Perfect in Weakness

Whether disabled bodies will be present in the resurrection is a poignant question that reveals implicit assumptions about God, personal identity, and what is considered 'right' or 'normal.' In this scholarly rigorous but also eminently understandable book, Whitaker tackles the question of disability in the resurrection with thoughtfulness, insight, and a courageous yet humble approach. Drawing on disability theology, biblical passages, and philosophical perspectives on identity, Perfect in Weakness is bound to ignite the pastoral and theological imaginations of those who read it. It will spark crucial conversations not only about the new creation but about the ways we might structure our current reality to better reflect God's heart for everybody.

~Keith Dow, Author of Formed Together: Mystery, Narrative, and Virtue in Christian Caregiving

Maja Whitaker approaches the complexities of disability and identity with a wonderful sense of dignity, wisdom, and empathy. She draws on many voices to challenge and expand our thinking around perfection, encouraging new expressions of love, inclusion, and acceptance. In this robust book, Maja poses the question, 'If we look beyond perfection, can we bring about more of God's love here on Earth now, for all people, across the whole spectrum of ability?' Maja invites us to reconsider those we may have dismissed, to see more of God in them, and in ourselves. Disability is not a deficit. We are all human and are all worthy of receiving love. If there is breath, there is life, and there is the presence of God. This book's message of life, love, and acceptance is not constrained to resurrection, but is relevant right now, right here in today's human experience.

~Rachel Callander, author and speaker