I picked up this slim volume expecting a typical turn-of-the-century sermon in book form. What I found was something far more personal and focused.

The Story

There's no plot in the traditional sense. Instead, Byron J. Rees, a pastor and evangelist from the late 1800s, takes a single verse from the Gospel of John—Jesus's prayer to God before his death—and holds it up to the light. The verse is John 17:24: 'Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am.' That's the entire foundation. Rees calls this Jesus's 'heart-cry,' his deepest, most passionate desire. The book is essentially a series of meditations exploring what that desire means. He asks why Jesus would want us with him, what that says about God's love, and what it requires from us. It's a deep, patient look at one profound idea.

Why You Should Read It

Here's what got me: the raw feeling in it. For a book written in 1898, it avoids stiff, formal language. Rees writes with a warmth that feels conversational, like he's unpacking this idea just for you. He's not interested in complex theology for its own sake; he's interested in the heart behind it. The book moves from explaining Jesus's longing to showing how it should transform a person's life, leading to holiness and a deeper connection with God. It's challenging in a gentle way. It doesn't shout demands; it quietly asks, 'If this is what Jesus truly wants for you, how should you live?' It made me think about faith not as a system, but as a relationship rooted in a specific, divine desire.

Final Verdict

This isn't for everyone. If you want fast-paced action or a modern self-help guide, look elsewhere. But if you're a Christian looking for a short, devotional read that focuses intensely on the love of Christ, this is a hidden gem. It's also great for anyone curious about historical evangelical spirituality—it's a clear window into that world. Think of it as a deep, refreshing drink from a well, rather than a full meal. Perfect for a quiet afternoon, a study group willing to read slowly, or anyone who believes the oldest cries of the heart are often the most relevant.