Many “classics” have an air of being interesting reading but discernibly dated and a little out of touch with today. The Crown & The Fire - Meditations on the Cross and the Life of the Spirit by Tom Wright, just re-issued by SPCK in their Classics series bucks the trend and is as fresh and thought provoking, passionate and relevant as it was in 1992 when first published. This remarkable book defies its slender size to provide an exciting compilation of 13 short meditations that have a particularly useful role during Lent but are equally vibrant at any other time such as a holiday or retreat. Split in two, the first part reverses the tradition of studying the words said from the cross by looking at 7 phrases said to the cross. Part Two is an eclectic selection that reflects on varied aspects of The Fire of Love including a brilliant piece looking at John 21 and what it means to live a “New Creation”. As ever, Tom Wright guides you skilfully into the depths of weighty theology by making it come alive and be relevant to your daily walk.