Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #335311 in Books
• Published on: 2007-03-15
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 224 pages

Synopsis
A believing Christian, Hough compiled this book as an aid to prayer in a busy, modern life. It returns to the source (3rd century) of what later became known as 'Lectio Divina' in the West and the 'Jesus Prayer' in the East - ways to take small extracts from the Bible and pray with them in a simple, contemplative way. It is the opposite, in a way, from the "100-minute Bible" or "Testament" which are abridged texts to give a quick over-view of the whole; "The Bible as Prayer" is meant to be read slowly, one segment a day, and is solely intended to lead the reader into prayer, not for Bible study: a book to use, not read or study. Its appeal could be extremely wide-ranging, from prayer-groups and retreats to the bedsides of hospitals or prisons; and its gathering together of the most inspiring verses of the Scriptures from beginning to end, combined with an utterly simple method of use, make it the perfect book to dip into for beginners as well as the more experienced. This is a book to encourage people to pray. Even if they have only five minutes to spare, or feel totally uninspired, there should be something on every page which can kindle the flame and, over time, change the heart.

Customer Reviews

An open book
This book is inspiring on lots of levels. The Bible is, too often, a closed book, and this selection opens it. The verses presented here for reflection and meditation are enough for a lifetime. They are self sufficient in themselves and are good for quiet moments on the train, on holiday, or in the middle of the night. But they also send you back to the Bible for the context. Then you are off into the stories and that is good too. So thanks Stephen. I come to the Bible a bit late in life but better late than never.

Does what it says on the tin
This is a handy book for those who haven't a lot of time to spend on reading the Bible. It offers a springboard for contemplation and reflection as well as being a reminder of more familiar passages from the Bible. Stephen Hough allows the passages from the Bible to speak for themselves, but gives a short introduction that offers a helpful guide to reading, describes the monastic origin of lectio divina and places it within a wider Christian context.

It is printed on good quality paper so will be withstand being carried around.