Seeking Jesus in Everyday Life: Prayers and Reflections for Getting Closer by Julie Davis
Getting into the habit of regular prayer can be tricky. Having enough discipline to pray the Divine Office really requires the support of grace (at least it does for me), since the typical book version of the Office requires some jumping around in the text--some parts are prayed every day, others once every four weeks, others on certain calendar days, others on certain liturgical days that jump around on a yearly calendar (Easter being the prime example). Even though it takes as little as ten minutes, sometimes that's a tall order first thing in the morning or last thing in the evening. Something shorter works better for my attention span and my schedule. So it's a delight to discover a daily devotional that boosts me into a spiritual mindset (and, more importantly, a spiritual heartset) for the day. A great example of this is Seeking Jesus in Everyday Life by Julie Davis.
The format of the book is simple. Each page starts with a quote or two from Scriptures, the writings of the saints throughout the ages (including some I've never heard of), contemporary writers, movies, and even TED talks. The author gives a few paragraphs of personal reflections on how the quote(s) strike her or have impacted her life. Each page ends with a short prayer. These reflections are easy to read in a minute but have staying power. They provide good matter for meditation or consideration throughout the day.
The best thing about the book is its focus. The prayers and meditations focus on building knowledge and intimacy with Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. The result is a deeper and broader appreciation for who He is and what He does. Being aware of and appreciating Divine Providence is a key component to growth in spiritual life. It truly does help the reader to get closer to Jesus in everyday occurrences.
Highly recommended.
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