Book Review: The Parable of Joy


The Parable of Joy: Reflections on the Wisdom of the Book of John by Michael Card

I have not yet finished this fine book, but I love it enough to share it as a strong recommendation. I am actually using this as a daily reading in the mornings. Michael Card, the prolific and poetic singer/songwriter, writes this book in the form of a popular commentary on the book of John (in the Bible). Card himself is a Biblical scholar who loves to study and learn about the historical background to Biblical passages. He takes what he has learned about the book of John and presents it in this book.

The book is separated into different sections of the book of John (some short, some longer). Each chapter is a different story/section of John. He begins each chapter with a very readable translation of the text with footnotes that give historical background. Following the translation, Card then gives some paragraphs of prose that explain the meaning of the related passage, either by means of commentary or by means of storytelling as if he were an onlooker during the days of Jesus. I very much enjoy learning from Michael’s wisdom. Now I am a fan both of his music as well as his writing! Get the book someday and enjoy.

Published by

Jesse

Dr. Jesse Joyner travels nationwide as a speaker and entertainer. His primary role is that of a performing juggler spreading joy and the love of learning to family and kids events. H earned his PhD in Educational Studies at Trinity International University (Deerfield, IL). He enjoys playing the piano, bird watching, and old houses. He lives in Richmond, VA with his wife, Sarah, and their three kids - the perfect number for juggling children.