Title: Spiritual Formation
By: Eldon E. Fry
A CBM Christian Book Review
10.0+ out of 10.0 stars
Spiritual Formation: Attention Along the Way by Eldon E. Fry is designed to reflect a twelve month calendar with “vignettes” sharing his experiences based on a two-fold approach as stated in the Introduction. He states his book encompasses, “…two contemplative practices that are essential for Christian formation. One is stillness or contemplation, the other is watchfulness or awareness.” Thus, the author advocates a life of spiritual transformation and renewal based upon Christianity that will spur readers into the ancient spiritual practice of mindfulness of daily activities, the author hopes to encourage. The author journals his observances, coupled with insight into his personal life of experiences and environments that offer readers inspiration. The beauty of the seasons, the mystery of the wind and so much more challenge readers to stop, and breathe.
Metaphorically, he speaks on many different subjects, offering special memories, or perhaps comparing a campfire that was mesmerizing, etc., so that the reader can also reflect and build from their own daily life mindfulness. In this way, readers come to understand how to slow down a bit, pay attention as the title denotes, turning one’s attention towards God, His creation, your own life, and your own spirituality. The inclusion of scripture verses, insight from famous people such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and an analysis of these experiences enhance and engage readers, leading readers to ponder their own life. This is an enjoyable, unique, and reflective read.
Creatively speaking this book can be used in several ways: As an inner journey to seeking God, daily or bedtime reading, or simply reading under the shade of a tree. The book is laid out in a simple and easy-to-read format that includes the months of the year:
- January speaks of: A Memory, Mesmerizing, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Play, Surprise, Wind;
- February gives insights into the changing seasons, Anticipation, Ash Wednesday, Beauty, Ode to a Valentine, Contrasts and Waiting;
- March gives way to Fog, I Love the Cool, Melting, Tonight, Underground Railroad, Wait;
- April offers fresh insight with spring on the way in Focus, Helping Me, Muddling Selma, Sabbath, and Snipes;
- May brings A Seasoned Tree, Chipmunk, Life Story, My Desire, Peeking;
- June presents Caring, Choices, Fragrance, Leftovers, Mirror, Next Step;
- July shares Be Attentive, Big Sky Country, Exploration, Grass is Greener, Monastery, Old Friends;
- August alludes to Dark Nights, Garden, The Snakeskin, Travelling, Unexpected Gifts, Wind Blowing;
- September brings Autumn Arrives, Burnable, Cool Breeze, Leaves, Memories, Prayer as Desire;
- October reminds with Attentive, Celebrate a Life, Darkness, Fall, Foliage, Leaves of Fall, Listening;
- November brings Treasured Gifts, Facades, Scarcity, Brother, Lonely, Refusal;
- December ends with Advent (Day Three), Advent, Squirrels, Lights in the Snow, Sentimental and Shadows.
Spiritual Formation: Attention along the way would make a nice gift for someone that likes to contemplate, is interested in Christianity, or one who enjoys learning, history, and appreciating nature and the seasons.
I found this book to be relaxing. A wonderful book, this comes highly recommended for those who want to pay attention to their surroundings and understand that our experiences on a daily basis give way to “intentionally” engaging in a spiritual reformation process. Perfect to read to start the day with a cup of coffee, or at the end the day preparing for sleep. This is a highly recommended must read book. Christian Book Reviews sharing Christian books with Christian readers.
You may get your copy of Spiritual Formation: Attention Along the Way at Amazon or in Kindle as a download.
