Review: Let Him Lead

 

“An Invitation to Let Jesus Guide Your Heart and Your Life.”

I was given a copy of this book by the author, in thanksgiving for my support of his religious order, The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, started by my friend Fr. Benedict Groessel.  It was a wonderful gift.

Fr. Jeremiah created this book of 27 reflections based on the daily homilies he gave to a small group of sisters over 3 years.  I love this book, and it re-enforced many of my thoughts and prayers, driving Jesus deeper into my heart.

“We live with the illusion that our life is actually ours.  What have you that you did not receive? (1Cor4:7)   St Paul is alluding to a paradox that lies at the heart of the Gospel.  If we really want to enjoy our life and to love our families, and friends, then we must, to put it biblically, love them less, than God, and stop grasping at them in hope that they can satisfy us.  It is only in this way that we can come to appreciate them most fully.” (Chapter 4, Hating Our Life)

“Our relationship with God is a journey, primarily a journey of purification of our selfishness so as to love others, and especially God, selflessly.” (Ch 13, Love is a Journey)

“The place God reveals Himself most regularly is our normal life. … One of the greatest experiences in this life is being surprised by God, in this present moment.  Every one of us has had these experiences. … In the quiet recesses of our hearts we become aware, for a moment, of God’s presence.  Experiences of God’s presence in our ordinary life … are purely gifts of God’s grace.  There is nothing we can do to make these experiences happen.  The experiences are among the greatest that we can have in life. They remind us that our lives and God are not two separate realities.  The greatest sign of a mature spiritual life is a maturing life, a life where we are becoming more loving, patient, and forgiving, and where we are more willing to trust God beyond what we can see.”  (Ch 19, God is Now)

 

There are many thought-provoking words in this book.  The very short chapters took much time reading, reflecting, and talking to Jesus while in the chapel.  This book was a wonderful gift and will be one of mine to others this Christmas.