U2, PRAYER & BRENNAN MANNING

Brennan Manning paces back and forth as he shares his life story, including his fall into alcoholism and going into a treatment program to try to bounce back. The author of The Ragamuffin Gospel (see above quote) and other best-sellers is well-loved for his wisdom and tender compassion.

Later, Brennan and I talk together about prayer like long-time friends.

He told me he was invited to meet U2 guitarist Dave Evans, otherwise known by the stage name, “The Edge.” Evans was worried about his prayer life, because at that time, he wanted to be the best guitarist in the world. But, he was concerned that striving for such a lofty goal might make him proud or arrogant. He certainly did not want to have those traits as a sincere disciple and follower of the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Brennan listened to the musician with empathy. “I assured The Edge that his heart’s desire to be the best guitarist in the world was borne out of God’s wonderful love and will for him and his life,” said Brennan. He then advised him on how to experience a transformed prayer life. Afterwards, the U2 musician told Brennan he felt the peace of God deep in his heart. And, of course, the rest is history as the Edge is now a world-famous guitarist. This gift of peace results from a connection with God.

Brennan’s life story is certainly a journey less traveled. When he was a young man in his 20s, he said he thought he would be a journalist, but he felt restless for the presence of God. So he chose, instead, to become a Franciscan priest. At one time, he lived in a remote desert cave in Spain for six months to contemplate the mysterious nature of God. On another occasion, he volunteered to be a prisoner in a jail where his identity as a priest was known only to the warden. Brennan does things in his own creative, compassionate way.

Though devout and spiritual, he has not been free of human weaknesses. It was hard for him to go through the anguish of alcoholism. But after a six month recovery program, he said his fall from grace was helpful as his ministry to help others became even more meaningful.

God never turns away an honest seeker of truth as Brennan explains: “Here is revelation bright as the evening star: Jesus comes for sinners, for those as outcast as tax collectors and for those caught up in squalid choices and failed dreams. He comes for corporate executives, street people, superstars, farmers, hookers, addicts, IRS agents, AIDS victims, and even used car salesmen . . . This is the God of the gospel of grace . . . whispering forgiveness on us all.” - The Ragamuffin Gospel

FOOTNOTE – I was honored to interview Brennan on three occasions, but sadly, he passed away the same month my first nonfiction inspirational book was published. He is one of 50 inspiring leaders of faith I interviewed on the topic of the nature of God. If you are interested, my book is on sale now. Buy the Kindle version now for less than $5!