Eugene Peterson, who lived from 1932 to 2018, was an American pastor, scholar, and author best known for writing The Message, a popular paraphrase of the Bible in contemporary English. 

A Presbyterian pastor, Peterson spent his entire career nurturing a single congregation in Maryland for nearly 30 years. He was a champion of what he called "pastoral theology," prioritizing the slow, relational work of shepherding a community over the pressures of celebrity and rapid growth. 

His writing often focused on themes of spiritual formation, the importance of place, and the idea of "a long obedience in the same direction." Peterson believed that a faithful Christian life was a marathon, not a sprint. His works, including A Long Obedience in the Same Direction and his memoir The Pastor, challenged many common assumptions about ministry and faith. 

Peterson's quiet, thoughtful approach to life and faith left a profound mark, helping millions of readers to engage with the Bible in a new way. 

I repent, Lord.  I repent.   

I have been wrong in supposing that I could manage my own life and be my own god;  

I have been wrong in thinking I had, or could get, the strength, education and training to make it on my own; 

I trust that God in Jesus Christ is telling me the truth.   

I lean into the realization that what you want from me and what I want from you are not going to be achieved by doing the same old things, thinking the same old thoughts.   

I turn again and still to follow you, my Lord Jesus Christ, and be your pilgrim in the path of peace.  

Amen