Are you ready to get your faith in shape? A 40-Day Spiritual Workout for Catholics is designed to bring about deeper transformation and conversion in your life. Rice challenges his readers to spend forty days developing a habit that will last a lifetime.
Each of the forty days includes a Scripture quote, a quote from a saint or the Catechism of the Catholic Church, a short reflection, thought-provoking questions, and a prayer. Your spiritual workout borrows concepts from physical training, including stretch, cardio, muscle-building, hydration, fat-burning, and cool down.
Rice talks about the importance of prayer for a Christian: Prayer isn't an option for Christians. It's what we do. Imagine meeting someone who says he is a runner but he doesn't like to run. Or a swimmer who doesn't ever go into the water. You'd tell them they aren't who they say they are. Runners run. Swimmers swim. Christians pray. Are you ready to work out? Are you ready to get to know Jesus? Think of Bob Rice as your personal trainer for the next forty days as you grow closer to Christ and strengthen your spiritual muscles.
I recommend this to anyone who is trying to get back into praying daily. I liked how the author structured this to mimic a physical workout. It is something one can continue on his own after the 40 day period. One can start it anytime as it is not tied to any particular part of the liturgical year.
This book was a spiritual treasure trove. I loved it! Each day I looked forward to the straightforward devotional and teaching. I especially loved reading the digital edition and always having it on me, on my phone, my iPad, my computer at work and home. Bob Rice has put together a great tool here that will spur spiritual growth and deeper devotion.
Each day has the following components: Title: Hydration: Bible verse or quotes. Reflection: Meditation Muscle-Building: Intercession Cardiovascular: Praise Cool Down: Prayer
The book is written in such a way that you have a short reading or readings each day from the bible; then quotes from Catholic authors, the Catechism or church writings. Then comes the teaching. And trust me, Bob's teaching is marvelous. This book will help you develop spiritual disciplines and improve upon those you already have. Once you start, you will find you keep up the habits well beyond the 40 days. It is a great read and I recommend it to anyone who wants a deeper spiritual life.