The Catholic Book Blogger
In our technologically heavy world most people tend to allow the natural wonder of God’s creation pass them by. As the seasons pass from Spring to Summer to Fall to Winter and back to Spring once more, the only way nature grabs people’s attention is during a mishap. For the believer there is much untapped spiritual potential in simply walking outdoors, taking a deep breath and gazing upon God’s handiwork. Father John Bartunek has given a book to promote our “slowing down” and enjoying the wonder of nature. Spring Meditations
There was a lot to like about this little book. Father Bartunek makes a profound statement that has stayed with me even after I finished this book:
“As humans we are meant to unfold our lives in harmony with the natural world – or world – were created out of love and given to us as a home. They have something to tell us about our deeper identity, the purpose of our life, the way to fully live life. By cutting us off from direct, regular, and necessary contact with this natural environment, our technology-laden culture is threatening to sever an ancient and irreplaceable link to authentic wisdom.”
The book consists of twelve chapters, each drawing our attention to the wonders of nature around us. These twelve meditations are intended to be used one per week of the season. Father Bartunek suggests reading each of the meditations at the beginning of the week, highlighting and making notations throughout the reading that grab your attention. The rest of the week should be spent in reflection of those points as well as putting into action one of the suggested activities.
The twelve chapters cover Hope, Courage, Love, Humility, Loyalty, Patience, Responsibility, Wisdom, Discernment, Purpose, Beauty, and Faith. These are all virtue we need to work on and this format allows the reader to reconnect with the important rhythms of life. Each chapter opens with a section on the topic relates to nature. Father Bartunek then includes personal reflections on his own life experiences relative to the topic. Rounding out each chapter is a section of questions designed to encourage reflection on what was just read.
“I also hope that making myself vulnerable in this way will encourage you to reflect on the richness of your own life experience to find the lessons, the nuggets of wisdom, that God, in his generous providence, always offers to you.”
The good news about this book of meditations is that it’s only the beginning. There are plans for similar meditation volumes on Summer, Fall and Winter as well. Welcome additions to any library. Father Bartunek has provided a valuable resource for our day and age. A book of meditations that will put us back in touch with God’s creation. Too often we allow ourselves to be consumed by the inhuman, digitized world we are surrounded by (your present reviewer included). It is helpful to have gentle reminders to turn our face back to God and pay attention to what he created for our use.
To learn more about this book visit Liguori Publications.
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