God Speaks Through Wombs - by Drew Jackson (Paperback)

About the Book

In this dynamic collection of poems, Drew Jackson explores the first eight chapters of Luke's Gospel. These are declarative poems, faithfully proclaiming the gospel story in all its liberative power. Here the gospel is the "fresh words / that speak of / things impossible." This powerful poetry helps us hear the hum of deliverance--against all hope--that's been in the gospel all along.

Book Synopsis

Christian Book Award Finalist

But God speaks through wombs,
birthing prophetic utterances. . . .
Enough of this unbelieving religion
that masquerades as faith.
Divine favor is placed on what we
have disgraced.

In God Speaks Through Wombs, Drew Jackson explores the first eight chapters of Luke's Gospel in a new poetic register. These are declarative poems, faithfully proclaiming the gospel story in all its liberative power. Here the gospel is the "fresh words / that speak of / things impossible."

From the Magnificat ("That girl can sing! . . . She has a voice / That can shatter shackles") to the baptism of Christ ("I stepped in / Committing insurrection"), this collection helps us hear the hum of deliverance--against all hope--that's been in the gospel all along.

Review Quotes

"God Speaks Through Wombs is a fresh take on the first eight chapters of the Gospel of Luke and a poetic invitation into the world of the Scriptures. What we read here is not translation, but rather more. We are transported into the ministry of Jesus and beckoned to walk alongside him with the oppressed he came to save. Jackson's poetry brings to light the fact that Christ's ministry is, in many ways, an affirmation of human dignity in general and of Black dignity specifically. ThisSavior is very much for you, not against you."

Malcolm B. Foley, director of the Black Church Studies Program at Truett Seminary

"I've known Drew for over a decade, and this book bears witness to his soul: a careful listener, passionate conversation partner, bold truth teller, and tenderhearted empath. Drew has always been an artist, crafty with words and sounds. God Speaks Through Wombs reflects Drew's soulful artistry. Through his poetic genius, Drew effortlessly weaves together the ancient stories of the Gospel of Luke with social movement history, popular culture, contemporary justice issues, theological rigor, and more. Every pastor, theologian, faith-rooted activist, and person of faith who cares about the intersection of faith and justice needs this book. You won't be able to preach, teach, pray, sing, or question the Gospel of Luke the same!"

Brandon Wrencher, organizer, writer, and founding pastor of the Good Neighbor Movement

"If poetry is the art of the indirect, the undefended doorway into deeper consciousness, then Drew Jackson is a wonderful new teacher on the scene! Seldom have I read such direct insight into spiritual moments and spiritual matters . . . . I am already eager to see and hear more!"

Richard Rohr, Center for Action and Contemplation

"In a time like this, we need divine creativity, and the words Drew has written are just that. . . . His words are powerful, and his creative process is filled with mysterious and divine wonder."

Jon Batiste, Stay Human, and bandleader for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, from the foreword

"This book of poetry offers a beautifully nuanced perspective on themes of oppression, of liberation, of suffering, of hope for what has been promised. Drew weaves together biblical experiences with the language and perspectives of modern activists. His poetry allows us to experience the voice of God through words on the page. I will be using these poems for creative inspiration, as prayer, as a liturgy for all the things that are difficult to speak about in a dark and difficult world. This collection will offer you great solace, speaking life into your spirit."

Nikole Lim, founder and international director of Freely in Hope and author of Liberation Is Here

"This poetic commentary weaves biblical narrative with contemporary issues of justice, lament, and hope. It is for anyone looking to meditate deeply on the Gospels. Jackson's unique approach, along with his heart for God's Word, makes this collection an instant classic, a true gift to the church."

Rachel Joy Welcher, editor at Fathom Magazine and author of Talking Back to Purity Culture: Rediscovering Faithful Christian Sexuality

"With undeniable depth and brilliant creativity, Drew Jackson offers a powerful poetic tour through the Gospel of Luke. Drew joins poignant cultural analysis with biblical faithfulness, and does so in a way that kept me captivated throughout. This book is a gift, offering us a fresh vision of the gospel story with profound flow."

Rich Villodas, lead pastor of New Life Fellowship and author of The Deeply Formed Life

About the Author

Drew Jackson is a poet, speaker, and public theologian whose writing explores the intersection of justice, peace, and contemplation. He is the author of two poetry collections, God Speaks Through Wombs: Poems on God's Unexpected Coming and Touch the Earth: Poems on The Way. Drew is on staff with the Center for Action and Contemplation and lives with his wife and twin daughters in Brooklyn, New York.