Encounter Grace: Moments of Hope, Joy, and Peace

Margaret Rash reviews a devotional by Ignatian-trained spiritual director Becky Eldredge. 

Encounter Grace: Moments of Hope, Joy, and Peace

By Becky Eldredge 

Publisher: Loyola Press 

Encounter Grace is an easy-to-use, unintimidating devotional for anyone looking for more moments in their lives to connect with God. Eldredge introduces the reader to some basic principles of Ignatian spirituality in a way that is easy to understand and implement in daily life.   

The daily readings are brief, with most shorter than a single page, and each reflection is followed by two questions for consideration. The reflections and questions could easily be taken to prayer and given some prayerful thought and meditation throughout your day as you go about your work. 

The Inner Chapel  

The book begins with a quick note to readers introducing the main idea of all the reflections in the devotional: the idea of our “inner chapel.”  

Your inner chapel is the idea that God is always present within you, and you can turn to God, in your heart, and be with Him there in a spirit of recollection regardless of where you are or what you are doing. Several saints have written about the inner chapel and encouraged the faithful to find rest with God there.  

The beautiful thing about this practice is that, for a busy parent, you never have to feel too busy to pray or to spend time with God. You can recall God's presence in daily life and contemplate in the inner chapel of your heart while you're doing the dishes, folding the laundry, or rocking a baby to sleep.  

This book is a simple, daily reminder of your ability to go to God in prayer, in your inner chapel, any day and any time. 

Simple Format  

The reflections are succinct, relatable, and easy to follow. The writing style is approachable and conversational. I also was definitely able to use both the reflections and the questions that followed for prayer.  

I recommend this book for anyone looking for a way to naturally incorporate more time with God into their day or for anyone who feels like they struggle to find the time to pray. It is a devotional that can be read and reread. 

Ask for Encounter Grace: Moments of Hope, Joy, and Peace by Becky Eldredge at your local Catholic bookseller, or order online from Loyola Press or Amazon. 

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

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