Imaginary Jesus

So I read “Imaginary Jesus.” It was given to me in the hope that I might read it... and then share my thoughts…

If you thought Seinfeld’s “Soup Nazi” episode was funny then you will enjoy Matt’s irreverent sense of humor. I smiled out loud a couple times! This guy is someone you would want to watch old episodes of “Highway to Heaven” with. In fact, that’s not a bad idea Matt, “Mystery Science Theater 4000 with Matt Mikalatos”

The book follows Matt’s journey from religion to relationship. Along the way Matt pokes fun at all the ugly religious idols in his life and maybe in the life of his reader as well.

In the book, Matt struggles with a painful experience and countless interactions with religion. He finds that he has settled for an imaginary Jesus instead of the intimate indwelling presence of Jesus. Matt’s biggest struggle however, is the age old struggle wrapped up in "that" question, the one that snags unbelievers (both saved and unsaved), the one that screams at us after we have experienced hurt, disappointment or heartache. The question? “How can a good God allow bad things to happen.”

In the end Matt experiences Gods one of a kind love for him and his family - A love that is always good, that redeems and restores even if it doesn’t answer every question, even if it doesn’t answer “that” question.

Matt doesn’t really answer “that” question either. Instead he learns to live in the wonder and pain and risk and mystery. He begins to live loved and finds, that even in the hard seasons, God is good and his love is enough.

Funny and insightful, I enjoyed the read.

Thanks Matt!