Let’s face it, in today’s society the quiet and consistent pursuit of spirituality may be encouraged in acts of lip service, but when the corporate rubber meets the individual road, there is little room for quiet introspection, honest reflection, and long walks with God. As a matter of fact, even those who are active members of churches will run the risk of doing, doing, doing and then doing some more ­ all at the expense of a deep spirituality such as you know you want and wish you had, but simply don’t have the time to pursue.

This is a good time to take stock of your life and examine your spirituality. See check list below

• Do you read your Bible as much as you would like to?
• Do you feel as close to your God as you want to?
• Do you believe that if you were to spend more time in prayer you would be able to be closer to God?
• Do your job, your role in life, your commitments to the community, and your interpersonal relationships zap your every ounce of strength?
• Is your idea of rest the zombie-like state you achieve in front of the television between the last child’s making it to bed (finally) and the beginning of the late night show reminding you that you need to get to bed so that you can get up before the crack of dawn to do it all over again?

No, they are not running a desert commune somewhere. They do not advocate quitting your job, leaving behind your family, or chanting. They do not sell a “get spiritual quick” scheme, or promise to help you get your floundering life under control in five easy steps or less. As a matter of fact, they do not promise you anything. Instead, they offer you daring and yet doable “what if” scenarios. What if…

• ”…you had the courage to spend some time alone in silence and solitude?” (p. 92)
• ”…you dared to take God at His word and take a full day off for physical and spiritual rest?” (p. 75)
• ”…you were fully present in the relationships that matter most?” (p. 40)

”Can you imagine Him stressing out about His daily agenda? “Let’s see, I’ve got a budget meeting with Judas at seven, followed by an exorcism at nine, and then a nine-thirty anger management session with Peter. Oh no! I have twelve healings to conduct before close of business today. When will I ever have time to confront the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and still manage to hear all the prayers that are lifted up in My name?” (p. 20)

The suggestions the authors offer are easy to follow for everyone. They do not require the lifestyle of a monk, nun, or desert hermit. You do not have to forsake your life as you know it and take a vow of poverty. There is no guru to whom to pay sums of money in return for promises of bliss. Instead, your life can change this week ­ in your own home, with your family!

Are you ready to learn more and take back your life, take hold of your spirituality and grow it for all it is worth? If so, you will greatly benefit from the scriptural insights these authors offer. Why not give it a try? After all, what do you have to lose?