Book Review

by Janet Hilley

Against the Grain: Unconventional Wisdom from Ecclesiastes
By Ray Waddle

One thing about Ray Waddle: he is reliable. A writer who is enjoyable to read, thought provoking and whose work is worth discussing. This was true of his first book, A Turbulent Peace: the Psalms for our Time, and it is true of this new book, as well. In it Waddle reminds us of the straightforward nature of this biblical text. Ecclesiastes is a realist who values wisdom, truth telling and integrity. However, this realism, while facing the harsher truths of life, death and grief, also embraces those of joy and pleasure in life. As Waddle guides us through Ecclesiastes, we begin to understand that this biblical text is focused more on the journey than on the destination; more on faithfulness and grace in this life than on any reward to come. What becomes clear in this book is that Ecclesiastes, while full of questions, dares to say what everyone is thinking but afraid to voice. He questions everything, faces hard truths, and tells the rest of us clearly to live fully and faithfully. So, reliable Ray brings us another fine book, ready for our reading, ready for quiet consideration, ready to guide us on our way.