“God, why are You sleeping?” book by Leif Andersen

The Lutheran Heritage Foundation has published in Latvian the book “God, why are You sleeping?” by Norwegian pastor Leif Andersen. The aim of the publication is to help in suffering and pain, when it often seems to us that God has fallen silent.

As the author himself writes, “the title is not a provocation. It is a quotation: ‘Awake, Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever!’ (Ps. 44:24).”

Yes, where is God when we experience suffering and pain? This question seems to arise in the life of every living person. In his book, Norwegian pastor Andersen tries to give an answer to a question that is often filled with despair and hopelessness. Here is what the author writes, addressing Latvian readers:

“Dear friends in Latvia!

I am very glad that this book has now been published in Latvian. I often remember with gratitude my friends in Christ whom I met in connection with the first Nordic and Baltic student conference and when visiting Riga congregations. I am moved by the thought that we - with such different personal and national histories - nevertheless have a common foundation on which we can converse at conferences and even publish books.

I always approach this topic with great reverence: faith and the emotions of protest that arise in suffering. For I know that here we touch the most complicated and sensitive areas of human life. And will I, instead of helping someone, make life even harder?

I pray to God that this book would not become a burden for people, but comfort and help in those painful moments of life when God seems to have fallen silent.

Thank you to Aija Eimane, Uģis Sildegs and the Lutheran Heritage Foundation, who undertook to carry out this project. Greetings in Christ - Leif Andersen.”

The publication can be purchased at the office of the Lutheran Heritage Foundation, at the ELC of Latvia bookstore “IHTIS”, as well as at church book tables in Latvia. More information - www.lmf.lv.