith. It asks that you turn your back with contempt on worldly honours, wealth and power, and become, in all humility and as Thomas a Kempis says: one of the "few lovers of the Cross of Jesus". And it asks you to accept and embrace suffering if that is the result. Thomas of Kempen remains, even after 600 years, a spiritual director everyone can have access to, through this life-changing, Christian classic.

One of the best - Rated
a true classic. I have read it a number of times and always find something new that I missed before. Very good devotional which will inspire.

Sanctuary - Rated
True spirituality transcends the differences in religious traditions; as a devotee of Krishna, I delight in Thomas a Kempis and his Imitation of Christ. I dip into it almost daily. For anyone who seriously wants to purify her life and attain the tranquillity and joy of unalloyed love of God, this book is a treasure.

Thomas a Kempis writes from his own deep realisation and conviction and just by reading a few lines, you enter his atmosphere of devotion. It's difficult enough practising spiritual life in these times and this book is an invaluable help. Readers of this book may also like The Nectar of Instruction by AC Bhaktivedanta Swami.

Delightful guide to the idea of self - Rated
Strikingly perceptive and thoroughly do-it-yourself Christianity sort of a book which will delight anyone who is interested in religions, the idea of the self, imagined identities etc. It is really easy to go through and even though it will enrage some it is a thorough guide towards a "truer" Christian life - if such a concept exists.

Exquisitely profound guide to the Christian spiritual life. - Rated
This book is a thought-provoking exploration on man's relationship with God. It offers no simple answers, but is a meditation upon the path we must tread if we wish to achieve spiritual fulfilment in the world via the life and guidance of Jesus' teachings. Written a number of centuries ago it still has much relevance for any wishing to truly live in Christ, but be warned this is not a quick-fix guide.