About the book

We live in a world where the beautiful is intermingled with the terrifying. This yin and yang of our existence often finds us being dropped to impossible lows, then elevated to inexpressible heights. This is life. But how to interpret such a vacillating existence? Where is the plumb line, the centre of balance, the point of stability?

This book of reflections suggests that a Christian worldview provides a “coordinate of origin.” The work offers a cusp from which events that most of us think about at one time or another, can be profitably explored.

Endorsements
“Following on from their meditative reflections on travel in God Down Under, the humble and wise Berlachs do it again. This series of short reflections mines both Scripture and a long life with equal insight, and touches of impish humour. Christians sometimes live in the past, but these musings help us to think and serve in the present.”
Emeritus Professor Brian V. Hill
Murdoch University, Western Australia

“This is a book about mystery, the mystery of the human condition, lovingly accepted, embraced and illuminated through the eyes of literature and most importantly Scripture. The extraordinary breadth of this book is only matched by its depth. It is a song to our life, its struggles, triumphs and our attempts at meaning making. Go with the authors and water your soul. You will find amongst the many topics traversed, an oasis that speaks to you. This book is comfort.”
Professor Michael O’Neill, School of Education
The University of Notre Dame Australia

“Insightful, informed and warm hearted, Richard and Linda’s book genuinely leads the reader towards the promise of its title A Fuller Reality. Offering perspectives from theology, psychology, philosophy and sociology, this collection of daily readings challenged  and enlarged my understanding of many contemporary issues and questions, while leaving me encouraged and motivated to dive into the next topic. I heartily commend this significant work.”
Dr Brian Harris, Principal of Vose Seminary, Perth
Co-Director of the Centre for Faith and Life

About the Authors
Richard G. Berlach has spent the better part of his life engaged in academic pursuits. Interests have ranged from teaching first year undergraduate students through to supervising doctoral candidates in a variety of disciplines. Taking early retirement enabled him to spend more time surveying God’s creation and writing from the perspective of one whose “life is hidden with Christ in God”. (Col 3:3) This is his second book written with wife Linda, with whom he very much appreciates sharing the writing experience. In his spare time, Richard enjoys open water swimming all year-round, messing about in his workshop, maintaining his garden and reading whatever he can get his hands on. He also takes great pleasure in visiting and assisting seniors as opportunities present themselves. Richard holds a Master of Divinity awarded by Fuller Theological Seminary (California, USA) and possesses a Doctor of Philosophy conferred by the University of Western Australia.

Linda M. Berlach’s lifelong passion for personal and spiritual growth and development finds expression in a variety of contexts. She currently works as a medical educator in the personal and professional domain with medical students. Participation in retreats and regular contribution to the Courage and Renewal (WA) steering group fosters her commitment to leading a life of courage and integrity. Her weekly time with a diverse group of women seeking to live out their discipleship to Jesus together, fondly known as the Ruby Tuesdays, is an essential source of inspiration and support. She is addicted to her morning ocean year-round swims, shared with the vibrant Port Beach Polar Bears. She adores being in nature and takes great joy in caring for animals and plants. Linda holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) from Curtin University, a Master of Arts in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Postgraduate Certificate in University Teaching from The University of Notre Dame Australia.