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Rediscover Jesus: An Invitation
How well do you know Jesus? I think about this often, and I always come to the same realization. I don’t know Jesus anywhere near as well as I would like to know him. The desire is there, but life gets in the way. There are times when I seem to be making great progress, and other times when I wonder if I know him at all. But I always arrive back at the same inspiring and haunting idea: If there is one person that we should each get to know in a deeply personal way, it is Jesus – the carpenter from Nazareth, the itinerant preacher, the Son of God, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, the Lamb of God, the new Adam, the Messiah, the Alpha and the Omega, the Chosen One, the Light of the World, the God-Man who wants good things for us more than we want them for ourselves, the healer of our souls.
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2015
576 people are currently reading
3098 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Kelly
188 books1,394 followersMatthew Kelly is a best-selling author, speaker, thought leader, entrepreneur, consultant, spiritual leader, and innovator.
He has dedicated his life to helping people and organizations become the-best-version-of-themselves. Born in Sydney, Australia, he began speaking and writing in his late teens while he was attending business school. Since that time, 5 million people have attended his seminars and presentations in more than 50 countries.
Today, Kelly is an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, and business consultant. His books have been published in more than 30 languages, have appeared on The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestseller lists, and have sold more than 50 million copies.
In his early-twenties he developed "the-best-version-of-yourself" concept and has been sharing it in every arena of life for more than twenty-five years. It is quoted by presidents and celebrities, athletes and their coaches, business leaders and innovators, though perhaps it is never more powerfully quoted than when a mother or father asks a child, "Will that help you become the-best-version-of-yourself?"
Kelly's personal interests include golf, music, art, literature, investing, spirituality, and spending time with his wife, Meggie, and their children Walter, Isabel, Harry, Ralph, and Simon.
He has dedicated his life to helping people and organizations become the-best-version-of-themselves. Born in Sydney, Australia, he began speaking and writing in his late teens while he was attending business school. Since that time, 5 million people have attended his seminars and presentations in more than 50 countries.
Today, Kelly is an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, and business consultant. His books have been published in more than 30 languages, have appeared on The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestseller lists, and have sold more than 50 million copies.
In his early-twenties he developed "the-best-version-of-yourself" concept and has been sharing it in every arena of life for more than twenty-five years. It is quoted by presidents and celebrities, athletes and their coaches, business leaders and innovators, though perhaps it is never more powerfully quoted than when a mother or father asks a child, "Will that help you become the-best-version-of-yourself?"
Kelly's personal interests include golf, music, art, literature, investing, spirituality, and spending time with his wife, Meggie, and their children Walter, Isabel, Harry, Ralph, and Simon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 453 reviews
August 19, 2015
Rediscover Jesus is an approximately 200 page hardcover with a purple dust jacket and deckle-edged pages. I'm not sure what it is about deckle-edged pages, but they seem to be heavily favored by publishers lately. The book itself is 40 chapters long, with no chapter spanning more than five pages. The choice of 40 chapters seems deliberate by the author as 40 is a very important Biblical number, i.e., the Flood, the Israelites wandering in the desert, and Jesus' time in the desert. With the purple dust jacket and 40 chapters, I wonder if Matthew Kelly intended this book to be a daily Lenten read. If he didn't, I would highly recommend doing so! At the end of every chapter are four things to help the chapter crystallize in your brain - 1. Point to Ponder, 2. Verse to Live, 3. Question to Consider, 4. Prayer. I would recommend writing each verse down on a notecard and trying to memorize them, but that may just be the former Protestant in me.
The book is short, but powerful. Each chapter, which can be read in ten minutes or less, provides a jolt to start your day and also make you uncomfortable...in a good way. Kelly points out how little we actually know about Jesus, going so far as to say, "The thing that unsettles me is that sometimes I think I know people on the periphery of my life better than I know Jesus." This was a slap in the face, and it was one that I desperately needed to read. Chapter 40 "The Hour of Power" addressed two things I struggle with - silence and adoration. There's something about sitting there alone with God in silence that is intimidating to me. I have a hard time keeping my mind from wandering; keeping my mouth shut and letting God talk; and just sitting still in the awesome presence of God. This is definitely something for me to work on, but I believe I will have to incrementally build up to an hour, because I am weak.
This level of conciseness that Matthew Kelly achieves in this book makes this book very approachable. He didn't use flowery language or overly complicated language. He just laid it out for you plain and simple. I have a habit of saying that some books are a challenging read, but this book was instead a read that challenged you. As Catholics, we don't really think about a personal relationship with Jesus like our Protestant brethren do, but we need to! This book shows us not only that we need that personal relationship, but helps us to achieve it as well. I read through this book quickly, because the book lent itself to that style of reading. However, I have placed this book on my shelf to read again during Lent. Then, I will take my time and read through each chapter a day to let the message fully sink in and take hold. I strongly recommend this book to all Catholics.
The book is short, but powerful. Each chapter, which can be read in ten minutes or less, provides a jolt to start your day and also make you uncomfortable...in a good way. Kelly points out how little we actually know about Jesus, going so far as to say, "The thing that unsettles me is that sometimes I think I know people on the periphery of my life better than I know Jesus." This was a slap in the face, and it was one that I desperately needed to read. Chapter 40 "The Hour of Power" addressed two things I struggle with - silence and adoration. There's something about sitting there alone with God in silence that is intimidating to me. I have a hard time keeping my mind from wandering; keeping my mouth shut and letting God talk; and just sitting still in the awesome presence of God. This is definitely something for me to work on, but I believe I will have to incrementally build up to an hour, because I am weak.
This level of conciseness that Matthew Kelly achieves in this book makes this book very approachable. He didn't use flowery language or overly complicated language. He just laid it out for you plain and simple. I have a habit of saying that some books are a challenging read, but this book was instead a read that challenged you. As Catholics, we don't really think about a personal relationship with Jesus like our Protestant brethren do, but we need to! This book shows us not only that we need that personal relationship, but helps us to achieve it as well. I read through this book quickly, because the book lent itself to that style of reading. However, I have placed this book on my shelf to read again during Lent. Then, I will take my time and read through each chapter a day to let the message fully sink in and take hold. I strongly recommend this book to all Catholics.
February 28, 2023
I couldn’t have found a better way to spend this Sunday morning than I did reading this book today. I feel energized. I feel inspired. I feel joyful.
I took away so many ideas from this book. I want to write down some of them (I urge you, though, if you feel the tiniest bit of desire to read this book to not use this little summary of my thoughts as a replacement for the book) so that I can think about them a bit and put them into action.
1. “Generosity and forgiveness are two of the most radical invitations the Gospel makes. They are also among the most difficult to live.”
2. “Jesus wants you to...astonish people with your generosity. He wants you to be generous with your time, talent, and treasure. But he invites you to be generous with your praise and encouragement. He wants you to be generous with your compassion and patience. He wants generosity to reach into every area of your life so that through you he can love and intrigue the people in your life.”
3. ‘(Jesus) calls us beyond forgiveness….”Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)’
4. We should be giving preferential treatment to the least of people.
5. “Jesus promised us suffering.” But he tells us that suffering has value.
6. If we just followed Jesus’ command, “Do not judge,” we would change the world.
7. Jesus doesn’t just want to tweak our lives; he wants to transform our lives.
8. We can live holy lives. Moment by moment. Holy moment by holy moment.
9. Ways to get close to Jesus: Read the Gospels. Pray fully. Deny yourself.
10. The presence of God is joyful.
I took away so many ideas from this book. I want to write down some of them (I urge you, though, if you feel the tiniest bit of desire to read this book to not use this little summary of my thoughts as a replacement for the book) so that I can think about them a bit and put them into action.
1. “Generosity and forgiveness are two of the most radical invitations the Gospel makes. They are also among the most difficult to live.”
2. “Jesus wants you to...astonish people with your generosity. He wants you to be generous with your time, talent, and treasure. But he invites you to be generous with your praise and encouragement. He wants you to be generous with your compassion and patience. He wants generosity to reach into every area of your life so that through you he can love and intrigue the people in your life.”
3. ‘(Jesus) calls us beyond forgiveness….”Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)’
4. We should be giving preferential treatment to the least of people.
5. “Jesus promised us suffering.” But he tells us that suffering has value.
6. If we just followed Jesus’ command, “Do not judge,” we would change the world.
7. Jesus doesn’t just want to tweak our lives; he wants to transform our lives.
8. We can live holy lives. Moment by moment. Holy moment by holy moment.
9. Ways to get close to Jesus: Read the Gospels. Pray fully. Deny yourself.
10. The presence of God is joyful.
March 11, 2017
I hate giving a well-meaning Christian author a poor rating, but honestly this book read like a book of Sunday school lessons for middle grade children. While I was expecting simplicity from this book, I still wanted the short daily devotions to offer some depth and insight, and I'm afraid Mr. Kelly had little to offer of either.
Despite how short some of the readings are (most were about two pages) the author CONSTANTLY repeats himself. He states a thought, and then continues restating it throughout the rest of the reading with slight variations. No, Mr. Kelly, this does not help reinforce your point. Instead of expounding upon and elaborating on your thought, it felt like you were just filling the paper with more words. A few times in the book he even recycles exact sentences.
Also, as a critique that is more personal than objective, I'm one of those Scroogy people that can't stand constant enthusiasm or silly examples. This book has an excess of enthusiasm, so it follows that we didn't get along. Also the corny, fake scenarios to illustrate a point. His "Jesus Air" example was just cringe, cringe, CRINGE. Guys, please. This is just the sort of nonsense that makes Christians look like fools. Ugh.
However, I'd like to point out that nothing that was taught in this book was at all bad theology and my low rating is due entirely to it's being poorly written.
Despite how short some of the readings are (most were about two pages) the author CONSTANTLY repeats himself. He states a thought, and then continues restating it throughout the rest of the reading with slight variations. No, Mr. Kelly, this does not help reinforce your point. Instead of expounding upon and elaborating on your thought, it felt like you were just filling the paper with more words. A few times in the book he even recycles exact sentences.
Also, as a critique that is more personal than objective, I'm one of those Scroogy people that can't stand constant enthusiasm or silly examples. This book has an excess of enthusiasm, so it follows that we didn't get along. Also the corny, fake scenarios to illustrate a point. His "Jesus Air" example was just cringe, cringe, CRINGE. Guys, please. This is just the sort of nonsense that makes Christians look like fools. Ugh.
However, I'd like to point out that nothing that was taught in this book was at all bad theology and my low rating is due entirely to it's being poorly written.
September 2, 2016
Over the past year I have read 11 books by Matthew Kelly. Each has challenged me, and each has had an immediate impact on my live. The main theme running through his writings is about:
“Becoming the Best Version of Yourself!”
And that theme continues in this volume. Kelly states in the introduction that the book can be read two ways. “There are two ways to experience this book. The first is like with any other book: Read it from cover to cover. The other way is to use this book as a guide to a forty-day spiritual journey, reading a chapter a day. This second way is a perfect way to begin (or nourish) a habit of daily prayer.” And I have read it through twice using both methods. And to be honest this is one of the best books for spiritual growth. Each chapter is laid out the same way:
Main Teaching Point
Point to Ponder
Verse to Live
Question to Consider
Prayer
Each of these last 4 elements in each chapter really drive home the points of the chapter. To be honest I plan on taking the 40 ‘Verse to Live’ sections and memorizing them. The ‘Point to Ponder’ is a quick summary of the chapter. The ‘Question to Consider’ can be used for journaling or just reflection. And both times I read through the book I prayer each of the prayers and suggest you do so also. Do not just read them actually pray them. I really believe that if you are willing to read this book with an open heart your life will be transformed.
One of the things I like most about this book is that Kelly guides us often by questions. For example, in he asks:
“Who do people say that Jesus is? Who do you say that Jesus is? Who does Jesus say that you are? These are three questions worthy of our attention.”
And most of the book focuses on helping guide us to answers to these questions. A quote from this book that really stuck with me was:
“The Gospel may be difficult to live, but it is unrelentingly simple in its teaching. The Gospel is radically simple, and there is genius in its simplicity.”
Kelly also emphasis that we need to love and care for ourselves if we are really to be of service to others. He declared:
“A healthy sense of self-love is essential to the life of a Christian. God desires it for you. This self-love can coexist with true humility.”
Matthew Kelly writes in a clear concise style. He makes the practice of faith very applicable. When I read these next two quotes I though about not only my own life but especially my children. How can I live this better and how can I teach them to:
“Our sight is an incredible gift from God. The Gospel invites us to practice custody of the eyes, which simply means having the self-control to decide what we allow ourselves to look at. In our hypersexual culture we are constantly being visually harassed by sexual images. This makes maintaining custody of the eyes a constant struggle. Some things we look at help us become the-best-version-of-ourselves, and others don’t. Having custody of the eyes means exercising the self-control to not look at the things that don’t help us become the-best-version-of-ourselves.”
And
“Images are powerful. You cannot unsee things. Edit what you look at. Custody of the eyes is a sure path to spiritual growth.”
It really got me thinking about what I read, what I listen to and what I watch. I know we are to be in this world but not of it. But I really needed this reminder. After reading this section and praying I removed a number of books and a bunch music from my phone and tablet. And to be honest that relates directly to the next quote:
“The teachings of Jesus Christ are radical. For two thousand years men and women of all ages, from all walks of life— rich and poor, young and old, educated and uneducated— have been allowing these teachings to transform them. Now the question is, will you?”
And that is what I am striving to do and what this book can challenge us all to do. This book has a prayer of transformation, I have started praying it regularly as a reminder:
“Loving Father,
Here I am.
I trust that you have an incredible plan for me.
Transform me. Transform my life.
Everything is on the table.
Take what you want to take and give what you want to give.
Transform me into the person you created me to be, so I can live the life you
you envision for me.
I hold nothing back;
I am 100 percent available.
How can I help?
Amen.
Would you be willing to take the risk that God would actually answer that prayer? Are you willing to risk a shake up to your spiritual life, to all area’s of your life? If so I can highly recommend it. If you want to just keep ambling through life then do not give it a read.
Thank you Matthew Kelly for writing this book and for the ministry of Dynamic Catholic. This book was an incredible read and I highly recommend it.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Matthew Kelly.
(Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: A Year of Reading Intention - Catholic Reading!)
“Becoming the Best Version of Yourself!”
And that theme continues in this volume. Kelly states in the introduction that the book can be read two ways. “There are two ways to experience this book. The first is like with any other book: Read it from cover to cover. The other way is to use this book as a guide to a forty-day spiritual journey, reading a chapter a day. This second way is a perfect way to begin (or nourish) a habit of daily prayer.” And I have read it through twice using both methods. And to be honest this is one of the best books for spiritual growth. Each chapter is laid out the same way:
Main Teaching Point
Point to Ponder
Verse to Live
Question to Consider
Prayer
Each of these last 4 elements in each chapter really drive home the points of the chapter. To be honest I plan on taking the 40 ‘Verse to Live’ sections and memorizing them. The ‘Point to Ponder’ is a quick summary of the chapter. The ‘Question to Consider’ can be used for journaling or just reflection. And both times I read through the book I prayer each of the prayers and suggest you do so also. Do not just read them actually pray them. I really believe that if you are willing to read this book with an open heart your life will be transformed.
One of the things I like most about this book is that Kelly guides us often by questions. For example, in he asks:
“Who do people say that Jesus is? Who do you say that Jesus is? Who does Jesus say that you are? These are three questions worthy of our attention.”
And most of the book focuses on helping guide us to answers to these questions. A quote from this book that really stuck with me was:
“The Gospel may be difficult to live, but it is unrelentingly simple in its teaching. The Gospel is radically simple, and there is genius in its simplicity.”
Kelly also emphasis that we need to love and care for ourselves if we are really to be of service to others. He declared:
“A healthy sense of self-love is essential to the life of a Christian. God desires it for you. This self-love can coexist with true humility.”
Matthew Kelly writes in a clear concise style. He makes the practice of faith very applicable. When I read these next two quotes I though about not only my own life but especially my children. How can I live this better and how can I teach them to:
“Our sight is an incredible gift from God. The Gospel invites us to practice custody of the eyes, which simply means having the self-control to decide what we allow ourselves to look at. In our hypersexual culture we are constantly being visually harassed by sexual images. This makes maintaining custody of the eyes a constant struggle. Some things we look at help us become the-best-version-of-ourselves, and others don’t. Having custody of the eyes means exercising the self-control to not look at the things that don’t help us become the-best-version-of-ourselves.”
And
“Images are powerful. You cannot unsee things. Edit what you look at. Custody of the eyes is a sure path to spiritual growth.”
It really got me thinking about what I read, what I listen to and what I watch. I know we are to be in this world but not of it. But I really needed this reminder. After reading this section and praying I removed a number of books and a bunch music from my phone and tablet. And to be honest that relates directly to the next quote:
“The teachings of Jesus Christ are radical. For two thousand years men and women of all ages, from all walks of life— rich and poor, young and old, educated and uneducated— have been allowing these teachings to transform them. Now the question is, will you?”
And that is what I am striving to do and what this book can challenge us all to do. This book has a prayer of transformation, I have started praying it regularly as a reminder:
“Loving Father,
Here I am.
I trust that you have an incredible plan for me.
Transform me. Transform my life.
Everything is on the table.
Take what you want to take and give what you want to give.
Transform me into the person you created me to be, so I can live the life you
you envision for me.
I hold nothing back;
I am 100 percent available.
How can I help?
Amen.
Would you be willing to take the risk that God would actually answer that prayer? Are you willing to risk a shake up to your spiritual life, to all area’s of your life? If so I can highly recommend it. If you want to just keep ambling through life then do not give it a read.
Thank you Matthew Kelly for writing this book and for the ministry of Dynamic Catholic. This book was an incredible read and I highly recommend it.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Matthew Kelly.
(Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: A Year of Reading Intention - Catholic Reading!)
August 19, 2015
Loved this easy read that guides the reader to a personal relationship with Christ--or deepening your relationship with Christ.
Truly an appealing invite to readers to encounter Jesus deeply. This book answers an urgent need that I have found in Catholics all over North America: people of good will, rooted and raised in the Catholic Faith, who are Catholic mostly just for Sunday Mass and special occasions, who desperately need a personal relationship with Jesus. This book wonderfully addresses this need, inviting readers in to their own personal relationship with Jesus through:
Conversational style and short, easily digestible portions. Broken down into 40 short chapters, this book covers the basics of what it means to live a Christian life--one nugget at a time. For the most part, this book was simply a joy to read.
Four concrete interactive invitations at the end of every chapter, each of which appeal to a different part of our personhood. To Ponder engages the mind, Verse to Live (taken from the Gospels) can engage almost any part of us, depending on how we read it; Question to Consider engages our memories and life experience, and Prayer engages our hearts. Almost every reader will find at least one of those four points striking. These interactive invites allow us as readers to reflect on the message of the chapter in a way that is deeply personal.
Relational approach--not just because of the conversational style, but because of how Matthew Kelly is definitely trying to encourage us to develop our own personal relationship with Jesus--the one relationship that we all thirst for, whether we know it or not.
The topics of the chapters rotate, but I found three main themes running through the book. The first nine or so chapters seem to focus more on who God is and who Jesus is--especially as we can come to know him through the Gospels and through prayer. These first chapters are shorter, extremely inviting and appealing, and motivating. They're great not just for people who need a personal relationship with Jesus, but also for those who seek to deepen their relationship with Christ. My favorite chapters of the book were these first chapters and the last few chapters because they focus so well on the personal. What does Jesus truly want for us? How does Jesus think of us? How do we think of Jesus? How can we give Jesus our all?
Midbook chapters (11 through 20 or so) seem to focus on the heart of Jesus' Gospel teaching, especially how we are called as followers of Christ to imitate him.
From there to the end, the chapters primarily focus on transformation: how Christ wants to and will transform our lives if we allow him--so that we can be truly, deeply happy, so that we can be our best selves. In a particular way, the last ten or so chapters discuss holiness--in a way that is accessible to everyone.
Author Matthew Kelly knows his readers and their interests, issues, and concerns and addresses them effectively and invitationally. Although I read the book in just three short sittings, I would recommend instead reading a chapter a day. This will give the reader the opportunity to take time with each chapter's invitation, and facilitate a 40-day journey for the reader to either begin or actively grow in one's relationship with Jesus.
Who would especially benefit from this book?
The average Catholic in the pew
Anyone interested in beginning or renewing their spiritual life
RCIA--people learning to live the Christian life as personal relationship with Christ
Teens or young adults starting to make their faith their own. This doesn't look like a book for those receiving Confirmation, but it would be awesome if every confirmandee read it!
Anyone with a personal relationship with Christ will enjoy deepening that relationship with some of the creative, refreshing and contemporary "takes" that can enrich our prayer.
Those who want to learn how to communicate Christ: fresh, original and contemporary language; creative suggestions for praying with the Gospels; a contemporary invitation to tradition/faith that is accessible to a "newbie"
Truly an appealing invite to readers to encounter Jesus deeply. This book answers an urgent need that I have found in Catholics all over North America: people of good will, rooted and raised in the Catholic Faith, who are Catholic mostly just for Sunday Mass and special occasions, who desperately need a personal relationship with Jesus. This book wonderfully addresses this need, inviting readers in to their own personal relationship with Jesus through:
Conversational style and short, easily digestible portions. Broken down into 40 short chapters, this book covers the basics of what it means to live a Christian life--one nugget at a time. For the most part, this book was simply a joy to read.
Four concrete interactive invitations at the end of every chapter, each of which appeal to a different part of our personhood. To Ponder engages the mind, Verse to Live (taken from the Gospels) can engage almost any part of us, depending on how we read it; Question to Consider engages our memories and life experience, and Prayer engages our hearts. Almost every reader will find at least one of those four points striking. These interactive invites allow us as readers to reflect on the message of the chapter in a way that is deeply personal.
Relational approach--not just because of the conversational style, but because of how Matthew Kelly is definitely trying to encourage us to develop our own personal relationship with Jesus--the one relationship that we all thirst for, whether we know it or not.
The topics of the chapters rotate, but I found three main themes running through the book. The first nine or so chapters seem to focus more on who God is and who Jesus is--especially as we can come to know him through the Gospels and through prayer. These first chapters are shorter, extremely inviting and appealing, and motivating. They're great not just for people who need a personal relationship with Jesus, but also for those who seek to deepen their relationship with Christ. My favorite chapters of the book were these first chapters and the last few chapters because they focus so well on the personal. What does Jesus truly want for us? How does Jesus think of us? How do we think of Jesus? How can we give Jesus our all?
Midbook chapters (11 through 20 or so) seem to focus on the heart of Jesus' Gospel teaching, especially how we are called as followers of Christ to imitate him.
From there to the end, the chapters primarily focus on transformation: how Christ wants to and will transform our lives if we allow him--so that we can be truly, deeply happy, so that we can be our best selves. In a particular way, the last ten or so chapters discuss holiness--in a way that is accessible to everyone.
Author Matthew Kelly knows his readers and their interests, issues, and concerns and addresses them effectively and invitationally. Although I read the book in just three short sittings, I would recommend instead reading a chapter a day. This will give the reader the opportunity to take time with each chapter's invitation, and facilitate a 40-day journey for the reader to either begin or actively grow in one's relationship with Jesus.
Who would especially benefit from this book?
The average Catholic in the pew
Anyone interested in beginning or renewing their spiritual life
RCIA--people learning to live the Christian life as personal relationship with Christ
Teens or young adults starting to make their faith their own. This doesn't look like a book for those receiving Confirmation, but it would be awesome if every confirmandee read it!
Anyone with a personal relationship with Christ will enjoy deepening that relationship with some of the creative, refreshing and contemporary "takes" that can enrich our prayer.
Those who want to learn how to communicate Christ: fresh, original and contemporary language; creative suggestions for praying with the Gospels; a contemporary invitation to tradition/faith that is accessible to a "newbie"
January 27, 2016
I was given a copy of this at the Christmas mass at my parish, which I liked, since this is suggested as a meditation for Lent. And if I was a lukewarm Catholic who simply needed a little nudge, or maybe a teen Catholic who needed a little urge to go deeper in my faith, it might have been very effective. The tone is simple, the message clear, the theology solid. The tone, at times, slips into the patronising, but not to an overbearing degree. But I would argue that it's really too simple to appeal appropriately to any other audiences- those who are strong in their faith, or well-read in their theology would be better off reading something more challenging, and non-believers or those doubting their faith find nothing to really coax them back or speak to them. I am disappointed more that there is nothing much for the latter. I was also turned off a bit by there being not one but three advertisements for how to buy more copies of this book for your book club or parish within the book itself- right in the middle of meditations. That was done in really poor taste.
February 17, 2016
I just don't find Matthew Kelly insightful enough to warrant 15 different books.
February 10, 2016
Looking to step it up a bit for Lent this year? I cannot recommend Matthew Kelly's Rediscover Jesus: An Invitation highly enough.
If you have looked at this book and others like it before (maybe even passed them on to someone else), but thought they're not really meant for you - you're wrong.
If you think your spiritual life is too advanced for a book like this, you're wrong.
If you don't like Matthew Kelly and have therefore dumped this book into the "that's probably very nice, but it's not for me" category, you're wrong.
If you walked past it on the back table at church thinking "someone else probably needs it more than me," you're wrong.
It doesn't matter where you are in your faith journey - whether you and Jesus are besties or you're not even really sure if he's for real or anywhere in between - this book can be for you.
Get a free copy here: http://cart.dynamiccatholic.com/Free-...
If you have looked at this book and others like it before (maybe even passed them on to someone else), but thought they're not really meant for you - you're wrong.
If you think your spiritual life is too advanced for a book like this, you're wrong.
If you don't like Matthew Kelly and have therefore dumped this book into the "that's probably very nice, but it's not for me" category, you're wrong.
If you walked past it on the back table at church thinking "someone else probably needs it more than me," you're wrong.
It doesn't matter where you are in your faith journey - whether you and Jesus are besties or you're not even really sure if he's for real or anywhere in between - this book can be for you.
Get a free copy here: http://cart.dynamiccatholic.com/Free-...
January 29, 2016
"When you stop, when you come to understand and deeply believe that this is only the beginning of our eternal walk with God the Father, everything is different. Different instantly, different forever. You are overwhelmed with the beautiful, deep, joyful, and penetrating peace that comes from knowing that you are home today and forever. Fear is gone forever. You are like a ship that travels along of coast of endless safe harbors. Storms may come but the harbor is always moments away."
March 28, 2016
This was a wonderful book to enjoy daily throughout Lent. Matthew Kelly is a no-nonsense, humble and relatable author.
July 23, 2017
Started every morning with this book. Each day I was yearning to pick it up again. Beautiful and inspiring! ❤️
January 27, 2021
As someone who believes in being as transparent as possible, I will admit that lately, I’ve been struggling with my relationship with Jesus. I would even go as far to say that I’ve been viewing myself as more spiritual than religious. Having said this, through reading this book, I have come to realize that having and maintaining a relationship with Jesus is a relationship that has to be worked on daily.
This book has been a godsend and I like that the book is written in a way that it can be read in one setting or over a forty day period. The author does a great job of presenting information in an easy to understand way. In addition, I like that each chapter ends with a point to ponder, a verse to live by, a question to consider and a short prayer.
I view this book as a valuable tool to help me to live more like Jesus and show his love through my daily life. Having read this book has helped me with the rebuilding a foundation for a stronger relationship with Jesus is something that is doable and it requires a desire and excitement to get to know him on an intimate basis.
This book has been a godsend and I like that the book is written in a way that it can be read in one setting or over a forty day period. The author does a great job of presenting information in an easy to understand way. In addition, I like that each chapter ends with a point to ponder, a verse to live by, a question to consider and a short prayer.
I view this book as a valuable tool to help me to live more like Jesus and show his love through my daily life. Having read this book has helped me with the rebuilding a foundation for a stronger relationship with Jesus is something that is doable and it requires a desire and excitement to get to know him on an intimate basis.
December 29, 2015
Mathew Kelly writes on a very simplistic level. His voice is a gentle one trying coax a person who has not been talking to God back into a conversation with him. It is not for a person who has studied their faith or is currently practicing their faith everyday. And frankly, if a person I knew wanted to learn more about the Catholic faith I don't think I would recommend Mr. Kelly. I would direct them to Fr. Robert Baron books and video series' or the Youth Catechism which is a wealth of knowledge about the church written in a very simple and friendly way.
June 1, 2016
Wonderful book for Christians or Catholics, who are trying to become "better versions of themselves". Read this in conjunction with a group who met weekly for discussion. I enjoyed both the book and the discussion group. The book definitely makes one think about and question one's life and gives practical ideas on how to improve through a better understanding of and relationship with Jesus.
May 22, 2020
Excellent inspiring 40 day devotional. It gave me things to implement again in my life.
August 28, 2021
When you read a book to appease your grandparents...
November 30, 2020
Beautiful and profound! Perfectly unpacks in 40 chapters how living the Gospel and Jesus' truth will bring you joy and peace.
June 3, 2019
perfect axillary reading to the Pope's sermons at World Youth Day's 1 million youth masses. Not fluent in Italian or Spanish and without a radio for two of the Pope's sermons, this book helped me contemplate the meaning and guidance of Christianity (with those around me before and after what little I was able to take away from the most powerful Catholic services I have ever been apart of).
Listening to The Masses, Dreams, and Personal Inspirations of the POPE in his excellency is the height of my religious experience up to this point. The pope is the leader of the Catholic nation, 2 billion strong. Organized with the theme of my age group, those I relate to in one way or another, made each sentence that much more powerful. The emotion in the ampitheater was palpable, and with every compounding moral of his stories, chills through my spine with each word of inspiration. With every breath of wind that swept through the corridors of the Cinta Costera pier, my soul was swept with it, joining in a collective gasp with the other million youth around me.
While at times -such as the hour long Hail Mary and Ave Maria tribute in all major Latin-derived dialects- I was taken aback by the blind acceptance of faith, for the most part, moments of this week-long of masses will live in my life for years to come. I have solved every question that has been plaguing me since my half-life crisis (upon turning 25yo) with Faith's stance on the equation to the solutions. All that is left for me is to practice recommitting myself everyday or every week and realize the promised land is in sight. I have walked many mountains to get to this mountain, and I can finally see through the clouded cliffs to the top.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep. - Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost
Listening to The Masses, Dreams, and Personal Inspirations of the POPE in his excellency is the height of my religious experience up to this point. The pope is the leader of the Catholic nation, 2 billion strong. Organized with the theme of my age group, those I relate to in one way or another, made each sentence that much more powerful. The emotion in the ampitheater was palpable, and with every compounding moral of his stories, chills through my spine with each word of inspiration. With every breath of wind that swept through the corridors of the Cinta Costera pier, my soul was swept with it, joining in a collective gasp with the other million youth around me.
While at times -such as the hour long Hail Mary and Ave Maria tribute in all major Latin-derived dialects- I was taken aback by the blind acceptance of faith, for the most part, moments of this week-long of masses will live in my life for years to come. I have solved every question that has been plaguing me since my half-life crisis (upon turning 25yo) with Faith's stance on the equation to the solutions. All that is left for me is to practice recommitting myself everyday or every week and realize the promised land is in sight. I have walked many mountains to get to this mountain, and I can finally see through the clouded cliffs to the top.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep. - Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost
June 6, 2016
Matthew Kelly, author of Rediscover Jesus uses clear arguments to explain his viewpoints. The preciseness of language used throughout the book makes it easy for the reader to comprehend the message he is trying to share. Kelly not only explains his views, but he also includes real stories of when Jesus has positively encountered in someone’s life. This helps the reader better understand the works of God. These small stories that are included in the larger novel balance the internal views of Kelly with the external action happening in the stories. His word choice defines the balance between the internal character development and external action which keeps the story moving. The ideas presented in Rediscover Jesus made me want to read more, especially due to the interesting scenarios presented throughout the book where Jesus helped make beneficial changes in many people’s lives.
The author of Rediscover Jesus, Matthew Kelly is characterized as a compassionate mentor due to his inspiring tone throughout the novel. Matthew Kelly kept a positive tone throughout the book when discussing the topic of faith. A clear example of Kelly’s inspirational outlook is depicted when he says, “One of the things I love about our faith is that our God is a God of second chances, fresh starts, and new beginnings.” Precise words were chosen to provide a positive sense, making the novel an uplifting read. Christian readers or people looking for insight on afterlife would find this book most appealing due to the topics shared and discussed.
The author of Rediscover Jesus, Matthew Kelly is characterized as a compassionate mentor due to his inspiring tone throughout the novel. Matthew Kelly kept a positive tone throughout the book when discussing the topic of faith. A clear example of Kelly’s inspirational outlook is depicted when he says, “One of the things I love about our faith is that our God is a God of second chances, fresh starts, and new beginnings.” Precise words were chosen to provide a positive sense, making the novel an uplifting read. Christian readers or people looking for insight on afterlife would find this book most appealing due to the topics shared and discussed.
August 27, 2016
Matthew Kelly's book Rediscover Jesus (2015) was a gift from a new friend at church. The author, associated with The Dynamic Catholic Institute, is straightforward about his evangelical mission. The book offers its readers forty brief chapters challenging each of us to reconsider our relationship with Jesus. I read the book through, but it is also designed for daily readings, over Lent, for example. The chapters offer ways of thinking about and relating to Jesus from various perspectives, such as the more conventional view of Jesus as a teacher, but also the less conventional view of Jesus and His teachings as radical. Each chapter provides insights but also practical guides and incentives to re-establish our Christian lives more fully centered in Christ. Further, each chapter offers lessons, including a "Point to Ponder" a "Verse to Live," a "Question to Consider," and a "Prayer." The book has been an individual reading experience for me, but I think it would lend to a reading group study as well. I imagine the book is not for everyone. Matthew Kelly is definitely a "Dynamic Catholic." The evangelical energy of the book is admirable, though, and the gift of this book is much appreciated.
July 8, 2021
I really enjoyed listening to this book on my morning walks! Such a wonderful invitation for Christians to live life more like Jesus did. I read this book straight through, but I would love to reread it one chapter a day during lent so I can focus on applying the lessons in my daily life.
July 3, 2018
I did not read the Kindle Edition, but had the paperback book.
Being a fan of Matthew Kelly, I read his books when I am presented with the opportunity. So when I was gifted with this one, I was eager to read it. Kelly suggests two different ways to approach reading the book: read it straight through; or read the 40 chapters one per day for 40 days. Perhaps for Lent or for some other period.
I thought I would read it straight through, and then go back and read it a second time, using the 40 days approach. Reading it straight through was enlightening and inspirational. It did not require the reference of the Catholic Catechism, but certainly gave one enough to ponder that she could feel "re-energized." This is in fact Kelly's goal - to re-energize Catholics - and he is doing a great job of it, especially with this one book. There is no way one could read this book and n0t grow spiritually - but humbly.
Now. I plan to read the book in the second way he suggested - one day at a time considering the questions he presented.
Being a fan of Matthew Kelly, I read his books when I am presented with the opportunity. So when I was gifted with this one, I was eager to read it. Kelly suggests two different ways to approach reading the book: read it straight through; or read the 40 chapters one per day for 40 days. Perhaps for Lent or for some other period.
I thought I would read it straight through, and then go back and read it a second time, using the 40 days approach. Reading it straight through was enlightening and inspirational. It did not require the reference of the Catholic Catechism, but certainly gave one enough to ponder that she could feel "re-energized." This is in fact Kelly's goal - to re-energize Catholics - and he is doing a great job of it, especially with this one book. There is no way one could read this book and n0t grow spiritually - but humbly.
Now. I plan to read the book in the second way he suggested - one day at a time considering the questions he presented.
March 18, 2016
Matthew Kelly's best work, and that is certainly saying something. I don't think I have read a more powerful book on practical faith in my entire life. Kelly digs deep in that very subtle, gentle way that he does so well.
This book is perfect for Lent. In fact, I think I will read it year after year as a reminder of what Lent and Jesus' ultimate sacrifice really mean for the world. Kelly's beautiful words about practical holiness and simple faith really hit a spot with me. Being holy doesn't have to mean doing lofty things. It can mean living in the everyday with holy moments like St. Therese. It can mean holding my tongue or offering words of encouragement.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. Kelly is Catholic so there are definitely Catholic undertones, but there is so much here for everyone. It is a beautiful book that will inspire you to really look at your life and make changes that will bring you closer to living like Jesus.
This book is perfect for Lent. In fact, I think I will read it year after year as a reminder of what Lent and Jesus' ultimate sacrifice really mean for the world. Kelly's beautiful words about practical holiness and simple faith really hit a spot with me. Being holy doesn't have to mean doing lofty things. It can mean living in the everyday with holy moments like St. Therese. It can mean holding my tongue or offering words of encouragement.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. Kelly is Catholic so there are definitely Catholic undertones, but there is so much here for everyone. It is a beautiful book that will inspire you to really look at your life and make changes that will bring you closer to living like Jesus.
March 20, 2016
Rediscover Jesus makes for good Lenten reading. It is divided into forty short chapters containing reflections on a number of different themes, and concluding with a point to ponder, a verse from the Bible, a question to consider, and a prayer. The book is written in Kelly's usual enthusiastic and uplifting style. I can't say that I consciously retained a great deal from the book as a whole, but several points were made throughout it that I found myself continuing to ponder after putting the book down for the day.
March 28, 2016
This book was wonderful. It made me evaluate myself, helped me try to be a better version of myself and to look at how my actions affect others. It deepened my faith and understanding of Jesus Christ.
July 30, 2017
Another good resource for either Lent or Advent. It has 40 chapters. Each chapter could be a daily mediation. Since I have read a number of the author's other books, it seems a little simplistic and repetitive but I still think it would be a good resource, especially for a young person.
August 6, 2016
I really enjoyed this devotional broken up into 40 short chapters.
January 9, 2016
If only us Christians would fully act as Christians.
January 17, 2016
Relatable and inspirational. I recommend reading it over lent.
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December 9, 2025Very helpful and convicting for any Christian.
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