Spiritual disciplines have been a core characteristic of Christian practice for millenia, but something tragic happened in the early twentieth century. With a reaction against Catholicism, the Fundamentalists and later Evangelicals limited the scope of spiritual practice. An over reaction that has deprived a generation of valuable tools for spiritual vibrancy
Richard Foster's Celebration of Discipline helped restore a focus upon these timeless principles of spiritual growth. For that it is a life changer. After a brief introductory chapter, Foster explores one discipline per chapter. He divides them into three categories for ease of memorization: inward (meditation, prayer, fasting and study), outward (simplicity, solitude, submission and service), and corporate (confession, worship, guidance and celebration). Each category works on a different facet of spiritual life and each of the twelve are essential for a well rounded spirituality.
The Evangelical focus upon two primary inward disciplines (prayer and study) one outward discipline (service) and one corporate discipline (worship) has weakened the popular form of Christian living by nourishing only a portion of the spirit. All twelve address facets of life and faith. No one is better than or superior to another. All twelve are essential.
Fortunately there is a growing interest in reincorporating the twelve into Evangelical living among contemporary churches and Christian communities. It is more common to see Protestant churches offer members times of inward meditation, outward solitude and corporate confession. Although more work is needed to restore all twelve disciplines, these baby steps are a positive indication that Christians see their value once again.
I first became exposed to Foster's work during my early years in ministry. The community I taught in was a low church that had little exposure to meditation, solitude, submission, confession and guidance according to Foster's presentation. Having taught a small group in these disciplines during a weekly study I experienced their power. Students bore witness to the disciplines work from week to week as we took the seven days to consciously focus on on discipline. I highly recommend this book as a small group study tool. It's simple presentation should not be disparaged. The truths contained inside are life changing. Foster is not the author of the disiciplines, but he has presented them in an attractive manner that makes them relevant to twenty first century minds.
Caution skeptics. An honest effort will produce results. Don't approach Foster and the disciplines unless you want to see God in new and greater ways as they challenge everyday sins of complacency, selfishness and pride.
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