Lenten Reading

On the way out of church this past Sunday, a parishioner asked me to recommend some reading for Lent. She was remembering an ancient tradition. The Rule of St. Benedict, probably written around 530, says 'during the time of Lent each one is to receive a book form the library, and is to read the whole of it straight through. These books are to be distributed at the beginning of Lent.' (RB 48.15)

I think for most of us, if we want to assume this ancient practice, our best bet is to go to scripture.

I would recommend choosing a longer, significant book of scripture and make it our Lenten Study. From the Old Testament I would recommend Genesis, Exodus, Job or Isaiah. From the New Testament I would recommend any of the Gospels, Romans, I Corinthians or Hebrews.

I would then recommend getting the HarperCollins Bible Commentary, if you don't already have it, and read it alongside the text. First, I would read the introduction to the book in the commentary. Then, I would read the whole book through in just one sitting or two. Then, each day in Lent, I would read a small portion of the text, accompanied by the commentary, taking time to stop at words or phrases that really spoke to me. Perhaps it would also be helpful to jot down reflections and reactions as you go along.

There are, of course many other books that can be helpful. These include classics like Augustine's Confessions, The Imitation of Christ and the works of Julian of Norwich. Authors like CS Lewis, Thomas Merton and Henri Nouwan can be reliable and thoughtful companions. Finally, I also find it helpful to read accounts of Holy Lives. I recently read the Seven Story Mountain by Thomas Merton and enjoyed or a great group biography of mid 20th Century American Roman Catholics entitled The Life You Save May be Your Own.

Personally, this Lent I feel drawn back to Dante. I plan to begin rereading the Inferno tomorrow morning. I always learn from and am moved by his journey through hell, purgatory and heaven.

I also see that the Daily office lectionary asks us to focus on the Gospel of Mark, starting with the first chapter this coming Monday. My intention is to complement the Daily Office with some extra study of and reflection on Mark.

I would be happy to meet one on one with anyone interested in assuming a Lenten practice of reading.