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O2: Breathing New Life into Faith
“I see more passion for trees in the Sierra Club than I do for Jesus in the church.” How can Christians revive and sustain their spiritual vitality? International Bible teacher Richard Dahlstrom offers an answer as practical and life–sustaining as oxygen. People can’t hold their breath forever or continually blow air out, yet many Christians focus either on the inner life or on external service. As a result, their faith eventually becomes lifeless and irrelevant. Dahlstrom invites readers to “inhale” life as they embrace fresh perspectives on prayer, the word, solitude, and the creation. “Exhaling” continues the cycle of breathing through hospitality, generosity, service, and obedience to Christ’s kingdom vision. This thoughtful and inspiring description of a healthy life of faith leads to a balanced and holistic spirituality that mirrors Jesus’ life and teaching.
270 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 4, 2009
Mr. Dalhstrom grabs my attention from the get-go of the forward with his words “Does our culture have a hard time with marriage? The church does too.” He goes onto to describe, or rather question why anyone would actually want to go to church and what differentiates “people of faith” from “the world”… and admits, not much these days. I was actually taken aback through the first few pages of the book… it was some hard stuff to swallow.. and honestly, Mr. C and I debated a lot of what the book was saying. But as you read further on the book you realize that Mr. Dalhstrom is giving you the information.. the sides… the vital information that helps mold us and teach us. He goes further to explain that if we really are the body of Christ we have to stop chewing off our arms and work together…. now this is where Mr. C and I really debated a lot on… after all we have to get down to the actualities of whose who, etc… So thank-you Mr. Dalhstrom for giving us a great conversation that night! *W*
The book is basically divided into 3 parts;
1. inhaling – those who take in the word, and care about learning it,
* How to make sure we’re on the right page by knowing the “game plan”
2. exhaling – those who do the work, but inhale the “Word” not much.
3. and integration. – combining the two!
I loved this! It really helped me understand where I fit in, and what I was over-compensating on. What I over-look on occasions, as well how much I’m on track.
I wrote a lot on the margins in this book because it brought up a lot of questions for me, like whether our church is caught up in church membership for those who want to help, or if allowing people to help before they are ready, really increases their faith? Does it matter if they are representing our church, or Christ if they aren’t Christians and we’ve invited them to partake with us group projects? For those of us who were cast aside (because we had fallen at some point in our faith) not participating was like a slow death and frustration to no end. I know that from being part of that group. I love the words he uses here (pg 33) “Being asked to play rather than sit was just the wooing I needed. The rediscover of Christ as a source of hope and healing begin with exhaling for me..”
He breaks down the need to exhale, and the need to inhale in a lot of detail. How we must realize the real journey is continual instead of just reaching a destination; how we learn things on the way that will change us and encourage us in our walk. That through the disruptions and challenges we face may be “unpleasant in the moment but making us healthier for the long haul, better able to live the life for which we were created.” (pg 61). That really hit home for me — There are certain things in my life that were nasty, but because we have persevered through them, I am a better follower of Christ because of them. Does this mean I’m done? No, but I have a little more understanding.
Mr. Dalhstrom relates our relationship with Christ as a marriage and how we need that intimacy with Him to sustain and keep our relationship alive. At first when he was starting using the words for this, I was a little uncomfortable, but the truth of the matter is, is that is exactly what we need to hear –God love and wooing for us, the intimate wishes he has for our relationship with him, the covenant relationship that God requires of us and that he truly cares about our choices in life. I was awed and changed by the concept. I mean I’ve heard it before, but not put in such a way that I felt romanced by God, kwim?
Throughout the book Mr. Dalhstrom laces Jesus’ examples of his life and message. ie. How Jesus serves humanity and how he delighted serving people whom everyone else thought was not worth the time.
I think one of the best things I took away from this book was this quote. “There’s more than one way of living in this world, and the way you play the game will be determined by the rules you choose and by your definition of winning”. (pg 87)
This book really made me think of how much of Jesus is embodied in me, or am I more like a pharasiee and worried about the “rules”. Growing up in a mixure of rules and not so much of a physical role-model of Christ, it’s something I struggle with for years. I love the concept of exhaling — doing, but sometimes get so caught up on the details I never get anywhere. It was extremely refreshing to find this issue being addressed in this book and some ways of dealing with it.
Surprisingly I found a large section of this book devoted to hospitality, and it as an act of worship. Something I had never thought of a lot. I mean a little bit sure, but that there is more to it than passing out a few cookies here and there, and how I need an attitude adjustment on this subject.
Another interesting topic Mr. Dalhstrom covers is living generously! Whether it be from the “green” movement that’s going hard these days, or out of the will just to do good, it was interesting and very relevant to read how our economic choices have hidden costs and that we need to think about these. I think the big questions it covers is: How do I define my life? By what I consume? or what I give? and do we rely on the resources that God provides for us?
I could go on and on about the topics covered in this book. It really was helpful and I am feeling inspired and challenged in what I do with my life. It’s the intentional living that I need to learn to strive for regardless if I feel up to it, for that day or not.
So, I will say this is a MUST read of 2008. As someone who struggles with where I fit into the scheme of life and Christianity, it really did help breath new life into my faith! If you want to buy one book this year to improve your walk with God I strongly encourage you to pick this up and read ALL THE WAY THROUGH IT. Dont’ stop at the first part (because yes, it’s frustrating to read unless you see the whole picture…) ..
The book is basically divided into 3 parts;
1. inhaling – those who take in the word, and care about learning it,
* How to make sure we’re on the right page by knowing the “game plan”
2. exhaling – those who do the work, but inhale the “Word” not much.
3. and integration. – combining the two!
I loved this! It really helped me understand where I fit in, and what I was over-compensating on. What I over-look on occasions, as well how much I’m on track.
I wrote a lot on the margins in this book because it brought up a lot of questions for me, like whether our church is caught up in church membership for those who want to help, or if allowing people to help before they are ready, really increases their faith? Does it matter if they are representing our church, or Christ if they aren’t Christians and we’ve invited them to partake with us group projects? For those of us who were cast aside (because we had fallen at some point in our faith) not participating was like a slow death and frustration to no end. I know that from being part of that group. I love the words he uses here (pg 33) “Being asked to play rather than sit was just the wooing I needed. The rediscover of Christ as a source of hope and healing begin with exhaling for me..”
He breaks down the need to exhale, and the need to inhale in a lot of detail. How we must realize the real journey is continual instead of just reaching a destination; how we learn things on the way that will change us and encourage us in our walk. That through the disruptions and challenges we face may be “unpleasant in the moment but making us healthier for the long haul, better able to live the life for which we were created.” (pg 61). That really hit home for me — There are certain things in my life that were nasty, but because we have persevered through them, I am a better follower of Christ because of them. Does this mean I’m done? No, but I have a little more understanding.
Mr. Dalhstrom relates our relationship with Christ as a marriage and how we need that intimacy with Him to sustain and keep our relationship alive. At first when he was starting using the words for this, I was a little uncomfortable, but the truth of the matter is, is that is exactly what we need to hear –God love and wooing for us, the intimate wishes he has for our relationship with him, the covenant relationship that God requires of us and that he truly cares about our choices in life. I was awed and changed by the concept. I mean I’ve heard it before, but not put in such a way that I felt romanced by God, kwim?
Throughout the book Mr. Dalhstrom laces Jesus’ examples of his life and message. ie. How Jesus serves humanity and how he delighted serving people whom everyone else thought was not worth the time.
I think one of the best things I took away from this book was this quote. “There’s more than one way of living in this world, and the way you play the game will be determined by the rules you choose and by your definition of winning”. (pg 87)
This book really made me think of how much of Jesus is embodied in me, or am I more like a pharasiee and worried about the “rules”. Growing up in a mixure of rules and not so much of a physical role-model of Christ, it’s something I struggle with for years. I love the concept of exhaling — doing, but sometimes get so caught up on the details I never get anywhere. It was extremely refreshing to find this issue being addressed in this book and some ways of dealing with it.
Surprisingly I found a large section of this book devoted to hospitality, and it as an act of worship. Something I had never thought of a lot. I mean a little bit sure, but that there is more to it than passing out a few cookies here and there, and how I need an attitude adjustment on this subject.
Another interesting topic Mr. Dalhstrom covers is living generously! Whether it be from the “green” movement that’s going hard these days, or out of the will just to do good, it was interesting and very relevant to read how our economic choices have hidden costs and that we need to think about these. I think the big questions it covers is: How do I define my life? By what I consume? or what I give? and do we rely on the resources that God provides for us?
I could go on and on about the topics covered in this book. It really was helpful and I am feeling inspired and challenged in what I do with my life. It’s the intentional living that I need to learn to strive for regardless if I feel up to it, for that day or not.
So, I will say this is a MUST read of 2008. As someone who struggles with where I fit into the scheme of life and Christianity, it really did help breath new life into my faith! If you want to buy one book this year to improve your walk with God I strongly encourage you to pick this up and read ALL THE WAY THROUGH IT. Dont’ stop at the first part (because yes, it’s frustrating to read unless you see the whole picture…) ..
June 3, 2010
Even if the thought of integrating spiritual disciplines into your life makes you cringe (or feel inadequate), I truly believe this book will make you think.
Dahlstrom has an easy writing style, which will at least let you begin a conversation, either with yourself or a small group, related to how Christians interact with these topics.
As someone who "grew" in faith reading Richard Foster (another contemporary theologian), I'm not sure what I expected in O2. Frankly, the book didn't immediately "click" with me like Foster's writings. However, that doesn't mean it's not good or a potential resource for Christians wanting to know more.
Honestly, I'm still processing some of his ideas and trying to see how they can directly impact my life. I am tired of reading books and saying "great," what 's next. I'm trying to savor this book and see what new things it can teach me about prayer, solitude and the Sabbath.
Yes, I'm technically writing this review on my sabbath from my job as a children's pastor, so you can see, I still have a lot to learn about the disciplines and how they impact my faith journey.
So I think O2 is definitely worth a read - and probably more than just a read. I think it's a great way to explore some "vital" issues that impact a Christian's life. At the vary least, you may find yourself having a much needed conversation with Jesus.
Dahlstrom has an easy writing style, which will at least let you begin a conversation, either with yourself or a small group, related to how Christians interact with these topics.
As someone who "grew" in faith reading Richard Foster (another contemporary theologian), I'm not sure what I expected in O2. Frankly, the book didn't immediately "click" with me like Foster's writings. However, that doesn't mean it's not good or a potential resource for Christians wanting to know more.
Honestly, I'm still processing some of his ideas and trying to see how they can directly impact my life. I am tired of reading books and saying "great," what 's next. I'm trying to savor this book and see what new things it can teach me about prayer, solitude and the Sabbath.
Yes, I'm technically writing this review on my sabbath from my job as a children's pastor, so you can see, I still have a lot to learn about the disciplines and how they impact my faith journey.
So I think O2 is definitely worth a read - and probably more than just a read. I think it's a great way to explore some "vital" issues that impact a Christian's life. At the vary least, you may find yourself having a much needed conversation with Jesus.
April 29, 2012
Didn't finish reading it. At first I was intrigued with the idea of exhaling and inhaling as spiritual discplines and how we all somehow fit into one camp, though both are valid but not in isolation. Dahlstrom identifies himself as an inhaler, and this bias is clear. Since I tend to be more in that camp also (prayer, silence, retreat, etc.) I wasn't offended, but had I been more of someone who lives their faith through action, I might have been annoyed. Dahlstrom's own journey heeding God's call is one we should all emulate - not only do we have to listen, but we also have to act on that call. I kept on reading but finally had to stop when he implies that we have become a less Christian nation with the removal of prayers from public schools. Reading between the lines, I sense his disapproval of this legislation. If it was written tongue-in-cheek, it was too subtle. Having taught for more than 25 years in a public school and having attended and my children also, public schools, I am a staunch supporter of separation of church and state for a multitude of very good reasons - first of all that the state should not be the keeper of children's faith. That honor and role belongs to their family and their particular community of faith. I put the book down here.
December 21, 2008
This is an extremely powerful and engaging book. It challenges both the current evangelical church and the individuals in the church. The metaphor of the book is that the christian life is like the process of breathing. We were created to inhale through solitude and meditation and exhale through service, generosity and hospitality. The author's belief is that the church is quickly suffocating folks out of it. An emphasis is either placed on inner disciplines to the extent that the members neglect caring for the world, our neighbors, the earth, living simply....or the other extreme which is folks are asked to serve to the point their inner souls is a desert. Care for their own souls is ignored.
It has challenged me think about how do I care for others? How do I build in both exhalation and inhalation into my life? Then how do we teach our kids so that they can get these concepts now. I know the answer to that is learn to live these concepts every day...
Thanks for reading this! I encourage with questions about Christianity to consider reading this. It is worth the time.
It has challenged me think about how do I care for others? How do I build in both exhalation and inhalation into my life? Then how do we teach our kids so that they can get these concepts now. I know the answer to that is learn to live these concepts every day...
Thanks for reading this! I encourage with questions about Christianity to consider reading this. It is worth the time.
October 22, 2009
O2 by Richard Dahlstrom is a blessing in book form. Dahlstrom demonstrates that faith comes in two forms: inward (prayer, praise, reading the Bible, etc) and outward (charity, social justice, hospitality, etc), and only by finding a balance between the two do we find our way to live out faith. He decisively indicts both sides for not pursuing all that Jesus taught and only doing what comes easily. He divides the chapters into inhaling and exhaling and then delves deeply into practices of each. The chapter on how to live in good stewardship of the earth and rebalance your budget is mind-blowing and definitely a must read. I'm definitely hearing God's call to hospitality after hearing Dahlstrom's description of how he and his family have exercised it over the years and it has changed their lives. I am more of an inhaler, so disciplines like solitude and prayer come more naturally to me, but every chapter is a wonderful read and has something for everyone whether it is a strength or weakness of the reader. It's going on my shelf next to Blue Like Jazz.
September 8, 2008
I admit to being a little partial to this book as it was written by the Pastor of my church. That being said...I think it is great. I think other people would like it too.
It is not a self help book...more of a "what can we as a species do to help make our world a better place" book. Balance is the main theme--balance our "inhaling" with our "exhaling". In other words, don't burn yourself out by just doing one thing--volunteering with a bunch of organizations, for example. Be sure to balance your people time with your alone time. yeah, I really liked it and will probably read it again.
It is not a self help book...more of a "what can we as a species do to help make our world a better place" book. Balance is the main theme--balance our "inhaling" with our "exhaling". In other words, don't burn yourself out by just doing one thing--volunteering with a bunch of organizations, for example. Be sure to balance your people time with your alone time. yeah, I really liked it and will probably read it again.
September 22, 2012
Dahlstrom, in summary, describes a Christian culture of intolerance, consumerism, and laziness. He argues that we should be spending time both serving others and in solitude worshiping God. He also spends much of the book describing his personal experiences fighting these issues. While I agree with his points of view, I often found myself lost in the diction, as it became difficult to follow his arguments through his writing style.
February 26, 2014
Initially, The metaphor of breathing, the call to balance, and the inward and outward reflections on the life of Christ are fantastic, encouraging, and refreshing. The remaining 12 chapters however feature Mr. Dahlstrom meandering through classical spiritual disciplines without ever using the word 'discipline', combined with a poorly contextualized memoir in which he reveals he not so secretly wants to be perceived as a mystical bad-ass mountaineer. Not a bad read, but not worth dwelling on.
July 19, 2011
So far, this has been my favorite book this year. There are moments, when I'm reading this book, when I want to kiss the author and thank him for helping me exhale and inhale with freedom and clarity. I have been holding my breath, so to speak, in my faith. Everything he talked about resonated in the depths of my soul.
November 24, 2008
The publisher nominated this book for the ECPA Book Award, and the NYT recognized it as a strong book also. I guess it didn't scratch where I itch.
It is, however, a good introduction to spiritual disciplines with a slant on bringing internal disciplines into balance with external disciplines.
It is, however, a good introduction to spiritual disciplines with a slant on bringing internal disciplines into balance with external disciplines.
April 13, 2009
This book was written by the pastor of my church. He taught the content of this book as a sermon series a year or so ago, and it was good to be reminded of what he taught, as well as learn a few more of the back stories about his life.
November 7, 2015
Loved this book. It really made me think about life from the service side and the reflective side. I connected most with what renews and refreshes me; the inhaling side to breathing. But since both inhaling and exhaling are necessary for life, so is a balanced life.
May 23, 2010
A pretty good book about how to respond to God in our lives.
September 14, 2010
forgot I had a copy when smog covered the city.
could`ve helped tremendously
could`ve helped tremendously
February 21, 2015
A good book about Spiritual disciplines, classified as "inhaling" and "exhaling." Dahlstrom emphasizes balance between study, prayer, silence, and giving, celebration, etc.
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