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A Burning in My Bones

The Authorized Biography of Eugene H. Peterson, Translator of The Message

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A Burning in My Bones

By: Winn Collier
Narrated by: Richard Poe
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About this listen

This essential authorized biography of Eugene Peterson offers unique insights into the experiences and spiritual convictions of the iconic American pastor and beloved translator of The Message.

“In the time of a generation-wide breakdown in trust with leaders in every sphere of society, Eugene’s quiet life of deep integrity and gospel purpose is a bright light against a dark backdrop.” (John Mark Comer, author of The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry)

“This hunger for something radical - something so true that it burned in his bones - was a constant in Eugene’s life. His longing for God ignited a ferocity in his soul.”

Encounter the multifaceted life of one of the most influential and creative pastors of the past half century with unforgettable stories of Eugene’s lifelong devotion to his craft and love of language, the influences and experiences that shaped his unquenchable faith, the inspiration for his decision to translate The Message, and his success and struggles as a pastor, husband, and father.

Author Winn Collier was given exclusive access to Eugene and his materials for the production of this landmark work. Drawing from his friendship and expansive view of Peterson’s life, Collier offers an intimate, beautiful, and earthy look into a remarkable life.

For Eugene, the gifts of life were inexhaustible: the glint of fading light over the lake; a kiss from Jan; a good joke; a bowl of butter pecan ice cream. As you enter into his story, you’ll find yourself doing the same - noticing how the most ordinary things shimmer with a new and unexpected beauty.

©2020 Winn Collier (P)2020 Random House Audio
Biographies & Memoirs Christian Living

Critic Reviews

“Winn Collier captures Eugene Peterson’s sense of wonder over the presence of God and the radiance of Scripture. Through A Burning in My Bones, you’ll learn to experience life through Eugene’s eyes: dig deep, look for what is real, find the sacred in the rough and ordinary, and live like God is real.” (Mark Batterson, New York Times best-selling author of The Circle Maker and lead pastor of National Community Church)

“How do you reduce into words the vital reality of this man, scholar, searcher, teacher, and faithful friend? Eugene was a man who brought Scripture to fresh life for me and millions of others—who else would invite the phrase Holy Luck into a retelling of the Beatitudes? Winn Collier’s skilled storytelling weaves the threads of Eugene’s life into something fitting, like the prayer shawl he wore in his study every day.” (Luci Shaw, Regent College writer in residence and author of The Generosity poems)

“I knew Eugene Peterson for thirty years, or at least I thought I did. He didn’t talk much, especially about himself. I knew nothing about his mouse tattoo, his Pentecostal mother’s radio program, the abysmal failure of his first church plant attempt, his friendship with a young Pat Robertson, or his square dancing prowess. Somehow Winn Collier ferreted out the little known facts about Eugene that, taken together, complete the picture of a humble, gentle giant who brought the Bible to new life for millions and became an inspirational model for beleaguered pastors everywhere.” (Philip Yancey, author of What’s So Amazing About Grace)

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An honest biography about an honest life

Eugene Peterson is a person I feel like I can trust. Not to ‘get it right’ but to be honest and to share a way of being Christian that makes sense to my experience and the scriptures. Thank you for the stories, the authenticity and for portraying Eugene as a real person.

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Impacting.

The story of Eugene Peterson has such a great impact on me. His sincerity, integrity and passion for the word of God. Love his journey to becoming such a great writer. Thank you.

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Deeply moving and inspirational

I enjoyed the intimacy of this story. Eugene’s life of prayer and holiness inspired me and encouraged me to renew my own faith and seek to walk closer with God. Beautifully told, brought tears to my eyes as I felt I was welcomed in to this man’s life. Thankyou.

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An inspiring life, highly recommend this book.

A beautifully told story of a life well lived. Really enjoyed this book, particularly the second half and the description of spiritual life and marriage. A great way to get to know this author.

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Inspirational

Eugene Peterson was a saint. I don't read/listen to many biographies but this one made me want to read more. it was well written with valuable access to journals and personal letters that allowed the reader into the inner life of this great saint.

I was also disgusted at the way the evangelical church reacted to his comments in an interview late on his life on same sex marriage. it demonstrates how far this institution has fallen. Eugene loved the church with all its failings and had no time for detractors, but for me this collection of institutions that represent white evangelical America look more like Pharisees than Jesus.

It's time for a new reformation, and to have more people follow Jesus in the way that Eugene Peterson did, with grace, unconditional love and no judgement.

I highly recommend this book to inspire you to walk this path.

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A touching tribute to a true lover of people

Eugene's story winds it way through tough times, and beautiful moments. He is a man truly living out the day-by-day decision to follow Jesus wherever that leads.

Thank you Winn for taking the time to bring alive thousands of journal pages and letters.

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