In this short work Henri Nouwen offers a penetrating reflection on the challenge of the spiritual life, especially the call to imitate Christ's example of "downward mobility." This vocation is sorely tested by the constant celebration of "upward mobility," which brings to mind the temptations Christ faced in the wilderness: to be "powerful, relevant, and spectacular." To prepare us for this path, Nouwen described the "disciplines of spiritual formation," represented by the Church, the Word of God, and the promptings of our heart.Written during Nouwen’s years as a professor at Yale Divinity School The Selfless Way of Christ appeared originally in 1981 as a serialized article in Sojourners magazine, a journal whose blend of evangelical witness and social commitment resonated well with Nouwen’s themes.Illustrated with drawings by Vincent van Gogh, The Selfless Way of Christ is an inspiring guide for ministers and everyone walking the path of discipleship.