Life Balance: A 5 session course on rest, work and play for Lent

Robert Warren & Sue Mayfield, Church House Publishing, £3.99

What is in it?

Thankfully, this book is not sanctimonious, patronising or unrealistic – books on “stress” & “wholeness” abound, many of which are worse than useless. This book recognises the complexities of modern life and the difficulties in creating a healthy and spiritual life balance. It offers 5 interactive sessions on understanding the interpretation of Sabbath as a holy gift and the transforming of Sabbath rest & play as well as developing “Sabbath attitudes”. This is refreshing because it focuses on creative possibilities within our experience. Furthermore, it offers related and accessible biblical study, discussion, meditation and reflection aimed at facilitating individual and communal change, to achieve a healthier life balance.

Who is it for?

The book aims at traditional Lent groups. This would be most attractive for Lent study because it offers such an integrated approach. The book, though, could be used successfully at any other time of the year except that it might cheer up the discipline of Lent! Frankly, the book would appeal to a very wide age range – it would be possible to have this in one group or to group the age ranges appropriately. The temptation is to say that only overstressed people need it – this is nonsense; the content of the book should be required reading for all people, hopefully in a preventative manner or possibly in a therapeutic way or even for a few, as maintenance!

Strengths

Clearly set out

Accessible and Relevant

A touch of humour

Encouraging

Stimulating

Life enhancing

Potential weaknesses

None

Conclusion

This is an excellent resource. Although clearly aimed at group discussion an individual would gain considerable information and ideas by just reading it. This book is a gem, especially at the price.

Rev Judith Roberts

Vice-Principal of the Southwark OLM Scheme

January 2006