Eugene Peterson's folksy style and sanctified wisdom is both refreshing and edifying. His challenge to pastors to imitate Melville's harpooner who must not "take his chance hurriedly after being weighed down," is a vivid and mature call to all who pursue the pastoral vocation. This book is easily read, but not easily digested. It will take you awhile to really grasp and imitate what Peterson is calling ministers to do in the chaotic sea of drive-by religion that is all too common in early 21st century North America.