The man who drives the plow looks neither back nor into immeasurable distances, but at the next step he must take; looking back is not a Christian thing. Leave fear, sorrow, and guilt behind. But look to the one who has given you a new beginning.

— Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–1945), Theologe und Widerstandskämpfer

Related Bible passage: LUK.9.62

Topics: Hope & Confidence, Fear & Anxiety, Discipleship

Occasions: New Year & New Beginnings, Encouragement

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–1945) war ein deutscher lutherischer Theologe, Pfarrer und führender Vertreter der Bekennenden Kirche, der unter anderem in Berlin, London und Finkenwalde wirkte. Er prägte den Begriff der „teuren Gnade“ und schloss sich aus christlicher Überzeugung dem Widerstand gegen das nationalsozialistische Regime an, weshalb er 1945 im Konzentrationslager Flossenbürg ermordet wurde. Seine Schriften fordern Bibelleser bis heute heraus, theologische Erkenntnis mit gelebter Nachfolge und ethischer Zivilcourage in Krisenzeiten zu verbinden.

All quotes by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (630)

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That the birds of worry and grief fly over your head, you cannot change. But that they build nests in your hair — that you can prevent.

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When we are crushed like grapes, we cannot think of the wine we will become.

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All quotes · lumen.bible