A Review by Courtney Lowry

He Reached Down: A Memoir of Collapse and Grace is a Christian memoir written by Michael Hippler. It’s a raw account of a man who’s searching for himself through the lens of pain, regret, and addiction on the road of redemption. The journey of answering the call “to discern for the diaconate” is a long, winding one where the grace of God pulls him out of the muck and mire every single time.

He Reached Down is written in the style of diary entries, which tell Mr. Hippler’s story in chronological order. Most chapters begin with a timestamp, and we watch Mr. Hippler’s life over the span of about ten years. We see in real time his struggles with alcohol, infidelity, mental illness, divorce, and even success. Mr. Hippler recounts how the sting of rejection from childhood snowballed into struggles with suicidal ideation, depression, and then mania as an adult. He shares details about the challenges of navigating relationships in the workplace, at home, and romantically. Mr. Hippler even shares how technology and social media overshadowed his prayer life at times.

Though there’s a heaviness that Mr. Hippler carries, there’s also so much light woven throughout He Reached Down. Restored family relationships, a deeper connection with God, forgiveness, and the encompassing love from his wife are the anchors in Mr. Hippler’s life.

What I liked most about this memoir is how the Bible verses are used. A lot of chapters begin with a Bible verse that sets the tone for that chapter. The use of Scripture expresses the depths of not only Mr. Hippler’s love for God but the love that God has for Mr. Hippler. He even states, “I remembered God. I remembered grace. And I remembered the liberating truth: I had never earned His love, so I couldn’t lose it.” With such frequent Scripture throughout the memoir, the reader can stay grounded while reflecting on God’s Word.

Though He Reached Down may appeal to believers of the Christian faith, I think it could also be a useful tool for those in recovery from addiction and mental illness who are not Christian. Mr. Hippler often quotes Alcoholics Anonymous and references the 12 Steps, which may be helpful to someone who does not have access to the book. It’s advised that some topics may be triggering to readers, especially if they are early on in their healing journeys.

This memoir is from a man who is baring his soul, unafraid to share not just where he’s made mistakes, but also how he’s fixing them. The revelations shared after going on silent retreats, cutting down screen time, and volunteering with hospice patients are enlightening. The conversations, constant wrestling, and hopelessness are what make Mr. Hippler human. Though he experiences dark times, his heart remains steadfast as he regularly confesses, re-evaluates, and reroutes.

His writing is cinematic, and this memoir is so well-written.  For example, Mr. Hippler tells us the story of a fire at his apartment and writes,

“Outside, it was cold. Drizzling. Lights spinning. Fire trucks staged across the street. Ladders up. Hoses down. The whole building was under siege. A dozen engines. People watching from the curb.”

His tone of voice is honest and at times, unflinching. He also doesn’t put down the reader, boasting about how he overcame the trials of his sobriety. Rather, he explains that anyone can have a new beginning at any time. You are allowed to start over. Mr. Hippler writes, “But grace does not require a clean résumé.” What may feel like a setback is the catalyst for God’s plan.