Love Without Limits

July 30, 2018
In this fine memoir-cum-guide to interfaith dialogue, Bussie (Outlaw Christian), professor of religion at Concordia College, Minn., challenges Christians to practice peace-building across political, gender, racial, and religious lines. Professing that God’s love is more “radical” than many Christians view it as today, she calls for more inclusion of those often excluded by Christian communities. The book begins with a series of character studies, including a chapter on her mother’s Alzheimer’s that is particularly affecting. Bussie then explores the similarities between Christianity and other Abrahamic religions, as well as similarities within Christian denominations and strategies for interfaith dialogue. The book’s most gripping material is Bussie’s story about an earlier contract for the book with a different publisher that was canceled when she refused to change chapters that gave positive coverage to Muslims and LGBTQ people. Bussie felt this rejection keenly and believes it is a sad representation of conservative evangelism today. But she also gleaned powerful lessons from the experience that she uses to encourage those who have feel misunderstood or marginalized: “Your story matters. Tell it. Now more than ever, what the world needs most is more people who are not for sale.” This is a must-read for all Christians interested in inclusivity for their communities.