What if you could stand on the shore when Peter first heard his name called? What if you were in the crowd when Jesus knelt in the dirt and the stones began to fall? Jesus: A Gospel Narrative retells the story of Jesus through 39 vivid, first-person narratives. Each is told by someone who met him: Mary and Joseph, Peter, Thomas, Nicodemus, Mary Magdalene, Martha and Mary of Bethany, Zacchaeus, Simon of Cyrene, and many ordinary people whose lives were changed. Their stories follow Jesus from the Annunciation and Bethlehem through his ministry, the Cross, the Resurrection, and Pentecost. Again and again, those who meet him ask the same question: "How did you know my name?" His answer echoes through the book: "You are mine." Here you will meet: A mother who will not let go of her son, and a Savior who tells him to get up A woman bent over for eighteen years who is lifted to her feet A man cast out as unclean who is touched for the first time in a year A lost little lamb carried home on the Shepherd's shoulders A doubting Thomas, a grieving Martha, and a Peter who learns what it means to be forgiven These narratives are meant to be read slowly, prayed over, and read aloud. They suit personal devotion, Bible study groups, Lent and Easter reading, and anyone who feels the Gospels have become "blah, blah, blah." Alongside the stories you will find a Christmas meditation, a reflection from the Cross, and a closing prayer. Whether you are a lifelong believer or simply curious, this book invites you to be there, to meet him on the road, and to discover that he knows you too. About the Author The Rev. Charles Lochner was ordained a priest in 1971 and later served as an Episcopal priest and rector. He is also a counselor, composer, and musician. Retired since 2008, he lives in Spring Lake, New Jersey, with his wife, Georgina, and their large family.
