The Reluctant Journey

“Richard Parrott has vividly reminded us that the life of faith is neither simple nor easy as some preachers might represent it. In doing so, he helps us see that the patriarchs are not characters in a fictional novel but real people who encountered life much like the rest of us. Most importantly, he has not let us forget that in the uneven journey of life with Christ, we are not alone.”

H. Ray Dunning

“I encountered this book on my own ‘reluctant journey’ during a difficult transition in my career. Richard’s work is a wise and helpful guide for anyone whose life has taken an unexpected turn. This is not a safe or easy journey we are on together with Christ, but we must press forward; the final destination is indescribable.”

Rev. Brent E. Tallman

“The patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, are compelling biblical characters, exemplifying how God established a special, covenantal relationship with his creatures. Parrott not only surveys their historical and literary background, but also shows how they are exemplary for those with whom God is establishing such a relationship today. His study is not satisfied with analyzing the ‘then’ of the biblical stories of these called but flawed men; he seeks to apply their lives in relation with God to our ‘now’ as we, equally flawed, seek to serve out our own call.”

David W. Baker

“Who among us has not taken a RELUCTANT JOURNEY . . . many miles that were much too long, traveling toward a less than desirable location, or even worse, having to make the journey with those who should have stayed at home. Using this insightful and effective metaphor, Dr. Parrott explores such a challenge, but at the heart of this candid text is the author’s fundamental question, ‘Can God be trusted?’ as all of us undertake these inevitable “spiritual” pilgrimages. I deem this book’s multiple “paths” to be a credible and potentially life-redirecting journey itself for both believer and seeker alike!”

Gary W. Streit PhD

“As Rev. Dr. Richard Parrott’s pastor for several years, I have had the privilege of not only reading his work and hearing him speak, but watching his life and sharing his heart. Richard has lived the ‘reluctant journey.’ He’s felt what it’s like to be ‘homeless with God.’ This is not just words on pages: this is a biblically-based, theologically-sound journey Richard has experienced, and is now helping thousands of others take their own journey. I heartily endorse it for your life, your small group, and your church. People need guidance in this area, and this book is an excellent source.”

Dr. Kevin M. Ulmet

“Following the petitions of the Lord’s Prayer, this book weaves the broken, heroic, faltering, and victorious stories of the patriarchs not only as examples for us but as demonstrations of the lengths to which God will go to partner with each one of us. Through the stories of Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, and others, Richard Parrott has unpacked the grace of God in word pictures that will renew the heart and inspire the reader.”

Dr. Stan Toler

“Richard Parrott is smart, educated, talented, and experienced. It is the “experienced” that makes me want to hear a speech or read a book. Dr. Parrott’s book delivers and is absolutely worth your time to read, reflect, and find strength for your real life experiences. The truth and insight of the book will serve you well.”

Dr. Jim Van Hook