Celebrating the Life of Eugene Peterson

Eugene Peterson, author of The Message Bible, died yesterday (October 22nd), at the age of 85. He entered a hospice last week due to complications related to heart failure and dementia.

Publishers of The Message, NavPress, confirmed Peterson’s death. His family released a statement on his final, joyful days earthside.

“During the previous days, it was apparent that he was navigating the thin and sacred space between earth and heaven,” they stated. “We overheard him speaking to people we can only presume were welcoming him into paradise. There may have even been a time or two when he accessed his Pentecostal roots and spoke in tongues as well.

“Among his final words were, ‘Let’s go.’ And his joy: my, oh my; the man remained joyful right up to his blessed end, smiling frequently. In such moments it’s best for all mortal flesh to keep silence. But if you have to say something say this: ‘Holy, Holy, Holy.’”

He is best known for writing ‘The Message’ Bible, a modern translation created for 21st-century readers. Completed in 2002, Peterson wanted to translate the Bible from the original Greek & Hebrew into a contemporary language we use today. He set out to capture the original meaning of scripture, as the original audience would have understood it.

He was also the author more than 30 books, including the bestselling A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, where he explored discipleship and perseverance in the Christian life. Last year he released a collection of reflections and sermons in the volume: As Kingfishers Catch Fire.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Eugene Peterson.