There are many Christian books out there that are theologically and denominationally air tight.  Holding On Loosely is not one of them.  If fact, at first read, one could almost question if in fact it is a ‘Christian’ book at all, as the name of Jesus is seldom mentioned, preferring rather a menagerie of more generic terms such as higher power, master, teacher or just plain God. Giacopelli does qualify this as he explains that his understanding of the God of the Bible is that this all powerful and merciful being is much more qualified and vested in revealing who he is than any mortal could ever be. I certainly respect that, even believe it to be true, but for those of us brought up with very fundamentalist training, it is still a hard pill to swallow.

So why did I give this paperback a 5 star rating, you’re wondering?  Because Holding On Loosely is a life changing book. From the very first chapter it is evident that there is something mystical, ever supernatural, about this story.  Pablo Giacopelli, a professional woman’s tennis coach, invites the reader into the story of his life, his struggles with trying to maintain control, and his pain as to the fruit (read that failure) of his efforts. You are given an opportunity to watch a man struggle with the question that so many of us ask:  Why is it that my faith and my religion have had such a minimal effect on my actions? 

His answers are profound.  Giacopelli discovers a God who is much more interested in fathering him and loving him than controlling him; and that discover changes the authors life as well as the lives of those around him.  In doing so, it also profoundly touched something missing in my life: the ability to lesson my own grip as I try to control those around me.  Giacopelli masterfully leads the reader through the unwrapping of this capacity to ‘Hold On Loosely’: not forcing the outcomes while also not giving up.  The ability transforms his tennis student from a very good player to a great player.  It changes how he relates to his own children, and most importantly, it opens up a dialogue with God that produces real, lasting, life changing fruit.

I repeatedly found myself challenged and exposed as I related to his journey, but there was also incredible hope.  Hope that there really is a relationship that Jesus longs to have with me, one of walking beside me, revealing his creation to me, and guiding my life for his glory. 

Like I said in the beginning, this is not a ‘religious’ book, but it is so Godly. Unlike much I have read, Holding On Loosely left me wanting more of God and excited about the journey there.  If you have likewise found yourself walking more in a performance mindset in your faith than in a love affair, Holding On Loosely is exactly what you need to read.

To the King,

David

If you would like to order a copy for yourself, Holding On Loosely is available here.