If you enjoy reading novels with a purpose I have really enjoyed reading the Sensible Shoes series of four novels by Sharon Garlough Brown. The story follows four dissimilar women who become fast friends through their individual, yet connected, spiritual journeys. Through various circumstances each one ends up at a life changing spiritual retreat. Strangers joined together at the same table, they begin the undesirable assignment of getting to know one another. Of course, eyeing the others, sizing them up, allocating class and personality type to each one. The speaker, Kathryn facilitates the retreat attendees on a journey of spiritual disciplines.
You will learn for yourself the importance of several spiritual disciplines that will draw you closer in relationship with the Savior. For example the discipline of Lectio Divina, learning to linger, consisting of these four responses to your time in the Word. 1) Listen for a word. 2) Ponder that one word. 3) Begin a conversation with God. 4) Simply rest in His presence.
If you are new to the concept of spiritual disciplines, you will find enlightenment on several levels. I’m sure there are any number of disciplines within the Christian faith. I learned several in my time at Bible school, prayer, Bible study, giving, having daily devotions or a quiet time. The first book, Sensible Shoes, begins with a discipline I had never heard of, walking a labyrinth as a spiritual pathway. After reading about a labyrinth as a spiritual walk, I set out to find one and try it out. My conclusion is there’s much ado about nothing; walking on a labyrinth, a mountain trail, along a shady stream, or even a dusty cow trail will all do about the same thing as long as you are in communion with God.
See where these four ladies travel on their journeys, taking one through divorce, another through cancer, another through the derailment of lifelong goals and the fourth through an unwanted sabbatical. Join Meg, Hannah, Mara and Charissa as they experience life as we are all encouraged by our brother James, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trial, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have it’s perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4
The Sensible Shoes Series: Sensible Shoes, Two Steps Forward, Barefoot and An Extra Mile By Sharon Garlough Brown
Connie Rae Reflects 