Continuing in our summer series of exploring different Spiritual practices, this week I offer you a very simple one: the spiritual practice of reading. Even if you are not an avid reader, there are many different possibilities within this practice to allow you to find something that is right for you.
One clear possibility is to read the bible. If you do, I would recommend the book of Psalms, the Gospels, Acts, Romans, or Philippians. Try reading even just a chapter or a page a day and see how it goes having intentional time outside Sunday mornings to dwell in God’s word.
Another possibility is to read a devotional book, or one of many, many books written on topics of faith. Below I have compiled some recommendations for books of various topics that I have found to be especially meaningful, and think would nurture your faith lives as well. If you are looking for a book on a specific faith topic, please feel free to reach out and I would be happy to help you find the right fit.
Theology and Christian Living:
Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Written by a WWII martyr, a little heavier of a read, but a solid, deeply Lutheran Theological look at Christian living)
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis (easy to read, yet very moving approach Christian living)
The Prophetic Imagination by Walter Bruggemann (A modern theological look at much of the Old Testament and the new things God is doing within it)
Crazy Talk by Rolf Jacobson (a very witty yet helpful dictionary of theological terms)
Short Stories by Jesus, by Amy-Jill Levine (an in depth look at many of Jesus’ Parables)
Beloved by Henri Nouwen (a quick, meaningful read about the peace we can experience when we understand how much God loves us)
Memoirs/stories of the faith lives of others:
The Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claibourne (an easy to read, story based, very moving book about really living how Jesus calls us to)
Pastrix by Nadya Boltz Weber (memoir of how a heavily tattooed, substance abusing, cuss word using comedian became a Lutheran Pastor and founded a community of those not typically comfortable in your average church.
Breathing Space by Heidi Neumark (moving stories of inner-city ministry)
Everything Happens For A Reason And Other Lies I’ve Loved by Kate Bowler (a funny, emotional reflection on a young mom and Theology professor’s journey through cancer)
The Wounded Healer by Henri Nouwen (an easy-to-read reflection on faith and trauma)
Learning to Walk in the Dark by Barbara Brown Taylor (biblical reflections on light and darkness in day-to-day life)
Fiction
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis (a well-loved series, with many theological insight)
Lamb by Christopher Moore (funny, fictional story about childhood Jesus)
Joyful Life Lutheran Church 