Edith Schaeffer (1914–2013)

This is my third or fourth reading of this book, and it never fails to inspire me to give my best effort to making our house a home as well as provide contentment in knowing my vocation is so much more than "just a homemaker."

I never met Edith Schaeffer but I her writing is so warm and inviting I feel that I have. Francis and Edith Schaeffer opened their home in Switzerland and turned it into a study center with the intention of helping young people understand the truth claims of the Bible. This is a narrative of that period of their life. They are both gone now but their legacy endures both at the original location in Switzerland, one in England and several others around the world. The book is thought provoking show more and inspiring and I recommend it (Although if you are new to the Schaeffers, you might also consider Hidden Art of Homemaking which is another of my favorites.) show less

If you were to visit L'Abri, you might find Edith Schaeffer preparing a Chinese dinner for 75; or you might meet her coming from the fields laden with boughs and mountain flowers, full of ideas to decorate the chapel for an afternoon wedding; or perhaps you would see her after a day's hiking with her husband, Dr. Francis Schaeffer, deep in conversation with a group of young people - sharing with them the excitement and reality of the Infinite-Personal God. Edith Schaeffer maintains through show more personal and detailed letters close family ties with many individuals whose needs are as diverse as their nationalities. In the same way, this book reflects the courage of obedience. As it unfolds it reflects behind it a unique woman, and through it a family that grew because of their personal commitment to Truth. show less

A collection of thoughts and devotions, this book is best read slowly with time to ponder. There is much to chew on, but by the end, I did find myself a bit impatient for some reason.
The author, Edith Schaeffer, was the wife of Francis Schaeffer. Both of whom I admire greatly. I think I would have really enjoyed sitting down to tea with this woman, or working by her side in the kitchen. Her lessons are practical, based on everyday events and happenings, but seen with spiritual eyes.