K. Rahner, H. Nouwen & J. Forest

Current Readings

Encounter with Silence by Karl Rahner

It is so sweet when a book surprises you with beautiful trickles of water and then it becomes a steady stream of “living water.” I began this book with some nightly moments of reading before closing my eyes; a calming presence with God. Recently one afternoon, I picked it up beginning in the chapter titled “God of the Living” and found a flowing stream of words that were speaking to the very place my mind, heart, soul were in need of. A book of conversation between God and man (myself) giving guidance to a discerning moment in my day.

“Encounter with Silence is “one of the classics of modern spirituality” “a dialogue with God that moves from humble but concerned inquiry to joyful contemplation” (as the back cover describes).

This is what it was for me! A breathe of fresh air to my concerned and longing mind where sometimes my own words could not speak. So worth the read, I intend to reread and carry with me.

Behold the Beauty of the Lord by Henri Nouwen

Another surprise this month was this recommended and welcoming read by H. Nouwen. A beautiful little book on ancient orthodox imagery known as icons. Since living in New Mexico, I have come to know much about the Spanish and Catholic santero —the artisans of religious imagery from our area. But little about the early church icons of the East.

So to engage in learning more about the beauty of our Christian faith and prayer, a read on the ancient images also given to us for prayer, why not?

This was a simple and sweet introduction which led to more.

The more. Praying with Icons by Jim Forest