In a world that often measures influence by viral moments and digital reach, there is something deeply countercultural about a legacy preserved in books. The recent opening of a reading room at Redeemer University in Ancaster, Ontario, invites us to consider how the written word—and the people who treasure it—can shape faith across generations. Named after H. Evan Runner, a Reformed scholar and educator, the space houses not only his personal library but also the collections of his students, creating a living archive of intellectual and spiritual formation.
Runner, who taught philosophy at Calvin College and later at the Institute for Christian Studies, was known for his conviction that all of life is lived before God. He regarded books not as mere tools but as companions—conversation partners that challenge, comfort, and clarify. His approach reminds us that reading is an act of discipleship, a way of listening to voices from the past and present as we seek wisdom for our own journey.
Why Books Matter for Faith Formation
For Christians, the written word holds a central place. Scripture itself is a library of books—history, poetry, prophecy, letters—each bearing witness to God's redemptive work. But beyond the Bible, the church has always valued the insights of those who have gone before. The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, asked Timothy to bring his scrolls and parchments (2 Timothy 4:13, NIV), suggesting that even the greatest theologian saw the need for continued learning.
Books extend our capacity for empathy, understanding, and critical thought. They allow us to encounter perspectives different from our own, to wrestle with difficult questions, and to be shaped by stories that reflect God's grace in diverse contexts. In an age of information overload, a well-chosen book can be a sanctuary for the soul.
The Role of a Personal Library
A personal library is more than a collection; it is a map of a person's intellectual and spiritual journey. The books we keep, the margins we mark, and the passages we underline tell a story of what we have valued, questioned, and embraced. Runner's library, now shared with students and visitors, becomes a resource for ongoing formation. It invites us to ask: What books are shaping our own faith? Are we intentionally curating voices that challenge us to grow?
Proverbs 4:7 (ESV) says, "The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight." A library is a tool for that pursuit—a place where wisdom is not merely acquired but cultivated through patient reflection.
Learning from the Past, Living in the Present
The H. Evan Runner Reading Room is a testament to the value of passing on intellectual and spiritual heritage. Runner's students, who themselves became influential thinkers and educators, have contributed their own libraries to the collection. This intergenerational gift underscores a key Christian principle: we are stewards of what we receive, called to share it for the benefit of others.
Hebrews 13:7 (ESV) exhorts us: "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith." While we cannot imitate the dead in a superficial way, we can learn from their commitments—including their commitment to learning. A reading room dedicated to a scholar and his students creates a space where faith and intellect meet, encouraging visitors to engage deeply with ideas that have shaped Christian thought.
Practical Steps for Building Your Own Legacy of Reading
You don't need a dedicated reading room to cultivate a legacy of learning. Here are a few ways to incorporate the spirit of Runner's example into your own life:
- Curate intentionally: Choose books that stretch your understanding of Scripture, theology, history, and culture. Include voices from diverse traditions and eras.
- Read with others: Join or start a book group that focuses on faith-related works. Discussing what you read deepens comprehension and builds community.
- Pass it on: Share books with friends, family, or your church library. Write notes in the margins for the next reader. Consider donating your collection to a local school or ministry.
- Make time: Even 15 minutes a day can transform your reading habit. Set aside a regular time and place free from distractions.
Books as Companions on the Journey
Runner regarded his books as good friends—and indeed, a friend can challenge us, comfort us, and walk with us through life's changes. In the Christian life, we are never alone; the communion of saints includes those who have gone before and those who live now, and books are one way we converse across time and space.
As you consider your own reading habits, ask yourself: What voices are shaping my faith? Am I intentionally seeking wisdom from those who have walked this path before me? The library of faith is vast and open to all who seek.
"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness." — 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV)
May we, like Runner, approach our books not as mere objects but as companions in the lifelong pursuit of knowing God and making Him known.
A Question for Reflection
What is one book that has significantly shaped your faith? How might you pass that influence on to someone else?
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