Practices of Love

June 19, 2017
Bennett’s unique and satisfying work on meditation contrasts the standard view of meditation as a vertical affair (persons connecting with deity) with a horizontal perspective (contemplation as a way of connecting with and serving others). “Spiritual disciplines play a central part in our sanctification as believers and in God’s renewal of all things,” he writes. He goes on to provide a manual for reconfiguring the believer’s inner struggle toward experiencing God’s presence in the lives of ordinary people. Bennett’s message is clear and concise as he continually refers back to his basic tenets. For instance: “At the heart of service is the idea that our time, energy, hands, and goals belong to God.” A total, all-encompassing view of sanctification emerges in every page of this challenging work, which extends an invitation to all who call themselves believers. Bennett effectively implores readers to reach beyond the vertical view of worship and understand the importance of reverencing all of God’s creation.