Nine O'Clock in the Morning - Dennis J Bennett
Another one of those 'timely' books that God will bring along at just the right moment, Nine O'Clock in the Morning is the true story of Dennis J Bennett, an Episcopal (American Anglican) priest who, after 'investigating' some 'fired-up' parishioners, ends up receiving a baptism of the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues. Along with some others in his church who have similar experiences, Bennett and his wife Elberta find their faith refreshed and more 'alive' than they had found it previously.
However, it is not all smooth sailing, and eventually Bennett is asked to resign from his role. Speaking of this time, Bennett is very gracious towards his previous church, stating: "Contrary to popular report, there was no "split" at St. Mark's. The "opposition" group was actually very small! The majority of the church had no idea "what had hit them." My only dispute with those who created the furor at St. Mark's was that they really did not investigate carefully, but rather acted from prejudice and hearsay - a very human thing to do, indeed!" (page 63).
Following this resignation, Bennett is appointed to another church in a different part of the country, and the remainder of the book is full of stories of God moving in and through members of that congregation as they open themselves to the guiding of the Holy Spirit, along with the moments of very real storms that arise, including of Elberta's death!
This book is a fascinating and easy-to-read account of God moving in the heart of a group of people. Bennett is a perfect narrator for this type of story, particularly because he is coming from a far more conservative background than one generally associates with this sort of movement. His sensitivity to people who aren't as ready to accept the works of the Holy Spirit is very helpful, and makes this a book I would be happy to recommend to people who may have questions about the whole 'charismatic' movement. An example of this sensitivity is given when he explains to some visitors to the church that speaking in tongues "doesn't usually happen on Sunday morning. There are people visiting who might not understand, you know." (page 111) What is encouraging is that the response of the couple being talked to isn't: "oh, pity. We really wanted to witness it" (which is partially why they came). Rather, their response is: "Oh, but it was wonderful just the same...Why, those people certainly love God, don't they? I mean, you can feel it! I've never been to a mass where people were so intent on the Lord!" (page 111).
Theirs is the sort of response that gives me hope. The purpose of moving in the gifts of the Spirit shouldn't be to 'show off', but simply to allow God to minister to His people in various ways. As people open themselves to the Spirit more, they should also open themselves to His transformation, and as a result should begin to see their character shift in positive ways.
If it isn't clear yet, I really enjoyed Nine O'Clock in the Morning. I can see myself revisiting it from time to time, particularly if I just need to be reminded of the potential of our walks with God.
Completed 27 August 2022.
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