Witness at the Cross

 

A book for this season: Witness at the Cross A Beginners Guide to Holy Friday

On many days I find it difficult to remember the darkest days of 2020. But I do remember that the days were bleak and I looked for rays of light to brighten them. I blessedly found moments that brought me contentment and happiness. I treasured my cup of coffee each morning, walks with friends and time spent in my local park and a number of memorable virtual events. The most memorable was a program from the Streicker Center at Temple Emanuel, with Professor Amy-Jill Levine at Hartford International University and formerly at Vanderbilt.  I'd attended a number of programs there in the past and was delighted to see the range of events I could now attend virtually. This program was "The Suffering Servant" and it examined "how Jews and Christians read Scripture differently." The level of scholarship was high, and yet it was accessible to those without a formal theological background. 

I was delighted when I had the opportunity to review Dr. Levine's latest book, "Witness at the Cross," published by Abingdon Press. It is a perfect study companion for Lent, which begins this Wednesday. Please don't let my use of the word "theological" put you off from a terrific study and reading experience,  for this is a highly accessible book.  

"Witness at the Cross" shares with us the perspective of those who watched Jesus die. It weaves their experiences with the words and thoughts of the Gospels. It shows the distinct roles that each of these people -- Mary, Jesus mother; Simon Cyrene, forced to carry the cross; Mary Magdalene and the others mentioned in the Gospels -- played on Good Friday. 

I have had formal theological education and attended Graduate School in Religion, but still can find books in the field difficult to wade through, but that wasn't the case with Dr. Levine's book. It's thoughtful, interesting and I enjoyed the personal comments throughout the book. I was grateful for the opportunity to focus on Biblical reflection, especially at this time in our world. I highly recommend "Witness at the Cross," for your own Lenten reading or with a group. There are seven chapters (including the introduction), one for each week before Easter. There is also a DVD for the book and a leader's guide to enhance the study. 

Many thanks to Abingdon Press for the opportunity to read "Witness at the Cross." I received a copy in exchange for my thoughts and the thoughts are all mine. 

In a short time February is over, and in another day Lent will begin. Prayers for the new month, for the new season and for the people of Ukraine. 

As ever, thanks for visiting and take good care.