It shouldn't be surprising that we live in a world where there are many troubles, but it is still a painful experience to encounter them. For Christians who have been fatigued to the point of being unable to adopt the usual spiritual practices, In the Company of the Weary by Becky L. McCoy presents suggestions for alternate ways to worship or spiritually engage with God that don't have to feel like additional burdens.
This book doesn't quite align with my theological perspectives, but other Christians who are interested in contemplative spirituality will find this to be a thoughtful and well-written story and handbook.
Many thanks to Kregel Publications for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Content to be aware of: references to authors such as Richard Rohr, Ruth Haley Barton, Brian McLaren, Rachel Held Evans, Brother Lawrence, Henri Nouwen, Philip Yancey, mystics, etc.
Book Synopsis
Are you weary, feeling distant from God, and wondering if a spiritual life is possible for you?
If you're in the thick of grief, burnout, or mental illness, spirituality may feel like a burden you can't bear. Participating in common faith practices comes with a weight that might be too heavy to carry right now. When church isn't working―you just don't have the energy to show up, read the devotionals, sing the songs, or make the small talk anymore―what can you do to connect with God?
Becky L. McCoy faced this issue personally. Limited by grief and anxiety, she thought a spiritual life was out of reach until she began exploring contemplative practices and unlocked a gentle and accessible way of faith she never expected. As you walk through Becky's journey, you’ll be introduced to a new take on ancient practices and encouraged to
- rediscover meditation,
- shift your perspective on stillness and silence,
- realize spirituality should be full of curiosity and mystery, and
- learn that God is not interested in how much you know but in how you respond to your human limitations.
This gentle invitation is for you. Learn to reweave your faith with healthy practices that honor your needs and nourish your weary soul.
Source: Amazon
Book Thoughts
As someone who is more personally inclined toward systemic theology, reading a book about contemplative spirituality is out of my comfort zone. However, the premise of how tired souls can benefit from these practices piqued my interest based on wanting to broaden my understanding of other forms of Christianity. While that likely puts me in the minority of readers for In the Company of the Weary, many of the concepts referenced are familiar to all Christians, such as silence, celebration, and wonder. I appreciate that the author puts into practice the art of storytelling by weaving her own memoir into each chapter, making the content down-to-earth and approachable. As she pours herself into the pages, she is able to demonstrate how each spiritual practice has allowed her to draw closer to God, inviting readers to participate with her.
Although I don't seek out mysticism or the majority of the ancient rhythms and routines in my own Christian walk, this book has nevertheless provided me with a welcoming visitor's pass into this world. In granting me access to see how others going through immense difficulties in their lives may need these ways of reaching out to God, I can see how there are times where the soul and the body are too weary to engage in activities such as Bible study or church worship services. Grief, pain, loss, and burnout are just among a few of the reasons where we desperately want to call out to Him but may feel wholly incapable. Readers who lean more toward contemplative spirituality will find this book to be a respite from a weary world, offering simple steps to engage in the softer parts of life, such as through art, ritual, and meditation.
With that being said, this book is very much centred on spiritual formation and includes few references to the Bible. Recognizing that spiritual growth is not always an either/or journey and that it can be a both/and walk, I am grateful that there is room for diversity in the body of Christ to walk as His disciples in a variety of ways. This book wasn't necessarily for me, but it was a helpful guide in opening my eyes to what others may need and can benefit from in times of exhaustion and utter weariness.
Book Summary
- Format of book: 📖
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (this rating is solely for me and would likely be higher for those who subscribe to these spiritual practices)
- Recommendation: 👍 (only for those who subscribe to contemplative spirituality)
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