I read this book with a deep sense of reverence.

This 400 page volume contains the letters written and received by Dietrich Bonhoeffer during his imprisonment in Tegel. His captivity would end by execution at the Flossenbürg concentration camp only days prior to its liberation by Allied forces.

This collection of letters is recognized as a spiritual classic for good reason. The letters reveal the character of a Christian under pressure. Consider this letter to his friend Eberhard Bethge in November of 1943.

I’m now praying quite simply for freedom. There is such a thing as a false composure which is quite unchristian. As Christians, we needn’t be at all ashamed of some impatience, longing, opposition to what is unnatural, and our full share of desire for freedom, earthly happiness, and opportunity for effective work. (132)

These are such simple words, but coming from Bonhoeffer’s prison cell, they expose the “false composure” of the psuedo-spiritual today.

Or consider this insight sent to Bethge in March, 1944.

We can have abundant life, even though many wishes remain fulfilled. (234)

Again, simple words, but deeply striking when you consider that Bonhoeffer had been imprisoned for almost a year with little progress on his case.

In addition to the rich insights into human nature and the Christian life, the everyday letters to his parents and loved ones demonstrate the value his placed on community and add a deep sense of pathos to the whole collection.

I’ll leave you with a quotation worth memorizing. Remember, this is from the pen of someone who planned (and failed) to assassinate Hitler.

There are always reasons for not doing something; the question is whether one does them nevertheless. (325)

Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. Letters & Papers from Prison. Enlarged ed., Simon & Schuster, 1997.