Simply Scripture for Lent and Easter is bound to spark renewed interest in the Bible for curious Catholics. Author Colleen Reiss Vermeulen has done a phenomenal job of making Scripture accessible for a modern audience. Reading the Word of God can be critical for forming a closer relationship with the Lord. Simply Scripture is a guidebook which can propel the reader on a journey of discovery of the treasures that lie within the Bible. During the penitential season of Lent, many individuals search for ways to learn more about the Lord and His love for humanity. Simply Scripture can be an important resource in attaining not only that greater knowledge of God, but also forming a tight bond with Him.

This book manages to give you a very simple approach to engaging with Scripture while providing “hooks” to contemplate the passage of the day, tying it with the larger context of the Gospel of Mark, the Psalms, and reflection. I’ve begun using it in my daily meditations even though it’s not Lent! If you are just starting out your journey in praying with Scripture, the method here is the opposite of overwhelming. And if you’re more experienced, it will give you a great way to focus your contemplation. It’s a truly fruitful addition to any Christian’s prayer resources!

The Bible, in Proverbs 22:6, admonishes us to raise up children in the way they should go, so when they are old, they will not depart from it.: But as many parents know, this task is easier said than done. I firmly believe that the practice of religion begins first in the home, What the children see and do in the home will be the basis on which they grow in body, wisdom, and spirit. I tried with my own children to read the Bible at bedtime before saying our prayers. I cannot say that my Bible reading was as fruitful as i had hoped. We engaged with the texts very little. There were hardly any questions asked or answered. That is why Colleen Reiss Vermeulen's book, Simply Scripture is such a welcome and valuable resource for family worship. The book has short daily selections from the Psalms and from the Books of Mark and the Acts of the Apostles, specifically focusing on the the Lenten and Easter Season, but it can be read at any season. The practice of guided daily scripture reading is made simple by the prompts provided by the author, concerning the literal text, its spiritual significance, and its significance to our daily life.. The youngest of readers are encouraged to respond to the literal words of the text, while those already professing to be Christians can grow in their faith by finding strength and sanctuary in the word of God, wherein the mind and heart of God are revealed, and where each day we make time for Christ, who is our shepherd, Lord, and guide, in truth. As children or adults, we cannot come to truth in any other way than through the word of God.. Moreover, Colleen Reiss Vermeulen has not only made the Word more accessible in this book., but by firmly grounding the historical background in solid research and scholarship., she counters the doubts or unbelief abounding in our fallen world. We owe it to our children, our families, and our communities, to follow the instructions. so simply, yet very effectively laid out by this talented and dedicated servant of the Lord..

Whether a pilgrim trekking The Camino or a pilgrim laboring in a busy office or a pilgrim assisting a sick family member, Simply Scripture offers light for the path. Colleen Reiss Vermeulen lays out richness and depth amidst simplicity. Hopefully her debut book will be followed by others