The last two sentences of the opening paragraph really capture the whole concept of this chapter. Sometimes we are unable to express our thoughts and then we pick up something to read and there it is, right there, just the way you had wished that you could have stated it. I really enjoy reading the lives of saints. Some times I'm glad that I didn't live back then because I doubt I would have had what it took to live their lives. Sometimes while reading the Bible, I wonder if I would have been a good Christian or not been receptive to the Word. I feel very blessed to live in this era.
This chapter comments on the four particular benefits of spiritual reading. First it strengthens our faith. What's wonderful is that when we don't understand something or if we want to expand our knowledge on a certain topic all we have to do is ask and we receive. With the help of the computer, we have an inexhaustable fountain of knowledge at our fingertips. I feel like a sponge that can't get enough at times. The sacred teachings, Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, are clarified by the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The book asks if it is merely an academic study. I feel it just clarifies items and makes it easier to meditate on them. It says what is in the sacred teachings but in a clearer, more understandable form.
The second benefit is it nourishes our prayer. It fuels our minds with ideas and thoughts.
The third benefit is it teaches us principles of Christian growth. On page 40 it states "solid spiritual authors can provide a kind of general spiritual direction in such essentials as growing in Christian virtue, overcoming temptation and controlling disordered passions."
The fourth benefit is it affords inspiration and motivation for the journey. The more I learn and read the more I crave. I really enjoy reading something spiritual during Adoration. I don't have the luxury of a quiet place at home and so I just enjoy that special hour at Church.
The last paragraph recommends at least 15 minutes a day. That doesn't seem so hard. I have been negligent of doing daily readings, but this goal seems attainable. I am going to try harder from this day on! Pray for me.
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What are your favorite books for spiritual reading beside the Bible? Which saints have you read about lately?
I try to keep my "prayer bag" in the car and it contains at least one book. When I am waiting for someone or for an appointment I have my spiritual book with me. Sometimes I can concentrate on them in these settings and sometimes I can't but the Lord knows my heart.
Just keeping the radio off helps me with prayer and spiritual reading.
Thanks for posting. Good job.
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