Dr. Keith R. Anderson, President of The Seattle School, has written a new book, A Spirituality of Listening: Living What We Hear, scheduled for release March 9. In A Spirituality of Listening, which features a foreword by Dr. Dan Allender, Dr. Anderson invites readers on a journey to relearn how to listen. “God is not done with the business of revelation and creation but instead continues to have something to say and something yet to be accomplished in the very culture that isn’t sure if God is done speaking,” he writes. “My claim is simple: spirituality is grounded in ordinary life experiences. We need to learn to listen to rhythms of life, narratives and creation.”
“Keith Anderson is a fiercely humble, kind and generous man who will help you receive the blessing of attunement. Keith writes in a manner that is accessible but also invites you to join him on a theologically rich trek up his beloved Mount Rainier,” writes Dan Allender in the new book’s foreword. “The journey is demanding, and at times stunning and dangerous. The benefit is the certainty that your heart will become larger and your capacity for meaningful connection with God and others enriched. […] I am Keith’s debtor for a lifetime of listening and now I am thankful that you get to listen to the beauty of his words and life. You too will never be the same.”
The new book compellingly outlines Dr. Anderson’s belief that we can hear God speaking through the moments that make up our days—not by memorizing a formula or 10 easy steps, but by participating in the world around us with a posture of wonder and curiosity. This is a cultivated practice that requires time and careful intentionality, and Dr. Anderson’s new book is full of stories, insights, and reflective exercises to help us along the way.
A Spirituality of Listening has been called “refreshing, relevant, and timely” by Romanita Hairston, Vice President of US Programs for World Vision and a keynote presenter at the 2016 Inhabit conference, as well as “a wise and encouraging invitation to listen in order to hear God speaking in every part of our lives” by Dr. Jo-Ann Badley, Dean of Theology at Ambrose University and former Professor of Biblical Studies at The Seattle School.
Dr. Anderson’s previous publications include Spiritual Mentoring: A Guide for Seeking and Giving Direction, Friendships That Run Deep, Does God Believe in You?, Is This the One?, and What They Don’t Always Teach You in a Christian College. In his writing, he draws from decades of experience in parish ministry and theological higher education, including serving as the Senior Fellow for Spiritual Formation for the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.
The Forum at The Seattle School is hosting a free book release event to celebrate the new publication. The special event, 7-9 p.m. on March 9, will feature refreshments, books available for purchase, and Dr. Anderson in a lively conversation facilitated by Dr. Allender. Registration is available here.