Book Review Wednesday by Sarah

Memoirs Of An Ordinary Pastor: The Life and Reflections of Tom Carson
by D.A. Carson (2008)

Review by Sarah

Biographies are usually written about notable people who are successful, vibrant and memorable. After reading of such gifted individuals, we can be left feeling discouraged (because of our own pride) rather than edified. However, the main goal of Don Carson’s biography of his father, Tom, is to bring to light the life and ministry of a man who was not particularly gifted, nor were his achievements especially great, but a man who was faithful to the Lord who had called him. It is a celebration of the ordinary.

Through an interesting mix of Don’s own reflections of the life and ministry of his father and a selection of Tom’s own personal journals, we are given a unique perspective on his pioneering work in French-speaking Canada, and given insight into how he overcame many barriers, both inside and outside of himself.

I was reminded of the biblical perspective about what matters in pastoral ministry – faithfulness, and have been spurred on to keep submitted myself to God and allowing him to change me to reflect his humble, obedient and trusting Son.

This book will equally challenge all Christians, both those in vocational ministry, and those who are not. The power of this biography is not in Tom Carson’s great personal achievements, but in fact how ordinary he was; he laboured long and he laboured faithfully. Something which we are all called to do.

Thanks for the great review, Sarah. Go check out Sarah's blog, Laleo.