On the Road with Saint Augustine: A Real-World Spirituality for Restless Hearts

by James K.A. Smith

Augustine’s dear friend from Africa, Nebridius, had been a constant companion from their time in Carthage, even leaving Africa to join Augustine

This is the God who runs down the road to meet prodigals. Grace isn’t high-speed transport all the way to the end but the gift of his presence the rest of the way. And it is the remarkable promise of his Son, who meets us in this distance: “My Father’s house has many rooms” (John 14:2). There is room for you in the Father’s house. His home is your end. He is with you every step of the way there.

It is the first step of belonging to a pilgrim people who will walk alongside you, listen, and share their stories of the God who doesn’t just send a raft but climbs onto the cross that brings us back.