?Since the center of the person of Jesus is prayer, it is essential to participate in his prayer if we are to know and understand him.? (Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, later known as Pope Benedict XVI)
Who doesn’t want to get to know Jesus better? As Christians, a closer personal relationship with the Lord should be a daily goal. As the above quote from Pope Benedict XVI points out, however, getting to know Jesus involves participating in His prayer life. Unfortunately, many individuals are confused by the prayer life of Jesus. In fact, many people question why Christ (who was Divine) had to pray at all. I have struggled with this question myself and, while I now understand why Jesus prayed, I need to learn more about how He prayed.
In his new book, Through, With, and In Him (The Prayer Life Of Jesus and How To Make It Our Own), author Shane Kapler does a great job unpacking the mystery of Jesus’ prayer life. He also explains that, since we are part of the Mystical Body of Christ (the Church), we are all called to participate in the prayer of Jesus to His Father. Fortunately for us, Kapler not only explains how this is possible, but he does it in very understandable language.
Using Scripture and history, Shane Kapler explores Jesus’ prayer and demonstrates how Catholic liturgy, sacraments, devotions, and practices allow us to not only understand it, but enter into it. I found the in-depth explanation of the Our Father to be especially helpful and I will never look at the Lord’s Prayer in the same way again. This book is definitely a “keeper” and one that I’ll refer to again and again. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to grow closer to Jesus.
For more information or to order Through, With, and In Him by Shane Kapler click HERE.
