Books are the best! I rarely regret buying the book or reading the book. I do regret have given away books, especially those I can’t replace. I’m sharing a few of my past favorites today, books I pick up again just to read what I underlined or the notes I jotted down. It’s like seeing your old friends.

In no particular order, let me introduce you to my friends!

The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis, a satire in a series of letters from Screwtape to Wormwood. Wormwood is a demon in training; learning the ropes from senior demon Screwtape on how to get people on his side rather than God’s side. Originally published in 1942, the ways in which we succumb to evil is quite similar now.

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl tells the author’s story of imprisonment in Auschwitz and other concentration camps. He talks about how even in the midst of the harshest crimes against humanity and horrible suffering, people were able to find meaning in the suffering and choose their reaction. It is an amazing book that teaches us that we can rise above our experiences and expected responses.

The Holy Longing and Sacred Fire are both by Fr. Ronald Rolheiser. The third book in the series is Wrestling with God which I have not yet read. These two volumes talk about how we express our spirituality and answer the call of Jesus on our lives. If you are searching for a deeper relationship with God and wondering where he is leading you, pick up these books. You will not be disappointed.

Consoling the Heart of Jesus by Fr. Michael Gaitley is a do it yourself weekend retreat that you can take as long as you want to do! Based on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, Fr. Gaitley leads you through the exercises in a weekend, instead of a month in solitude. He gives practical tips on how to manage your time and energy and asks the questions that get to the heart of the topic presented. Even if you do go through the book in one weekend, you will find yourself going back it to again and again. Truly life-changing for me!

Hairspray, Holy Water and the Healing Hand of God by Debbie Eckert is one woman’s story of her lifelong conversion to a deeper and closer walk with the Lord. Debbie writes in a down to earth style; it’s like having a cup of coffee and chatting. If you ever wonder if God is working in your own life, reading this book will help you see an example and is sure to help you see him in your own life.

If you are looking for a great book for moms who don’t have lots of time to sit and read a devotional every day, look no more. try the Catholic Mom’s Prayer Companion from Ave Maria Press, written by over 50 authors. Each day includes a quote, reflection, prayer and question to ponder. Short, sweet and to the point. And, if you leave a comment in the comment box, you will be entered to win a copy! So leave a comment by Dec. 15, I’ll pick a winner on Dec 16 and get in touch with you then. So be sure to leave a comment (and your email), which no one will see but me, promise.

This week, why not read a book? Leave a comment and you can win the Prayer Companion!

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