Eugene Peterson completes his 'long obedience'

Christian pastor, professor, and author, Eugene Peterson, has died at the age of 85.

His family confirmed through NavPress, the publisher of Peterson's paraphrase of the Bible, The Message, his passing on Monday, October 22. Peterson had entered hospice care just a week and a half ago.

His family said in the statement that Peterson remained joyful up to his last breath.

“During the previous days, it was apparent that he was navigating the thin and sacred space between earth and heaven,” his family said. “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.’”

Peterson was a prolific author, writing over 30 books. Among them was the bestseller, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction. The book discussed discipleship and remaining faithful through one's life.

Perhaps, though, he is best known for The Message. It was only the second book to sell over 1 million copies for NavPress; to date, it has sold more than 20 million copies.

Peterson's family thanked those who have supported and prayed for him and his family.

His funeral will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Kalispell, Montana, but a date has not yet been set. His family said they plan to livestream the service.