Jonathan: You Left Too Soon

by David B. Biebel

Book by David B. Biebel

179 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Victoria Myers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of the most impactful books on suicide loss have come from those who’ve lived it, and this one is no exception. David Cox lost his father to suicide when he was young, and that experience shapes the heart of this book. One section that stood out to me was The Freedom of Forgiveness—it helped me recognize how much bitterness I was still carrying. His words brought clarity and conviction, reminding me that true healing can't happen while resentment is left to grow. I actually reference this in my book section on forgiveness.

[Amy H · Rating 5 out of 5]

pastor beibel was the pastor at my church when jonathan passed away...i was young but i remember the sadness that was through out the church. i'll never forget pastor beibel.

[Robert Finlay · Rating 1 out of 5]

Having also had a son named Jonathan die at nearly the same time as David Biebel's did, I can identify greatly with the feeling he expresses. Unlike Mr. Biebel however, I feel that my liberation from the God virus began when my son died. He expresses great sadness while proclaiming continued belief in a god who would do such a thing to a young child. I had hoped for more of the understanding of feelings and less preaching from a book that is an apologist for an alleged omnipotent god who answers prayers, yet when prayers go unanswered, more excuses and platitudes follow.

As Epicurus said,

"“Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able?
Then he is not omnipotent.
Is he able, but not willing?
Then he is malevolent.
Is he both able and willing?
Then whence cometh evil?
Is he neither able nor willing?
Then why call him God?”

Sorry David, you leave me empty with your delusional thinking.