The Vinedresser's Notebook

 

About The Book:  Scripture is filled with images and stories of grapevines and vine tending. Yet few modern people have any idea of what that entails and the deep levels of symbolism that were intended in the Bible.  Written by a vinedresser, theologian, psychologist, and nun, this illustrated text centers on a visual meditation combined with short reflections about the spiritual life, extending the spiritual metaphor of the vineyard, the vinedresser, and Jesus’ teachings. The words are simple and few, the pictures clear and evocative, as much a part of the meditation as the text itself. In reading this book and understanding how the vines work and what the role of the vinedresser is, readers can explore more deeply what vine care means for their spiritual walk. The Vinedresser's Notebook can be used as 40-day devotional, in a group setting, or as an inspirational book.

About The Author:  Judith Sutera is a Benedictine sister of the monastery of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison, Kansas. She holds degrees in psychology and sociology, with a master's degree in counseling, and, in 1986, became one of the first women to receive a master's degree in monastic theology. A magazine editor and the author of several books, she is a director for oblates, teaches courses in monastic spirituality, and gives presentations, retreats, and workshops for monastic communities, academic conferences, formation groups, and retreat centers across the United States.

My Thoughts On The Book:  I loved this book and I am using it now as a 40 day devotional.  This is one of those books that you want in your library for a reference.  It was a great book to start at the beginning of Spring because of all the references to planting and newness in life. The sketches were amazing.   As a pastor I gleaned a good bit from the book that will help me in my ministry and in my life.    The most important lesson I took from the book was that we should always be cultivating and pruning in order to grow.  In my own vineyard called life sun and rain are necessary, but in order to have to perfect life harvest I have to put in hours of good labor, learn the lessons presented to me, and when I do this I will have sweet fruit in abundance.  A must read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book through Abingdon Press and Net Galley Publicity Group. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*