Ash Wednesday is a couple of weeks away, but I thought this might be timely so that if anyone is inspired, they can go out and acquire a few things to help them in Lenten prayer.
1. The Bible is the go to book. I am surprised at how many Catholics don't own their own Bible to read. And don't read the Bible! The Bible is really inexpensive on Kindle and lighter to carry. I still enjoy the paper book though. I recommend the Revised New American Bible which is a Catholic Bible and read the footnotes, they add so much to understanding. I really enjoy having that version and the Jerusalem Bible and the Way so that I can compare readings. Sometimes reading the same story or verses in different versions gives me a greater understanding of what is being said. I also underline in my Bible. A friend suggested putting the date and occasion that called for the underlining. I really like that because I can remember the whole context of what that verse meant to me.
2. I subscribe to the Word Among Us. I really like this commentary. It wakes me up to the scriptures of the Mass. When I can't make it to Mass it is a homily for me to go with the readings. There are articles at the beginning and end of the journal. This magazine does publishing as well. I haven't bought a bad book from them.
3. Living Faith is a purse sized commentary that also goes with the Mass readings. I like to catch up with it whenever I find myself waiting somewhere. The authors speak to me briefly in a place where I am.
4. The Little Black Book is another Lenten booklet. My church orders it for the parish. It is a little Catechism with bits of information about saints and traditions. I look forward to the Little Black Book every year.
5. Living with Christ is another booklet I subscribe to. It has the Mass readings and prayers. The reason why I continue to order this little booklet is the questions that it offers for reflection after each day's Mass readings.
I will keep busy enough with these readings during Lent.